The 8 Best Soft Top Surfboards for Beginners and Beyond

Choosing the right surfboard can be daunting, especially for beginners. Among the myriad of options, the soft top 8 surfboard stands out as an excellent choice. These boards, also known as foam surfboards, offer a forgiving platform for learning the basics and progressing your surfing skills. In this article, we’ll explore the soft top 8 surfboard options, highlighting their features and benefits to help you find the perfect board to catch your next wave.

Why Choose a Soft Top Surfboard?

Before diving into the best models, let’s understand why soft top 8 surfboards are so popular. Their construction typically involves a foam core, often EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) or PE (Polyethylene), covered with a soft, grippy deck. This design offers several advantages:

• Safety: The soft deck reduces the risk of injury from collisions, making them ideal for crowded surf spots and beginners.
• Buoyancy: Foam boards are highly buoyant, making paddling easier and allowing you to catch waves with less effort.
• Stability: The wider profile of many soft top 8 surfboards provides greater stability, helping you maintain balance while learning to stand up.
• Durability: Modern soft tops are surprisingly durable, capable of withstanding the wear and tear of regular use.
• Affordability: Compared to hard-top surfboards, soft tops are generally more affordable, making them a great entry-level option.

These benefits make the soft top 8 surfboard a smart choice for beginners and intermediate surfers alike. Even experienced surfers often keep a soft top in their quiver for mellow days or introducing friends to the sport.

Top 8 Soft Top Surfboards

Here’s a curated list of the soft top 8 surfboard models that stand out in terms of performance, durability, and value:

Wavestorm 8′ Classic Surfboard

The Wavestorm is arguably the most popular soft top 8 surfboard on the market. Its durable construction, ample volume, and affordable price make it a go-to choice for beginners. It features a strong EPS core, three stringers for added stiffness, and a soft, textured deck for grip. The Wavestorm is known for its exceptional buoyancy and stability, making it easy to paddle and catch waves.

South Bay Board Co. Guppy 8′ Surfboard

South Bay Board Co. offers a range of high-quality soft tops, and the Guppy 8′ is a standout. This board features a heat-laminated construction for enhanced durability and a stylish design. The Guppy is known for its improved performance compared to basic soft tops, offering better maneuverability and responsiveness. It’s a great option for beginners looking to progress their skills.

California Board Company 8′ Surfboard

The California Board Company (CBC) 8′ surfboard is another excellent choice for beginners. It features a durable EPS core, a high-density polyethylene slick bottom, and a soft, textured deck. The CBC board is known for its stability and ease of use, making it a great option for learning the basics of surfing. It also comes with a leash and fins, making it a complete package for beginners.

Rock It 8′ Big Softy Surfboard

The Rock It Big Softy is designed for maximum fun and ease of use. This soft top 8 surfboard boasts a generous volume and a wide outline, providing exceptional stability. It’s a great option for beginners and larger surfers who need extra floatation. The Big Softy is also known for its durable construction and vibrant colors.

Liquid Shredder FSE EPS/PE Soft Surfboard

Liquid Shredder offers a unique blend of performance and durability in their FSE (Fiber Skin Epoxy) EPS/PE soft surfboard. This board features a reinforced construction for added strength and a smooth, fast bottom. The Liquid Shredder is known for its improved maneuverability and responsiveness compared to traditional soft tops. It’s a great option for surfers looking to progress beyond the basics.

Gold Coast Surfboards The Grom Soft Top Surfboard

While technically designed for kids, the Grom soft top can also work for smaller adults or those looking for a very maneuverable board. It still provides the forgiving nature of a soft top 8 surfboard. The Grom is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a great option for learning in small waves.

BOTE Flood Aero 8′ Soft Top Stand-Up Paddle Board

Okay, this is technically a stand-up paddle board (SUP), but the BOTE Flood Aero can also be used for surfing in small waves. Its soft top construction and stable platform make it a versatile option for both paddling and surfing. The BOTE Flood Aero is a premium soft top option that offers exceptional performance and durability.

Giantex 8′ Surfboard Foam Soft Top Surf Board

The Giantex 8′ Surfboard offers a budget-friendly option for beginners. Despite its lower price point, it still provides decent performance and durability. It’s a great option for those who want to try surfing without investing a lot of money. It’s a reliable soft top 8 surfboard for learning.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Surfboard

When selecting a soft top 8 surfboard, consider the following factors:

• Skill Level: Beginners should opt for wider, more stable boards, while intermediate surfers can choose more maneuverable models.
• Size and Weight: Choose a board that can comfortably support your weight. Consult size charts provided by manufacturers.
• Wave Conditions: Consider the type of waves you’ll be surfing. Smaller waves require more buoyant boards.
• Construction: Look for durable materials and construction methods to ensure your board lasts.
• Budget: Soft top surfboards range in price. Set a budget and choose a board that offers the best value for your money.

Tips for Riding a Soft Top Surfboard

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your soft top 8 surfboard:

• Wax the Deck: While soft tops have a textured deck, waxing can improve grip, especially in warmer water.
• Position Yourself Correctly: Paddle with your chest centered on the board and your feet near the tail.
• Pop Up Quickly: Practice your pop-up technique on land to develop muscle memory.
• Look Where You Want to Go: Focus your gaze in the direction you want to travel.
• Maintain a Low Center of Gravity: Bend your knees and keep your weight balanced over the board.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard

Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your soft top 8 surfboard:

• Rinse After Each Use: Rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt and sand.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid leaving your board in direct sunlight, as this can damage the foam.
• Repair Dings Promptly: Use a surfboard repair kit to fix any dings or punctures.
• Use a Board Bag: A board bag can protect your board from scratches and dings during transport.

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

Soft top surfboards have come a long way in recent years. Advances in materials and construction techniques have led to more durable and higher-performing boards. We can expect to see even more innovative designs and features in the future, making soft tops an increasingly attractive option for surfers of all skill levels. The soft top 8 surfboard is a testament to the evolution of surfing equipment, offering a fun, safe, and accessible way to enjoy the waves.

In conclusion, the soft top 8 surfboard is an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn to surf or simply enjoy a fun day in the waves. With a wide range of models available, there’s a soft top out there for everyone. Remember to consider your skill level, size, and the wave conditions when choosing a board, and don’t forget to maintain your board properly to ensure it lasts for years to come. [See also: Surfboard Types for Beginners] Happy surfing!