For new surfers, a soft top surfboard offers the perfect blend of stability, safety, and fun. These foam-topped boards forgive mistakes while helping you master the basics of catching waves and standing up. But with so many options available, from classic longboards to performance shapes, finding the right soft top for your journey into surfing can feel overwhelming. Here’s our guide to the best foam surfboards for every beginner.
What makes soft tops special
Soft top surfboards have revolutionized learning to surf by combining an EPS foam core with a soft foam deck and slick bottom, creating a board that’s both stable and forgiving. The foam construction makes these boards incredibly buoyant, helping new surfers catch waves easily while providing a safer platform for learning. Even experienced surfers appreciate soft tops for their durability and fun factor in smaller waves.
Most soft tops now feature proper fin systems and performance-oriented shapes that let you progress your surfing without immediately needing to upgrade to a traditional fiberglass board. The technology and design have come a long way from the basic foam boards of the past, with many incorporating features previously found only on traditional surfboards.
Top picks for beginners
When you’re just starting out, look for a longer board with plenty of width and volume. Here are our favorite beginner-friendly options:
- Wavestorm 8’0″ Classic: This affordable staple of surf schools worldwide provides exceptional stability and paddle power. The soft foam deck and durable construction can handle years of learning. Three fin boxes allow for different setups as you progress, while the included soft fins are perfect for beginners. At under $200, it’s an incredible value.
- Catch Surf Odysea Log 8’0″: A premium soft top with three stringers for added strength and a performance-oriented shape that helps transition to harder waves. The triple wood stringer construction provides excellent durability while maintaining flex. The tail rocker helps prevent pearling while the wide nose adds stability.
- Boardworks Froth 9’0″: Extra length makes catching waves a breeze while the epoxy core adds durability. Multiple fin boxes allow for different setups as you progress. The added length provides exceptional paddle power and stability, making it perfect for choppy conditions or waves that are difficult to catch.
- Storm Blade 8′ SSR: This board combines stability with maneuverability thanks to its pulled-in tail design. The heat-laminated IXPE deck is extremely durable while providing excellent grip without wax. Perfect for progressing beyond the absolute basics.
For your first board, focus on something 8 feet or longer with at least 3 inches of thickness. This extra volume will help you paddle effectively and get into waves early, building confidence as you learn proper technique. The width should be at least 22 inches to provide stability when standing up.
Intermediate and beyond
Once you’ve mastered the basics, these performance-oriented soft tops let you push your surfing while maintaining the safety and durability benefits:
Performance shapes
The JJF by Pyzel Log brings pro-level design to the soft top world. Shaped by John John Florence’s board builder, it combines a high-performance outline with soft top safety. The 7’0″ length hits the sweet spot between stability and maneuverability. The pulled-in nose reduces swing weight while the progressive rocker allows for tighter turns.
For a more radical approach, the 5’6″ Wavestorm Swallowtail packs tons of volume into a shorter frame. The wide tail provides speed while the reduced length allows for tighter turns – perfect for surfers ready to progress beyond straight-line riding. Despite its shorter length, it maintains enough volume to catch waves easily.
The Catch Surf Odysea Skipper 6’6″ offers a great middle ground between longboard stability and shortboard performance. The quad fin setup provides excellent drive and speed while the wider outline maintains stability. The dual composite core balances strength with flex.
Check out our socials!
Advanced features and technology
Modern soft tops incorporate numerous advanced features:
- High-density cores: Many now use EPS foam cores similar to traditional surfboards
- Advanced stringers: Multiple wood or carbon fiber stringers provide strength without sacrificing flex
- Proper fin systems: FCS and Futures compatibility allows for customization
- Tail shapes: From classic square tails to performance swallows
- Rail design: Softer rails for stability or harder rails for increased response
- Bottom contours: Channels and concaves for improved performance
These features let soft tops perform at levels previously only possible with traditional construction.
Making your choice
Consider these key factors when selecting your soft top:
- Your height and weight: Bigger surfers need more volume and length
- Local wave conditions: Smaller waves require more float while steeper waves need more rocker
- Storage and transport: Longer boards can be challenging to move and store
- Budget: Quality soft tops range from $200-800
- Intended use: Pure learning vs progression vs small wave fun
- Construction quality: Better materials and build quality justify higher prices
- Fin setup: More fin options allow for different styles of surfing
Don’t feel pressured to start on a shorter “performance” shape. Most surfers progress faster on longer boards that provide stability and make catching waves easier. You can always size down as your skills improve.
Care and maintenance
While soft tops are durable, proper care extends their life:
Rinse after use
Always rinse your soft top with fresh water after surfing to remove salt and sand. Pay special attention to the fin boxes and leash plug.
Storage
Store your board out of direct sunlight in a cool, dry place. Keep it horizontal or vertical – never on the tail.
Transport
Use proper roof racks and ties when transporting. Avoid leaving the board in a hot car which can damage the foam.
Repair
Small dings can be repaired with waterproof adhesive designed for soft tops. Major damage should be assessed by a professional.
Taking a softer approach
Soft top technology continues to advance with new materials and construction techniques. Manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of performance while maintaining the safety and accessibility that made soft tops popular. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fun addition to your quiver, there’s never been a better time to ride a soft top.
Choose your perfect match with our guides to the different surfboard types.
