Table of Contents

Soft Top Boards: The Ultimate Guide for Beginner Surfers and Beyond

The world of surfing can seem daunting at first glance, filled with tales of gnarly waves and seasoned pros. But fear not, aspiring wave riders! The soft top board, also known as a foam surfboard, offers a welcoming entry point into this exhilarating sport. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top boards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one and progressing your skills.

What is a Soft Top Board?

Unlike traditional hard surfboards made of fiberglass and epoxy, soft top boards feature a foam deck, often made of polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This soft, forgiving surface makes them significantly more user-friendly, especially for beginners. The core of the board is typically made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane (PU) foam, providing buoyancy and stability. A slick bottom, usually made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), helps the board glide smoothly across the water.

Why Choose a Soft Top Board?

There are several compelling reasons why a soft top board is an excellent choice, particularly for those new to surfing:

Safety: The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury from accidental collisions. A wipeout on a hard board can be painful, but falling on a soft top board is much more forgiving.
Stability: Soft top boards are generally wider and thicker than hard boards, providing greater stability and making it easier to paddle and catch waves.
Durability: While not indestructible, soft top boards are more resistant to dings and damage than their hard counterparts. This makes them ideal for learning in crowded surf spots or for traveling.
Affordability: Soft top boards are typically less expensive than hard boards, making them a budget-friendly option for beginners.
Ease of Use: The forgiving nature of a soft top board allows beginners to focus on the fundamentals of surfing without being constantly punished for minor mistakes.

Who Should Ride a Soft Top Board?

While primarily aimed at beginners, soft top boards also appeal to a wider range of surfers:

Beginners: As mentioned, soft top boards are the perfect starting point for anyone learning to surf.
Kids: The smaller sizes and added safety make them ideal for children learning to surf.
Experienced Surfers: Some experienced surfers use soft top boards for fun on small wave days or for experimenting with different riding styles. They can be a blast in mushy conditions.
Surf Schools: Most surf schools use soft top boards for their lessons due to their safety, stability, and ease of use.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Board

Selecting the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your weight, skill level, and the type of waves you plan to surf.

Size and Volume

The size of the board is typically measured in feet and inches, while volume is measured in liters. A larger board with more volume will be more stable and easier to paddle, while a smaller board will be more maneuverable. As a general rule, beginners should opt for a larger board.

Here’s a rough guideline for choosing a soft top board based on your weight:

Under 100 lbs: 7’0″ – 8’0″
100-150 lbs: 7’6″ – 8’6″
150-200 lbs: 8’0″ – 9’0″
Over 200 lbs: 8’6″ – 9’6″

These are just guidelines, and it’s always best to consult with a surf shop expert for personalized recommendations.

Shape

The shape of the board also affects its performance. Soft top boards typically come in a few different shapes:

Longboards: These are the longest and most stable soft top boards, ideal for beginners and small waves.
Funboards: These are shorter than longboards and offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability.
Shortboards: These are the shortest and most maneuverable soft top boards, best suited for experienced surfers and larger waves (though less common in soft top construction).

Fin Setup

The fin setup also affects the board’s performance. Most soft top boards come with a three-fin (thruster) setup, which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may have a single-fin or a quad-fin setup. The fins are usually made of a soft, flexible plastic to further enhance safety.

Tips for Riding a Soft Top Board

Once you’ve chosen your soft top board, here are a few tips to help you get started:

Find a Safe Spot: Choose a beach with gentle waves and a sandy bottom. Avoid areas with rocks or strong currents.
Practice Paddling: Get comfortable paddling on the board in calm water. Practice paddling straight and turning.
Pop-Up Practice: Practice your pop-up on the beach before heading into the water. This will help you get your feet under you quickly when a wave comes.
Start Small: Start with small waves and gradually work your way up to larger ones.
Have Fun!: Surfing is all about having fun. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right away. Just keep practicing and enjoying the ride.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Board

To keep your soft top board in good condition, follow these maintenance tips:

Rinse After Each Use: Rinse the board with fresh water after each use to remove salt and sand.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store the board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage the foam.
Avoid Sharp Objects: Be careful not to puncture the foam with sharp objects.
Repair Dings: If you do get a ding, repair it as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping into the core. There are specific repair kits available for soft top boards.

The Future of Soft Top Boards

Soft top boards have come a long way in recent years. Advances in materials and construction techniques have led to improved performance and durability. We can expect to see even more innovation in the future, with soft top boards becoming increasingly popular among surfers of all skill levels. Some manufacturers are even experimenting with hybrid designs that combine the benefits of soft top boards with the performance of hard boards. The accessibility and safety offered by the soft top board ensures its continued relevance in the surfing world.

Beyond the Basics: Progression on a Soft Top

While often seen as a beginner’s tool, the soft top board can also be used to progress your surfing skills. Once comfortable catching waves and riding straight, you can start experimenting with turns. The forgiving nature of the board allows you to try new things without fear of serious wipeouts. Practice your bottom turns and cutbacks on smaller waves, focusing on proper technique. As your skills improve, you may even consider trying a shorter soft top board for increased maneuverability. The key is to continue challenging yourself and pushing your limits while still having fun.

Soft Top Boards and Environmental Considerations

Like all surfboards, the production of soft top boards has an environmental impact. However, some manufacturers are taking steps to reduce their footprint. Look for boards made with recycled materials or those that use more sustainable manufacturing processes. Properly disposing of old soft top boards is also important. Check with local surf shops or recycling centers to see if they offer surfboard recycling programs. By making conscious choices, surfers can help minimize the environmental impact of their sport.

The Soft Top Board Community

The soft top board community is a welcoming and inclusive group of surfers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll find plenty of support and encouragement from fellow soft top board enthusiasts. Online forums and social media groups are great places to connect with other surfers, share tips, and find out about local events. Many surf shops also host demo days where you can try out different soft top boards and meet other surfers. Embracing the community is a great way to enhance your surfing experience and make new friends.

[See also: Beginner Surfboard Guide] [See also: How to Choose a Surfboard] [See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips]