Soft Top Boards: Your Comprehensive Guide to Riding the Waves
For those looking to get into surfing, or even experienced surfers wanting a more relaxed and forgiving ride, the soft top board presents an excellent option. These boards, often referred to as foam boards or foamies, are known for their buoyancy, stability, and affordability. But what exactly makes a soft top board the right choice for you? This comprehensive guide dives deep into everything you need to know, from understanding their construction to choosing the right size and maintenance tips.
What is a Soft Top Board?
A soft top board is a surfboard characterized by its foam deck, typically made of closed-cell polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This soft, textured surface provides excellent grip and cushioning, making it much more comfortable and forgiving than traditional hard-top surfboards. Underneath the foam layer, most soft top boards feature a core of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane (PU) foam, reinforced with stringers (thin strips of wood or composite material) for added strength and rigidity. The bottom of the board is usually made of a slick HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) material, which helps it glide smoothly across the water.
Benefits of Using a Soft Top Board
- Beginner-Friendly: The increased volume and buoyancy of soft top boards make them incredibly stable and easy to paddle. This allows beginners to catch waves more easily and maintain their balance.
- Safety: The soft deck material reduces the risk of injury in case of a wipeout. This is particularly important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
- Durability: Soft top boards are generally more durable than hard-top surfboards. The foam deck can withstand more abuse without dinging or cracking.
- Affordability: Soft top boards are typically less expensive than hard-top surfboards, making them an accessible option for those on a budget.
- Versatility: While ideal for beginners, soft top boards can also be enjoyed by experienced surfers in small to medium-sized waves. They’re great for having fun and experimenting with different styles.
Choosing the Right Soft Top Board
Selecting the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to ride.
Size and Volume
The size of a soft top board is typically measured in feet and inches. As a general rule, beginners should opt for a longer and wider board, as this will provide greater stability and paddling power. Here’s a basic guideline:
- Beginners: 8’0″ – 9’0″
- Intermediate Surfers: 7’0″ – 8’0″
- Experienced Surfers: 6’0″ – 7’0″ (for smaller waves)
Volume, measured in liters, is another crucial factor. Higher volume translates to more buoyancy, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. Beginners should look for boards with a volume of 70 liters or more.
Construction
The construction of a soft top board can vary depending on the manufacturer and price point. Look for boards with a durable foam deck (PE or EVA), a strong EPS or PU core, and multiple stringers for added rigidity. The slick bottom should be made of a high-quality HDPE material.
Fin Setup
Most soft top boards come with a tri-fin (three fins) setup, which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may also have a single-fin or quad-fin setup. Removable fins are a plus, as they allow you to experiment with different fin configurations and fine-tune the board’s performance. [See also: Surfboard Fin Types and Their Impact on Performance]
Brand and Price
There are many different brands of soft top boards available, ranging from budget-friendly options to more premium models. Do some research and read reviews to find a reputable brand that offers quality products and good customer service. Price can vary depending on the size, construction, and features of the board. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a slightly more expensive board can often result in better performance and durability.
Caring for Your Soft Top Board
Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your soft top board.
- Rinse After Each Use: Always rinse your board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and other debris.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid leaving your board in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can cause the foam to delaminate and the colors to fade. Store it in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
- Protect from Dings and Scratches: While soft top boards are more durable than hard-top surfboards, they can still be damaged by sharp objects. Be careful when transporting and storing your board to prevent dings and scratches.
- Repair Minor Damage: Small dings and scratches can be easily repaired with a foam surfboard repair kit. Address any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.
- Use a Board Bag: A board bag provides extra protection during transport and storage. Look for a bag that is specifically designed for soft top boards.
Advanced Techniques on a Soft Top Board
While soft top boards are often associated with beginners, experienced surfers can also push their limits and perform advanced maneuvers. The forgiving nature of the foam allows for experimentation and creativity in the waves.
Cheater Fives and Tens
Walking up to the nose of the board and performing a cheater five (one foot on the nose) or cheater ten (both feet on the nose) is a classic maneuver that is particularly fun on a soft top board. The added buoyancy makes it easier to maintain balance and control.
Spinning and Shuv-its
The soft deck provides excellent grip, allowing you to perform spins and shuv-its with ease. These tricks involve rotating the board underneath your feet while maintaining your balance. [See also: Mastering Surfboard Tricks: A Step-by-Step Guide]
Riding Smaller Waves
Soft top boards are ideal for riding smaller, mushier waves that might be difficult to catch on a hard-top surfboard. Their added buoyancy allows you to glide effortlessly across the water, even in weak surf.
Who Should Consider a Soft Top Board?
Soft top boards are a great option for a wide range of surfers, including:
- Beginners: The stability and forgiveness of soft top boards make them the perfect choice for learning to surf.
- Families: Soft top boards are safe and durable, making them ideal for families with children who want to enjoy the waves together.
- Surfing Schools: Many surfing schools use soft top boards for their lessons due to their ease of use and safety.
- Experienced Surfers: Even experienced surfers can enjoy riding soft top boards in small waves or for experimenting with new maneuvers.
- Travelers: Due to their durability, soft top boards are excellent for travel, taking the worry out of damaging a more expensive fiberglass board.
Conclusion
The soft top board is more than just a beginner’s surfboard. It’s a versatile, fun, and accessible option for surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a new way to enjoy the waves, a soft top board might be the perfect choice for you. With proper care and maintenance, your soft top board will provide you with years of fun in the sun.
