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Soft Top Board: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Pros

The allure of surfing is undeniable. The feeling of gliding across the water, harnessing the power of the ocean, is an experience that draws people in from all walks of life. But getting started can be intimidating. That’s where the soft top board comes in. Often overlooked by seasoned surfers, the soft top board, also known as a foam surfboard, is an excellent choice for beginners and even offers advantages for more experienced riders in certain conditions. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about soft top boards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one for your skill level and the waves you plan to ride.

What is a Soft Top Board?

A soft top board is a surfboard characterized by its soft, foam deck. Unlike traditional hard-shell surfboards made of fiberglass and epoxy resin, soft top boards feature a layer of soft foam, typically polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), on the deck. This soft surface provides a more comfortable and forgiving riding experience, especially for beginners who are still learning the basics.

Construction of a Soft Top Board

Understanding the construction of a soft top board is crucial to appreciating its performance and durability. Here’s a breakdown of the typical components:

Foam Core: The core of the board is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which provides buoyancy and shape.
Soft Top Deck: The soft foam deck, made of PE or EVA, provides cushioning and grip. The EVA foam often features a textured surface to enhance grip.
Slick Bottom: The bottom of the board is typically made of a smooth, hard plastic material, like high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which allows the board to glide easily through the water.
Stringer(s): Most soft top boards include one or more stringers running lengthwise through the core. These stringers, often made of wood or composite materials, provide rigidity and prevent the board from flexing excessively.

Benefits of Using a Soft Top Board

Soft top boards offer several advantages, making them a popular choice for a wide range of surfers:

Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck is more forgiving on falls and reduces the risk of injury. The added buoyancy makes paddling and catching waves easier.
Affordable: Soft top boards are generally less expensive than hard-shell surfboards, making them an accessible entry point to the sport.
Durable: While not indestructible, soft top boards are often more resistant to dings and damage than fiberglass boards.
Fun for All Skill Levels: Experienced surfers can enjoy riding soft top boards in smaller waves or for practicing new maneuvers.
Safety: The soft deck reduces the risk of injury to yourself and others in the water.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Board

Selecting the right soft top board depends on your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to surf. Here are some factors to consider:

Size and Volume

The size and volume of the board are crucial for stability and paddle power. Beginners should opt for a larger board with more volume, as this will provide greater buoyancy and make it easier to catch waves. As you progress, you can consider smaller boards with less volume for increased maneuverability.

Generally, a soft top board that is at least 8 feet long is recommended for beginners. Taller and heavier individuals may need even larger boards. The volume of the board, measured in liters, also affects buoyancy. Look for a board with a volume that is appropriate for your weight and skill level. Online resources and surf shops can provide guidance on selecting the right size and volume.

Shape

The shape of the soft top board influences its performance in the water. Wider boards are more stable and easier to paddle, while narrower boards are more maneuverable. Consider the following shapes:

Longboard Shape: Ideal for beginners, longboard-shaped soft top boards offer excellent stability and paddle power.
Funboard Shape: A versatile option for intermediate surfers, funboard-shaped soft top boards provide a balance of stability and maneuverability.
Fish Shape: With a wider tail and a shorter length, fish-shaped soft top boards are designed for speed and maneuverability in smaller waves.

Fin Setup

The fin setup affects the board’s tracking and turning ability. Soft top boards typically come with one of the following fin setups:

Single Fin: Provides stability and control, ideal for beginners.
Twin Fin: Offers increased speed and maneuverability, suitable for intermediate surfers.
Thruster (Three Fins): A versatile setup that provides a balance of stability, speed, and maneuverability.

Some soft top boards feature removable fins, allowing you to experiment with different fin setups to find what works best for your riding style.

Durability and Construction Quality

While soft top boards are generally more durable than fiberglass boards, it’s still important to consider the quality of construction. Look for boards with a thick, durable soft top deck and a strong, rigid core. The quality of the stringer(s) also affects the board’s overall strength and performance.

Soft Top Boards for Different Skill Levels

The best soft top board for you will depend on your skill level and surfing goals.

Beginner Soft Top Boards

Beginners should look for a soft top board that is long, wide, and has a high volume. A longboard shape with a single fin setup is a good starting point. These boards are stable, easy to paddle, and forgiving on falls. Focus on learning the basics, such as paddling, popping up, and riding in a straight line.

Intermediate Soft Top Boards

Intermediate surfers can consider a shorter, narrower soft top board with less volume. A funboard shape or a fish shape with a thruster or twin fin setup can provide increased maneuverability and speed. Focus on improving your turns, riding down the line, and experimenting with different maneuvers.

Advanced Soft Top Boards

Even experienced surfers can enjoy riding soft top boards. Look for high-performance soft top boards with advanced features, such as carbon fiber stringers and specialized fin setups. These boards can be used for practicing new maneuvers, riding in small waves, or simply having fun in the sun. Some advanced surfers even use soft top boards for skimboarding.

Caring for Your Soft Top Board

Proper care and maintenance can extend the life of your soft top board. Here are some tips:

Rinse with Fresh Water: After each use, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can cause the foam to delaminate.
Protect from Sharp Objects: Be careful not to scratch or puncture the soft top deck with sharp objects.
Repair Dings and Tears: If you notice any dings or tears in the soft top deck, repair them promptly to prevent water from seeping into the core. There are specialized repair kits available for soft top boards.
Use a Board Bag: A board bag can protect your board from damage during transport and storage.

Where to Buy Soft Top Boards

Soft top boards are widely available at surf shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. When purchasing a soft top board, consider the following:

Reputation of the Brand: Choose a reputable brand that is known for producing high-quality surfboards.
Warranty: Check if the board comes with a warranty.
Return Policy: Make sure you can return the board if you are not satisfied with it.
Read Reviews: Read online reviews to get an idea of the board’s performance and durability.

The Future of Soft Top Boards

Soft top boards have come a long way in recent years. Advances in materials and construction techniques have resulted in soft top boards that are more durable, high-performing, and versatile than ever before. As surfing continues to grow in popularity, soft top boards are likely to remain a popular choice for beginners and experienced surfers alike. [See also: Surfboard Types Explained] [See also: Best Surf Spots for Beginners] [See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips]

Conclusion

The soft top board is an excellent option for anyone looking to get into surfing or for experienced surfers seeking a fun and forgiving ride. With their soft decks, affordability, and durability, soft top boards offer a unique surfing experience that is accessible to all. By understanding the different types of soft top boards and considering your skill level and surfing goals, you can choose the perfect board for your needs and enjoy the thrill of riding the waves.