Softie Surfboards: The Ultimate Guide to Foam Surfboards for Beginners and Beyond
Softie surfboards, also known as foam surfboards or soft top surfboards, have revolutionized the surfing world, making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for beginners while also offering experienced surfers a fun alternative. These boards are characterized by their soft, forgiving construction, typically featuring a foam core and a soft, grippy deck. This guide dives deep into the world of softie surfboards, exploring their benefits, types, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
What are Softie Surfboards?
A softie surfboard is constructed differently from a traditional epoxy or fiberglass board. The core usually consists of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyethylene (PE) foam, which provides buoyancy and makes the board lightweight. The deck is covered with a soft, textured foam, offering excellent grip and comfort. The bottom of the board is often made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is durable and provides good glide on the water.
The primary appeal of softie surfboards lies in their safety and ease of use. The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury during wipeouts, making them ideal for beginners who are still learning to control their board. They are also significantly more buoyant than hard-top boards, making paddling easier and wave catching more forgiving. Softie surfboards have become the go-to choice for surf schools and rental shops worldwide.
Benefits of Using Softie Surfboards
- Safety: The soft deck reduces the risk of injuries, making it a safer option, especially for beginners and children.
- Buoyancy: Softie surfboards are typically more buoyant than hard-top boards, making paddling easier and allowing surfers to catch waves more easily.
- Durability: The HDPE bottom and foam core make softie surfboards resistant to dings and damage, perfect for learning and rough conditions.
- Affordability: Softie surfboards are generally more affordable than traditional surfboards, making surfing accessible to a wider audience.
- Fun Factor: Even experienced surfers enjoy riding softie surfboards, especially in small waves or crowded conditions. They offer a different surfing experience that emphasizes fun and experimentation.
Types of Softie Surfboards
Softie surfboards come in various shapes and sizes to cater to different skill levels and surfing styles.
Longboard Softies
Longboard softies are the most common type, typically ranging from 8 to 10 feet in length. They offer excellent stability and paddling power, making them ideal for beginners and those who prefer a more relaxed surfing style. These boards are perfect for catching small waves and practicing basic maneuvers.
Shortboard Softies
Shortboard softies are shorter and more maneuverable than longboard softies, typically ranging from 5 to 7 feet in length. They are designed for more experienced surfers who want to perform turns and tricks in small to medium-sized waves. While not as forgiving as longboard softies, they offer a more dynamic surfing experience.
Fish Softies
Fish softies are characterized by their wide, swallowtail design, which provides excellent speed and floatation. They are a great option for surfing small, mushy waves and are popular among both beginners and experienced surfers looking for a fun and playful ride. Fish softies typically range from 5 to 6 feet in length.
Grom Softies
Grom softies are specifically designed for children and smaller surfers. They are shorter, lighter, and easier to handle than standard softie surfboards, making them perfect for kids who are just starting to learn how to surf. Grom softies typically range from 4 to 6 feet in length. These softie surfboards are an excellent way to introduce young ones to the joy of surfing in a safe and manageable way.
Choosing the Right Softie Surfboard
Selecting the right softie surfboard depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you plan to surf.
Skill Level
Beginner: If you’re a beginner, opt for a longboard softie (8-10 feet) for maximum stability and paddling power. The extra length and volume will make it easier to catch waves and maintain your balance. Softie surfboards are ideal for new surfers.
Intermediate: If you have some surfing experience, consider a mid-length softie (7-8 feet) or a fish softie (5-6 feet). These boards offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability, allowing you to progress your skills.
Experienced: If you’re an experienced surfer, you can experiment with shorter softie surfboards (5-7 feet) or even a soft top shortboard. These boards are designed for more advanced maneuvers and are best suited for small to medium-sized waves.
Weight
Your weight is another important factor to consider when choosing a softie surfboard. A heavier surfer will need a larger board with more volume to ensure adequate floatation. Consult a surfboard volume calculator or ask a surf shop employee for advice on selecting the right size board for your weight.
Wave Conditions
The type of waves you plan to surf will also influence your choice of softie surfboard. If you primarily surf small, mushy waves, a longboard softie or a fish softie will be ideal. If you surf larger, more powerful waves, a shorter softie surfboard with a more refined shape may be a better option.
Caring for Your Softie Surfboard
To prolong the life of your softie surfboard, it’s essential to take proper care of it.
- Rinse after use: Always rinse your softie surfboard with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and debris.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid leaving your softie surfboard in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can cause the foam to delaminate. Store it in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures.
- Protect from impact: While softie surfboards are durable, they are not indestructible. Avoid dropping your board on hard surfaces or exposing it to sharp objects.
- Repair any damage: If you notice any dings or tears in the foam, repair them promptly to prevent water from seeping into the core. Softie surfboards are relatively easy to repair with foam-specific adhesives.
Top Softie Surfboard Brands
Several reputable brands offer high-quality softie surfboards. Some popular brands include:
- Wavestorm
- South Bay Board Co.
- California Board Company (CBC)
- Liquid Shredder
- Foamie Addiction
Softie Surfboards: More Than Just for Beginners
While softie surfboards are often associated with beginners, they are also a popular choice among experienced surfers. Many seasoned surfers enjoy riding softies in small waves or crowded conditions, as they offer a fun and forgiving ride. Softie surfboards can also be a great tool for experimenting with new maneuvers or simply enjoying a casual surf session without the pressure of performing perfectly.
The Future of Softie Surfboards
The softie surfboard market is constantly evolving, with manufacturers continually innovating and improving their designs. We can expect to see more advanced softie surfboards with enhanced performance characteristics in the future, blurring the lines between soft tops and traditional hard-top boards. Softie surfboards have undoubtedly made surfing more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience, and their popularity is likely to continue to grow in the years to come.
Conclusion
Softie surfboards are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Their safety, buoyancy, durability, and affordability make them a versatile option for a variety of surfing conditions. Whether you’re just starting to learn or looking for a fun alternative to your hard-top board, a softie surfboard is sure to provide hours of enjoyment in the water. Choosing the right softie surfboard depends on your skill level, weight and the waves you plan to surf. Don’t forget to properly care for your softie to ensure it lasts. So grab your softie surfboard and hit the waves! [See also: Surfing for Beginners: A Comprehensive Guide] Softie surfboards have changed the surfing landscape for the better. Find the perfect softie surfboards for your needs and start surfing!
