The Ultimate Guide to Soft Top Boards: Choosing the Right One for You

Soft top boards, also known as foam surfboards or softboards, have revolutionized the surfing world, making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for beginners and seasoned surfers alike. Their forgiving nature and affordability have contributed to their widespread popularity. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of soft top boards, exploring their construction, benefits, ideal uses, and how to choose the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced surfer looking for a fun alternative, understanding soft top boards is essential.

What are Soft Top Boards?

Soft top boards are surfboards characterized by their soft, foam-covered deck. Unlike traditional hard surfboards made of fiberglass and epoxy resin, soft top boards typically consist of a foam core (usually EPS or PE foam) covered with a soft, grippy foam layer (often EVA or IXPE). This construction makes them more buoyant, stable, and forgiving, significantly reducing the risk of injury.

Construction of a Soft Top Board

Understanding the components of a soft top board is key to appreciating its performance and durability:

• Foam Core: The core provides the board’s buoyancy and shape. EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam is lightweight and water-resistant, while PE (Polyethylene) foam is denser and more durable.
• Soft Deck: The EVA or IXPE foam deck offers a comfortable and grippy surface, eliminating the need for wax in many cases.
• Slick Bottom: The bottom of the board is usually made of HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), providing a smooth surface for gliding across the water.
• Stringer System: Stringers are internal reinforcements, typically made of wood or composite materials, that add strength and stiffness to the board. More stringers generally mean a stiffer, more responsive board.
• Fins: Soft top boards typically come with soft, flexible fins that are easy to install and remove. Some models feature hard fin boxes that allow for the use of standard surfboard fins.

Benefits of Using Soft Top Boards

The popularity of soft top boards stems from a multitude of advantages:

• Beginner-Friendly: The increased buoyancy and stability make learning to surf much easier. Soft top boards are more forgiving of mistakes, allowing beginners to catch waves and stand up with greater confidence.
• Safety: The soft deck significantly reduces the risk of injury from collisions. This is especially important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
• Affordability: Soft top boards are generally more affordable than traditional hard surfboards, making surfing accessible to a wider range of people.
• Durability: While not indestructible, soft top boards are surprisingly durable and can withstand a fair amount of abuse. They are less prone to dings and cracks than fiberglass boards.
• Fun for All Skill Levels: Even experienced surfers enjoy riding soft top boards for their playful nature and ability to catch smaller waves. They are also great for experimenting with new maneuvers.
• Easy to Transport: Their lighter weight and less fragile construction make soft top boards easier to transport and store.

Who Should Use Soft Top Boards?

While soft top boards are ideal for beginners, they also cater to a wide range of surfers:

• Beginners: As mentioned earlier, soft top boards are the perfect starting point for anyone learning to surf.
• Kids: The safety and ease of use make them a great choice for children learning to surf.
• Families: Soft top boards are a fun and safe way for families to enjoy the ocean together.
• Experienced Surfers: Surfers of all skill levels can appreciate the playful nature and versatility of soft top boards. They are great for small wave days or for trying out new tricks.
• Surf Schools: Surf schools rely heavily on soft top boards due to their safety, durability, and ease of use.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Board

Selecting the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, height, and intended use:

Size and Volume

The size and volume of a soft top board directly impact its stability and paddling speed. Longer and wider boards offer more stability, making them ideal for beginners. Volume, measured in liters, determines how well the board floats. A higher volume board will be easier to paddle and catch waves on. Here’s a general guideline:

• Beginners: Choose a board that is at least 8 feet long with a high volume (70 liters or more).
• Intermediate Surfers: A board between 7 and 8 feet with a medium volume (50-70 liters) may be suitable.
• Experienced Surfers: Shorter soft top boards (under 7 feet) with lower volume can be used for more advanced maneuvers.

Construction Quality

Pay attention to the quality of the materials and construction. Look for boards with a durable foam core, a thick and grippy soft deck, and a strong stringer system. A well-constructed soft top board will last longer and perform better.

Fin System

Consider the fin system. Some soft top boards come with fixed fins, while others have fin boxes that allow you to swap out fins. If you plan to progress your surfing skills, a board with replaceable fins offers more versatility. [See also: Best Surfboard Fins for Beginners]

Brand Reputation

Research different brands and read reviews to get an idea of their reputation. Some popular soft top board brands include Wavestorm, South Bay Board Co., and California Board Company. A reputable brand is more likely to offer a quality product and good customer service.

Intended Use

Think about how you plan to use the board. If you are primarily interested in learning to surf, a larger, more stable board is the best choice. If you want a board for small wave days or for experimenting with new tricks, a shorter, more maneuverable board might be a better option. Consider if you’ll be using it in lakes, rivers, or the ocean, as different water conditions may favor different types of soft top boards.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Board

Proper care and maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your soft top board:

• Rinse with Fresh Water: After each use, rinse your board with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can damage the foam.
• Protect from Sharp Objects: Be careful not to puncture or scratch the soft deck.
• Check for Delamination: Regularly inspect your board for signs of delamination (separation of the foam layers). If you notice any delamination, repair it promptly to prevent further damage.
• Use a Board Bag: A board bag can protect your board from scratches and dings during transport and storage.

Advanced Techniques with Soft Top Boards

While often associated with beginners, soft top boards can also be used for advanced surfing techniques. Their buoyancy and forgiving nature allow surfers to experiment with maneuvers without the fear of serious injury. Some advanced techniques include:

• Nose Riding: The added volume makes nose riding easier on a soft top board.
• Spinning: The forgiving nature of the board makes it easier to recover from spins and other rotational maneuvers.
• Aerials: While not ideal for huge airs, soft top boards can be used for small aerial maneuvers.

The Future of Soft Top Boards

The soft top board market continues to evolve, with manufacturers constantly innovating to improve performance and durability. Expect to see more advanced construction techniques, such as carbon fiber reinforcements and improved fin systems. The increasing popularity of soft top boards is a testament to their versatility and accessibility, and they are likely to remain a staple in the surfing world for years to come. [See also: Sustainable Surfboard Materials]

Conclusion

Soft top boards offer a fun, safe, and affordable way to enjoy the ocean. Whether you’re a beginner learning to surf or an experienced surfer looking for a playful alternative, a soft top board can provide hours of enjoyment. By understanding the different types of soft top boards and how to choose the right one for your needs, you can make the most of your surfing experience. So grab a soft top board, hit the waves, and have some fun!