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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. Once relegated to beginner lessons and rentals, these boards are now embraced by surfers of all skill levels. But what makes a soft top surfboard so appealing? This comprehensive guide will delve into everything you need to know about soft tops, from their construction and benefits to choosing the right board and maintaining it properly.

What is a Soft Top Surfboard?

A soft top surfboard is characterized by its soft, foam deck, usually made of polyethylene (PE) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). This foam layer provides cushioning and grip, making it more comfortable and forgiving than a traditional hard-top surfboard. Underneath the foam deck, most soft tops feature a rigid core, typically made of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane (PU) foam, similar to hard-top boards. This core provides the necessary buoyancy and structure for riding waves. The bottom of the board is often made of a slick HDPE (high-density polyethylene) plastic, which helps it glide smoothly across the water.

Why Choose a Soft Top Surfboard?

There are several compelling reasons to choose a soft top surfboard, regardless of your surfing experience:

Beginner-Friendly: Soft tops are incredibly stable and easy to paddle, making them ideal for beginners learning the basics of surfing. The soft deck minimizes the risk of injury from falls.
Safety: The soft construction reduces the risk of dings and injuries compared to hard-top boards. This is particularly important in crowded surf conditions.
Durability: While not indestructible, soft top surfboards are generally more resistant to dings and damage than traditional fiberglass boards. They can withstand more abuse, making them a great option for travel or surfing in rocky areas.
Affordability: Soft tops are typically more affordable than hard-top surfboards, making them an accessible entry point to the sport.
Fun for All Skill Levels: Experienced surfers often use soft tops for fun in smaller waves or to try new maneuvers without the worry of damaging their high-performance boards. They are also great for introducing friends and family to surfing.

Types of Soft Top Surfboards

The market offers a variety of soft top surfboards to suit different surfing styles and skill levels:

Longboard Soft Tops

These are the most common type of soft top surfboard, typically ranging from 8 to 10 feet in length. Longboard soft tops are exceptionally stable and easy to paddle, making them perfect for beginners and those who enjoy cruising on small to medium-sized waves. They offer excellent glide and allow for easy wave catching.

Shortboard Soft Tops

Shortboard soft tops are designed for more advanced surfers who want to perform turns and maneuvers. They are typically shorter and narrower than longboard soft tops, offering increased maneuverability. While not as high-performance as traditional shortboards, they provide a fun and forgiving platform for practicing advanced skills.

Fish Soft Tops

Fish soft tops are characterized by their wide, swallowtail design. This shape provides excellent speed and floatation, making them ideal for small, mushy waves. They are a popular choice for surfers who want a playful and forgiving board for summer conditions.

Hybrid Soft Tops

Hybrid soft tops combine features of different board types. For example, a hybrid might have the shape of a shortboard with the volume of a longboard, or the tail of a fish with the rails of a shortboard. These boards offer a versatile option for surfers who want a board that can handle a variety of conditions.

Choosing the Right Soft Top Surfboard

Selecting the right soft top surfboard depends on several factors:

Skill Level: Beginners should opt for a longer, wider board for stability and ease of paddling. More experienced surfers can choose a shorter, more maneuverable board.
Wave Conditions: For small, mushy waves, a fish or longboard soft top is ideal. For larger, more powerful waves, a shortboard or hybrid soft top may be more suitable.
Weight and Height: Heavier surfers will need a board with more volume to ensure proper floatation. Taller surfers may prefer a longer board for increased stability.
Personal Preference: Consider your surfing style and what you want to achieve with your board. Do you want to cruise and catch lots of waves, or do you want to perform turns and maneuvers?

Key Features to Consider

When choosing a soft top surfboard, pay attention to these key features:

Core Material: EPS cores are lighter and more buoyant, while PU cores offer a more traditional surfboard feel.
Deck Material: PE decks are softer and more comfortable, while EVA decks offer better grip and durability.
Bottom Material: HDPE bottoms provide a smooth glide and are resistant to damage.
Fin System: Most soft tops use a standard fin system, allowing you to upgrade or replace your fins.
Reinforcements: Look for boards with stringers or other reinforcements to improve stiffness and durability.

Maintaining Your Soft Top Surfboard

Proper maintenance will extend the life of your soft top surfboard:

Rinse After Each Use: Rinse your board with fresh water after each surf session to remove salt, sand, and debris.
Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Avoid leaving your board in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can cause the foam to delaminate.
Repair Dings Promptly: Small dings can be repaired with waterproof tape or sealant. Larger dings may require professional repair.
Use a Board Bag: A board bag will protect your board from scratches and dings during transport and storage.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use harsh chemicals or solvents to clean your board, as they can damage the foam.

Are Soft Top Surfboards Only for Beginners?

Absolutely not! While soft top surfboards are excellent for beginners, they are also enjoyed by experienced surfers for a variety of reasons. Many pros use them for fun in small waves, for practicing new maneuvers, or simply for the pure joy of surfing without the pressure of performance. The forgiving nature of a soft top allows surfers to experiment and push their limits without the fear of damaging their expensive hard-top boards. [See also: Best Surf Spots for Beginners]

The Future of Soft Top Surfboards

The soft top surfboard market is constantly evolving, with manufacturers developing new materials and designs to improve performance and durability. Expect to see more advanced soft tops with features like carbon fiber reinforcements, improved fin systems, and eco-friendly materials. As the popularity of soft tops continues to grow, they will likely become an even more integral part of the surfing landscape. More innovation will lead to better performing boards that are accessible and fun for everyone.

Conclusion

Soft top surfboards are a versatile and accessible option for surfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an experienced surfer looking for a fun and forgiving board, a soft top can provide hours of enjoyment in the water. With proper care and maintenance, your soft top surfboard will provide countless memorable surf sessions. Consider your needs, skill level, and the wave conditions you typically surf in when choosing the right board. Happy surfing! [See also: How to Choose the Right Wetsuit]