Welcome to the world of surfing! If you're just dipping your toes into this exhilarating sport, choosing the right surfboard is crucial to your surfing journey. Soft top surfboards are the perfect starting point for beginners thanks to their balance of stability, durability, and user-friendly design. Let's break down the top 5 soft top surfboards that every novice surfer should consider.
1. Catch Surf Odysea Log
The Catch Surf Odysea Log is renowned for its performance and durability. It's designed with a foam core, polyethylene, and a soft skin deck, ensuring a stable and safe ride. The Log comes in various lengths - 7'0'', 8'0'', and 9'0'' - making it suitable for surfers of different sizes and skill levels. Its wide design (22-24 inches across) and moderate rocker offer excellent wave-catching ability and smooth riding on smaller waves.
Key Features:
- All-around soft top suitable for all skill levels
- Constructed with a foam core and soft skin deck
- Available in multiple lengths and widths
- Moderate rocker for easy wave catching
- Durable and UV-resistant
2. Wavestorm 8' Classic Pinline
The Wavestorm 8' Classic Pinline is a staple in the beginner surfboard community. It's ultra-lightweight at approximately 10 lbs, which means it's easy to carry and maneuver both in and out of the water. Constructed with EPS foam and an HDPE (high-density polyethylene) bottom, this board offers impressive durability and buoyancy, perfect for leisurely beach days or surf school training.
Key Features:
- Experience level: Beginner
- Ultra-lightweight at 10 lbs
- Comes with a leash, fin set, and instruction manual
- Impact-resistant and weatherproof
- Eco-friendly materials with recyclable foam
3. South Bay Board Co. Verve
The Verve by South Bay Board Co. is a top choice for beginners who want a little more performance from their soft top board. Designed with a hybrid soft top, it features composite materials, soft skin decking, and a travel-friendly compact design. Available in various lengths ranging from 6'0'' to 8'0'', this surfboard aims to offer the best of both stability and flexibility for newbie surfers.
Key Features:
- Hybrid soft top with composite build
- Travel-friendly and compact design
- Available in multiple lengths
- Detachable fin system for enhanced portability
- Includes 1-year limited and 2-year material warranty
4. Storm Blade 7'0'' Swallow Tail
Combining a durable foam core and polyethylene outer shell, the Storm Blade 7'0'' Swallow Tail is engineered for maximum performance and durability. Its swallow tail design and low rocker profile ensure excellent maneuverability even on small waves. This board is ISO certified, reinforcing its quality and safety standards, making it a reliable choice for beginner surfers.
Key Features:
- Ample stability and maneuverability
- Swallow tail design for increased control
- ISO certified for quality and safety
- Foam core and polyethylene build
- Includes leash, fin set, and carry bag
5. Softech Flash Eric Geiselman
Last but not least, the Softech Flash Eric Geiselman surfboard, designed by the pro surfer himself, is an excellent blend of performance and beginner-friendly features. This performance soft top board comes in lengths of 6'0'' to 7'0'', with a continuous rocker for better wave conformance and smooth rides. Made with a high-density polyethylene reinforced bottom and soft deck, it's a great pick for new surfers who want to advance quickly.
Key Features:
- Pro surfer design for enhanced performance
- High-density polyethylene reinforced bottom
- Continuous rocker for smooth rides
- Soft top suitable for beginners
- 2-year material and 3-year structural warranty
Choosing the right soft top surfboard can make a world of difference in your surfing experience. With boards like the Catch Surf Odysea Log, Wavestorm 8' Classic Pinline, South Bay Board Co. Verve, Storm Blade 7'0'' Swallow Tail, and the Softech Flash Eric Geiselman, you're set for a fantastic start on your surfing journey. Happy surfing!