The Ultimate Guide to Soft Top Surfboard Longboards: Everything You Need to Know

Soft top surfboard longboards have surged in popularity, offering a fun, accessible, and forgiving entry point into the world of surfing. Whether you’re a complete beginner, an experienced surfer looking for a mellow ride, or simply seeking a durable and affordable option, understanding the nuances of soft top longboards is crucial. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know, from the construction and benefits to choosing the right board and maintaining it properly. We’ll explore why a soft top surfboard longboard might be the perfect choice for your next surfing adventure.

What is a Soft Top Surfboard Longboard?

A soft top surfboard longboard, as the name suggests, features a soft, padded deck made of foam, typically closed-cell polyethylene (PE) or expanded polystyrene (EPS). This soft deck is bonded to a more rigid core, often constructed from EPS foam and reinforced with stringers – thin strips of wood or composite material that run lengthwise through the board to enhance its strength and prevent excessive flex. The bottom of the board is usually a slick HDPE (high-density polyethylene) surface, which allows it to glide smoothly across the water.

The combination of a soft deck and a rigid core provides a unique blend of comfort, buoyancy, and stability. This makes soft top surfboard longboards exceptionally user-friendly, especially for beginners who are still learning to pop up and maintain their balance.

Benefits of Choosing a Soft Top Longboard

Enhanced Safety

One of the most significant advantages of a soft top surfboard longboard is its increased safety. The soft deck significantly reduces the risk of injury during falls or collisions. Unlike traditional hard-top boards, which can cause painful bumps, bruises, or even cuts, the foam deck of a soft top provides a cushioned surface. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who are prone to falling frequently.

Improved Buoyancy and Stability

Soft top surfboard longboards are typically thicker and wider than hard-top boards of the same length. This increased volume translates into greater buoyancy, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. The added stability allows beginners to focus on learning the fundamentals of surfing without constantly battling to stay upright. Even experienced surfers appreciate the added floatation in smaller surf conditions.

Durability and Affordability

Soft top surfboard longboards are generally more durable than hard-top boards, especially in the hands of beginners. They are less susceptible to dings and scratches, which can require costly repairs. Additionally, soft tops are often more affordable than their hard-top counterparts, making them an excellent option for surfers on a budget.

Ease of Use

The combination of safety, buoyancy, stability, durability, and affordability makes soft top surfboard longboards incredibly easy to use. They are forgiving of mistakes and allow surfers to progress quickly. Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced rider looking for a fun and mellow session, a soft top longboard is a versatile choice.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Longboard

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

Length

Longboards typically range in length from 8 to 12 feet. For beginners, a longer board is generally recommended as it provides greater stability and paddling power. A 9-foot or longer soft top surfboard longboard is an excellent starting point for most adults. Smaller individuals or those with some surfing experience may opt for a slightly shorter board.

Width and Thickness

Wider and thicker boards offer greater buoyancy and stability. Look for a soft top surfboard longboard with a width of at least 22 inches and a thickness of 3 inches or more. These dimensions will provide ample floatation and make it easier to catch waves.

Volume

Volume is a measure of a board’s overall size and is expressed in liters. A higher volume board will be more buoyant and easier to paddle. As a general rule, beginners should look for a soft top surfboard longboard with a volume that is at least equal to their weight in kilograms. For example, a 70kg surfer should look for a board with a volume of 70 liters or more.

Fin Setup

Most soft top surfboard longboards come with a tri-fin setup (three fins), which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may have a single fin or a 2+1 fin setup (two smaller side fins and a larger center fin). Experiment with different fin configurations to find what works best for your surfing style.

Construction Quality

While soft top surfboard longboards are generally durable, it’s essential to choose a board from a reputable brand that uses high-quality materials and construction techniques. Look for boards with reinforced stringers, durable bottom slicks, and well-bonded soft tops. Read reviews and ask for recommendations from other surfers to find a board that will last.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Longboard

Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the lifespan of your soft top surfboard longboard. Here are some tips to keep your board in good condition:

Rinse After Each Use

Always rinse your board with fresh water after each surfing session to remove salt, sand, and other debris. Saltwater can corrode the board’s components and degrade the soft top over time.

Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the foam to degrade and the colors to fade. Avoid storing your board in a hot car or garage, as this can also damage the foam.

Use a Board Bag

A board bag will protect your soft top surfboard longboard from scratches, dings, and UV damage. Choose a bag that is specifically designed for longboards and that provides adequate padding.

Repair Dings and Tears Promptly

Even though soft top surfboard longboards are durable, they can still be damaged. Repair any dings or tears promptly to prevent water from seeping into the foam core. Use a waterproof sealant or epoxy to repair minor damage. For more significant damage, consult a professional board repair technician.

Wax the Deck (Optional)

While the soft deck of a soft top surfboard longboard provides some grip, you may want to apply wax to the deck for added traction. Use a surf wax that is specifically designed for soft tops. Apply a thin, even layer of wax to the areas where you will be standing.

Advanced Techniques on a Soft Top Longboard

While often seen as beginner boards, soft top surfboard longboards can also be used for performing advanced surfing maneuvers. Their inherent buoyancy and stability can be leveraged to execute smooth turns, cross-steps, and even nose rides. Learning to shift your weight effectively and utilizing the board’s rail can open up a world of possibilities. Don’t underestimate the potential of a soft top surfboard longboard in the hands of a skilled surfer.

Are Soft Top Longboards Only for Beginners?

While soft top surfboard longboards are excellent for beginners, they are not *only* for beginners. Many experienced surfers enjoy riding soft tops for their fun and forgiving nature, especially in smaller waves. They are also a great option for teaching friends and family how to surf. The reduced risk of injury and the ease of use make them ideal for introducing newcomers to the sport.

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

The popularity of soft top surfboard longboards continues to grow, and manufacturers are constantly innovating to improve their performance and durability. We can expect to see advancements in materials, construction techniques, and fin systems in the coming years. As more people discover the joy of surfing, soft top longboards will undoubtedly play a significant role in making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Conclusion

A soft top surfboard longboard is an excellent choice for surfers of all skill levels. Its safety, buoyancy, stability, durability, and affordability make it a versatile and user-friendly option. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fun and mellow ride, a soft top longboard is sure to provide hours of enjoyment in the water. By understanding the nuances of these boards and following proper maintenance practices, you can ensure that your soft top surfboard longboard will last for years to come. [See also: How to Choose the Right Surfboard], [See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips]