Soft Top Board: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Pros
For anyone looking to get into surfing or just wants a more forgiving board, a soft top board is often the perfect choice. These boards, also known as foamies, are designed for ease of use, durability, and safety, making them ideal for beginners and even experienced surfers on smaller days. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about soft top boards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one and maintaining it properly.
What is a Soft Top Board?
A soft top board is a surfboard constructed with a foam deck, typically made of closed-cell foam like polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This soft, cushioned surface provides a comfortable and grippy platform, reducing the risk of injury compared to traditional hard-top surfboards. The core of a soft top board is usually made of EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam, which is lightweight and buoyant. The bottom is often a slick HDPE (high-density polyethylene) layer for added speed and durability.
Key Features of Soft Top Boards
- Soft Deck: The foam deck is gentle on the skin and provides excellent grip, minimizing the need for wax.
- High Buoyancy: The EPS core makes soft top boards very buoyant, aiding in paddling and catching waves.
- Durable Construction: The combination of foam, EPS, and HDPE makes these boards resistant to dings and damage.
- Beginner-Friendly: The stability and forgiving nature of soft top boards make them perfect for learning to surf.
Benefits of Using a Soft Top Board
There are several compelling reasons to choose a soft top board, regardless of your skill level:
Safety
The soft deck significantly reduces the risk of injuries. Whether you’re a beginner wiping out frequently or an experienced surfer navigating crowded lineups, the cushioning effect of a soft top board can prevent bumps, bruises, and more serious injuries.
Ease of Use
Soft top boards are incredibly easy to paddle and catch waves with. Their high buoyancy means they float well, making it easier to stay on top of the water and paddle efficiently. This is especially helpful for beginners who are still developing their paddling technique.
Durability
These boards are built to withstand a lot of abuse. The combination of materials makes them resistant to dings, scratches, and other common forms of damage. This durability makes them a great investment, especially if you’re prone to accidents or plan to share your board with others.
Affordability
Generally, soft top boards are more affordable than traditional hard-top surfboards. This makes them an accessible option for beginners who are unsure about committing to a more expensive board. They also offer great value for experienced surfers looking for a fun, casual alternative.
Versatility
While primarily known as beginner boards, soft top boards are versatile enough to be enjoyed by surfers of all skill levels. They’re great for small wave days, teaching friends and family to surf, or just having a fun, low-pressure session.
Choosing the Right Soft Top Board
Selecting the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your skill level, size, and the type of waves you plan to surf.
Size and Volume
As a general rule, beginners should opt for larger soft top boards with higher volume. This provides more stability and makes it easier to catch waves. A good starting point is a board that’s at least 8 feet long and has a volume of 60 liters or more. As you progress, you can experiment with smaller, more maneuverable boards.
Shape
The shape of the soft top board also plays a crucial role in its performance. Wider boards with rounded noses are more stable and forgiving, making them ideal for beginners. Narrower boards with pointed noses are more maneuverable and better suited for experienced surfers looking to perform turns and tricks.
Fin Setup
Most soft top boards come with a tri-fin setup (three fins), which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may have a single fin or a quad-fin setup, each offering a different riding experience. Experiment with different fin setups to find what works best for you.
Construction Quality
Pay attention to the quality of the materials and construction. Look for boards with a durable foam deck, a strong EPS core, and a slick HDPE bottom. Reinforced rails and fin boxes are also important for longevity.
Maintaining Your Soft Top Board
Proper maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your soft top board. Here are some tips to keep your board in good condition:
Rinse After Each Use
Always rinse your board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and other debris. This will help prevent corrosion and extend the life of the materials.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can cause the foam to degrade and the board to warp. Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a board bag to protect it from UV rays and physical damage.
Avoid Sharp Objects
Be careful not to puncture or scratch the foam deck with sharp objects. While soft top boards are durable, they’re not indestructible. Avoid dragging the board across rough surfaces and be mindful of fins and other sharp objects.
Check for Damage Regularly
Inspect your board regularly for any signs of damage, such as dings, cracks, or delamination. Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening. Small dings can be filled with foam-compatible sealant, while larger repairs may require professional attention.
Advanced Techniques on a Soft Top Board
While soft top boards are excellent for beginners, they can also be used for more advanced surfing techniques. Here are a few tips for taking your soft top surfing to the next level:
Improving Your Paddling Technique
Even though soft top boards are buoyant, efficient paddling is still crucial. Focus on using long, smooth strokes and maintaining a streamlined body position to maximize your speed and conserve energy.
Mastering the Pop-Up
A quick and smooth pop-up is essential for catching waves consistently. Practice your pop-up technique on land until it becomes second nature. Focus on positioning your hands correctly and popping up in a single, fluid motion.
Learning to Turn
Once you’re comfortable riding straight, start practicing turns. Shift your weight to the inside rail of the board to initiate a turn. Use your body and arms to guide the board in the desired direction.
Experimenting with Different Fin Setups
Different fin setups can significantly affect the performance of your soft top board. Try experimenting with different fin sizes, shapes, and positions to find what works best for your surfing style and the type of waves you’re riding.
Soft Top Boards vs. Hard Top Boards
The choice between a soft top board and a hard top board depends on your skill level, surfing goals, and personal preferences. Here’s a comparison of the two:
Soft Top Boards
- Pros: Safer, easier to paddle, more durable, more affordable, versatile.
- Cons: Less responsive, limited performance in larger waves, may not be suitable for advanced maneuvers.
Hard Top Boards
- Pros: More responsive, better performance in larger waves, suitable for advanced maneuvers.
- Cons: Less safe, harder to paddle, less durable, more expensive, steeper learning curve.
Ultimately, the best board for you is the one that you enjoy riding the most. Many surfers own both soft top boards and hard top boards, using each for different conditions and purposes. [See also: Surfboard Types Explained]
The Future of Soft Top Boards
Soft top boards have come a long way in recent years, with manufacturers constantly innovating and improving their designs. We can expect to see even more advanced soft top boards in the future, with features like improved materials, enhanced performance, and more sustainable construction. As surfing becomes more popular and accessible, soft top boards will likely play an increasingly important role in introducing new surfers to the sport.
Conclusion
A soft top board is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get into surfing or just wants a fun, forgiving board for smaller days. Their safety, ease of use, durability, and affordability make them a great option for beginners and experienced surfers alike. By choosing the right board, maintaining it properly, and practicing your technique, you can enjoy countless hours of fun in the water. So grab a soft top board and get ready to ride some waves!
