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Soft Top Surfboard Longboard: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond

The allure of surfing, the dance with the ocean, often begins with the right equipment. For many aspiring surfers, and even seasoned wave riders looking for a more relaxed experience, the soft top surfboard longboard presents an ideal entry point. This guide delves into the world of soft top longboards, exploring their benefits, construction, and why they’re a fantastic choice for a wide range of surfers. We’ll also discuss how to choose the right board, maintain it, and progress your surfing skills on a soft top surfboard longboard.

What is a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard?

A soft top surfboard longboard, as the name suggests, combines the forgiving nature of a soft top (or foam) surfboard with the length and stability of a longboard. Traditional surfboards are typically constructed with a foam core wrapped in fiberglass and resin, resulting in a hard, durable surface. Soft top surfboards, on the other hand, feature a softer, more cushioned deck made of materials like cross-linked polyethylene (CXL) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. This softer surface makes them more comfortable to paddle and less likely to cause injury in the event of a wipeout.

Longboards, generally defined as surfboards over 8 feet in length, offer exceptional stability and paddling power. Combining these two features creates a board that’s easy to learn on, fun to ride, and suitable for a variety of wave conditions. This combination of features is why the soft top surfboard longboard is a popular choice among beginners.

Benefits of Using a Soft Top Longboard

Increased Stability: The length of a longboard provides a stable platform, making it easier to stand up and maintain balance, especially for beginners.
Enhanced Paddling Power: The extra volume of a longboard allows for effortless paddling, enabling you to catch waves with less effort. This is a game-changer for beginners who are still developing their paddling technique.
Improved Safety: The soft top deck reduces the risk of injury from accidental bumps or falls. This is particularly important for beginners who are more prone to wipeouts.
Cost-Effective: Soft top longboards are generally more affordable than traditional fiberglass longboards, making them an accessible option for budget-conscious surfers.
Durability: While not as durable as epoxy boards, modern soft top surfboard longboard designs are surprisingly resilient and can withstand a fair amount of wear and tear.
Versatility: A soft top surfboard longboard isn’t just for beginners. Experienced surfers often use them for mellow days, cruising, or teaching others to surf.

Who Should Use a Soft Top Longboard?

While beginners are the most common demographic for soft top surfboard longboard, they’re also a great option for:

Beginner Surfers: The forgiving nature and stability of a soft top longboard make it ideal for learning the basics of surfing.
Intermediate Surfers: Perfect for mellow days, practicing new maneuvers, or introducing friends and family to surfing.
Experienced Surfers: A fun alternative for cruising, riding smaller waves, or simply enjoying a more relaxed surfing experience.
Families: The added safety of a soft top makes it a great choice for families with young children who are learning to surf.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Longboard

Selecting the right soft top surfboard longboard involves considering several factors:

Length

Longboards typically range from 8 to 12 feet. For beginners, a board in the 8-9 foot range is a good starting point. Taller or heavier individuals may benefit from a longer board for added stability and buoyancy. Consider your height and weight when choosing the length of your soft top surfboard longboard.

Volume

Volume refers to the amount of space a board occupies and is measured in liters. Higher volume boards are easier to paddle and more stable. Beginners should opt for a board with higher volume. The volume of a soft top surfboard longboard contributes significantly to its ease of use.

Shape

The shape of the board, including the nose, tail, and rails, affects its performance. A wider nose provides more stability, while a narrower tail allows for tighter turns. Rounded rails are more forgiving, while harder rails offer better performance in steeper waves. For a first soft top surfboard longboard, aim for a rounded shape and wider nose.

Fin Setup

Most soft top surfboard longboard come with a single fin or a 2+1 fin setup (two smaller side fins with a larger center fin). Single fins offer a classic longboarding feel, while 2+1 setups provide more control and maneuverability. Experiment with different fin setups to find what works best for your style and wave conditions.

Construction Quality

While all soft tops share a similar construction principle, the quality of materials and craftsmanship can vary. Look for boards with durable foam decks, strong EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) or EPE (Expanded Polyethylene) cores, and reinforced stringers (internal supports) for added strength. A well-constructed soft top surfboard longboard will last longer and perform better. Check reviews and ask for recommendations before making a purchase.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Longboard

Proper care can extend the life of your soft top surfboard longboard:

Rinse After Each Use: Saltwater can damage the foam deck, so rinse your board thoroughly with fresh water after each surf session.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid leaving your board in direct sunlight, as the heat can cause the foam to delaminate. Store it in a shaded area or indoors when not in use.
Use a Board Bag: A board bag will protect your board from scratches, dings, and UV damage.
Check for Damage Regularly: Inspect your board for any signs of damage, such as tears, punctures, or delamination. Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean your board, as they can damage the foam.

Progressing Your Surfing Skills on a Soft Top Longboard

Once you’ve mastered the basics on your soft top surfboard longboard, you can start working on more advanced skills:

Turning: Practice turning by shifting your weight and using your rails. Start with gentle turns and gradually progress to sharper turns.
Walking the Board: Try walking up and down the board while riding a wave. This is a classic longboarding maneuver that requires balance and coordination.
Nose Riding: Once you’re comfortable walking the board, try riding on the nose of the board. This is the ultimate longboarding challenge.
Cross-Stepping: A smooth way to move up and down the board while maintaining style.
Consider Lessons: Even after the basics, a lesson or two can help refine technique and accelerate progress.

Where to Buy a Soft Top Longboard

Soft top surfboard longboard are readily available from a variety of sources:

Surf Shops: Local surf shops offer a wide selection of boards and expert advice.
Online Retailers: Online retailers offer competitive prices and convenient shipping.
Used Market: Consider purchasing a used board to save money. Just be sure to inspect it carefully for any damage.

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

The technology behind soft top surfboard longboard construction is constantly evolving. Expect to see further improvements in materials, durability, and performance in the years to come. Some manufacturers are even experimenting with sustainable materials and eco-friendly construction methods. The soft top surfboard longboard is likely to remain a popular choice for surfers of all skill levels for many years to come.

Conclusion

The soft top surfboard longboard is a versatile and accessible option for surfers of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking a more relaxed ride, a soft top longboard can provide hours of fun in the water. By choosing the right board, maintaining it properly, and practicing regularly, you can unlock the full potential of this fantastic piece of surfing equipment. Happy surfing!

[See also: Beginner Surfboard Guide] [See also: Longboard Surfing Techniques] [See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips]