Soft Top Boards: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond
Soft top boards, also known as foam surfboards or foamies, have revolutionized the surfing world, making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for surfers of all skill levels. Gone are the days when surfing was solely the domain of experienced wave riders on hard epoxy boards. Today, soft top boards offer a forgiving and fun platform to learn the basics, progress your skills, and even shred some waves. This guide delves 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 characterized by its soft, foam-based deck. Unlike traditional hard 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 deck offers enhanced comfort, grip, and safety, making them ideal for beginners and those looking for a more relaxed surfing experience.
The core of a soft top board is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which provides buoyancy and structural integrity. The bottom of the board is often covered with a slick HDPE (high-density polyethylene) layer for increased speed and glide on the water. Some high-end soft top boards incorporate stringers (wooden or composite reinforcements) within the core for added stiffness and performance.
Benefits of Using a Soft Top Board
Beginner-Friendly
The primary advantage of a soft top board is its accessibility to beginners. The soft deck is much more forgiving than a hard epoxy board, reducing the risk of injury from falls and collisions. The added buoyancy of soft top boards makes paddling easier, allowing beginners to catch waves more easily and spend more time practicing their pop-up.
Enhanced Safety
The soft construction of these boards minimizes the potential for serious injuries. While surfing always carries inherent risks, the cushioned deck of a soft top board significantly reduces the likelihood of cuts, bruises, and other impact-related injuries, particularly for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
Affordable
Generally, soft top boards are more affordable than traditional hard surfboards. This makes them an excellent entry point for aspiring surfers who don’t want to invest a large sum of money before committing to the sport. The lower price point also makes them a popular choice for families and surf schools.
Durability
Soft top boards are surprisingly durable. The forgiving foam deck can withstand a considerable amount of wear and tear, making them less prone to dings and cracks than hard boards. This durability is particularly beneficial for beginners who are likely to subject their boards to more abuse as they learn.
Fun for All Skill Levels
While soft top boards are often associated with beginners, they can also be a blast for experienced surfers. Many advanced surfers use soft top boards on small wave days or when they simply want a more relaxed and playful surfing experience. The forgiving nature of the board allows for creative maneuvers and a carefree approach to wave riding.
Choosing the Right Soft Top Board
Selecting the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to surf.
Size and Volume
The size and volume of a soft top board directly impact its stability and paddling speed. Beginners should opt for longer and wider boards with higher volume. These boards offer greater stability and make it easier to catch waves. As you progress, you can transition to shorter, narrower boards for increased maneuverability.
Here’s a general guideline for choosing the right size soft top board:
- Beginners: 8’0″ to 9’0″ with a volume of 70 liters or more.
- Intermediate Surfers: 7’0″ to 8’0″ with a volume of 50-70 liters.
- Advanced Surfers: 6’0″ to 7’0″ with a volume of 40-50 liters.
Construction
Pay attention to the construction of the soft top board. Look for boards with a durable EPS core, multiple stringers for added stiffness, and a slick HDPE bottom for optimal speed. The quality of the foam deck is also important. Higher-quality PE or EVA foam will provide better grip and comfort.
Fin Setup
Most soft top boards come with a thruster (three-fin) setup, which offers a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may have a single-fin or quad-fin setup, which can be suitable for specific wave conditions and surfing styles. Ensure that the fins are securely attached and made of durable materials.
Brand and Price
Consider reputable brands that are known for producing high-quality soft top boards. While price is a factor, don’t compromise on quality. A well-made soft top board will last longer and provide a better surfing experience.
Maintaining Your Soft Top Board
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your soft top board and keep it performing at its best.
Rinse After Each Use
Always rinse your soft top board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and debris. This will prevent corrosion and maintain the integrity of the foam deck and bottom.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Store your soft top board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat and sunlight can damage the foam and cause it to deteriorate over time. A surfboard bag can provide added protection from the elements.
Avoid Sharp Objects
Be careful to avoid sharp objects that could puncture or damage the foam deck. While soft top boards are durable, they are not impervious to sharp objects. Keep your board away from rocks, shells, and other potentially damaging materials.
Repair Dings and Tears
Inspect your soft top board regularly for dings and tears. Small dings can be repaired with a foam-specific repair kit. Larger tears may require professional repair.
Advanced Techniques on Soft Top Boards
Once you’ve mastered the basics on a soft top board, you can start experimenting with more advanced techniques. While soft top boards may not offer the same level of performance as hard boards, they can still be used to perform a variety of maneuvers.
Turning and Carving
Practice turning and carving by shifting your weight and engaging your rails. Soft top boards are more forgiving than hard boards, allowing you to experiment with different turning techniques without the fear of catching an edge.
Nose Riding
Some soft top boards are designed for nose riding, a classic surfing maneuver that involves walking to the front of the board and riding the wave from the nose. Look for soft top boards with a wide nose and a flat rocker for optimal nose-riding performance.
Soft Top Board Tricks
Get creative and try some fun tricks on your soft top board. From simple ollies to more advanced aerial maneuvers, the possibilities are endless. The soft deck provides a comfortable and forgiving platform for experimenting with new tricks.
Conclusion
Soft top boards have transformed the surfing landscape, making the sport more accessible, safer, and more enjoyable for surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced surfer seeking a more relaxed and playful experience, a soft top board is an excellent choice. By understanding the benefits, choosing the right board, and maintaining it properly, you can enjoy countless hours of fun and progression on the waves. So, grab a soft top board and get ready to experience the joy of surfing!
[See also: Surfboard Types for Beginners]
[See also: How to Choose the Right Surfboard Size]
[See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips]
