Table of Contents

Soft Top Surfboards: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond

Soft top surfboards, also known as foam surfboards or ‘foamies,’ have revolutionized the surfing world. Once relegated to beginner status, these boards are now embraced by surfers of all skill levels. Their affordability, durability, and ease of use make them an excellent choice for learning to surf, cruising on small waves, or simply having fun in the sun. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top surfboards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right size and maintaining your board.

What is a Soft Top Surfboard?

A soft top board typically consists of a foam core, usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyethylene (PE), covered with a soft, grippy foam deck. The bottom of the board is often made of a slick HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic, which helps the board glide smoothly across the water. Some models also incorporate stringers, which are strips of wood or composite material that run down the length of the board to provide added stiffness and strength.

Construction and Materials

Foam Core: EPS foam is lightweight and buoyant, while PE foam is more durable and offers a softer feel.
Deck: The soft foam deck provides excellent grip and cushioning, making it comfortable to paddle and stand up.
Bottom: HDPE plastic is durable and provides good glide. Some boards feature channels or concaves to improve performance.
Stringers: Stringers add strength and stiffness, preventing the board from flexing too much.

Benefits of Using a Soft Top Surfboard

There are numerous advantages to choosing a soft top board, regardless of your surfing experience:

Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck and forgiving nature of soft top boards make them ideal for beginners. They are stable and easy to paddle, allowing new surfers to catch waves and learn the basics quickly.
Safety: The soft construction reduces the risk of injury compared to hard fiberglass boards. This is especially important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
Durability: Soft top boards are generally more durable than fiberglass boards. They can withstand bumps, dings, and scrapes without sustaining serious damage.
Affordability: Soft top surfboards are typically less expensive than fiberglass boards, making them an accessible option for budget-conscious surfers.
Fun for All Skill Levels: Even experienced surfers enjoy riding soft top boards on small waves or during crowded sessions. They offer a different surfing experience and can be a great way to improve your skills.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Surfboard

Selecting the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to surf.

Size and Volume

The size of a surfboard is measured in length (feet and inches), while volume is measured in liters. A larger board with more volume will be more stable and easier to paddle, making it suitable for beginners. As you progress, you may want to consider a smaller board with less volume for increased maneuverability.

Beginners: Choose a soft top board that is at least 8 feet long with a volume of 70 liters or more.
Intermediate Surfers: Consider a board between 7 and 8 feet long with a volume of 50-70 liters.
Experienced Surfers: You can ride a soft top board as short as 5 or 6 feet, depending on your skill and the wave conditions.

Shape and Design

Soft top boards come in various shapes and designs, each offering different performance characteristics.

Longboards: Longboards are the most stable and forgiving type of surfboard. They are ideal for beginners and for surfing small, mellow waves.
Funboards: Funboards are shorter than longboards but still offer good stability and paddle power. They are a versatile option for surfers of all skill levels.
Shortboards: Shortboards are designed for performance surfing. They are less stable than longboards and funboards but offer greater maneuverability.
Fish Boards: Fish boards are wider and flatter than traditional shortboards, making them easier to paddle and catch waves. They are a good option for surfing small to medium-sized waves.

Fin Setup

The fin setup on a soft top board can also affect its performance. Most soft top boards come with a thruster (three-fin) setup, which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may also have a single fin or a quad fin setup.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your soft top board and keep it performing its best.

Rinse After Each 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 in a hot car, as this can cause the foam to delaminate.
Repair Dings and Tears: Repair any dings or tears in the foam or plastic as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping into the core.
Use Board Bags: When transporting your board, use a board bag to protect it from scratches and dings.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean your board, as they can damage the foam and plastic.

Are Soft Top Surfboards Only for Beginners?

While soft top boards are excellent for beginners, they are by no means limited to novice surfers. Many experienced surfers enjoy riding soft top boards for various reasons. They are great for:

Small Wave Days: Soft top boards excel in small, mushy waves where a hard board might struggle.
Crowded Surf Spots: The softer construction makes them safer in crowded lineups.
Learning New Tricks: The forgiving nature of soft top boards can make them ideal for experimenting with new maneuvers.
Just Having Fun: Sometimes, it’s just about enjoying the ride without the pressure of performance.

The stigma that soft top boards are only for beginners is fading as more experienced surfers recognize their versatility and fun factor. [See also: Beginner Surfboard Selection Guide]

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

The soft top board industry is constantly evolving, with manufacturers developing new materials and designs to improve performance and durability. We’re seeing:

Advanced Foam Technologies: Improved foam cores that are lighter, stronger, and more responsive.
Eco-Friendly Materials: A growing emphasis on sustainable materials and manufacturing processes.
Hybrid Designs: Boards that blend the features of soft top boards with the performance characteristics of hard boards.

Conclusion

Soft top surfboards offer a fun, accessible, and affordable way to enjoy the sport of surfing. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps on a board or an experienced surfer looking for a new perspective, a soft top board can provide hours of enjoyment. With the right size, shape, and maintenance, your soft top board will be a valuable addition to your quiver for years to come. Consider investing in a quality soft top surfboard and experience the joy of riding the waves. The ease of use and safety features make them a smart choice. Don’t underestimate the potential of a good soft top board. They truly are a fantastic option for anyone looking to get into surfing or simply have some fun in the sun. Embrace the soft top board revolution and catch more waves!