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The 8 Best Soft Top Surfboards for Beginners and Beyond

Choosing the right surfboard can be daunting, especially for beginners. Among the myriad of options, soft top 8 surfboard models stand out as excellent choices for their safety, ease of use, and affordability. This article delves into the top 8 soft top surfboards currently available, providing insights to help you make an informed decision, whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fun, versatile board for mellow days. We will explore features, benefits, and who each board is best suited for.

Why Choose a Soft Top Surfboard?

Before diving into the specifics, let’s understand why soft top surfboards are so popular, particularly among beginners. The primary advantage is their forgiving nature. The soft foam deck minimizes the risk of injury in case of a wipeout, making them safer than traditional hard-shell boards. They also offer more buoyancy, making paddling and catching waves easier. This increased volume allows beginners to get up and riding more quickly, fostering a more enjoyable learning experience. Experienced surfers also appreciate soft top 8 surfboard options for their fun factor in small surf.

Our Top 8 Soft Top Surfboard Picks

Here are eight of the best soft top surfboards available, each offering a unique blend of features and performance:

Wavestorm 8′ Classic Surfboard

The Wavestorm is practically synonymous with soft top surfboards. This 8-foot board is incredibly durable and stable, making it an ideal choice for absolute beginners. Its forgiving nature allows for easy paddling and wave catching. The Wavestorm consistently ranks high in popularity due to its affordability and reliability. It’s a great board to learn the basics on and progress to more advanced maneuvers.

South Bay Board Co. Premium Soft Top Surfboard

South Bay Board Co. offers a range of premium soft top surfboards designed for both beginners and intermediate surfers. Their boards feature high-quality materials and construction, providing enhanced performance and durability. Look for models with reinforced cores and durable slick bottoms. These boards offer a step up from basic beginner boards.

California Board Company (CBC) Soft Top Surfboard

CBC boards are known for their vibrant designs and solid construction. Their soft top surfboards are a great option for learners and offer good value for money. CBC boards often come with features like integrated carry handles and durable leash plugs, making them convenient and reliable.

Rock It 8′ Soft Top Surfboard

Rock It surfboards are designed with performance in mind. Their 8′ soft top surfboard offers a good balance of stability and maneuverability, making it suitable for both beginners and more experienced surfers looking for a fun board for smaller waves. Rock It boards often feature durable EPS cores and high-density slick bottoms.

Liquid Shredder FSE EPS/PE Soft Surfboard

Liquid Shredder boards are known for their innovative designs and durable construction. Their soft top surfboards are a great option for surfers of all skill levels. The FSE (Factory Second Edition) models offer excellent value, often with minor cosmetic imperfections that don’t affect performance. [See also: Choosing the Right Surfboard for Your Skill Level]

Gold Coast Surfboards The Grom Soft Top Surfboard

If you’re looking for a smaller soft top surfboard for kids or smaller adults, the Gold Coast Surfboards Grom is an excellent choice. This board is easy to handle and maneuver, making it perfect for learning in smaller surf. Its compact size also makes it easy to transport and store.

Odysea Stump 5’0″ Softboard

While technically a softboard, the Odysea Stump is a high-performance option for experienced surfers looking for a fun and playful board. Its unique shape and soft construction allow for radical maneuvers in small to medium waves. It’s not a traditional soft top 8 surfboard in terms of size, but it offers similar benefits in terms of safety and forgiveness, and has been known to turn even the most mediocre days into a blast.

BOTE Flood Stand Up Paddle Board/Surfboard Hybrid

The BOTE Flood is a versatile hybrid board that can be used as both a stand-up paddleboard and a surfboard. Its soft top construction makes it comfortable and forgiving, while its stable platform makes it easy to paddle. This board is a great option for those looking for a multi-purpose watercraft. While not strictly a soft top 8 surfboard, it caters to a similar audience seeking stability and ease of use.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Surfboard

When selecting a soft top 8 surfboard, consider the following factors:

Skill Level: Beginners should opt for larger, more stable boards, while experienced surfers can choose smaller, more maneuverable options.
Size and Volume: A board with adequate volume will make paddling and wave catching easier. Consider your weight and experience when determining the appropriate size and volume.
Construction: Look for boards with durable EPS cores and high-density slick bottoms for enhanced performance and longevity.
Features: Consider features like integrated carry handles, leash plugs, and fin systems.
Price: Soft top surfboards range in price, so set a budget before you start shopping.

The Benefits of Using a Soft Top 8 Surfboard

There are numerous advantages to using a soft top 8 surfboard. These advantages extend beyond just the beginner surfer. Here are some of the key benefits:

Safety: The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury, making them ideal for beginners and crowded surf spots.
Buoyancy: Increased volume makes paddling and catching waves easier.
Durability: Many soft top surfboards are surprisingly durable and can withstand a lot of abuse.
Affordability: They are generally more affordable than traditional hard-shell boards.
Fun Factor: Soft top surfboards are simply fun to ride, regardless of your skill level.

Tips for Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard

To extend the life of your soft top surfboard, follow these maintenance tips:

Rinse with Fresh Water: After each surf session, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt and sand.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can damage the foam.
Protect from Dings: While soft top surfboards are more durable than hard-shell boards, they can still be damaged by dings. Use a board bag for protection during transport and storage.
Check for Delamination: Regularly inspect your board for signs of delamination (separation of the layers). If you notice any delamination, repair it promptly to prevent further damage.

Conclusion: Finding the Right Soft Top 8 Surfboard for You

Choosing the right soft top 8 surfboard depends on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a stable and forgiving board or an experienced surfer seeking a fun and playful ride, there’s a soft top surfboard out there for you. Consider the factors outlined in this article, do your research, and choose a board that will help you enjoy your time in the water. Happy surfing!