The Ultimate Guide to Soft Top Boards: Everything You Need to Know

Soft top boards, also known as foam surfboards or softboards, have revolutionized the surfing landscape. Once relegated to beginners and surf schools, these boards have gained immense popularity among surfers of all skill levels. Why? Because they offer a unique blend of safety, affordability, and fun. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top boards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one for your needs.

What are Soft Top Boards?

A soft top board is a surfboard constructed with a foam core, typically EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) or PE (Polyethylene), and covered with a soft, grippy deck. The bottom is usually slick HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), providing a smooth surface for gliding across the water. The soft deck is what differentiates them from traditional fiberglass surfboards. This soft surface minimizes the risk of injury during wipeouts, making them an excellent choice for beginners and crowded surf spots.

Benefits of Using a Soft Top Board

• Safety: The soft deck significantly reduces the risk of cuts, bruises, and more serious injuries, especially important for beginners who are still learning to control their board.
• Affordability: Soft top boards are generally more affordable than traditional fiberglass boards, making them a great entry point to surfing without breaking the bank.
• Durability: While not indestructible, soft top boards are more resistant to dings and damage than fiberglass boards, especially in the hands of beginners who might be prone to accidental bumps and scrapes.
• Ease of Use: Their inherent buoyancy makes them easier to paddle and catch waves, perfect for beginners and those looking for a more relaxed surfing experience.
• Fun Factor: Soft top boards are simply fun! Their forgiving nature allows you to focus on enjoying the ride rather than constantly worrying about damaging your board or injuring yourself.

Who Should Use a Soft Top Board?

While often associated with beginners, soft top boards are suitable for a wide range of surfers:

• Beginners: The soft deck and forgiving nature make them ideal for learning the basics of surfing.
• Intermediate Surfers: Soft tops can be a fun alternative for smaller waves or crowded conditions, allowing you to experiment with different styles and maneuvers without the fear of damaging an expensive fiberglass board.
• Experienced Surfers: Some experienced surfers use soft top boards as a novelty or for specific wave conditions. They are great for logging and having fun on small, mushy waves.
• Families: Soft top boards are a great option for families with children who are learning to surf.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Board

Selecting the right soft top board depends on several factors, including your skill level, weight, height, and the type of waves you plan to surf.

Size and Volume

The size of a surfboard is measured in length (feet and inches), while volume is measured in liters. Generally, beginners will benefit from a larger board with more volume, as it provides greater stability and makes it easier to paddle and catch waves. As your skill improves, you can transition to a smaller board with less volume for increased maneuverability.

Here’s a general guideline:

• Beginners: Choose a board that is at least 8 feet long with a volume of 70 liters or more.
• Intermediate Surfers: Look for a board between 7 and 8 feet long with a volume of 50-70 liters.
• Experienced Surfers: Can experiment with boards as short as 5’6″ or shorter, depending on their preference and wave conditions.

Shape

The shape of a soft top board also influences its performance. Common shapes include:

• Longboards: Offer excellent stability and paddling speed, ideal for beginners and small waves.
• Funboards: A versatile shape that combines the stability of a longboard with the maneuverability of a shortboard, suitable for a variety of wave conditions.
• Shortboards: Designed for experienced surfers who want to perform advanced maneuvers in more challenging waves. Soft top shortboards can be a fun alternative to traditional shortboards.
• Fish: A wider, shorter board that is great for small, mushy waves. The fish shape provides excellent floatation and speed.

Fin Setup

Most soft top boards come with a tri-fin setup (three fins), which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may have a quad-fin setup (four fins) for increased speed and drive, while others may have a single-fin setup for a more traditional longboarding feel. The fins are often made of flexible plastic, further enhancing the safety aspect of soft top boards.

Construction

The construction of a soft top board is crucial to its performance and durability. Look for boards with a high-quality foam core (EPS or PE), a durable slick bottom (HDPE), and a well-constructed deck. Some boards also feature stringers (wooden or fiberglass strips running down the center of the board) for added stiffness and strength. A well-constructed board will last longer and perform better in the water.

Top Soft Top Board Brands

Several brands specialize in producing high-quality soft top boards. Some popular options include:

• Wavestorm
• South Bay Board Co.
• Catch Surf
• California Board Company (CBC)
• Liquid Shredder

These brands offer a wide range of soft top boards to suit different skill levels and preferences. [See also: Surfboard Brands Comparison]. Research and read reviews to find the best brand for your needs.

Caring for Your Soft Top Board

Proper care will extend the lifespan of your soft top board. Here are some 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 temperatures, as this can damage the foam core and deck.
• Use a Board Bag: Protect your board from dings and scratches by storing it in a board bag when not in use.
• Repair Dings Promptly: Even though soft top boards are more durable, they can still get dings. Repair any damage promptly to prevent water from seeping into the foam core.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean your board, as they can damage the deck and bottom.

Soft Top Boards: A Sustainable Choice?

The environmental impact of surfboard manufacturing is a growing concern. While traditional fiberglass boards pose significant environmental challenges, soft top boards offer some potential advantages. The EPS or PE foam used in soft top boards is recyclable, and some manufacturers are exploring the use of more sustainable materials, such as recycled foam and bio-based resins. Choosing a soft top board made from recycled materials can be a small step towards a more sustainable surfing lifestyle. [See also: Sustainable Surfboard Options]

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Techniques on Soft Top Boards

Don’t let the “beginner” label fool you. Advanced surfers are pushing the limits of what’s possible on soft top boards. From aerial maneuvers to stylish carving, the forgiving nature of soft top boards allows for experimentation and progression. Some surfers even prefer soft top boards for certain conditions, such as small, mushy waves where traditional boards might struggle. The key is to adapt your technique and embrace the unique characteristics of the soft top board. The versatility of soft top boards makes them a valuable addition to any surfer’s quiver.

The Future of Soft Top Boards

The popularity of soft top boards is showing no signs of slowing down. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative designs and materials, further blurring the lines between soft top boards and traditional surfboards. The increasing focus on sustainability will also drive the development of eco-friendly soft top boards. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, soft top boards offer a fun, affordable, and accessible way to enjoy the ocean. So grab a soft top board, hit the waves, and experience the joy of surfing! The forgiving nature of soft top boards makes them perfect for learning new tricks. Many believe soft top boards are the future of surfing education. The safety offered by soft top boards is unmatched. Soft top boards are a great way to get into surfing. Considering a soft top board? Do your research. Riding soft top boards is a blast! The evolution of soft top boards is exciting to watch.