Softtop Surfboard: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond

The softtop surfboard, also known as a foam surfboard, has revolutionized the world of surfing. Once relegated to beginner status, these boards are now embraced by surfers of all skill levels. Their forgiving nature, affordability, and durability make them an excellent choice for learning to surf, cruising on small waves, or simply having fun in the sun. This guide will delve into the world of softtop surfboards, exploring their construction, advantages, disadvantages, and how to choose the right one for you.

What is a Softtop Surfboard?

A softtop surfboard is characterized by its soft, textured deck made of closed-cell foam, typically polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This contrasts with traditional surfboards, which have a hard, fiberglass or epoxy resin shell. Underneath the soft deck, most softtop surfboards feature a foam core, usually expanded polystyrene (EPS), and may include stringers for added stiffness and strength. The bottom of the board is typically made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for durability and glide.

The Advantages of a Softtop Surfboard

• Safety: The soft deck reduces the risk of injury from collisions, making it ideal for beginners and crowded surf spots. A hardboard can cause serious bumps and bruises, but a softtop surfboard is much more forgiving.
• Buoyancy: Softtop surfboards are generally very buoyant, making them easy to paddle and catch waves. This is a huge advantage for beginners who are still developing their paddling technique.
• Affordability: Softtop surfboards are typically less expensive than traditional hardboards, making them an accessible entry point to surfing.
• Durability: The robust construction of softtop surfboards makes them resistant to dings and damage, perfect for learning and rough handling. They can withstand more abuse than a fragile fiberglass board.
• Fun Factor: Softtop surfboards are simply fun to ride! Their forgiving nature allows you to focus on enjoying the wave and progressing your skills.

The Disadvantages of a Softtop Surfboard

• Performance Limitations: While softtop surfboards are great for learning and small waves, they are not ideal for high-performance surfing. Their flex and buoyancy can make them less responsive in larger, more powerful waves.
• Speed: Due to the softer deck and bottom materials, softtop surfboards may not generate as much speed as a hardboard. This can be a disadvantage in certain wave conditions.
• Turning: The flex inherent in softtop surfboards can make turning more challenging, especially as you progress to more advanced maneuvers.
• Wind Sensitivity: The increased volume of a softtop surfboard can make it more susceptible to being blown around by the wind, especially when paddling.

Who Should Ride a Softtop Surfboard?

Softtop surfboards are an excellent choice for:

• Beginners: The soft deck, buoyancy, and stability make them perfect for learning the basics of surfing.
• Kids: The safety aspect is a major draw for parents looking for a safe and fun way for their children to learn to surf.
• Casual Surfers: If you’re looking for a board to cruise on small waves and have fun without the pressure of high-performance surfing, a softtop surfboard is a great option.
• Experienced Surfers: Many experienced surfers keep a softtop surfboard in their quiver for small wave days or for introducing friends and family to the sport. They can also be used for experimenting with different surfing styles.

Choosing the Right Softtop Surfboard

When choosing a softtop surfboard, consider the following factors:

Size

The size of your softtop surfboard will depend on your weight, skill level, and the type of waves you plan to surf. A larger board will be more stable and easier to paddle, while a smaller board will be more maneuverable. As a general guideline:

• Beginners: Choose a board that is at least 8 feet long and has plenty of volume.
• Intermediate Surfers: A board between 7 and 8 feet long may be suitable.
• Experienced Surfers: Can often ride boards shorter than 7 feet, depending on wave conditions and desired performance.

Volume

Volume is a measure of how much space the board occupies and is directly related to its buoyancy. More volume means the board will float better and be easier to paddle. Look for a softtop surfboard with a volume of at least 60 liters for beginners.

Construction

Pay attention to the construction of the softtop surfboard. Look for a board with a durable HDPE bottom, a strong EPS core, and multiple stringers for added stiffness. The quality of the soft deck material is also important – a thicker, more durable deck will last longer and provide better grip.

Fin Setup

Most softtop surfboards come with a thruster (three-fin) setup. This is a versatile fin configuration that provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may also have a quad (four-fin) setup, which can offer more speed and drive. The fins themselves are often made of soft plastic for safety.

Brand Reputation

Research different brands of softtop surfboards and read reviews to get an idea of their quality and performance. Some popular brands include Wavestorm, South Bay Board Co., and California Board Company. [See also: Wavestorm Surfboard Review]

Maintaining Your Softtop Surfboard

To keep your softtop surfboard in good condition, 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 leaving your board in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can damage the foam and cause it to delaminate.
• Repair Dings: While softtop surfboards are durable, they can still get dings. Repair any dings promptly to prevent water from seeping into the core.
• Use a Board Bag: A board bag will protect your board from scratches and sun damage during transport and storage.

Beyond the Basics: Softtop Surfboards for Advanced Surfers

While primarily aimed at beginners, softtop surfboards have also found a niche among experienced surfers. Shorter, more performance-oriented softtop surfboards are now available, offering a unique and playful riding experience. These boards often feature more refined shapes, stiffer cores, and higher-quality fins. Surfers are using them to experiment with new maneuvers, ride waves in unconventional ways, and simply have fun without the pressure of performing on a high-performance hardboard. [See also: Best Surfboards for Advanced Surfers]

The Future of Softtop Surfboards

The softtop surfboard market is constantly evolving, with new designs and technologies emerging all the time. We can expect to see even more innovative softtop surfboards in the future, blurring the lines between softboards and hardboards. As materials and construction techniques improve, softtop surfboards will likely become even more versatile and appealing to a wider range of surfers. The accessibility and fun factor of these boards ensure they will remain a popular choice for years to come.

Conclusion

The softtop surfboard is more than just a beginner board. It’s a versatile, fun, and affordable option for surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a new way to enjoy the waves, a softtop surfboard is definitely worth considering. So grab a softtop surfboard, head to the beach, and get ready to have some fun!