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Foam Top Surfboards: A Comprehensive Guide to Soft Top Surfing

The world of surfing can seem daunting to newcomers, with its specialized equipment and seemingly endless jargon. But fear not! One of the most accessible entry points is through foam top surfboards. These boards, often called soft tops, offer a forgiving and fun way to learn to ride the waves. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about foam top surfboards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one for your needs.

What are Foam Top Surfboards?

Foam top surfboards are exactly what they sound like: surfboards with a soft foam deck. This foam layer, typically made of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or similar materials, sits atop a more rigid core, often constructed from EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam. This combination provides a comfortable and grippy surface for the surfer, while the core provides the necessary buoyancy and stability.

Construction of a Foam Top Surfboard

Understanding the construction of a foam top surfboard helps you appreciate its strengths and limitations:

Deck (Top): The soft foam layer, providing comfort and grip.
Core: Usually EPS foam, offering buoyancy. Some boards use PU (polyurethane) foam, which is heavier but provides a more traditional surfboard feel.
Bottom: Typically a slick HDPE (high-density polyethylene) bottom, which helps the board glide smoothly through the water. Some boards may have additional layers of fiberglass for added strength and performance.
Rails: The edges of the board, often reinforced for durability.
Fins: Usually removable and made of plastic or composite materials.

Benefits of Using Foam Top Surfboards

Foam top surfboards offer several advantages, especially for beginners:

Safety: The soft deck is much more forgiving than a hard fiberglass board, reducing the risk of injuries from falls.
Buoyancy: Foam top surfboards generally have higher volume, making them easier to paddle and catch waves.
Stability: The wider shape of many foam top surfboards provides a stable platform for learning to stand.
Affordability: Foam top surfboards are typically more affordable than traditional surfboards, making them a great entry-level option.
Durability: While not indestructible, foam top surfboards are generally more resistant to dings and scratches than fiberglass boards.

Who are Foam Top Surfboards For?

While ideal for beginners, foam top surfboards aren’t just for newbies. They’re also popular among:

Beginners: As mentioned, the forgiving nature of these boards makes them perfect for learning the basics.
Kids: The smaller sizes and soft construction are ideal for young surfers.
Experienced Surfers: Many experienced surfers keep a foam top surfboard in their quiver for fun days in small waves or for teaching friends and family.
Surf Schools: Their durability and safety make them a go-to choice for surf schools.

Choosing the Right Foam Top Surfboard

Selecting the right foam top surfboard depends on your skill level, size, and the type of waves you plan to surf.

Size and Volume

The size of a foam top surfboard is typically measured in feet and inches. Volume, measured in liters, indicates how much the board will float. Generally:

Beginners: Should opt for a longer and wider board with high volume (e.g., 8’0″ to 9’0″ with 70+ liters). This provides maximum stability and paddling power.
Intermediate Surfers: Can choose a shorter and narrower board with less volume (e.g., 7’0″ to 8’0″ with 50-70 liters). This allows for more maneuverability.
Kids: Smaller boards (e.g., 5’0″ to 7’0″) are more manageable for children.

Shape

The shape of a foam top surfboard also affects its performance:

Longboards: Offer maximum stability and paddling power, ideal for small waves and beginners.
Funboards: A versatile option that balances stability and maneuverability, suitable for a variety of wave conditions.
Shortboards: More maneuverable but less stable, best suited for experienced surfers in larger waves. While less common as foam top surfboards, they exist and offer a unique, soft-top experience.

Features

Consider these features when choosing a foam top surfboard:

Fin Setup: Most foam top surfboards come with a thruster (three-fin) setup, which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some may have a single fin or a quad fin setup.
Leash: A leash is essential for keeping the board attached to your ankle.
Deck Pad: Some boards come with a built-in deck pad for added grip.
Carry Handle: A carry handle can make it easier to transport the board.

Top Brands of Foam Top Surfboards

Several brands offer high-quality foam top surfboards. Some popular options include:

Wavestorm
California Board Company (CBC)
South Bay Board Co.
Catch Surf
Gold Coast Surfboards

Caring for Your Foam Top Surfboard

Proper care can extend the life of your foam top surfboard:

Rinse with Fresh Water: After each use, rinse the board with fresh water to remove salt and sand.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing the board in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can damage the foam.
Protect from Dings: While foam top surfboards are durable, they can still be damaged. Use a board bag to protect the board during transport and storage.
Repair Minor Damage: Small dings and cuts can be repaired with foam-safe glue or sealant.

Advanced Techniques on Foam Top Surfboards

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start exploring more advanced techniques on your foam top surfboard. While they may not perform exactly like a hardboard, the forgiving nature can allow you to experiment without fear of serious injury. Consider trying:

Cross-Stepping: Walking along the board to trim and maintain speed.
Nose Riding: Positioning yourself on the front of the board for a classic surfing maneuver.
Turning Techniques: Practicing cutbacks and other turns to improve your wave-riding skills.

The Future of Foam Top Surfboards

Foam top surfboards are constantly evolving, with manufacturers experimenting with new materials and designs. We can expect to see:

Improved Performance: New foam formulations and construction techniques will lead to foam top surfboards that perform more like traditional surfboards.
Sustainable Materials: Manufacturers are increasingly using recycled and sustainable materials in their foam top surfboards.
Customization: More options for customizing the shape, size, and features of foam top surfboards.

Conclusion

Foam top surfboards are an excellent choice for anyone looking to get into surfing, whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced surfer looking for a fun alternative. Their affordability, durability, and forgiving nature make them a fantastic option for learning and progressing in the sport. By understanding the different types of foam top surfboards and how to care for them, you can enjoy years of fun in the waves. So grab a foam top surfboard and get ready to ride!

[See also: Beginner Surfboard Guide] [See also: Surfboard Types Explained] [See also: How to Choose a Surfboard]