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

The allure of surfing is undeniable. The feeling of gliding across the water, harnessing the power of the ocean, is a unique and exhilarating experience. For those just starting their surfing journey, or even seasoned surfers looking for a more relaxed ride, the soft top surfboard longboard presents an excellent option. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top surfboard longboards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one and maintaining it for years to come. We’ll explore why a soft top surfboard longboard is often the go-to choice for learning and why it remains a popular option even as skills progress. A soft top surfboard longboard offers a forgiving platform, enhancing the learning experience and providing a fun, accessible way to enjoy the waves.

What is a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard?

A soft top surfboard longboard, as the name suggests, is a longboard surfboard with a soft, cushioned deck. Unlike traditional hard-top surfboards made of fiberglass and resin, soft top surfboards typically feature a foam deck, often made of closed-cell polyethylene (PE) or expanded polystyrene (EPS). This soft deck provides a comfortable and forgiving surface, making it ideal for beginners and anyone looking for a more comfortable surfing experience. The bottom of the board usually consists of a slick, durable material that helps it glide smoothly across the water.

Benefits of Choosing a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard

There are several compelling reasons to choose a soft top surfboard longboard, especially for beginners:

• Increased Safety: The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury in case of falls or collisions. This is particularly important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
• Enhanced Buoyancy and Stability: Soft top longboards are generally thicker and wider than hard-top boards, providing greater buoyancy and stability. This makes it easier to paddle, catch waves, and maintain balance.
• Affordability: Soft top surfboards are typically more affordable than hard-top boards, making them a great entry point for aspiring surfers.
• Durability: While not indestructible, soft top surfboards are generally more resistant to dings and scratches than hard-top boards. This makes them a good choice for beginners who are likely to subject their boards to some wear and tear.
• Comfort: The soft deck is much more comfortable to stand on than a hard fiberglass deck, especially for long periods of time.

Who is a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard For?

While soft top surfboard longboards are particularly well-suited for beginners, they can also be enjoyed by surfers of all skill levels. Here’s a breakdown of who might benefit from using a soft top longboard:

• Beginners: The stability, buoyancy, and safety features make them ideal for learning the basics of surfing.
• Intermediate Surfers: A soft top longboard can be a fun and relaxing alternative to a hard-top board on smaller waves.
• Families: They are a great option for families with children who want to learn to surf together.
• Surfing Schools and Camps: The durability and safety of soft top longboards make them a popular choice for surf schools and camps.
• Anyone Looking for a Fun, Relaxed Ride: Sometimes you just want to cruise and enjoy the waves without the pressure of performing advanced maneuvers. A soft top surfboard longboard is perfect for that.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Surfboard Longboard

When choosing a soft top surfboard longboard, consider the following factors:

Length

Longboards typically range in length from 8 to 12 feet. Longer boards are more stable and easier to paddle, making them ideal for beginners. Shorter boards are more maneuverable but require more skill to control. A good starting point for beginners is a soft top surfboard longboard in the 9-10 foot range.

Width

Wider boards are more stable and easier to paddle, while narrower boards are more maneuverable. Look for a soft top surfboard longboard with a width of at least 22 inches for good stability.

Thickness

Thicker boards provide more buoyancy, making them easier to paddle and catch waves. Choose a soft top surfboard longboard with a thickness of at least 3 inches for good buoyancy.

Volume

Volume is a measure of the overall size of the board and is directly related to its buoyancy. A higher volume board will be easier to paddle and catch waves. Look for a soft top surfboard longboard with a volume of at least 70 liters for a beginner.

Fin Setup

Most soft top surfboard longboards come with a thruster (three fins) or a single fin setup. Thruster setups provide more stability and control, while single fin setups are more maneuverable. A thruster setup is generally recommended for beginners.

Construction

Pay attention to the materials used in the construction of the board. Look for a soft top surfboard longboard with a durable foam deck and a slick, durable bottom. Some boards also feature reinforced rails for added durability.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard Longboard

Proper maintenance will help extend the life of your soft top surfboard longboard. Here are some tips:

• Rinse with Fresh Water: After each surf session, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can damage the foam deck.
• Repair Dings and Tears: Promptly repair any dings or tears in the foam deck or bottom to prevent water from seeping into the core of the board.
• Use a Board Bag: A board bag will protect your board from scratches, dings, and UV damage during transport and storage.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean your board, as these can damage the foam deck.

Advanced Techniques on a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard

While often associated with beginners, soft top surfboard longboards can also be used to perform advanced techniques. Experienced surfers can utilize these boards for:

• Nose Riding: The ample surface area allows for extended nose rides.
• Cross-Stepping: Walking along the board to adjust position and maintain speed.
• Classic Longboard Turns: Smooth, flowing turns that are characteristic of longboarding.

Popular Soft Top Surfboard Longboard Brands

Several reputable brands offer high-quality soft top surfboard longboards. Some popular options include:

• Wavestorm
• South Bay Board Co.
• California Board Company (CBC)
• Gold Coast Surfboards
• Liquid Shredder

The Future of Soft Top Surfboard Longboards

Soft top surfboard longboards continue to evolve, with manufacturers incorporating new materials and designs to improve performance and durability. As surfing becomes more accessible to a wider audience, the popularity of soft top surfboards is likely to continue to grow. The combination of safety, affordability, and ease of use makes them an ideal choice for anyone looking to experience the joy of surfing.

Ultimately, choosing the right soft top surfboard longboard depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your skill level, body type, and the type of waves you plan to surf. With a little research and some careful consideration, you can find the perfect soft top surfboard longboard to help you enjoy the waves for years to come. [See also: How to Choose the Right Surfboard Size] and [See also: Surfboard Fin Setups Explained]