The Ultimate Guide to Soft Top Fish Surfboards: Fun, Forgiving, and Functional

Soft top fish surfboards have surged in popularity, offering a unique blend of fun, forgiveness, and functionality that appeals to a wide range of surfers. Whether you’re a beginner just catching your first waves or an experienced rider looking for a playful alternative, a soft top fish surfboard might be the perfect addition to your quiver. This guide will dive deep into the world of soft top fish surfboards, exploring their design, benefits, considerations, and everything else you need to know to make an informed decision.

What is a Fish Surfboard?

Before delving into the soft top variations, let’s understand what makes a fish surfboard distinct. The defining characteristics of a fish surfboard include:

• Wide Outline: A broader outline, especially in the nose and tail, provides increased surface area, enhancing stability and wave-catching ability.
• Swallow Tail: The signature swallow tail design features a split V-shape, which allows for sharper turns and better maneuverability, despite the board’s wider shape.
• Flatter Rocker: Compared to high-performance shortboards, fish surfboards typically have a flatter rocker (the curve of the board from nose to tail), making them faster and more efficient in smaller, weaker waves.

These features combine to create a board that excels in conditions where traditional shortboards struggle, making it an excellent choice for summer swells, mushy waves, and surfers of all skill levels.

The Appeal of Soft Top Fish Surfboards

Now, let’s add the “soft top” element. Soft top fish surfboards incorporate a soft, cushioned deck, typically made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar materials, over a traditional foam core (EPS or PU). This construction offers several key advantages:

• Increased Comfort: The soft deck is significantly more comfortable to ride than a hard fiberglass surface. This is especially beneficial for beginners who are still developing their balance and technique.
• Enhanced Safety: The soft deck reduces the risk of injury from falls and collisions. This is a major selling point for families with children or anyone concerned about safety in crowded surf spots.
• Durability: Soft tops are generally more durable than traditional fiberglass boards, as they are less prone to dings and cracks. This makes them a great option for travel or for surfers who are hard on their equipment.
• Affordability: Soft top fish surfboards are often more affordable than their fiberglass counterparts, making them an accessible entry point into the world of surfing.

These benefits make the soft top fish surfboard a popular choice for beginners, families, surf schools, and anyone looking for a fun, low-maintenance board to ride in a variety of conditions.

Who Should Ride a Soft Top Fish Surfboard?

While soft top fish surfboards are incredibly versatile, they particularly shine for certain types of surfers:

• Beginners: The stability, comfort, and forgiveness of a soft top fish make it an ideal learning platform.
• Intermediate Surfers: Experienced surfers can use a soft top fish as a fun alternative to their high-performance boards, especially in smaller waves.
• Families: The safety and durability of soft tops make them perfect for families with children.
• Travelers: Soft tops are more resistant to damage during travel, making them a great option for surf trips.
• Budget-Conscious Surfers: The affordability of soft tops makes them an accessible option for those on a budget.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Fish Surfboard

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

Size and Volume

Like any surfboard, size and volume are crucial factors. Generally, beginners should opt for a larger board with more volume, as this will provide greater stability and wave-catching ability. Intermediate and advanced surfers can choose a smaller board for increased maneuverability.

Consider these general guidelines:

• Beginners: Choose a board that is at least 2-3 feet taller than you and has a volume of 50 liters or more.
• Intermediate Surfers: Choose a board that is 1-2 feet taller than you and has a volume of 40-50 liters.
• Advanced Surfers: Choose a board that is around your height or slightly shorter and has a volume of 30-40 liters.

These are just general guidelines, and it’s always best to consult with a surf shop expert to determine the best size and volume for your specific needs.

Construction and Materials

The construction and materials of a soft top fish surfboard can significantly impact its performance and durability. Key components to consider include:

• Deck Material: HDPE is a common and durable option, offering good grip and resistance to wear and tear. Some boards may use other materials, such as EVA foam, which can be softer but less durable.
• Core Material: EPS foam is lightweight and buoyant, while PU foam offers a more traditional surfboard feel. EPS is generally more common in soft tops due to its water resistance.
• Bottom Material: A slick bottom, typically made of HDPE, helps the board glide smoothly through the water.
• Fin System: Most soft top fish surfboards use a standard fin system, such as FCS or Futures, allowing you to customize the fins to suit your riding style and the wave conditions.

Fin Setup

Fish surfboards are typically ridden with a twin-fin setup, which enhances their speed and maneuverability. However, some soft top fish surfboards may also offer a quad-fin option, providing increased drive and control, especially in larger waves. Experiment with different fin setups to find what works best for you.

Brand and Price

Numerous brands offer soft top fish surfboards, ranging from established surfboard manufacturers to budget-friendly options. Research different brands and read reviews to get a sense of their reputation and quality. Price can also vary significantly, so set a budget and stick to it. Remember that a higher price doesn’t always guarantee better performance, so focus on finding a board that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Tips for Riding a Soft Top Fish Surfboard

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your soft top fish surfboard:

• Wax the Deck: Even though the deck is soft, applying wax will provide extra grip and prevent you from slipping.
• Position Yourself Correctly: Place your feet in the center of the board, slightly behind the midpoint. This will give you the best balance and control.
• Paddle Efficiently: Use long, smooth strokes to paddle efficiently and conserve energy.
• Look Where You Want to Go: Focus your gaze in the direction you want to turn. This will help you steer the board more effectively.
• Have Fun!: The most important thing is to relax and enjoy the ride. Soft top fish surfboards are designed for fun, so don’t take yourself too seriously.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Fish Surfboard

Proper maintenance will help extend the life of your soft top fish surfboard. Here are a few tips:

• Rinse with Fresh Water: After each surf session, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt and sand.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the foam and deck.
• Protect from Dings: While soft tops are more durable than fiberglass boards, they can still be damaged. Protect your board from dings and scratches by using a board bag.
• Check for Delamination: Periodically check the deck for signs of delamination (separation of the deck from the core). If you notice any delamination, repair it promptly to prevent further damage.

[See also: Surfboard Volume Calculator]

[See also: Best Beginner Surfboards]

[See also: How to Wax a Surfboard]

Conclusion: Embrace the Fun of Soft Top Fish Surfboards

Soft top fish surfboards offer a unique and enjoyable surfing experience for surfers of all skill levels. Their forgiving nature, comfortable deck, and durable construction make them an excellent choice for beginners, families, and anyone looking for a fun alternative to traditional surfboards. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can choose the perfect soft top fish surfboard to suit your needs and start enjoying the waves with confidence and style. So grab a soft top fish surfboard, head to your local break, and embrace the fun!