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

Soft top surfboards, also known as foam surfboards or “foamies,” have surged in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a forgiving platform for beginners, are incredibly durable, and can even provide experienced surfers with a fun and unique riding experience. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top surfboards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one and caring for it.

What is a Soft Top Surfboard?

A soft top surfboard is a surfboard constructed with a foam core, typically EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) or PE (Polyethylene), and covered with a soft, grippy deck material. This deck material is often made of EVA (Ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam, which provides excellent comfort and traction. The bottom of the board is usually slick HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) for speed and glide. Some models also include stringers, which are strips of wood or composite material running lengthwise through the core to add stiffness and strength.

The Benefits of Using a Soft Top Surfboard

Soft top surfboards offer a multitude of advantages, making them an excellent choice for various surfers:

Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck is much more forgiving than a hard fiberglass board, reducing the risk of injury during wipeouts. The added buoyancy also makes paddling and catching waves easier.
Durability: Foam surfboards can withstand a lot of abuse. They are less prone to dings and cracks than traditional surfboards, making them ideal for learning or surfing in crowded conditions.
Cost-Effective: Soft top surfboards are generally more affordable than fiberglass boards, making them a great entry point into surfing without breaking the bank.
Fun for All Skill Levels: While perfect for beginners, experienced surfers can also enjoy riding soft top surfboards, especially in small waves or for trying new tricks. They offer a unique and playful surfing experience.
Safety: The soft construction of these boards minimizes the risk of injury to yourself and others in the water.

Who Should Use a Soft Top Surfboard?

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

Beginners: The forgiving nature and ease of paddling make them perfect for learning the basics of surfing.
Kids: The smaller sizes and soft construction make them safe and fun for children to learn on.
Families: A soft top surfboard is a great addition to any family’s beach gear, providing hours of fun for all ages.
Experienced Surfers: Surfers looking for a fun alternative to their traditional board, especially in small or crowded conditions, can appreciate the playful nature of a foamie.
Surf Schools and Camps: The durability and safety features make them ideal for surf schools and camps.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Surfboard

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

Size and Volume

The size of a soft top surfboard is typically measured in length (feet and inches) and volume (liters). Generally, beginners should opt for a larger board with more volume, as this provides greater stability and makes paddling easier. As you progress, you can gradually move to smaller boards with less volume.

Beginners: Look for a board that is at least 8 feet long with a volume of 70 liters or more.
Intermediate Surfers: A board between 7 and 8 feet long with a volume of 60-70 liters may be suitable.
Experienced Surfers: Can ride boards as short as 5’6″ with a volume of 30-40 liters, depending on their weight and the wave conditions.

Shape

The shape of the soft top surfboard also plays a significant role in its performance. Common shapes include:

Longboards: These are the most stable and easiest to paddle, making them ideal for beginners and small waves.
Mini-Longboards: A shorter version of the longboard, offering a good balance between stability and maneuverability.
Fish: These boards are wider and shorter, providing excellent speed and maneuverability in small to medium-sized waves.
Hybrids: A combination of different shapes, offering a versatile riding experience.

Construction

Pay attention to the construction of the soft top surfboard. Look for boards with:

Durable Foam Core: EPS or PE foam cores are common. EPS is lighter and more buoyant, while PE is denser and more durable.
Grippy Deck Material: EVA foam is the most common deck material, providing excellent comfort and traction.
Slick Bottom: HDPE bottoms provide speed and glide.
Stringers: Stringers add stiffness and strength to the board, improving its performance.

Fins

Most soft top surfboards come with removable fins. The type of fin setup can affect the board’s performance. Common fin setups include:

Single Fin: Offers stability and control, ideal for beginners.
Twin Fin: Provides speed and maneuverability, suitable for small to medium-sized waves.
Thruster (Three Fins): A versatile setup that offers a good balance of speed, control, and maneuverability.

Caring for Your Soft Top Surfboard

Proper care can extend the lifespan of your soft top surfboard:

Rinse After Each Use: Rinse the board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and debris.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing the board in direct sunlight or hot environments, as this can damage the foam and deck material.
Use a Board Bag: A board bag will protect the board from scratches, dings, and UV damage.
Repair Dings and Tears: Repair any dings or tears promptly to prevent water from seeping into the foam core. [See also: Surfboard Repair Kits]
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean the board, as this can damage the deck material.

Top Soft Top Surfboard Brands

Several reputable brands offer high-quality soft top surfboards. Some popular brands include:

Wavestorm
South Bay Board Co.
California Board Company
Foamie Addict
Liquid Shredder

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

Soft top surfboards continue to evolve, with manufacturers incorporating new materials and designs to improve their performance. We can expect to see even more innovative foamies in the future, blurring the lines between traditional surfboards and soft tops. The accessibility and versatility of soft top surfboards ensure they will remain a popular choice for surfers of all skill levels for years to come. [See also: Sustainable Surfboard Materials]

Conclusion

Soft top surfboards are an excellent choice for anyone looking to get into surfing or simply enjoy a fun and forgiving ride. With their affordability, durability, and ease of use, they offer a unique and accessible surfing experience. By understanding the different types of soft top surfboards available and how to care for them, you can choose the perfect board for your needs and enjoy countless hours of fun in the water. Whether you’re a beginner, a family looking for beach fun, or an experienced surfer seeking a playful alternative, a soft top surfboard is a fantastic option to consider. So grab a foamie and get out there!