The 8 Best Soft Top Surfboards for Beginners and Beyond
Choosing the right surfboard can be daunting, especially for beginners. The market is flooded with options, from high-performance shortboards to classic longboards. However, for those just starting out, or even experienced surfers looking for a fun, versatile ride, a soft top 8 surfboard might be the perfect choice. These boards, also known as foam boards, offer a blend of stability, buoyancy, and safety that makes them ideal for learning and progressing. In this article, we’ll explore the top 8 soft top surfboards available, considering factors like size, shape, construction, and price to help you find the best fit for your needs.
Why Choose a Soft Top Surfboard?
Before diving into the specifics, let’s discuss why a soft top 8 surfboard is a great option. The primary advantage is safety. The soft foam deck minimizes the risk of injury in case of a wipeout, making it less likely to ding yourself or others. This is particularly important for beginners who are still learning to control their board. Furthermore, soft top surfboards are typically more buoyant than hard-top boards, making them easier to paddle and catch waves. This increased buoyancy also contributes to their stability, allowing beginners to stand up more easily and maintain their balance.
Finally, soft top surfboards are often more affordable than traditional fiberglass boards, making them a budget-friendly option for those just getting into surfing. While they may not offer the same level of performance as high-end boards, they provide a fantastic platform for learning the fundamentals and enjoying the waves.
Top 8 Soft Top Surfboards: Our Picks
Wavestorm 8′ Classic Surfboard
The Wavestorm 8′ Classic is arguably the most popular soft top surfboard on the market, and for good reason. Its durable construction, ample volume, and affordable price make it a top choice for beginners. The board features a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) slick bottom for speed and a soft, textured deck for grip. It’s incredibly stable and easy to paddle, making it ideal for catching small to medium-sized waves.
South Bay Board Co. Premium Soft Top Surfboard
South Bay Board Co. offers a range of premium soft top surfboards known for their quality construction and performance. Their boards often feature reinforced cores and durable slick bottoms, providing a more responsive and controlled ride than some of the cheaper options. They offer various sizes and shapes to suit different skill levels and wave conditions. Look for models with enhanced rail designs for improved turning ability.
California Board Company (CBC) 8′ Surfboard
The California Board Company (CBC) 8′ Surfboard is another excellent option for beginners. It offers a similar design to the Wavestorm, with a focus on stability and ease of use. The CBC board typically features a durable EPS core, a soft foam deck, and a slick bottom. It’s a great all-around board for learning to surf in various conditions. [See also: How to Choose the Right Surfboard Size]
Liquid Shredder FSE EPS/PE Soft Surfboard
Liquid Shredder offers a range of soft top surfboards designed for durability and performance. Their FSE EPS/PE model features a lightweight EPS core, a durable polyethylene (PE) deck, and a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) slick bottom. This combination provides a good balance of buoyancy, stability, and speed. Liquid Shredder boards are often a bit more refined than some of the entry-level options, making them a good choice for surfers looking to progress beyond the basics.
Rock It 8′ Soft Top Surfboard
Rock It soft top surfboards are designed with performance in mind. While still suitable for beginners, they often incorporate features that cater to more advanced riders, such as refined rail shapes and enhanced rocker profiles. This allows for better turning and maneuverability. The Rock It 8′ Soft Top is a great option for those who want a board that they can continue to progress on as their skills improve.
Gold Coast Surfboards The Grom Soft Top Surfboard
Gold Coast Surfboards offer a variety of soft top surfboards, including models specifically designed for kids and smaller surfers. The Grom Soft Top is a great option for young riders who are just starting out. It features a smaller size and lighter weight, making it easier to handle. The board is also designed with safety in mind, with a soft deck and rounded edges.
Giantex 6′ Surfboard Foam Soft Top Surfboard
Giantex offers an affordable 6′ soft top surfboard option that is great for kids or smaller adults. While shorter than some of the other boards on this list, the Giantex 6′ still provides plenty of buoyancy for beginners. The shorter length also makes it easier to maneuver and control, especially in smaller waves. The board is constructed with a durable EPS core, a soft foam deck, and a slick bottom.
BOTE Wulf 8′ Soft Top Surfboard
BOTE is known for their high-quality paddle boards, and they’ve brought that same level of craftsmanship to their soft top surfboards. The BOTE Wulf 8′ Soft Top is a premium option that combines durability, performance, and style. It features a reinforced EPS core, a durable IXPE deck, and a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) slick bottom. The board also incorporates BOTE’s innovative features, such as their MAGNEPOD™ attachment system, which allows you to easily attach accessories like water bottles and speakers. [See also: Best Surf Spots for Beginners]
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Surfboard
When selecting a soft top 8 surfboard, consider the following factors:
- Size: Choose a board that is appropriate for your height and weight. A larger board will be more stable and easier to paddle, while a smaller board will be more maneuverable.
- Shape: Consider the shape of the board and how it will affect its performance. A wider board will be more stable, while a narrower board will be more responsive.
- Construction: Look for a board with a durable core, a soft deck, and a slick bottom. The materials used in the construction of the board will affect its performance and longevity.
- Price: Soft top surfboards range in price from affordable to premium. Consider your budget and choose a board that offers the best value for your money.
- Skill Level: Are you a complete beginner or do you have some surfing experience? Choose a board that matches your skill level. Beginners should opt for larger, more stable boards, while experienced surfers can choose smaller, more responsive boards.
Tips for Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard
To keep your soft top surfboard in good condition, follow these tips:
- Rinse the board with fresh water after each use.
- Store the board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid leaving the board in a hot car.
- Inspect the board regularly for any damage.
- Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from getting worse.
Conclusion
A soft top 8 surfboard is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced surfers alike. They offer a blend of safety, stability, and affordability that makes them ideal for learning and progressing. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can find the perfect soft top surfboard to suit your needs and enjoy the waves. Remember to prioritize safety and have fun!
