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 world. Once relegated to beginners and surf schools, these boards have gained immense popularity among surfers of all skill levels. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of soft top boards, exploring their construction, advantages, disadvantages, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking for a fun alternative or a beginner eager to catch your first wave, understanding soft top boards is essential.

What are Soft Top Boards?

A soft top board is a surfboard constructed with a soft foam deck and a slick bottom. Unlike traditional hard surfboards made of fiberglass and resin, soft top boards prioritize safety and ease of use. The soft deck provides a more forgiving surface, reducing the risk of injury during falls. This makes them an excellent choice for beginners learning the basics of surfing.

Construction of Soft Top Boards

The typical construction of a soft top board involves several layers:

• Foam Deck: Usually made of closed-cell polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, providing cushioning and grip.
• Core: Often constructed from expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam, offering buoyancy and structural integrity.
• Stringer(s): Wooden or composite stringers run lengthwise through the core, adding stiffness and preventing excessive flex.
• Slick Bottom: A smooth, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) bottom layer that reduces friction and enhances speed.

Advantages of Soft Top Boards

Soft top boards offer numerous benefits, contributing to their widespread appeal:

• Safety: The soft deck significantly reduces the risk of injury from collisions and falls. This makes them ideal for crowded surf spots or for surfers still learning to control their board.
• Buoyancy: The foam core provides excellent buoyancy, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. This is particularly helpful for beginners who may struggle with paddling on hard boards.
• Durability: Soft top boards are generally more durable than hard boards, capable of withstanding bumps, dings, and impacts without significant damage.
• Affordability: They are typically more affordable than traditional fiberglass surfboards, making surfing more accessible to a wider range of people.
• Ease of Use: Their forgiving nature makes them easier to ride and control, allowing beginners to progress more quickly.
• Versatility: While primarily used by beginners, experienced surfers also enjoy them for fun, mellow sessions in small waves.

Disadvantages of Soft Top Boards

Despite their advantages, soft top boards also have some limitations:

• Performance: They generally don’t perform as well as hard boards in larger, more powerful waves. The soft construction can limit maneuverability and responsiveness.
• Speed: While the slick bottom helps, they are typically slower than hard boards due to the increased friction of the foam deck.
• Lifespan: Although durable, the foam can eventually degrade with prolonged exposure to sunlight and saltwater.
• Repair: Repairs can be more challenging than with fiberglass boards, as matching the foam and ensuring a watertight seal can be difficult.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Board

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

Consider Your Skill Level

• Beginners: Opt for a larger, wider board (8-9 feet) with plenty of volume. This will provide stability and make it easier to paddle and catch waves.
• Intermediate: As your skills progress, you can choose a slightly smaller board (7-8 feet) with a more refined shape for improved maneuverability.
• Experienced: Experienced surfers may enjoy shorter, more performance-oriented soft top boards (6-7 feet) for playful sessions in small waves.

Consider Your Weight

Your weight is a crucial factor in determining the appropriate board size. A heavier surfer will require a larger board with more volume to ensure adequate buoyancy.

Consider the Wave Conditions

Soft top boards are best suited for small to medium-sized waves. If you primarily surf in larger, more powerful waves, a hard board will generally be a better choice.

Features to Look For

• Stringers: Look for boards with multiple stringers for added stiffness and durability.
• Slick Bottom: A high-quality HDPE slick bottom will enhance speed and glide.
• Fin System: Most soft top boards use a standard fin system, allowing you to experiment with different fin setups to customize your ride.
• Leash Plug: Ensure the board has a secure leash plug to attach your leash and prevent the board from drifting away.

Popular Soft Top Board Brands

Several reputable brands offer high-quality soft top boards. Some of the most popular include:

• Wavestorm
• South Bay Board Co.
• California Board Company
• Gerry Lopez Surfboards
• Catch Surf

Maintaining Your Soft Top Board

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

• Rinse After Use: Always rinse your board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt and sand.
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight, as this can cause the foam to degrade.
• Protect from Heat: Do not leave your board in a hot car, as the heat can warp the foam.
• Check for Damage: Regularly inspect your board for any dings or tears and repair them promptly to prevent further damage.

Soft Top Boards: A Surfing Revolution

Soft top boards have democratized surfing, making it more accessible and enjoyable for surfers of all levels. Their safety, buoyancy, and affordability make them an excellent choice for beginners, while their versatility appeals to experienced surfers looking for a fun alternative. By understanding the construction, advantages, and disadvantages of soft top boards, you can make an informed decision and choose the right board for your needs. Whether you’re just starting your surfing journey or looking to add a new dimension to your surfing experience, a soft top board is a valuable addition to any surfer’s quiver. So grab a soft top board, hit the waves, and experience the joy of surfing!

The rise of soft top boards isn’t just a trend; it’s a testament to the evolving nature of surfing. These boards represent a shift towards inclusivity and accessibility, breaking down barriers and inviting more people to experience the thrill of riding waves. As technology advances, we can expect even more innovative designs and materials in the world of soft top boards, further enhancing their performance and durability. [See also: Beginner Surfboard Guide] [See also: Surfing Etiquette: A Guide to Respect in the Water]

Ultimately, the best surfboard is the one that allows you to have the most fun in the water. For many, that board is a soft top board. Its forgiving nature and inherent safety make it an ideal platform for learning and progression, while its playful characteristics offer endless entertainment for seasoned surfers. So, embrace the soft side of surfing and discover the joy of riding waves on a soft top board.

Whether you’re carving your first turn or perfecting your cross-step, a soft top board can be your gateway to a lifetime of surfing enjoyment. Choose wisely, maintain it well, and most importantly, have fun!