Table of Contents

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

So, you’re curious about soft top boards? You’ve come to the right place. These boards, often called foamies or softboards, have surged in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a fantastic entry point into surfing, are forgiving for beginners, and can even provide experienced surfers with a fun, low-stakes alternative on smaller days. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about soft top boards, from their construction and advantages to choosing the right one and maintaining it properly.

What is a Soft Top Board?

A soft top board is a surfboard with a soft, typically foam, deck. This contrasts with traditional surfboards, which have a hard fiberglass or epoxy resin deck. The core of a soft top board is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or expanded polyethylene (EPE) foam, providing buoyancy. The bottom of the board is often made of a slick HDPE (high-density polyethylene) material for speed and glide. The combination of a soft top and a slick bottom makes these boards both comfortable and functional.

The Anatomy of a Soft Top Board

Understanding the components of a soft top board will help you appreciate its design and performance:

Deck: The soft foam deck is the defining feature. It provides cushioning and grip, making it more comfortable to paddle and stand on. The soft surface also reduces the risk of injury from impacts.
Core: The foam core provides the board’s buoyancy and shape. EPS cores are lightweight and offer excellent floatation, while EPE cores are denser and more durable.
Bottom: The slick HDPE bottom reduces friction with the water, allowing the board to glide smoothly. Some boards also feature channels or concaves in the bottom to enhance performance.
Fins: Soft top boards typically come with removable fins, usually made of soft plastic or flexible rubber. These fins provide stability and control. Some higher-end models may use standard fin boxes, allowing you to upgrade to stiffer fins for improved performance.
Stringer: Many soft top boards include one or more stringers, which are strips of wood or composite material that run lengthwise through the core. Stringers add strength and stiffness to the board, preventing it from flexing excessively.

Why Choose a Soft Top Board?

Soft top boards offer several advantages, making them a popular choice for a wide range of surfers:

Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck and forgiving nature of soft top boards make them ideal for beginners. They are more stable and easier to paddle than hard surfboards, allowing beginners to catch waves and learn the basics more quickly.
Safety: The soft deck reduces the risk of injury from falls and collisions. This is especially important for beginners who are still learning to control their boards.
Durability: While not indestructible, soft top boards are generally more durable than hard surfboards. They are less prone to dings and cracks, making them a good choice for rough conditions or travel.
Affordability: Soft top boards are typically less expensive than hard surfboards, making them a budget-friendly option for beginners or surfers who want a second board for fun.
Fun for All Skill Levels: Even experienced surfers can enjoy riding soft top boards. They are great for small waves, summer days, and experimenting with new styles.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Board

Selecting the right soft top board depends on your skill level, size, and intended use:

Size and Volume

The size of a soft top board is typically measured in feet and inches. The volume, measured in liters, indicates the board’s buoyancy. As a general rule, beginners should choose a larger board with more volume for greater stability and easier paddling. As you progress, you can move to a smaller board with less volume for increased maneuverability.

Here’s a general guideline for choosing the right size soft top board:

Beginners: Choose a board that is at least 8 feet long with a volume of 70 liters or more.
Intermediate Surfers: Consider a board that is 7-8 feet long with a volume of 50-70 liters.
Experienced Surfers: You can ride a smaller board, such as a 6-7 foot board with a volume of 40-50 liters.

Shape

Soft top boards come in a variety of shapes, each designed for different types of waves and riding styles:

Longboards: Longboards are the most common type of soft top board. They are stable and easy to paddle, making them ideal for beginners and small waves.
Shortboards: Shortboards are shorter and more maneuverable than longboards. They are better suited for experienced surfers who want to perform turns and tricks.
Funboards: Funboards are a hybrid between longboards and shortboards. They offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability, making them a versatile choice for a variety of conditions.

Features

Consider these features when choosing a soft top board:

Stringers: Look for boards with multiple stringers for added strength and stiffness.
Fin System: Some boards come with standard fin boxes, allowing you to upgrade to stiffer fins for improved performance.
Leash Plug: Make sure the board has a secure leash plug for attaching your leash.
Carry Handle: A carry handle can make it easier to transport the board.

Caring for Your Soft Top Board

Proper care will extend the life of your soft top board:

Rinse with Fresh Water: After each use, rinse the board with fresh water to remove salt and sand.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing the board in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can damage the foam.
Avoid Sharp Objects: Be careful not to puncture the soft deck with sharp objects.
Repair Dings: If you notice any dings or cracks, repair them promptly to prevent water from seeping into the core. Specialized foam repair kits are available.
Leash Care: Always inspect your leash before surfing and replace it if it shows signs of wear. A broken leash can lead to a lost board and a dangerous swim.

Where to Buy Soft Top Boards

Soft top boards are widely available at surf shops, sporting goods stores, and online retailers. When buying a soft top board, consider these factors:

Reputation of the Brand: Choose a reputable brand known for quality and durability.
Warranty: Look for boards with a warranty to protect against manufacturing defects.
Return Policy: Make sure the retailer has a reasonable return policy in case you are not satisfied with the board.
Read Reviews: Check online reviews to see what other customers have to say about the board.

The Future of Soft Top Boards

Soft top boards have come a long way in recent years, with advancements in materials and construction techniques. As technology continues to improve, we can expect to see even more high-performance soft top boards that cater to a wider range of surfers. The increasing popularity of soft top boards is a testament to their versatility, affordability, and fun factor. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking a low-stakes alternative, a soft top board is a great option.

So grab a soft top board, head to the beach, and enjoy the ride! Remember safety and respect for other surfers in the water. And most importantly, have fun! [See also: Surfboard Types for Beginners] [See also: How to Choose the Right Surf Fins]

Advanced Techniques on Soft Top Boards

Once you’ve mastered the basics on your soft top board, you might be surprised at the advanced maneuvers you can perform. While they might not offer the same responsiveness as a hardboard, skilled surfers are pushing the limits of what’s possible. Techniques like carving turns, cross-stepping (on longer models), and even small aerials are becoming increasingly common on soft top boards. The key is to understand the board’s limitations and adapt your style accordingly.

Soft Top Boards and Sustainability

The surfing industry, like many others, is facing increasing pressure to become more sustainable. While traditional surfboards often rely on petroleum-based materials, some manufacturers are exploring eco-friendly alternatives for soft top boards. This includes using recycled foam cores, bio-based resins, and sustainable wood stringers. As consumer demand for environmentally conscious products grows, we can expect to see more sustainable soft top board options becoming available.

Common Misconceptions About Soft Top Boards

There are several common misconceptions about soft top boards. One is that they are only for beginners. While they are excellent for learning, experienced surfers also enjoy them for their forgiving nature and fun factor. Another misconception is that they are slow and difficult to maneuver. While they may not be as fast or responsive as high-performance hardboards, modern soft top boards can still offer a surprisingly agile and enjoyable ride. Finally, some people believe that they are not durable. While they may not be as resistant to major impacts as a fiberglass board, they are generally more resistant to minor dings and scratches, making them a good choice for everyday use.