Top 8 Soft Top Surfboards: Your Ultimate Guide for Beginners and Beyond
Choosing the right surfboard can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, one type of surfboard consistently stands out for its user-friendliness and versatility: the soft top 8 surfboard. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 8 soft top surfboards on the market, detailing their features, benefits, and who they’re best suited for. Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced surfer looking for a fun, forgiving board, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose a Soft Top Surfboard?
Before diving into our top picks, let’s discuss why a soft top 8 surfboard might be the perfect choice for you. Soft top surfboards, also known as foam surfboards, offer several advantages:
- Beginner-Friendly: The soft deck provides excellent grip and is more forgiving in terms of bumps and bruises, making it ideal for learners.
- Durability: Soft tops are generally more durable than traditional hard-top boards, resisting dings and scratches.
- Affordability: They are often more budget-friendly, making surfing accessible to more people.
- Versatility: Many advanced surfers use soft tops for fun sessions in small waves or to practice new maneuvers.
Now, let’s explore our top 8 soft top 8 surfboard picks, each offering a unique blend of performance and value.
The Top 8 Soft Top Surfboards
Wavestorm 8′ Classic Surfboard
The Wavestorm 8′ Classic is arguably the most popular soft top 8 surfboard on the market. Its affordability, durability, and user-friendly design make it a go-to choice for beginners. The board’s ample volume provides excellent stability, allowing new surfers to easily catch waves and develop their balance. It’s a great all-around option for anyone starting their surfing journey.
California Board Company 8′ Surfboard
The California Board Company (CBC) 8′ Surfboard is another excellent choice for beginners. Similar to the Wavestorm, it offers great stability and buoyancy. The CBC board also features a heat-laminated high-density EPS core and a durable HDPE slick bottom, ensuring long-lasting performance. Its vibrant designs also make it visually appealing.
South Bay Board Co. Razzo 8′ Surfboard
Stepping up in quality, the South Bay Board Co. Razzo 8′ Surfboard offers enhanced performance features. Its unique shape and construction provide better maneuverability and responsiveness compared to basic soft tops. The Razzo is a great option for intermediate surfers looking for a soft top 8 surfboard that can handle more challenging conditions. It’s a good choice if you’re looking to progress beyond the beginner stage.
Liquid Shredder FSE EPS/PE Soft Surfboard Series
Liquid Shredder offers a range of soft top surfboards, including their FSE EPS/PE series. These boards are known for their lightweight construction and durable materials. The EPS core provides excellent buoyancy, while the PE deck offers a comfortable and grippy surface. Liquid Shredder boards are a solid choice for surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders looking for a fun and forgiving board.
Rock It 8′ Soft Top Surfboard
The Rock It 8′ Soft Top Surfboard is designed for both beginners and intermediate surfers. It features a durable construction and a user-friendly shape. The board’s ample volume makes it easy to paddle and catch waves, while its slightly narrower outline allows for better maneuverability. The Rock It soft top 8 surfboard provides a good balance of stability and performance.
Giantex 8′ Surfboard
The Giantex 8′ Surfboard is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It features a durable EPS core and a soft, comfortable deck. The board’s wide shape provides excellent stability, making it ideal for beginners. While it may not offer the same level of performance as some of the higher-end models, the Giantex 8′ Surfboard is a great value for the price, providing an affordable entry point to surfing.
BOTE Flood 8′ Classic Foam Surfboard
BOTE is known for their high-quality paddle boards, and their Flood 8′ Classic Foam Surfboard lives up to the brand’s reputation. This board features a durable construction and a sleek design. The Flood offers excellent stability and glide, making it a great choice for beginners. Its premium materials and attention to detail make it a standout option in the soft top 8 surfboard category.
Gold Coast Surfboards The Grom Soft Top Surfboard
While technically often smaller than 8 feet, Gold Coast Surfboards’ The Grom series is worth mentioning. These smaller soft tops are perfect for kids and smaller adults. They offer excellent stability and are easy to handle, making them a great choice for young surfers learning the ropes. Although not a full 8 feet, they embody the spirit of accessible surfing that defines the soft top 8 surfboard market.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soft Top Surfboard
When selecting a soft top 8 surfboard, consider the following factors:
- Skill Level: Beginners should opt for wider, more stable boards, while experienced surfers can choose more performance-oriented shapes.
- Weight: Ensure the board’s volume is appropriate for your weight. A board with too little volume will be difficult to paddle and catch waves.
- Wave Conditions: Consider the type of waves you’ll be surfing. Smaller, mellower waves are well-suited for larger, more buoyant boards.
- Budget: Soft top surfboards range in price, so set a budget before you start shopping.
Caring for Your Soft Top Surfboard
To prolong the life of your soft top 8 surfboard, follow these care tips:
- Rinse After Each Use: 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 or extreme heat, as this can damage the foam.
- Use a Board Bag: A board bag will protect your board from scratches and dings during transport and storage.
- Inspect Regularly: Check your board for any signs of damage, such as cracks or delamination, and repair them promptly.
Conclusion
A soft top 8 surfboard is an excellent choice for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Its forgiving nature, durability, and affordability make it a versatile option for various wave conditions and skill levels. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and exploring our top 8 picks, you can find the perfect soft top surfboard to enhance your surfing experience. Remember to prioritize safety, have fun, and respect the ocean. Now get out there and catch some waves!
[See also: Surfboard Size Guide for Beginners] [See also: Best Surf Spots for Learning to Surf]
