Soft Top Surfboard Longboard: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond
The allure of surfing, the feeling of gliding across the water, is undeniable. But for many beginners, the initial learning curve can be daunting. This is where the soft top surfboard longboard enters the picture, offering a user-friendly and forgiving platform to learn and progress. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top surfboard longboards, from their advantages and disadvantages to choosing the right one and maintaining it properly. We will explore why the soft top surfboard longboard is not just for beginners, but a versatile option for experienced surfers as well.
What is a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard?
A soft top surfboard longboard is, as the name suggests, a longboard surfboard with a soft foam deck. Unlike traditional hard-shell surfboards made of fiberglass and epoxy resin, soft top surfboard longboards typically feature an expanded polyethylene (EPE) or expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam core covered with a soft, grippy layer of polyethylene (PE) or similar material. The bottom of the board is usually made of a slick HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) to provide speed and glide.
Key Features of Soft Top Surfboard Longboards
- Soft Deck: The soft foam deck is the defining feature, providing comfort and reducing the risk of injury during falls.
- Long Length: Longboards generally range from 8 to 12 feet, offering excellent stability and paddling power.
- High Volume: The combination of length and thickness provides ample buoyancy, making it easier to catch waves.
- Durable Construction: While softer than hard-shell boards, soft top surfboard longboards are surprisingly durable and can withstand a good amount of wear and tear.
Why Choose a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard?
There are numerous reasons why a soft top surfboard longboard is a popular choice, especially for beginners. Let’s explore some of the key advantages:
Beginner-Friendly
The most significant advantage is its ease of use for beginners. The soft deck is forgiving, reducing the chance of painful dings and bumps. The long length and high volume provide exceptional stability, making it easier to paddle and stand up. Soft top surfboard longboards are designed to catch waves easily, allowing beginners to experience the thrill of surfing sooner rather than later.
Safety
The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury, both to the surfer and to others in the water. A hard-shell surfboard can cause serious injury if it hits someone, but a soft top surfboard longboard is much less likely to do so. This makes it a safer option, especially in crowded surf spots.
Affordability
Soft top surfboard longboards are generally more affordable than hard-shell surfboards. This makes them an excellent entry point for those who are unsure about committing to the sport long-term. You can find quality soft top surfboard longboards at a fraction of the price of a comparable hard-shell board.
Durability
While not as strong as a hard-shell board, a well-constructed soft top surfboard longboard can be surprisingly durable. They are less prone to dings and cracks from minor impacts, making them a good choice for beginners who are still learning to handle their board with care. [See also: Surfboard Repair for Beginners]
Versatility
Soft top surfboard longboards are not just for beginners. Experienced surfers often use them in small, mushy waves where a hard-shell board might struggle. They are also great for practicing new maneuvers and for having fun in less-than-perfect conditions. The forgiving nature of the soft top surfboard longboard allows for experimentation and creativity.
Disadvantages of Soft Top Surfboard Longboards
While soft top surfboard longboards offer many advantages, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
Performance Limitations
Soft top surfboard longboards are not designed for high-performance surfing. The soft deck and flexible construction limit their ability to handle steep drops and powerful waves. Experienced surfers who are looking to push their limits will likely prefer a hard-shell board.
Speed and Maneuverability
Compared to hard-shell boards, soft top surfboard longboards can feel slower and less maneuverable. The soft deck absorbs energy, reducing speed and responsiveness. This can make it more challenging to perform sharp turns and other advanced maneuvers.
Weight
Soft top surfboard longboards can be heavier than comparable hard-shell boards. The added weight can make them more difficult to carry and paddle, especially for smaller surfers.
Water Absorption
While modern soft top surfboard longboards are designed to minimize water absorption, they are still more susceptible to it than hard-shell boards. Over time, water absorption can add weight and reduce performance. Proper care and maintenance are essential to prevent this issue.
Choosing the Right Soft Top Surfboard Longboard
Selecting the right soft top surfboard longboard depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, height, and the type of waves you plan to surf. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Size Matters
The length and volume of the board are crucial considerations. As a general rule, beginners should opt for a longer and wider board with plenty of volume. This will provide maximum stability and paddling power. More experienced surfers can choose a shorter, narrower board for increased maneuverability.
Construction Quality
Look for a soft top surfboard longboard with a durable core and a high-quality deck material. EPE and EPS foam cores are common, with EPS generally being lighter and more buoyant. The deck should be made of a soft but durable material that provides good grip. A slick HDPE bottom will enhance speed and glide.
Fin Setup
Most soft top surfboard longboards come with a standard thruster (three-fin) setup. This provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may offer different fin configurations, such as a single fin or a 2+1 setup. Experiment with different fin setups to find what works best for you. [See also: Surfboard Fins Explained]
Brand Reputation
Choose a soft top surfboard longboard from a reputable brand known for quality and durability. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other surfers. A well-known brand is more likely to offer a reliable product and good customer support.
Caring for Your Soft Top Surfboard Longboard
Proper care and maintenance are essential to prolong the life of your soft top surfboard longboard. Here are some tips:
Rinse After Each Use
Rinse your board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and other debris. This will prevent corrosion and damage to the deck and bottom.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the foam to degrade and the colors to fade. A surfboard bag can provide added protection.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Avoid leaving your board in a hot car or in direct sunlight for extended periods. Extreme temperatures can cause the foam to expand and contract, leading to delamination and other damage.
Repair Dings and Tears Promptly
Inspect your board regularly for dings and tears. Repair any damage promptly to prevent water absorption. A simple ding repair kit can be used to fix minor damage.
Use a Leash
Always use a leash to prevent your board from drifting away. A leash will also help you avoid collisions with other surfers.
Conclusion
The soft top surfboard longboard is an excellent choice for beginners and a versatile option for experienced surfers. Its soft deck, high volume, and forgiving nature make it easy to learn and progress. While it may not offer the same performance as a hard-shell board, it is a safer, more affordable, and more durable option for many surfers. By choosing the right board and taking proper care of it, you can enjoy years of fun and rewarding surfing experiences with your soft top surfboard longboard. So, grab your board, hit the waves, and experience the joy of surfing!
