Soft Topper Surfing: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Pros
Surfing is a thrilling sport enjoyed by millions worldwide. As surfers, we’re always looking for ways to improve our experience, whether it’s finding the perfect wave or optimizing our gear. One often overlooked yet incredibly valuable piece of equipment is a soft topper. But what exactly *is* soft topper surfing, and why should you consider it? This guide will delve into the world of soft toppers, exploring their benefits, ideal conditions, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, understanding the advantages of a soft topper can significantly enhance your surfing adventures.
What is a Soft Topper?
A soft topper, also known as a foam surfboard or a softboard, is a surfboard constructed with a soft foam deck and a slick bottom. Unlike traditional hard surfboards made of fiberglass or epoxy, soft toppers are designed with safety and accessibility in mind. The soft deck reduces the risk of injury, making them an excellent choice for beginners. The construction typically involves an EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam core, often reinforced with stringers for added rigidity, and a layer of soft foam (like EVA – Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) on the deck.
Why Choose a Soft Topper for Surfing?
There are numerous reasons why surfers of all skill levels opt for a soft topper. Here are some key advantages:
- Safety: The soft deck minimizes the risk of bumps and bruises, making it safer, especially in crowded surf spots or when learning.
- Beginner-Friendly: The increased volume and stability make it easier to catch waves and learn the basics of surfing.
- Durability: Soft toppers are typically more resistant to dings and damage compared to hard surfboards.
- Affordability: Generally, soft toppers are more budget-friendly than traditional surfboards.
- Fun Factor: They’re simply fun to ride! Their forgiving nature allows you to experiment and progress without the fear of constant wipeouts.
Ideal Conditions for Soft Topper Surfing
While soft toppers are versatile, they excel in specific conditions. Smaller, mushier waves are their bread and butter. These boards shine when the surf is less powerful, allowing you to maximize your wave count and enjoy longer rides. They are also great for summer swells when the waves tend to be smaller and less consistent. Don’t underestimate their potential in slightly larger conditions either; experienced surfers can still have a blast on a soft topper in head-high waves, especially if the wave is clean and forgiving.
Choosing the Right Soft Topper
Selecting the perfect soft topper involves considering several factors:
Size and Volume
The size of your soft topper is crucial for stability and paddle power. Beginners should opt for longer boards (8′ or more) with ample volume to provide maximum buoyancy. As your skills progress, you can experiment with shorter, more maneuverable boards. Volume, measured in liters, is a key indicator of how buoyant the board will be. More volume means easier paddling and wave catching.
Construction and Materials
Pay attention to the construction quality. Look for boards with a durable EPS core, reinforced stringers (usually wood or fiberglass), and a high-quality foam deck. The slick bottom should be smooth and resistant to wear and tear. Some soft toppers even feature additional layers of mesh or fiberglass for enhanced strength and performance.
Fin Setup
Most soft toppers come with a thruster (three-fin) setup, which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. The fins are typically made of soft plastic or rubber to minimize the risk of injury. Some boards offer the option to upgrade to stiffer fins for improved performance.
Brand and Reputation
Research different brands and read reviews to get an idea of the quality and performance of their soft toppers. Established brands often have a reputation for producing durable and well-designed boards. Consider brands like Wavestorm, South Bay Board Co., and California Board Company, which are known for their quality softboards.
Soft Topper Surfing Techniques
While the fundamentals of surfing remain the same, there are a few techniques to keep in mind when riding a soft topper:
- Paddling: Due to their increased volume, soft toppers paddle relatively easily. Focus on maintaining a smooth and efficient paddling stroke to conserve energy.
- Takeoff: Position yourself slightly further forward on the board during takeoff compared to a hard surfboard. This will help prevent nose-diving.
- Riding: Soft toppers are generally more forgiving, allowing you to maintain your balance and ride through chop more easily. Experiment with different foot positions to find what works best for you.
- Turning: While not as responsive as hard surfboards, soft toppers can still be turned effectively. Use your body weight and rail pressure to initiate turns.
Advanced Soft Topper Surfing
Don’t think soft toppers are just for beginners. Experienced surfers are increasingly embracing them for their fun factor and unique riding experience. Here are some advanced techniques you can try:
- Soft Topper Tricks: Experiment with tricks like 360s, airs, and shuv-its. The forgiving nature of a soft topper makes it easier to land these maneuvers.
- Soft Topper Performance Surfing: Challenge yourself to ride steeper waves and perform more aggressive turns. With the right technique, you can push the limits of what’s possible on a soft topper.
- Soft Topper Tow-In Surfing: Although less common, some surfers even use soft toppers for tow-in surfing in larger waves. The added buoyancy can be an advantage in these conditions.
Maintaining Your Soft Topper
Proper care and maintenance will extend the life of your soft topper:
- 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 deck with sharp objects.
- Inspect Regularly: Check for any signs of damage, such as cracks, delamination, or water intrusion. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
The Future of Soft Topper Surfing
Soft topper surfing is more than just a trend; it’s a growing movement that’s democratizing the sport and making it more accessible to everyone. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative and high-performance soft toppers hitting the market. From beginners learning the ropes to seasoned pros pushing the limits, soft toppers offer a unique and enjoyable surfing experience for all. So, grab a soft topper, hit the waves, and discover the fun for yourself! [See also: Best Surf Spots for Beginners] [See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips] [See also: History of Surfing]
In conclusion, soft topper surfing presents a compelling option for surfers of all levels. Its safety features, affordability, and ease of use make it an ideal choice for beginners, while its fun factor and potential for advanced techniques appeal to more experienced riders. By understanding the benefits, choosing the right board, and practicing proper maintenance, you can unlock a whole new world of surfing enjoyment with a soft topper.
