Soft Top Boards: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Pros
Soft top boards, also known as foam surfboards or “foamies,” have revolutionized the surfing world, offering a user-friendly and accessible entry point to the sport. While once considered primarily for beginners, advancements in design and materials have made soft top boards a viable option for experienced surfers seeking fun and versatility. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about soft top boards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right board and maintaining it for years to come.
What is a Soft Top Board?
A soft top board is a surfboard constructed with a foam core, typically made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyethylene (PE), and covered with a soft, grippy deck. This deck is usually made of closed-cell foam, which provides cushioning and traction, eliminating the need for wax in many cases. The bottom of the board is often slick, made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) for increased speed and durability. Unlike traditional hard surfboards made of fiberglass and resin, soft top boards are more forgiving and less prone to dings and damage.
Benefits of Using a Soft Top Board
There are numerous advantages to using a soft top board, making them a popular choice for a wide range of surfers:
- Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck provides a comfortable and stable platform for learning to surf. The forgiving nature of the foam reduces the risk of injury and makes it easier to catch waves.
- Durability: Soft top boards are much more resistant to dings and damage compared to hard surfboards. This makes them ideal for travel, crowded surf spots, and beginners who are likely to encounter accidental collisions.
- Affordability: Generally, soft top boards are more affordable than traditional fiberglass boards, making surfing more accessible to a broader audience.
- Versatility: Modern soft top boards come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different skill levels and wave conditions. From longboards for mellow waves to shortboards for more performance-oriented surfing, there’s a soft top board for almost every surfer.
- Safety: The soft construction reduces the risk of injury to both the surfer and other people in the water. In crowded conditions, a soft top board is less likely to cause serious harm in case of a collision.
Types of Soft Top Boards
Soft top boards come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific purposes. Here are some common types:
Longboards
Soft top longboards are typically 8 feet or longer and are ideal for beginners and those who enjoy cruising on smaller waves. They offer excellent stability and paddle power, making it easy to catch waves.
Shortboards
Soft top shortboards are shorter and more maneuverable than longboards. They are suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers who want to perform turns and tricks on larger waves. While not as common as longboard versions, they offer a unique and fun surfing experience.
Funboards
Funboards are a mid-length option, usually between 6 and 8 feet. They offer a balance of stability and maneuverability, making them a versatile choice for various wave conditions and skill levels. A soft top funboard is a great step up from a longboard as your skills improve.
Grom Boards
These are smaller soft top boards designed specifically for children. They are lightweight and easy to handle, making them perfect for young surfers who are just starting out.
Fish Boards
Fish boards are wider and shorter than traditional shortboards, featuring a split tail design. They are known for their speed and maneuverability in smaller waves. Soft top fish boards are a popular choice for surfers who want a fun and playful surfing experience.
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.
Skill Level
Beginners should opt for a longer and wider board, such as a longboard or funboard, as these offer more stability and paddle power. Intermediate to advanced surfers can choose shorter boards with more maneuverability.
Weight
Your weight will influence the volume of the board you need. Heavier surfers will require a board with more volume to ensure adequate floatation. Consult a surfboard volume calculator or ask a surf shop employee for advice.
Wave Conditions
Consider the type of waves you will be surfing. For small, mellow waves, a longboard or fish board is ideal. For larger, more powerful waves, a shortboard or funboard may be more suitable. Many prefer a soft top board in crowded locations because of the reduced risk of injury.
Board Dimensions
Pay attention to the length, width, and thickness of the board. Longer boards are more stable, wider boards offer more floatation, and thicker boards provide more volume. Experiment with different dimensions to find what works best for you.
Maintaining Your Soft Top Board
Proper maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your soft top board:
- Rinse After Each Use: Rinse your board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and debris.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can cause the foam to degrade. Store it in a cool, dry place, preferably in a board bag.
- Avoid Sharp Objects: Be careful not to puncture or damage the soft top with sharp objects. Use a surfboard repair kit to fix any minor dings or tears.
- Check Fin Screws: Regularly check the fin screws to ensure they are tight. Loose fins can affect the board’s performance and can even be lost.
- Use a Board Bag: When traveling or storing your board for extended periods, use a board bag to protect it from damage and UV exposure.
Are Soft Top Boards Only for Beginners?
While soft top boards are often associated with beginners, they are not exclusively for them. Many experienced surfers enjoy riding soft top boards for their fun and forgiving nature. In recent years, high-performance soft top boards have emerged, featuring advanced designs and materials that cater to more skilled surfers. These boards offer excellent maneuverability and speed, allowing experienced surfers to push their limits in a variety of wave conditions. The modern soft top board is a far cry from the clunky foamies of the past.
The Future of Soft Top Boards
The popularity of soft top boards is expected to continue to grow as more people discover the joy of surfing. Advancements in technology and materials will likely lead to even more innovative and high-performance soft top boards in the future. As the surfing industry becomes more environmentally conscious, there is also a growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly soft top board options. Manufacturers are exploring the use of recycled materials and biodegradable foams to reduce the environmental impact of surfboard production. The humble soft top board is no longer just a beginner’s tool; it’s a versatile and exciting option for surfers of all levels, and its future looks bright.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking a fun and versatile board, a soft top board is an excellent choice. With their durability, affordability, and user-friendly design, soft top boards have made surfing more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
[See also: How to Choose the Right Surfboard]
[See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips]
[See also: The Best Surf Spots for Beginners]
