Soft Top Boards: Your Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right One
Soft top boards, also known as foam surfboards, have surged in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a fantastic entry point into surfing, providing stability, safety, and affordability. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a seasoned surfer looking for a fun alternative, or a parent wanting to get your kids into the sport, a soft top board could be the perfect choice. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top boards, helping you make an informed decision and find the right board for your needs.
What is a Soft Top Board?
A soft top board differs from traditional fiberglass surfboards in its construction. Instead of a hard, rigid shell, soft top boards feature a foam deck, typically made of polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This soft, forgiving surface makes them much safer than hard boards, especially for beginners who are still learning to control their board. The core of a soft top board is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which provides buoyancy and stability. Some boards also incorporate stringers, which are strips of wood or composite material that run through the core to add strength and stiffness.
Why Choose a Soft Top Board?
There are several compelling reasons to choose a soft top board:
- Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck and increased volume make soft top boards incredibly stable and easy to paddle. This allows beginners to catch waves more easily and focus on learning the fundamentals of surfing without the added challenge of a less forgiving board.
- Safety: The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury in case of a wipeout. This is particularly important for beginners and children who are more prone to falling.
- Affordability: Soft top boards are generally more affordable than traditional fiberglass surfboards, making them a budget-friendly option for those just starting out or looking for a second board.
- Durability: While not indestructible, soft top boards are generally more durable than fiberglass boards, especially when it comes to minor dings and bumps. This makes them a great choice for travel and for use in crowded surf spots.
- Fun for All Skill Levels: Even experienced surfers enjoy riding soft top boards. They’re perfect for small wave days or for trying out new maneuvers without the risk of damaging an expensive fiberglass board.
Types of Soft Top Boards
While all soft top boards share the same basic construction, there are different types to choose from, each suited for different skill levels and wave conditions:
Longboard Soft Tops
These are the most common type of soft top board, typically ranging from 8 to 9 feet in length. They offer excellent stability and are ideal for beginners and those who want to ride small waves. Longboard soft tops are also great for practicing cross-stepping and other classic longboarding maneuvers.
Shortboard Soft Tops
Shorter and more maneuverable than longboard soft tops, these boards are designed for intermediate to advanced surfers who want to perform turns and other advanced maneuvers in smaller waves. Shortboard soft tops typically range from 5 to 7 feet in length.
Fish Soft Tops
Fish soft tops are characterized by their wide, swallowtail design, which provides excellent speed and stability. They are a good choice for surfers who want to ride small to medium-sized waves and perform carving turns. Fish soft tops typically range from 5 to 6 feet in length.
Grom Soft Tops
These are smaller soft top boards designed specifically for children. They are typically around 6 to 8 feet in length and offer excellent stability and buoyancy, making them ideal for kids who are learning to surf. [See also: Best Surfboards for Kids]
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Board
Choosing the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, height, and the type of waves you plan to ride.
Skill Level
Beginners should opt for a longer, wider board that provides maximum stability. As you progress, you can move to a shorter, more maneuverable board.
Weight and Height
Your weight and height will determine the appropriate volume of the board. A higher volume board will provide more buoyancy and stability, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. As a general rule, heavier surfers will need a higher volume board than lighter surfers.
Wave Conditions
The type of waves you plan to ride will also influence your choice of board. For small, mellow waves, a longboard soft top or a fish soft top is a good choice. For larger, more powerful waves, a shortboard soft top may be more appropriate.
Construction Quality
While soft top boards are generally durable, the quality of construction can vary. Look for boards with a high-density EPS core, reinforced stringers, and a durable PE or EVA deck. Also, consider the fin system. Some soft top boards come with fixed fins, while others have removable fins that allow you to customize the board’s performance.
Maintaining Your Soft Top Board
To prolong the life of your soft top board, it’s important to take proper care of it:
- Rinse with Fresh Water: After each use, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and other debris.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can damage the foam and cause it to delaminate.
- Repair Dings and Tears: Even minor dings and tears can allow water to penetrate the core of the board, which can lead to significant damage. Repair any damage as soon as possible using a surfboard repair kit.
- Use a Board Bag: When transporting your board, use a board bag to protect it from scratches and dings. [See also: Best Surfboard Bags]
Where to Buy Soft Top Boards
Soft top boards are widely available at surf shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. When buying a soft top board, it’s important to choose a reputable brand that offers a warranty. Some popular brands of soft top boards include Wavestorm, Catch Surf, and South Bay Board Co.
Soft Top Boards: More Than Just for Beginners
While often associated with beginners, soft top boards have carved out a significant place in the surfing world, appealing to surfers of all skill levels. Their forgiving nature makes them ideal for learning, but their versatility and fun factor keep experienced surfers coming back for more. The evolution of soft top boards has seen improvements in materials and designs, leading to enhanced performance and durability. Whether you’re cruising on small waves or experimenting with new tricks, a soft top board can provide an enjoyable and accessible surfing experience.
The Future of Soft Top Boards
As surfing continues to evolve, so too will soft top boards. Expect to see further advancements in materials, construction techniques, and designs, leading to even more performance-oriented soft top boards. The accessibility and affordability of soft top boards will continue to make surfing more inclusive, attracting new participants to the sport and fostering a lifelong love of riding waves. The soft top board is here to stay, and its impact on the surfing world will only continue to grow.
