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Soft Top Surfboard: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond

For anyone looking to catch their first wave or simply enjoy a more forgiving ride, the soft top surfboard is an excellent choice. These boards, also known as foam surfboards or funboards, offer a blend of stability, buoyancy, and safety that makes them ideal for beginners, families, and even experienced surfers looking for a fun, relaxed session. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of soft top surfboards, covering everything from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one and maintaining it properly.

What is a Soft Top Surfboard?

A soft top surfboard is characterized by its soft, foam deck, typically made of polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. This soft deck provides a comfortable and grippy surface, reducing the risk of injury during falls and making it easier to paddle and stand up. The core of a soft top surfboard is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which provides buoyancy and structural integrity. The bottom of the board is often made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or slick skin, which helps the board glide smoothly through the water.

Benefits of Using a Soft Top Surfboard

Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck and forgiving nature of a soft top surfboard make it easier for beginners to learn the basics of surfing. The increased buoyancy helps with paddling and catching waves, while the soft deck reduces the risk of injury during wipeouts.
Safety: The soft construction of these boards significantly reduces the risk of injury compared to traditional hard surfboards. This makes them a popular choice for families with children and for crowded surf spots where collisions are more likely.
Durability: Soft top surfboards are generally more durable than traditional hard boards. They are less prone to dings and damage from impacts, making them a cost-effective option for beginners who are likely to make mistakes while learning.
Affordability: Soft top surfboards are typically more affordable than traditional hard boards, making them a great entry point into the sport of surfing.
Fun for All Skill Levels: While ideal for beginners, soft top surfboards can also be enjoyed by experienced surfers looking for a fun and relaxed session. They are great for small waves and provide a unique riding experience.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Surfboard

Selecting the right soft top surfboard depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to surf. Here’s a breakdown of the key considerations:

Size and Volume

The size and volume of a soft top surfboard are crucial for stability and buoyancy. As a general rule, beginners should opt for a longer and wider board with more volume. This will make it easier to paddle, catch waves, and maintain balance. Here’s a guideline:

Beginners: Choose a board that is at least 8 feet long with a volume of 70 liters or more.
Intermediate Surfers: Opt for a board that is 7 to 8 feet long with a volume of 60 to 70 liters.
Experienced Surfers: Can choose a shorter board (6 to 7 feet) with a volume of 50 to 60 liters for more maneuverability.

Consider your weight when selecting a board. Heavier surfers will need a board with more volume to stay afloat and paddle effectively.

Shape

The shape of a soft top surfboard also affects its performance. Wider boards are more stable and easier to paddle, while narrower boards are more maneuverable. Common shapes include:

Longboard Shape: Ideal for beginners and small waves. Offers excellent stability and glide.
Funboard Shape: A versatile shape that balances stability and maneuverability. Suitable for a range of wave conditions.
Fish Shape: Designed for speed and maneuverability in small to medium waves.

Fin Setup

The fin setup of a soft top surfboard affects its tracking and turning ability. Common fin setups include:

Single Fin: Provides stability and tracking. Common on longboards.
Twin Fin: Offers speed and looseness. Common on fish-shaped boards.
Thruster (Three Fins): A versatile setup that balances stability, speed, and maneuverability. The most common setup.

Many soft top surfboards come with a thruster setup, which is a good starting point for most surfers. Some boards have removable fins, allowing you to experiment with different fin configurations to find what works best for you.

Construction Quality

While soft top surfboards are generally durable, the quality of construction can vary. Look for boards with a high-density EPS core, a durable PE or EVA foam deck, and a slick HDPE bottom. Reinforced rails and a strong leash plug are also important features to consider. [See also: Surfboard Leash Guide]

Popular Soft Top Surfboard Brands

Several brands offer high-quality soft top surfboards. Some popular options include:

Wavestorm: Known for their affordable and durable boards, Wavestorm is a popular choice for beginners.
South Bay Board Co.: Offers a range of soft top surfboards with different shapes and sizes.
California Board Company (CBC): Provides quality boards at a reasonable price.
Liquid Shredder: Specializes in high-performance soft top surfboards.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard

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

Rinse After 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 damage the foam and cause delamination.
Protect from Sharp Objects: Be careful not to scratch or puncture the soft deck with sharp objects.
Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your board for dings, cracks, or delamination. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration. [See also: Surfboard Repair Kits]
Use a Board Bag: A board bag can protect your soft top surfboard from scratches, dings, and UV damage during transport and storage.

Soft Top Surfboards: Beyond the Basics

While soft top surfboards are often associated with beginners, they have evolved to cater to a wider range of surfers. High-performance soft top surfboards are now available with advanced features such as carbon fiber stringers, reinforced rails, and refined shapes. These boards offer a unique riding experience and can be a blast in small to medium waves.

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

The popularity of soft top surfboards continues to grow as more people discover their benefits. With advancements in materials and construction techniques, these boards are becoming more durable, versatile, and performance-oriented. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the ropes or an experienced surfer seeking a fun and forgiving ride, a soft top surfboard is a great option to consider.

Conclusion

The soft top surfboard is an excellent choice for surfers of all skill levels. Its soft deck, forgiving nature, and durability make it ideal for beginners, families, and experienced surfers looking for a fun and relaxed session. By choosing the right board, maintaining it properly, and understanding its capabilities, you can enjoy countless hours of fun in the waves. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to add a new dimension to your surfing experience, a soft top surfboard is a versatile and rewarding option.