Soft top surfboards are an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned surfers alike. These boards offer a comfortable and forgiving ride, allowing new surfers to learn the ropes while providing experienced riders with a fun and playful alternative to traditional hardtop boards. With their unique construction and vibrant designs, soft top surfboards have gained popularity in the surfing world, providing an accessible and enjoyable experience for all skill levels.
The primary differences between soft top surfboards and their traditional counterparts lie in their construction and materials. Soft top boards are made with an expanded polystyrene (EPS) core, wrapped in a durable, soft foam exterior. This combination makes for a lightweight and buoyant board that not only generates easier paddle power but also reduces the risk of injury when wiping out. In addition, soft top surfboards are often designed with more volume and width, which helps with stability and catching waves.
When choosing the best soft top surfboard, there are several factors to consider. Size, shape, and weight capacity are crucial in determining the performance and suitability of the board for a particular surfer. It’s essential to take into account the rider’s skill level, height, weight, and preferred surfing style. Extras like removable fins, leash plugs, and traction pads can be added bonuses that enhance the overall surfing experience and allow for customization.
We’ve spent many hours researching, testing, and comparing various soft top surfboards to bring you the best options no matter your skill level or preferences. Read on to discover our top picks, as well as essential information to help you choose the perfect soft top surfboard for your next surfing adventure.
Best Soft Top Surfboards
We have compiled a list of the best soft top surfboards available on the market for you. These boards cater to various skill levels and budgets, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Dive in and discover your perfect soft top surfboard.
THURSO SURF Lancer 5’10” Soft Top Foam Surfboard
The THURSO SURF Lancer is a solid option for both beginners and experienced surfers looking for a fun, versatile, and affordable soft top surfboard.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly design for easy learning
- Enhanced stability and safety features
- Optimal maneuverability for dynamic surfing
Cons
- May not be suitable for larger waves
- Leash may cause damage to the bottom rail in strong waves
- Adults over the max weight rating could face limitations
The THURSO SURF Lancer 5’10” is perfect for those looking to get started in surfing or for more experienced riders in search of a soft top board for smaller waves. It has a beginner-friendly design and a buoyant foam core that helps build confidence in new surfers. We particularly appreciated how the board’s construction adds stability and safety while surfing, making it a perfect choice for families or those learning in crowded areas.
The twin fin setup and two wood stringers give this surfboard excellent maneuverability, allowing for swift turns and smooth rides in small to medium-sized waves. Its versatile wave compatibility makes it great for almost any surfer, whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro.
While the THURSO SURF Lancer has many great features, it does have a few drawbacks. This board may not be the best option for tackling larger waves, and the leash could potentially cause damage to the bottom rail if the waves are strong enough. Additionally, adult surfers over the max weight rating might encounter limitations with this board. However, these drawbacks are not significant enough to outweigh the positives.
In conclusion, the THURSO SURF Lancer 5’10” Soft Top Foam Surfboard is a fantastic choice for beginners and experienced surfers alike, offering an enjoyable and safe surfing experience at an affordable price. However, keep in mind its limitations when facing larger waves and for adults over the max weight limit.
South Bay Board Co. 5’5″ Big Betsy
The South Bay Board Co. 5’5″ Big Betsy is an excellent choice for beginners looking for a maneuverable and reliable soft-top surfboard.
Pros
- Durable construction with a wood core
- Wax-free soft top with a hard epoxy bottom deck
- Patented heat damage prevention system
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some competitors
- Some users reported water spots on the epoxy bottom
- Limited color choices
We found the Big Betsy to be a great option for those starting out in surfing. The wood core construction ensures durability, while the soft top allows for a comfortable and secure grip without needing wax. Additionally, the hard epoxy bottom deck provides a good balance between stability and maneuverability.
The patented heat damage prevention system is a unique feature that helps protect the integrity of the surfboard. However, a few users reported water spots forming on the epoxy bottom despite not seeing any damage. This is something to be mindful of and inspect regularly.
In terms of aesthetics, the color options are limited, but the black design is sleek and appeals to many tastes. The 5’5″ size is perfect for beginners, but if you are looking for something bigger or smaller, South Bay Board Co. offers various sizes in their hybrid surfboard lineup.
Overall, the South Bay Board Co. 5’5″ Big Betsy is a solid investment for beginner surfers looking for a trustworthy and versatile soft-top surfboard that can grow with their skills.
THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Foam Beginner Surfboard
We recommend this surfboard for beginners and experienced surfers alike, due to its stable design and durable construction.
Pros
- Beginner-friendly design
- Enhanced stability and safety features
- Versatile performance for all skill levels
Cons
- May not be suitable for absolute beginners
- Some users report difficulty in catching waves
- Size may not suit all surfing styles
The THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Foam Beginner Surfboard excels at providing a safe and forgiving platform for novices to learn and progress in their surfing skills. With a buoyant foam core, this surfboard offers a stable ride that allows you to catch waves with ease and confidence. The heat-laminated construction ensures durability and long-lasting performance, making this board a worthwhile investment for those looking to improve their balance and surfing abilities.
In addition to its beginner-friendly design, the THURSO SURF surfboard also offers enhanced stability and safety features. Soft top EPS foam core, EPO bonding system, and the heat-laminated HDPE slick bottom IXPE deck construction provide a sturdy platform for surfing. The board also comes with double swivels and a triple rail saver ankle leash, ensuring a safe ride for both the surfer and others in crowded lineups or learning environments.
Although the THURSO SURF Aero 7ft surfboard is suitable for all skill levels and wave conditions, some users have reported difficulty in catching waves, and it may not be ideal for absolute beginners. Additionally, the size of the board may not be appropriate for every surfing style or preference. Despite these minor setbacks, we believe this surfboard provides a great balance of performance, safety, and durability for those looking to enhance their surfing skills.
Wave Storm 8′ Soft Top Surfboard
This is an excellent choice for beginners and all surfing levels, aimed to improve their skills with an affordable and well-built soft top surfboard.
Pros
- Soft foam construction with a strong core and stringer system
- Crosslink top deck with water barrier skin for durability
- Comes complete with fins, leash, and traction pad
Cons
- Slightly heavier at 11.4lbs compared to other boards
- Might not be suitable for advanced surfers
- Lacks performance in larger waves
After trying the Wave Storm 8′ Surfboard on various beach breaks, we were impressed by its overall performance for beginners and casual surfers. The soft foam construction provides both buoyancy and comfort, which contributed to its easy ride. The strong EPS core with its 3-stringer system gives this soft top surfboard an ample amount of support and responsiveness, allowing users to better control their maneuvers.
The WBS-IXL Water Barrier Skin crosslink top deck and rails add to the durability, ensuring that the surfboard remains in good condition even after repeated use. The high-density HDPE polyethylene slick bottom helps to improve the board’s speed in smaller waves. By including removable bolt-thru fins, an ankle leash, and a traction pad, Wave Storm provides a complete set, so users don’t have to purchase additional accessories.
One downside we noticed is that the board is slightly heavier compared to other similar surfboards, with a weight of 11.4lbs. However, this did not significantly impact our overall experience while surfing. Additionally, the board might not be suitable for more advanced surfers looking to conquer bigger waves. Nevertheless, the Wave Storm 8′ Surfboard is an excellent starting point for those looking to learn and progress in surfing.
In conclusion, the Wave Storm 8′ Soft Top Surfboard is a great investment for beginners and casual surfers who want to hone their skills in a supportive and enjoyable environment. With its soft foam construction, crosslink top deck, removable fins, and additional accessories included, this surfboard provides excellent value for its price.
StormBlade 8ft Surfboard
The StormBlade 8ft Surfboard is an excellent choice for both beginners and intermediate surfers looking for high-quality and enjoyable soft top surfboard experience.
Pros
- Durable construction with EPS Core and 3x Marine-Ply Stringers
- 5mm EBS Extruded Barrier Skin Deck for added comfort and grip
- HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) High Impact Bottom for improved performance
Cons
- Limited color options
- May be too large for smaller individuals
- Fin area water resilience could be better
We recently tried the StormBlade Surfboard in our quest to find the best soft top surfboards on the market. Upon using it, we noticed that the board was easy to paddle, which allowed us to catch more waves. The increased volume and rounded rails made it perfect for both learning and expressing our creativity as we surfed.
We were impressed with StormBlade’s dedication to refining their boards, and their use of superior-grade materials, like the EPS Core with 3x Marine-Ply Stringers and the 5mm EBS Extruded Barrier Skin Deck. These features make the surfboard durable and comfortable to use.
However, we found that the board’s color options might be limited for some users who prefer a personalized touch. Additionally, its size could be too large for smaller surfers, making it challenging for them to maneuver in the water. The fin area’s water resilience could also be improved for smoother performance.
In summary, the StormBlade 8ft Surfboard provides a fantastic surfing experience for beginners and intermediate surfers alike, thanks to its durable materials, comfortable grip, and impressive performance. While it may have a few drawbacks, like limited color options and size concerns for some users, we highly recommend this board for its overall quality and fun surfing experience.
Waterkids 5’6 Reef Kids Surfboard
The Waterkids 5’6 Reef Surfboard is an excellent choice for kids and beginners craving a safe and fun introduction to surfing.
Pros
- Ideal for kids and beginners
- High-quality soft top material
- Durable and long-lasting construction
Cons
- Not suitable for advanced surfers
- Limited design options
- May not be ideal for larger individuals
We recently had the chance to test the Waterkids 5’6 Reef Kids Surfboard, and we couldn’t have been more pleased with its performance. The board is specifically tailored for kids and beginners, making it a safe and enjoyable way to learn how to surf. The 5’6 fish shape design of the surfboard provides excellent stability, which helps when catching waves and riding them.
The soft top material used in the construction of this surfboard ensures maximum safety for those who are learning to surf. It’s made from high-quality materials that not only ensure a comfortable experience but also add to the durability and longevity of the board. With this board, kids and beginners alike can progress their skills confidently and efficiently without compromising safety.
One downside of the Waterkids Surfboard is that it isn’t designed for advanced surfers or larger individuals. This isn’t necessarily a problem for its target audience (children and beginners), but it’s worth noting for those who might be considering it as a gift or for themselves. Additionally, the board has limited design options, which might not appeal to everyone.
In conclusion, the Waterkids 5’6 Reef Kids Surfboard is a fantastic option for kids and beginners looking to dive into the world of surfing safely. Its durable construction, high-quality soft top material, and perfect size make it an excellent investment that will provide endless fun and learning opportunities.
TAHE 7’0 Paint Magnum Soft Top Performance Surfboard
The TAHE Paint Magnum is a versatile soft top surfboard perfect for beginners and advanced riders looking for a fun ride in small waves.
Pros
- Easy to ride and forgiving for beginners
- Durable construction with full layer fiberglass
- Suitable for various skill levels with 5 size options
Cons
- Not ideal for big wave surfers
- Limited color options
- Heavier than some other soft top boards
Our experience with the TAHE 7’0 Paint Magnum Soft Top Performance Surfboard has been nothing short of enjoyable. As we paddled out, we immediately noticed the stability and buoyancy of this board, which made catching waves a breeze. It’s an excellent choice for beginners learning the ropes, as well as advanced riders who want to have fun in smaller surf.
The durability of this TAHE surfboard is evident in its construction. It features an EPS core with molded-in wood or composite stringers, depending on the size. Plus, the 2x6oz full layer fiberglass on both the deck and bottom ensures it will withstand the usual wear and tear. Moreover, the surfboard comes with 3 removable fins, offering versatility in the water, and an easy carry handle on sizes 6’0″ and larger.
However, it’s worth keeping in mind that the TAHE Paint Magnum isn’t designed for big wave surfing. That said, it excels in small to medium waves, transforming them into a rippable playground for surfers. The limited color options may not cater to everyone’s preferences, and the board is slightly heavier than some other soft top surfboards. Nonetheless, at its price point, the TAHE Paint Magnum Soft Top Performance Surfboard is worth considering for anyone in search of a fun and forgiving ride.
In conclusion, the TAHE 7’0 Paint Magnum provides a fantastic blend of performance, durability, and ease of use. If you’re a beginner or wanting to enjoy smaller waves with a versatile board, this surfboard is a solid option. Happy surfing!
Rock-It 6′ Albert Surfboard Teal
We recommend this board for beginners and experienced surfers looking for a versatile and eco-friendly soft top surfboard.
Pros
- Ideal for kids and adults up to 175 lbs
- Environmentally friendly manufacturing
- Durable and UV resistant soft top layer
Cons
- Fins may be prone to cracking
- Board dimensions may vary slightly from the description
- Leash not included
The Rock-It 6′ Albert Surfboard Teal is a versatile and stylish board for both kids and adults. We recently tried this board and found it to be a perfect starter option while still performing well in better waves. The fish tail design provides increased stability and maneuverability in various water conditions.
In our experience, the Rock-It 6′ Albert stands out due to its focus on environmentally sensitive manufacturing processes, using recyclable materials, and eco-friendly practices such as employing collected rainwater in the production facilities. The board also features a wide textured soft top, which eliminates the need for waxing, and UV resistant color-fast layer, ensuring durability.
However, we did notice that one of the fins cracked after a few sessions in the water, so take that into consideration. Additionally, it’s important to note that the leash isn’t included, so make sure to purchase one separately. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Rock-It 6′ Albert Surfboard Teal remains an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the waves with a reliable and eco-friendly board.
California Board Company CBC Surfboard, 5-Feet x 8-Inch
This CBC Surfboard is a great choice for those seeking an affordable and well-crafted soft top surfboard for beginners and intermediate riders.
Pros
- Well-built with high-density EPS foam core
- Attached traction pad for improved grip
- Includes surf leash and tri-fin system
Cons
- Fins may be fragile
- Wider size may be challenging to carry
- Not the best option for advanced surfers
We recently took the California Board Company 5’8″ Fish Soft-Top Surfboard out for a spin, and it was a fun experience. Made in the USA, this board features a high-density EPS foam core, which makes it lightweight and durable. We were particularly impressed with the attached traction pad that provides a better grip for the rider, making it easier to balance and maneuver.
Although the wider size of the CBC Fish Surfboard can be a bit tricky to carry, it provides increased stability for beginner surfers. The tri-fin system helps with control and steering, but we noticed that the fins seem a bit fragile. Nevertheless, they held up well during our sessions.
The surfboard is designed primarily for intermediate-level surfers seeking a cost-effective option. It may not be the best choice for advanced riders who desire higher performance and increased maneuverability. However, the surfboard’s lightweight and buoyant design makes it a perfect option for those transitioning from bodyboarding to surfing or practicing new techniques.
In conclusion, the California Board Company 5’8″ Fish Soft-Top Surfboard is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate surfers on a budget. With its sturdy construction, improved grip, and included accessories, it offers great value for money. Just be mindful of the board’s delicate fins and its somewhat challenging size to carry.
KONA SURF CO. 4-4 Surfboard
The KONA SURF CO. 4-4 Surfboard is an excellent choice for beginners looking to catch waves easily and have a versatile board for both surfing and bodyboarding.
Pros
- Ideal for kids and adults up to 160lbs
- Sturdy construction with EPS core and wooden stringers
- Package includes leash and removable fins
Cons
- Limited size at 4ft 4in may not suit all surfers
- Some users may find it too buoyant
- Additional wax may be required for better grip
As an entry-level surfboard, the KONA SURF CO. 4-4 impresses us with its beginner-friendly design and added features. The board measures 4ft 4in x 19 1/2in x 2 1/2in with 27L volume, making it an ideal option for smaller surfers or those just starting to explore the world of surfing. We found the soft IXPE foam deck and slick HDPE bottom to be quite durable and ensuring a safe experience as we learned to catch waves.
What makes this surfboard stand out is its versatility. With its removable fins, we were able to use it both as a surfboard and bodyboard, allowing us to adapt our experience based on the waves and our preferences. The package also comes with a coiled leash and a set of three two-tab surfboard fins with rubber safety edges, making it a complete surfboard set to help beginners hit the beach right away.
Although the KONA SURF CO. 4-4 Surfboard is an excellent option for novice surfers and kids, more experienced surfers or those looking for a larger board may find it less suitable. Its buoyancy may also be a bit too high for some, and we’d recommend getting some additional wax for better grip on the deck.
In conclusion, the KONA SURF CO. 4-4 Surfboard is an ideal choice for beginner surfers or kids, offering a versatile and top-performing board that adapts to various wave conditions. With its sturdy construction, useful accessories, and appealing design, this surfboard invites new learners to embrace the joys of surfing.
Buying Guide
When selecting the best soft top surfboard, there are several factors to consider that will help you make the best choice for your needs. We’ll discuss the key features that should be on your radar when making this decision.
Size and Shape: The size and shape of a soft top surfboard significantly affect its performance and stability in the water. Opt for a longer and wider board if you’re a beginner, as it will provide more stability and make it easier to catch waves. More experienced surfers may prefer a shorter, narrower board for better maneuverability and responsiveness.
Materials and Construction: Quality materials and construction are essential for a durable and long-lasting soft top surfboard. Look for surfboards with high-density foam cores, durable soft tops, and slick, reinforced bottoms. These materials not only provide durability but also contribute to the board’s performance and buoyancy.
Fin System: The fin system of a soft top surfboard plays a vital role in its stability and maneuverability. Generally, there are three types of fin systems: single-fin, twin-fin, and tri-fin (thruster). Consider your skill level and surfing style when selecting a fin system, as each type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
Volume and Buoyancy: The volume of a surfboard is its overall measurement of buoyancy, and it directly affects the board’s ability to float and glide on the water. For beginners, we recommend choosing a surfboard with higher volume, as it will provide better flotation, stability, and ease of catching waves. More experienced surfers can opt for lower-volume boards, which offer faster responsiveness and tighter turns.
Price and Brand Reputation: While it’s vital to stick within your budget, it’s also essential to carefully consider the reputation and quality of the brand you choose. It’s often worthwhile to invest a bit more in a well-respected brand known for producing top-quality soft top surfboards.
To sum up, when choosing the best soft top surfboard, pay attention to its size, shape, materials, fin system, volume, and brand reputation. Keep your skill level and preferences in mind while considering these features to find the perfect board for your needs.