Soft Top Surfboards: Your Comprehensive Guide to Fun and Safety
Soft top surfboards, also known as foam surfboards or beginner surfboards, have revolutionized the surfing landscape. Once relegated to rental fleets and beginner lessons, these boards are now embraced by surfers of all skill levels. This guide dives deep into the world of soft top surfboards, exploring their construction, benefits, drawbacks, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for a fun alternative or a complete novice eager to catch your first wave, understanding the nuances of soft top surf boards is essential.
What is a Soft Top Surfboard?
A soft top surf board is characterized by its soft, foam deck, typically made of polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This soft deck provides cushioning and grip, making it far more forgiving than traditional fiberglass boards. Underneath the soft deck, you’ll usually find a rigid core made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane (PU) foam, providing buoyancy and shape. Many soft top surf boards also incorporate stringers, which are strips of wood or composite material that run the length of the board, adding strength and preventing excessive flex.
The Benefits of Soft Top Surfboards
- Safety: The soft deck significantly reduces the risk of injury in collisions. This is particularly important for beginners who are still learning to control their boards and avoid wipeouts.
- Buoyancy: Soft top surf boards generally offer more volume than hard-top boards of the same length, making them easier to paddle and catch waves. This increased buoyancy is a huge advantage for beginners and surfers in smaller surf.
- Durability: While not indestructible, soft top surf boards are generally more resistant to dings and damage than fiberglass boards. This makes them ideal for travel and use in crowded surf spots.
- Affordability: Soft top surf boards are typically less expensive than hard-top boards, making them an accessible entry point into the sport of surfing.
- Fun Factor: Soft top surf boards are simply fun to ride. Their forgiving nature and playful feel make them a great option for surfers of all levels looking to enjoy the waves without the pressure of performance surfing.
The Drawbacks of Soft Top Surfboards
- Performance Limitations: While soft top surf boards have improved significantly in recent years, they still don’t offer the same level of performance as hard-top boards. They can feel less responsive and lack the drive needed for advanced maneuvers.
- Flex: The soft deck can lead to excessive flex, particularly in larger waves. This can make the board feel unstable and difficult to control.
- Durability Concerns: While generally durable, the soft deck can be prone to delamination (separation from the core) if not properly cared for.
Choosing the Right Soft Top Surfboard
Selecting the right soft top surf board depends on your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to surf.
For Beginners
Beginners should opt for a longer, wider board with plenty of volume. A board in the 8-9 foot range is a good starting point. Look for a board with a rounded nose and tail, which will provide stability and make it easier to paddle and catch waves. The Wavestorm is a popular and affordable option for beginners. [See also: Beginner Surfboard Guide]
For Intermediate Surfers
Intermediate surfers can experiment with shorter, more maneuverable soft top surf boards. A board in the 6-8 foot range with a more defined shape can offer a good balance of stability and performance. Consider a board with a thruster fin setup (three fins), which will provide more control and drive. [See also: Improving Your Surfing Skills]
For Experienced Surfers
Experienced surfers can use soft top surf boards as a fun alternative to their regular boards, particularly in small or crowded waves. Shorter, high-performance soft top surf boards are available with features like hard rails and advanced fin setups. These boards can be surprisingly versatile and allow experienced surfers to push the limits of what’s possible on a foam board. [See also: Alternative Surfboard Designs]
Soft Top Surfboard Construction: A Closer Look
Understanding the construction of a soft top surf board can help you make an informed purchasing decision.
The Core
The core of a soft top surf board is typically made of EPS or PU foam. EPS foam is lightweight and buoyant, but it’s also more prone to water absorption if the board is damaged. PU foam is denser and more durable, but it’s also heavier and less buoyant. Some higher-end soft top surf boards use a hybrid core that combines the benefits of both materials.
The Deck
The deck of a soft top surf board is made of PE or EVA foam. PE foam is more durable and water-resistant, but it can be less comfortable to the touch. EVA foam is softer and more grippy, but it’s also more prone to damage and wear. Look for a board with a textured deck, which will provide better grip and prevent you from slipping.
The Bottom
The bottom of a soft top surf board is typically made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE is a durable and water-resistant plastic that provides a smooth surface for gliding across the water. Some soft top surf boards have channels or contours on the bottom, which can improve performance and maneuverability.
The Fins
Most soft top surf boards come with removable fins. The fins are typically made of plastic or rubber and are attached to the board using a screw-in system. The type of fin setup (single fin, twin fin, thruster, quad fin) can affect the board’s performance and handling. Experiment with different fin setups to find what works best for you. [See also: Understanding Surfboard Fins]
Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your soft top surf board and keep it performing its best.
- 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 cause the foam to delaminate.
- Repair Dings and Tears: Repair any dings or tears in the deck or bottom of the board as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping into the core.
- Use a Board Bag: When traveling or storing your board for extended periods, use a board bag to protect it from damage.
The Future of Soft Top Surfboards
Soft top surf boards have come a long way in recent years, and they continue to evolve. Manufacturers are constantly experimenting with new materials, designs, and construction techniques to improve the performance and durability of these boards. As soft top surf boards become more advanced, they are likely to become even more popular among surfers of all skill levels. The accessibility and fun factor of soft top surf boards ensure they will remain a staple in the surfing world for years to come. The ongoing innovation in soft top surf board technology promises exciting developments for surfers seeking a blend of fun, safety, and performance. [See also: Innovations in Surfboard Technology]
In conclusion, soft top surf boards offer a fantastic way to enjoy the waves. Their safety, buoyancy, and affordability make them an excellent choice for beginners, while their playful nature and increasing performance capabilities appeal to experienced surfers. By understanding the benefits, drawbacks, and construction of soft top surf boards, you can choose the right board for your needs and make the most of your surfing experience. So grab a soft top surf board, hit the beach, and have some fun!
