Softtop Surfboard: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond

The softtop surfboard has revolutionized the surfing world, making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for beginners. But these boards aren’t just for newbies; experienced surfers are also discovering the fun and versatility of softtop surfboards. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about softtop surfboards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one and maintaining it for years to come.

What is a Softtop Surfboard?

A softtop surfboard, also known as a foam surfboard or a beginner surfboard, is characterized by its soft, padded deck. Unlike traditional epoxy or fiberglass surfboards, softtop surfboards feature a foam top layer, usually made of EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) or similar materials. This soft surface provides a more forgiving and comfortable ride, reducing the risk of injury and making it easier to learn the basics of surfing.

Construction of a Softtop Surfboard

While the soft deck is the defining feature, softtop surfboards are more complex than they appear. They typically consist of several layers:

• Soft Top Deck: The top layer is made of soft, grippy foam. This provides cushioning and traction, eliminating the need for wax in some cases.
• Core: Beneath the soft top lies a foam core, usually made of EPS (expanded polystyrene) or similar lightweight materials. This core provides buoyancy and structural integrity.
• Slick Bottom: The bottom of the board is typically made of a hard, slick material like HDPE (high-density polyethylene). This slick bottom allows the board to glide smoothly across the water.
• Stringer(s): Many softtop surfboards include one or more stringers, which are thin strips of wood or composite material that run down the length of the board. Stringers add stiffness and prevent the board from bending too much.

Benefits of Using a Softtop Surfboard

Softtop surfboards offer numerous advantages, making them a popular choice for a wide range of surfers:

• Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck and forgiving nature of softtop surfboards make them ideal for beginners. They are easier to paddle, more stable in the water, and less likely to cause injury during wipeouts.
• Safety: The soft construction significantly reduces the risk of bumps, bruises, and cuts compared to hard-top boards. This is especially important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
• Durability: Softtop surfboards are generally more durable than traditional surfboards. They can withstand more abuse and are less prone to dings and cracks.
• Affordability: Softtop surfboards are typically less expensive than epoxy or fiberglass boards, making them a budget-friendly option for those just starting out or looking for a second board.
• Fun for All Skill Levels: While they are great for beginners, experienced surfers can also enjoy softtop surfboards. They are perfect for small waves, summer days, and experimenting with new maneuvers.

Choosing the Right Softtop Surfboard

Selecting the right softtop surfboard depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, height, and the type of waves you plan to surf.

Size and Volume

The size of your softtop surfboard is crucial for stability and ease of paddling. Generally, beginners should opt for a longer and wider board, as this provides more buoyancy and stability. As you progress, you can consider a shorter board for increased maneuverability. The volume of the board, measured in liters, is another important factor. Higher volume boards are easier to paddle and catch waves with.

Shape

Softtop surfboards come in various shapes, each suited for different wave conditions and surfing styles. Common shapes include:

• Longboard Shape: These boards are long and wide, providing excellent stability and paddling speed. They are ideal for small waves and beginners.
• Funboard Shape: Funboards are shorter than longboards but still offer good stability and maneuverability. They are a versatile option for a range of wave conditions.
• Fish Shape: Fish surfboards are shorter and wider than traditional shortboards, with a distinctive split tail. They are designed for speed and performance in small to medium waves.

Fin Setup

The fin setup of your softtop surfboard affects its stability and maneuverability. Common fin setups include:

• Single Fin: Single fin setups provide good stability and control, making them suitable for beginners.
• Twin Fin: Twin fin setups offer increased speed and maneuverability, making them popular among more experienced surfers.
• Thruster (Three Fin): Thruster setups provide a balance of stability and maneuverability, making them a versatile option for a variety of wave conditions.

Maintaining Your Softtop Surfboard

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your softtop surfboard 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 soft top or slick bottom as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping into the core.
• Use a Board Bag: A board bag can protect your softtop surfboard from scratches, dings, and UV damage during transport and storage.

Advanced Techniques on a Softtop Surfboard

Once you’ve mastered the basics of surfing on a softtop surfboard, you can start experimenting with more advanced techniques:

• Turning: Practice your bottom turns and cutbacks to improve your control and maneuverability.
• Nose Riding: On longboard-style softtop surfboards, try walking to the nose of the board and riding in a classic nose-riding position.
• Aerials: While not as common as on hard-top boards, it is possible to perform small aerials on softtop surfboards, especially in small, punchy waves.

Softtop Surfboards for Different Skill Levels

Beginners

For beginners, a long, wide softtop surfboard is the best choice. Look for a board with a volume of at least 60 liters and a length of 8 feet or more. A single fin or thruster fin setup is recommended for stability. These boards are designed to help you catch waves easily and maintain your balance.

Intermediate Surfers

Intermediate surfers can opt for a shorter and more maneuverable softtop surfboard. A funboard shape with a thruster fin setup is a good choice. Look for a board with a volume of around 40-50 liters and a length of 7-8 feet. These boards allow you to progress your skills and experiment with more advanced maneuvers. [See also: Surfboard Volume Calculator]

Experienced Surfers

Experienced surfers can enjoy the versatility of softtop surfboards in small to medium waves. A fish shape with a twin fin setup is a fun option for generating speed and performing quick turns. Look for a board with a volume of around 30-40 liters and a length of 5-7 feet. Some experienced surfers even use softtop surfboards as alternative boards for specific conditions. [See also: Best Surf Spots for Beginners]

The Future of Softtop Surfboards

Softtop surfboards are constantly evolving, with manufacturers experimenting with new materials, shapes, and constructions. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative and high-performance softtop surfboards on the market. The increasing popularity of softtop surfboards is a testament to their accessibility, affordability, and fun factor. Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced surfer looking for a new challenge, a softtop surfboard is a great option to consider.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the softtop surfboard is a fantastic option for surfers of all skill levels. Its forgiving nature, durability, and affordability make it an excellent choice for beginners, while its versatility and fun factor appeal to experienced surfers. By understanding the different types of softtop surfboards, choosing the right one for your needs, and maintaining it properly, you can enjoy years of fun and progression in the water. So grab a softtop surfboard and get ready to ride the waves!