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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 fantastic entry point for beginners, provide a fun and forgiving ride for experienced surfers, and are generally more affordable than traditional epoxy or fiberglass boards. This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft top surf boards, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right one and maintaining it properly. Whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned wave rider looking for a new perspective, understanding the world of soft top surf boards is essential.

What is a Soft Top Surfboard?

A soft top surfboard is characterized by its soft, cushioned deck, typically made from closed-cell foam like polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This soft surface provides a comfortable and forgiving platform for learning and minimizing injuries. Beneath the foam deck lies a core, usually constructed from expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam. This EPS core provides buoyancy and shape to the board. The bottom of a soft top surf board is often made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a durable and slick material that helps the board glide through the water.

Benefits of Using a Soft Top Surfboard

Soft top surf boards offer a multitude of advantages, making them appealing to a wide range of surfers:

Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck is incredibly forgiving, reducing the risk of injury and making it easier to learn the basics of paddling, popping up, and riding waves. The added buoyancy also helps beginners catch waves more easily.
Safety: The soft construction significantly reduces the risk of dings and injuries compared to hard-shelled boards. This is especially important in crowded surf breaks.
Durability: While not indestructible, soft top surf boards are generally more resistant to dings and damage than epoxy or fiberglass boards. This makes them ideal for travel or for surfers who are prone to accidents.
Affordability: Soft top surf boards are typically less expensive than traditional surfboards, making them a budget-friendly option for beginners or those looking to expand their quiver without breaking the bank.
Fun for All Skill Levels: Experienced surfers often use soft top surf boards for fun, playful sessions, especially in smaller waves. They can be used to experiment with different styles and maneuvers without worrying about damaging an expensive board.
Transportability: Due to their lighter weight and greater durability, soft top surf boards are often easier to transport than traditional boards.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Surfboard

Selecting the appropriate soft top surf board depends on several factors, including your skill level, size, and the type of waves you intend to ride.

Size and Volume

As a general rule, beginners should opt for a larger board with more volume. This will provide greater stability and make it easier to paddle and catch waves. A board that is too small will be difficult to control and will require more effort to paddle. Consider these guidelines:

Beginners: Choose a board that is at least 8 feet long with ample volume (70 liters or more).
Intermediate Surfers: Consider a board between 6 and 8 feet long with moderate volume (50-70 liters).
Advanced Surfers: Can experiment with shorter boards (5-7 feet) with lower volume (30-50 liters) for more maneuverability.

Shape

The shape of the board also plays a crucial role in its performance. Wider boards are more stable, while narrower boards are more maneuverable. Common shapes include:

Longboards: Ideal for beginners and those who enjoy cruising and noseriding.
Funboards: A versatile option for intermediate surfers, offering a balance of stability and maneuverability.
Fish Boards: Designed for smaller waves, with a wider tail and a split-tail design for added speed and maneuverability.

Fins

Fins are essential for controlling the board and influencing its performance. Most soft top surf boards come with a standard three-fin (thruster) setup, which provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability. Some boards may also offer a single-fin or twin-fin setup, which can provide a different feel and performance characteristics. Removable fins are a plus, as they allow you to experiment with different fin configurations and fine-tune the board’s performance to your liking.

Soft Top Surfboard Brands and Models

Several reputable brands offer high-quality soft top surf boards. Some popular options include:

Wavestorm: A popular choice for beginners, known for their affordability and durability.
South Bay Board Co.: Offers a range of soft top surf boards for all skill levels, with a focus on performance and quality.
California Board Company: Another reputable brand that offers a variety of soft top surf boards at reasonable prices.
Catch Surf: Known for their innovative designs and high-performance soft top surf boards, often favored by experienced surfers.

Research different models and read reviews to find a board that suits your specific needs and preferences.

Caring for Your Soft Top Surfboard

Proper care and maintenance will extend the life of your soft top surfboard and keep it performing its best:

Rinse with Fresh Water: After each surf session, rinse your board thoroughly with fresh water to remove salt, sand, and debris.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid storing your board in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this can damage the foam and cause it to delaminate.
Protect from Sharp Objects: Be careful not to puncture or damage the soft top with sharp objects.
Inspect for Damage: Regularly inspect your board for any signs of damage, such as dings, cracks, or delamination. Repair any damage promptly to prevent it from worsening.
Use a Board Bag: A board bag will protect your board from scratches, dings, and UV damage during transport and storage.

Repairing a Soft Top Surfboard

While soft top surf boards are durable, they can still be damaged. Minor dings and scratches can often be repaired with specialized foam surfboard repair kits. For more significant damage, it’s best to consult a professional surfboard repair technician. Common repairs include:

Ding Repair: Filling in dings with foam-compatible resin and patching material.
Delamination Repair: Re-gluing the foam deck to the core.
Fin Box Repair: Replacing or repairing damaged fin boxes.

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

Soft top surf board technology is constantly evolving, with manufacturers developing new materials and construction techniques to improve performance and durability. Expect to see more advanced soft top surf boards with enhanced features and performance characteristics in the future. The popularity of soft top surf boards is likely to continue to grow as more people discover the joy and accessibility of surfing.

Conclusion

Soft top surf boards are an excellent choice for beginners, experienced surfers, and anyone looking for a fun and forgiving way to enjoy the waves. With their affordability, durability, and ease of use, they offer a fantastic entry point to the world of surfing and provide endless hours of enjoyment. By understanding the different types of soft top surf boards available, choosing the right one for your needs, and properly caring for it, you can maximize your surfing experience and make the most of your time in the water. So, grab a soft top surf board, hit the beach, and start shredding!

[See also: How to Choose the Right Surfboard for Beginners]

[See also: Surfboard Maintenance Tips: Keeping Your Board in Top Condition]

[See also: Understanding Surfboard Fins: A Comprehensive Guide]