Softtop Surfboard: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond

The allure of surfing is undeniable. The feeling of gliding across water, harnessing the power of a wave, is a thrill unlike any other. But for many beginners, the initial learning curve can be intimidating. That’s where the softtop surfboard comes in. Often referred to as foam surfboards, these boards are designed to make learning easier, safer, and more fun. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of softtop surfboards, covering everything from their construction and benefits to choosing the right board and progressing your surfing skills.

What is a Softtop Surfboard?

A softtop surfboard, at its core, is a surfboard with a soft, padded deck. Unlike traditional hard surfboards made of fiberglass and resin, softtop surfboards feature a layer of foam on the top, usually made of polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This soft deck provides cushioning and reduces the risk of injury, especially for beginners who are prone to falling.

The bottom of a softtop surfboard is typically made of a slick, durable material like high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which helps the board glide smoothly across the water. The core of the board is usually constructed from expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, providing buoyancy and stability.

Benefits of Using a Softtop Surfboard

There are several compelling reasons to choose a softtop surfboard, particularly if you’re new to surfing:

• Increased Safety: The soft deck significantly reduces the risk of bumps, bruises, and cuts from accidental collisions with the board. This is especially important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
• Easier to Learn: Softtop surfboards are generally more buoyant and stable than hard surfboards, making them easier to paddle and stand up on. This allows beginners to focus on mastering the fundamentals of surfing without struggling with board control.
• Affordable: Softtop surfboards are typically less expensive than traditional fiberglass boards, making them a budget-friendly option for beginners who are unsure if they’ll stick with the sport.
• Durable: While not indestructible, softtop surfboards are generally more resistant to dings and damage than hard surfboards. This makes them a good choice for learning in crowded surf spots or for travel.
• Fun for All Skill Levels: While ideal for beginners, softtop surfboards can also be enjoyed by experienced surfers who want a fun, relaxed ride in small waves. They are also great for introducing kids to surfing.

Choosing the Right Softtop Surfboard

Selecting the right softtop surfboard depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to surf. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:

Size and Volume

The size of a softtop surfboard is typically measured in length (feet and inches). Longer boards are more stable and easier to paddle, making them ideal for beginners. Shorter boards are more maneuverable but require more skill to control.

Volume, measured in liters, indicates the board’s buoyancy. Higher volume boards float better and are easier to paddle. A general rule of thumb is to choose a board with a volume that is equal to or greater than your weight in kilograms. For example, if you weigh 70 kg, you should look for a board with a volume of at least 70 liters.

Shape

Softtop surfboards come in various shapes, each designed for different types of waves and surfing styles. Common shapes include:

• Longboard: Longboards are the longest and most stable type of softtop surfboard, typically ranging from 8 to 10 feet. They are ideal for beginners and for surfing small, gentle waves.
• Funboard: Funboards are shorter than longboards, typically ranging from 7 to 8 feet. They offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability, making them a versatile option for intermediate surfers.
• Shortboard: Shortboards are the shortest and most maneuverable type of softtop surfboard, typically ranging from 6 to 7 feet. They are best suited for experienced surfers who want to perform advanced maneuvers in larger waves.

Fin Setup

The fin setup of a softtop surfboard affects its tracking and maneuverability. Common fin setups include:

• Single Fin: Single fin setups provide good stability and tracking, making them a good choice for beginners.
• Twin Fin: Twin fin setups offer more maneuverability than single fin setups, making them a good choice for intermediate surfers.
• Thruster (Three Fin): Thruster setups offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability, making them a versatile option for all skill levels.
• Quad Fin: Quad fin setups offer maximum speed and drive, making them a good choice for experienced surfers in larger waves.

Construction Materials

While all softtop surfboards share the common feature of a soft deck, the specific materials used can vary. Look for boards with durable HDPE bottoms and EPS cores for optimal performance and longevity. The quality of the foam deck is also important; denser foam will provide more cushioning and support.

Tips for Surfing a Softtop Surfboard

Once you’ve chosen the right softtop surfboard, it’s time to hit the waves! Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Start in Small Waves: Choose a beach with small, gentle waves to learn on. This will make it easier to paddle, stand up, and control your board.
• Paddle Efficiently: Use long, smooth strokes to paddle efficiently. Keep your head up and look towards the horizon.
• Pop-Up Quickly: Practice your pop-up on the sand before heading into the water. When a wave approaches, paddle hard, then quickly pop up to your feet in a stable stance.
• Maintain a Balanced Stance: Keep your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Look towards the direction you want to go.
• Practice Falling Safely: Falling is inevitable when learning to surf. Try to fall away from your board and protect your head with your arms.
• Take Lessons: Consider taking lessons from a qualified surf instructor. They can provide personalized guidance and help you develop good surfing habits.

Progression Beyond the Softtop

As you become more comfortable and confident on your softtop surfboard, you may eventually want to transition to a hard surfboard. This will allow you to ride larger waves, perform more advanced maneuvers, and progress your surfing skills further. [See also: Choosing Your First Hardtop Surfboard]

When transitioning to a hard surfboard, start with a larger, more stable board, such as a funboard or longboard. As you gain experience, you can gradually move to shorter, more maneuverable boards. Remember to be patient and persistent, and don’t be afraid to ask for help from experienced surfers.

Maintaining Your Softtop Surfboard

Proper maintenance will help extend the life of your softtop surfboard. Here are some tips:

• Rinse with Fresh Water: After each surf session, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the foam and delaminate the layers.
• Protect from Dings: While softtop surfboards are more durable than hard surfboards, they can still be damaged by impacts. Use a board bag to protect your board during transport and storage.
• Repair Any Damage: If your board sustains any damage, such as punctures or tears, repair it promptly to prevent further deterioration. There are repair kits specifically designed for softtop surfboards.

The Future of Softtop Surfboards

Softtop surfboards have come a long way in recent years. Advances in materials and construction techniques have resulted in boards that are more durable, perform better, and are more environmentally friendly. Some manufacturers are even using recycled materials to create softtop surfboards, reducing their environmental impact.

As the popularity of surfing continues to grow, softtop surfboards are likely to remain a popular choice for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Their affordability, safety, and ease of use make them an excellent option for anyone who wants to enjoy the thrill of riding waves.

Conclusion

The softtop surfboard is a fantastic tool for learning to surf and enjoying the ocean. Its forgiving nature, affordability, and durability make it an ideal choice for beginners. Even experienced surfers can appreciate the fun and relaxed ride that a softtop surfboard provides. So, grab a softtop surfboard, head to the beach, and get ready to experience the joy of surfing!