Soft Top Surfboard Longboard: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond
The allure of surfing often begins with visions of gliding effortlessly across a wave, and for many, that journey starts with a soft top surfboard longboard. These boards, known for their forgiving nature and ease of use, are the perfect gateway into the world of surfing. But are they just for beginners? Absolutely not. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of soft top longboards, exploring their benefits, construction, performance, and why they remain a popular choice for surfers of all skill levels. We’ll explore how a soft top surfboard longboard can be a game changer.
What is a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard?
A soft top surfboard longboard, as the name suggests, is a longboard surfboard with a soft, foam-like deck. Unlike traditional hard-top surfboards made of fiberglass and resin, soft tops typically feature an expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyethylene (PE) foam core wrapped in a soft, textured deck material. The bottom of the board is usually slick HDPE (high-density polyethylene), which provides glide and speed.
Key Features of Soft Top Longboards
- Soft Deck: The defining feature, offering comfort, grip, and cushioning, reducing the risk of injury.
- Foam Core: Provides buoyancy and stability, making paddling and catching waves easier.
- Slick Bottom: HDPE or similar material enhances speed and glide.
- Longer Length: Typically 8 feet or longer, offering increased stability and paddle power.
Why Choose a Soft Top Longboard?
The popularity of the soft top surfboard longboard stems from its numerous advantages, making it an ideal choice for various surfers:
Beginner-Friendly
For those just starting out, a soft top surfboard longboard is incredibly forgiving. The added volume and stability make it easier to paddle, catch waves, and maintain balance. The soft deck minimizes the risk of bumps and bruises, fostering a more enjoyable learning experience.
Affordable
Compared to hard-top surfboards, soft tops are generally more affordable, making them an accessible option for budget-conscious surfers. This lower price point allows beginners to invest in a decent board without breaking the bank.
Durable
While not indestructible, soft top surfboard longboards are remarkably durable. They can withstand the inevitable dings and bumps that come with learning to surf, making them a long-lasting investment. The soft deck also protects against scratches and sun damage better than traditional fiberglass.
Fun for All Skill Levels
Don’t let the “beginner” label fool you. Experienced surfers also appreciate the fun and versatility of soft top longboards. They’re perfect for mellow days, practicing new maneuvers, or simply cruising and enjoying the ride. Many advanced surfers even use them for retro-style surfing and experimenting with different techniques. A soft top surfboard longboard provides a unique surfing experience.
Choosing the Right Soft Top Longboard
Selecting the perfect soft top surfboard longboard involves considering several factors:
Length
Longboards typically range from 8 to 12 feet. For beginners, an 8 to 9-foot board is a good starting point, offering ample stability and paddle power. More experienced surfers might opt for longer boards for added glide and noseriding capabilities.
Volume
Volume is a key factor in buoyancy and stability. Higher volume boards are easier to paddle and catch waves, making them ideal for beginners and smaller surf. Look for boards with a volume of 70 liters or more.
Shape
The shape of the board influences its performance. Wider boards offer more stability, while narrower boards are more maneuverable. Consider a board with a rounded nose for easier wave catching and a wider tail for increased stability.
Fin Setup
Most soft top surfboard longboards come with a thruster (three-fin) setup, which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may also offer a single-fin or quad-fin option, allowing for different riding styles.
Soft Top Longboard vs. Hard Top Longboard
The debate between soft top and hard top longboards is ongoing, with each offering distinct advantages. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Soft Top Longboard | Hard Top Longboard |
|---|---|---|
| Deck | Soft foam | Fiberglass/Resin |
| Durability | More resistant to dings | More prone to dings |
| Performance | Less responsive, more forgiving | More responsive, higher performance |
| Price | More affordable | More expensive |
| Skill Level | Beginner to intermediate | Intermediate to advanced |
While hard top longboards offer superior performance and responsiveness, soft top surfboard longboards provide a more forgiving and accessible experience, particularly for beginners. The choice ultimately depends on your skill level, budget, and desired riding style.
Maintenance and Care for Your Soft Top Longboard
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your soft top surfboard longboard. Here are some essential tips:
- Rinse After Each Use: Rinse the board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and debris.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid leaving the board in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can damage the foam core and deck.
- Use a Board Bag: Protect the board from scratches and sun damage by storing it in a board bag.
- Repair Dings Promptly: While soft tops are durable, dings can still occur. Repair any damage promptly to prevent water from seeping into the core.
- Check Fin Screws: Regularly check the fin screws to ensure they are tight and secure.
Advanced Techniques on a Soft Top Longboard
While often associated with beginners, soft top surfboard longboards can also be used for advanced techniques. Here are a few:
Noseriding
The added stability of a longboard makes it ideal for noseriding, where you walk to the nose of the board and hang ten (or five). Soft tops, with their forgiving nature, can make noseriding more accessible.
Cross-Stepping
Cross-stepping involves smoothly walking up and down the board, shifting your weight to maintain balance and control. This technique is essential for longboarding and can be practiced effectively on a soft top.
Retro Surfing
Soft top longboards are perfect for retro-style surfing, emulating the classic longboarding techniques of the 1960s. This involves smooth turns, graceful maneuvers, and an emphasis on style and flow.
The Future of Soft Top Surfboards
The popularity of soft top surfboard longboards shows no signs of waning. As surfing becomes more accessible and inclusive, soft tops will continue to play a vital role in introducing new surfers to the sport. Innovations in materials and construction are also improving the performance of soft tops, blurring the lines between them and traditional hard top surfboards. [See also: Beginner Surfboard Guide] The soft top surfboard longboard is here to stay, offering a fun, affordable, and accessible way to experience the joy of surfing.
Where to Buy a Soft Top Longboard
Soft top surfboard longboards are widely available at surf shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. When purchasing, consider the reputation of the brand, the quality of the materials, and the overall construction of the board. Reading online reviews and seeking recommendations from experienced surfers can also help you make an informed decision. [See also: Best Surfboard Brands]
Conclusion
The soft top surfboard longboard is more than just a beginner board; it’s a versatile and enjoyable tool for surfers of all skill levels. Its forgiving nature, affordability, and durability make it an excellent choice for learning to surf, practicing new techniques, or simply cruising and enjoying the waves. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete novice, a soft top longboard can add a new dimension to your surfing experience. So, grab a soft top surfboard longboard, hit the waves, and discover the joy of surfing for yourself! The ease of use and safety of a soft top surfboard longboard is unparalleled. Enjoy the ride! A soft top surfboard longboard is a great option. The soft top surfboard longboard offers great stability. Consider a soft top surfboard longboard for easy learning. A soft top surfboard longboard is also durable. A soft top surfboard longboard is very popular.
