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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 options, the soft top 8 surfboard stands out as an excellent choice. These boards, known for their buoyancy, stability, and forgiving nature, are ideal for learning the basics and progressing to more advanced maneuvers. In this article, we’ll explore the soft top 8 surfboard options available and highlight the best models on the market, helping you make an informed decision and catch more waves.

Why Choose a Soft Top Surfboard?

Before diving into the top picks, let’s discuss why a soft top 8 surfboard is a great option. Soft tops, also known as foam boards, offer several advantages:

Safety: The soft deck reduces the risk of injury, making them safer for beginners and crowded surf spots.
Buoyancy: Increased volume provides excellent floatation, allowing for easier paddling and wave catching.
Stability: Wider platforms enhance stability, making it easier to stand up and maintain balance.
Durability: Soft tops are generally more durable than traditional hardboards, resisting dings and damage from accidental impacts.
Affordability: Often more budget-friendly than epoxy or fiberglass boards, making surfing more accessible.

A soft top 8 surfboard is the perfect choice for those new to the sport, providing a stable and forgiving platform to learn the fundamentals. They are also great for experienced surfers looking for a fun, low-pressure board to enjoy small waves.

Our Top Picks: The Best Soft Top Surfboards

Here are our recommendations for the top soft top 8 surfboard models, considering factors like performance, durability, and value:

Wavestorm 8′ Classic Surfboard

The Wavestorm 8′ Classic is arguably the most popular soft top surfboard worldwide. Known for its durability and affordability, it’s an excellent choice for beginners. Its high volume makes paddling and catching waves easier, and its soft deck ensures a comfortable and safe ride. This soft top 8 surfboard is a great starting point for anyone new to surfing.

South Bay Board Co. 8′ Verve

The South Bay Board Co. 8′ Verve offers a step up in performance and quality. Featuring a durable construction and a sleek design, it provides excellent stability and responsiveness. This soft top 8 surfboard is ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers looking to progress their skills. The Verve’s enhanced features make it a standout choice in the soft top category.

California Board Company 8′ Surfboard

The California Board Company (CBC) 8′ Surfboard is another solid option for beginners. Its lightweight design and durable construction make it easy to handle and long-lasting. With ample volume and a stable platform, this soft top 8 surfboard helps beginners catch waves and improve their balance. CBC boards are known for their quality and affordability.

Liquid Shredder 8′ FSE EPS Surfboard

Liquid Shredder offers a unique blend of performance and durability with its 8′ FSE EPS Surfboard. Featuring a durable EPS core and a soft outer layer, this board provides excellent floatation and stability. This soft top 8 surfboard is suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers looking for a fun and forgiving ride. Liquid Shredder’s innovative design sets it apart from other soft tops.

Rock It 8′ Big Softy Surfboard

The Rock It 8′ Big Softy Surfboard is designed for maximum fun and performance. Its high-volume design makes it easy to paddle and catch waves, while its soft deck ensures a comfortable and safe ride. This soft top 8 surfboard is perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. The Big Softy’s playful design and durable construction make it a standout choice.

Giantex 8′ Surfboard

The Giantex 8′ Surfboard offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on performance. Its durable construction and stable platform make it an excellent choice for beginners. This soft top 8 surfboard is easy to handle and provides a forgiving ride, helping beginners learn the basics of surfing. Giantex offers a great value for those looking to get into surfing without breaking the bank.

Gold Coast Surfboards 8′ Foam Surfboard

Gold Coast Surfboards’ 8′ Foam Surfboard is designed for performance and durability. Featuring a durable EPS core and a soft outer layer, this board provides excellent floatation and stability. This soft top 8 surfboard is suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers looking for a fun and forgiving ride. Gold Coast Surfboards are known for their quality and attention to detail.

Krypt Towers 8′ Soft Top Surfboard

The Krypt Towers 8′ Soft Top Surfboard combines performance and affordability. Its durable construction and stable platform make it an excellent choice for beginners. This soft top 8 surfboard is easy to handle and provides a forgiving ride, helping beginners learn the basics of surfing. Krypt Towers offers a great value for those looking to get into surfing.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Surfboard

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

Volume: Higher volume boards are more buoyant and easier to paddle, making them ideal for beginners.
Length: Longer boards provide more stability and are easier to catch waves. An 8-foot board is a good starting point for most beginners.
Width: Wider boards offer more stability, making it easier to stand up and maintain balance.
Construction: Look for durable materials that can withstand the wear and tear of learning to surf.
Fin Setup: Most soft top surfboards come with a tri-fin setup, which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability.

By considering these factors, you can choose a soft top 8 surfboard that meets your needs and helps you progress in your surfing journey.

Tips for Riding a Soft Top Surfboard

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your soft top 8 surfboard:

Start in small waves: Begin in gentle, knee-high waves to get a feel for the board and practice your paddling and pop-up.
Paddle efficiently: Use long, smooth strokes to propel yourself forward and position yourself for catching waves.
Pop up quickly: Practice your pop-up on land until you can do it smoothly and efficiently.
Maintain your balance: Keep your knees bent and your weight centered over the board to maintain balance.
Look where you want to go: Focus your gaze on the direction you want to travel, and your body will naturally follow.

With practice and patience, you’ll be riding waves like a pro in no time on your soft top 8 surfboard. Remember to always prioritize safety and respect the ocean.

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

Soft top surfboards have come a long way in recent years, with advancements in materials and construction techniques. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and high-performing soft tops emerge. These boards are becoming increasingly popular among surfers of all skill levels, offering a fun and accessible way to enjoy the waves. The soft top 8 surfboard will remain a staple in the surfing community, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for years to come.

Investing in a soft top 8 surfboard is a great way to get into surfing or simply enjoy the waves in a more relaxed and forgiving way. With the right board and a little practice, you’ll be catching waves and having fun in no time. [See also: Surfboard Types and Their Uses]

Conclusion

Choosing the right surfboard is crucial for a positive surfing experience. The soft top 8 surfboard offers a fantastic entry point into the sport, providing stability, buoyancy, and safety. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced surfer looking for a fun alternative, a soft top board can be a great addition to your quiver. Consider the factors outlined in this article and choose a board that suits your needs and skill level. Happy surfing!