Surfboard Soft Top: Your Comprehensive Guide to Soft Surfboards

Thinking about learning to surf or looking for a fun, forgiving board for mellow days? A surfboard soft top, also known as a foam surfboard or softboard, might be exactly what you need. These boards are incredibly popular for beginners and experienced surfers alike, offering a unique blend of safety, affordability, and fun. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about surfboard soft tops, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one for your needs.

What is a Surfboard Soft Top?

A surfboard soft top is a surfboard with a deck made of soft foam, typically closed-cell polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This foam layer provides cushioning and grip, making it much more forgiving than a traditional hard surfboard with a fiberglass or epoxy deck. The core of a surfboard soft top is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, which is lightweight and buoyant.

The combination of the soft top and buoyant core makes these boards ideal for learning to surf. The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury during wipeouts, and the increased buoyancy helps with paddling and wave catching.

Benefits of Surfboard Soft Tops

There are numerous advantages to choosing a surfboard soft top, making them a popular choice for a wide range of surfers:

• Safety: The soft deck significantly reduces the risk of injury from impacts. This is especially important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
• Forgiveness: Surfboard soft tops are more forgiving than hardboards, meaning they are more stable and easier to ride. They are less sensitive to small movements and chop, making them ideal for less-than-perfect conditions.
• Affordability: Generally, surfboard soft tops are more affordable than traditional hardboards. This makes them a great option for beginners who don’t want to invest a lot of money before they are sure they enjoy surfing.
• Durability: While not indestructible, surfboard soft tops are generally quite durable and can withstand a lot of abuse. The soft deck is less likely to ding or crack than a fiberglass or epoxy deck.
• Fun: Ultimately, surfboard soft tops are just plain fun! They’re great for cruising, catching small waves, and experimenting with new maneuvers.

Who Should Use a Surfboard Soft Top?

Surfboard soft tops aren’t just for beginners. While they are excellent for learning, they also offer benefits for more experienced surfers:

• Beginners: The forgiving nature and safety features of surfboard soft tops make them the perfect choice for learning to surf.
• Kids: Smaller surfboard soft tops are ideal for kids who are just starting out. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and less likely to cause injury.
• Experienced Surfers: Even experienced surfers can enjoy riding a surfboard soft top. They’re great for mellow days, crowded lineups, or just having some fun in small waves. Some experienced surfers even use high-performance surfboard soft tops for specific maneuvers.
• Anyone Looking for a Fun, Affordable Board: If you’re looking for a board that’s easy to ride, durable, and won’t break the bank, a surfboard soft top is a great option.

Choosing the Right Surfboard Soft Top

With so many different surfboard soft tops available, choosing the right one can seem daunting. Here are some factors to consider:

Size

The size of your surfboard soft top is one of the most important factors to consider. A longer board will be more stable and easier to paddle, while a shorter board will be more maneuverable. As a general rule, beginners should choose a longer board, while more experienced surfers can opt for a shorter board.

Here’s a general guideline for choosing the right size surfboard soft top based on your weight:

• Under 100 lbs: 6’0″ – 7’0″
• 100-150 lbs: 7’0″ – 8’0″
• 150-200 lbs: 8’0″ – 9’0″
• Over 200 lbs: 9’0″+

These are just general guidelines, and you may need to adjust based on your skill level and the type of waves you’ll be surfing. [See also: Surfboard Size Guide for Beginners]

Shape

The shape of your surfboard soft top will also affect its performance. A wider board will be more stable, while a narrower board will be more maneuverable. Common shapes include:

• Longboard: Longboards are typically 9’0″ or longer and are designed for cruising and catching small waves.
• Funboard: Funboards are typically 7’0″ to 8’0″ and are a good all-around choice for beginners and intermediate surfers.
• Shortboard: Shortboards are typically under 7’0″ and are designed for experienced surfers who want to perform more advanced maneuvers.

Construction

The construction of your surfboard soft top will affect its durability and performance. Look for boards with a durable EPS core, a high-quality foam deck, and reinforced rails. Some boards also feature stringers, which are wooden or composite strips that run down the length of the board to add strength and stiffness.

Fins

Most surfboard soft tops come with fins, but you may want to consider upgrading to a higher-quality set of fins. Softer fins are more forgiving, while stiffer fins provide more control. The fin setup (e.g., single fin, twin fin, thruster) will also affect the board’s performance. [See also: Understanding Surfboard Fin Setups]

Brand

There are many different brands of surfboard soft tops available, each with its own unique features and price points. Some popular brands include Wavestorm, South Bay Board Co., and California Board Company. Research different brands and read reviews to find one that suits your needs and budget.

Caring for Your Surfboard Soft Top

To keep your surfboard soft top in good condition, follow these tips:

• Rinse your board with fresh water after each use. This will remove salt and sand that can damage the foam.
• Store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. UV rays can degrade the foam over time.
• Avoid leaving your board in a hot car. The heat can cause the foam to warp or delaminate.
• Inspect your board regularly for dings or cracks. Repair any damage promptly to prevent further deterioration.
• Use a leash to prevent your board from getting lost.

Where to Buy Surfboard Soft Tops

Surfboard soft tops are widely available at surf shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. You can often find good deals on surfboard soft tops at the end of the season. Consider checking online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for used surfboard soft tops.

Conclusion

A surfboard soft top is an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn to surf, have some fun in small waves, or simply enjoy a forgiving and affordable board. With so many different sizes, shapes, and constructions available, you’re sure to find a surfboard soft top that’s perfect for your needs. So, grab a surfboard soft top, head to the beach, and get ready to catch some waves!