The 8 Best Soft Top Surfboards for Beginners and Beyond
Choosing the right surfboard can be daunting, especially for beginners. Among the various options available, soft top 8 surfboards stand out as an excellent choice for their user-friendliness, durability, and overall safety. These boards, often referred to as foam surfboards or funboards, offer a stable platform to learn the basics and progress your surfing skills. This article will delve into the top 8 soft top 8 surfboards that cater to diverse skill levels and surfing preferences, ensuring you find the perfect board to ride the waves with confidence.
Why Choose a Soft Top Surfboard?
Before diving into the specific models, let’s understand the advantages of opting for a soft top 8 surfboard:
- Safety: The soft foam deck minimizes the risk of injury in case of collisions, making them ideal for beginners and crowded surf spots.
- Stability: Their wider and thicker design provides enhanced stability, making it easier to paddle and catch waves.
- Durability: Soft top surfboards are generally more resistant to dings and damage compared to traditional hard-top boards.
- Affordability: They are often more budget-friendly, making surfing accessible to a wider audience.
- Ease of Learning: Their forgiving nature allows beginners to learn the fundamentals of surfing without feeling overwhelmed.
Top 8 Soft Top Surfboards: A Detailed Review
Here’s a curated list of the 8 best soft top 8 surfboards, each offering unique features and benefits:
Wavestorm 8′ Classic Surfboard
The Wavestorm 8′ Classic is arguably the most popular soft top 8 surfboard on the market. Its high-density polyethylene (HDPE) slick bottom and durable foam deck make it a reliable choice for beginners. It’s incredibly buoyant and stable, allowing for easy wave catching and comfortable rides. The Wavestorm is an excellent entry-level board that’s both affordable and durable. This board is known for its forgiving nature, which helps new surfers master the basics quickly. It’s a staple at surf schools and rental shops worldwide for a reason.
South Bay Board Co. 8′ Verve Soft Top Surfboard
The South Bay Board Co. 8′ Verve is a premium soft top 8 surfboard designed with performance in mind. Its heat-laminated construction and reinforced rails provide increased durability and responsiveness. The Verve features a refined shape that allows for smoother turns and better control. The Verve is a step up from the Wavestorm, offering a better balance of stability and maneuverability. It’s a great choice for surfers who want to progress beyond the beginner stage.
California Board Company 8′ Surfboard
The California Board Company 8′ Surfboard offers a great balance of performance and value. Its durable construction and stable platform make it suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers alike. The board features a tri-fin setup for enhanced maneuverability and control. The CBC 8′ is a versatile board that can handle a variety of wave conditions. It’s a solid choice for surfers who want a reliable and affordable soft top 8 surfboard.
Liquid Shredder 8′ FSE EPS/PE Soft Surfboard
The Liquid Shredder 8′ FSE is a high-performance soft top 8 surfboard designed for experienced surfers. Its EPS core and PE deck provide a lightweight and responsive feel. The board features a unique fin system that allows for customized performance. The Liquid Shredder is a great choice for surfers who want a soft top board that can handle more challenging waves. It’s a step up in performance from traditional soft tops, offering a more engaging surfing experience.
Rock It 8′ Big Softy Surfboard
The Rock It 8′ Big Softy is a durable and stable soft top 8 surfboard perfect for beginners. Its wide outline and thick core provide excellent buoyancy, making it easy to paddle and catch waves. The board is constructed with high-quality materials for long-lasting performance. The Rock It Big Softy is a great choice for surfers who want a reliable and forgiving board. Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand the wear and tear of learning to surf.
Gold Coast Surfboards The Grom 8′ Foam Surfboard
The Gold Coast Surfboards The Grom 8′ is a smaller soft top 8 surfboard designed specifically for kids and smaller adults. Its lightweight construction and easy-to-handle size make it perfect for young surfers learning the ropes. The board features a durable foam deck and a slick bottom for enhanced performance. The Grom 8′ is a great way to introduce kids to the joy of surfing in a safe and fun environment. It allows them to develop their skills and confidence without being overwhelmed by a larger board.
Giantex 8′ Surfboard Foam Soft Top Surfboard
The Giantex 8′ Surfboard is an affordable and versatile soft top 8 surfboard suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. Its durable construction and stable platform make it easy to learn and progress. The board features a tri-fin setup for enhanced maneuverability. The Giantex 8′ is a great value option for surfers who want a reliable and budget-friendly board. It provides a solid foundation for learning the basics and developing your surfing skills.
Krypt Towers 8 Foot Soft Top Surfboard
The Krypt Towers 8 Foot Soft Top Surfboard is designed for stability and ease of use, making it a perfect soft top 8 surfboard for beginners. This board features a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of learning to surf. The soft top provides a comfortable and safe surface, reducing the risk of injury. Its ample volume ensures easy paddling and wave catching. The Krypt Towers 8 Foot is a great choice for anyone looking to get into surfing without breaking the bank. This board is known for its forgiving nature and its ability to help new surfers quickly progress.
Choosing the Right Soft Top 8 Surfboard for You
When selecting a soft top 8 surfboard, consider the following factors:
- Skill Level: Beginners should opt for wider and thicker boards for maximum stability. More experienced surfers can choose narrower and more responsive models.
- Weight and Height: Select a board that is appropriate for your weight and height to ensure proper buoyancy and control.
- Wave Conditions: Consider the type of waves you’ll be surfing. Smaller waves are better suited for larger, more buoyant boards, while larger waves require more maneuverable boards.
- Budget: Soft top surfboards range in price, so set a budget and find a board that fits your needs.
Tips for Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard
To prolong the life of your soft top 8 surfboard, follow these 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.
- Use a Surfboard Bag: Protect your board from dings and scratches by storing it in a surfboard bag.
- Repair Any Damage: Address any dings or tears promptly to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
Soft top 8 surfboards offer an excellent entry point into the world of surfing. Their safety, stability, and affordability make them ideal for beginners, while their performance capabilities can satisfy more experienced surfers. By considering the factors outlined in this article and choosing a board that suits your needs, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the thrill of riding the waves. Whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned surfer looking for a fun and forgiving board, a soft top 8 surfboard is a worthwhile investment. So grab your board, hit the beach, and start shredding!
[See also: Surfboard Types Explained]
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[See also: How to Choose the Right Wetsuit]
