In case you haven’t noticed, soft top surfboards are increasingly becoming a staple in lineups worldwide.
Inexpensive and virtually indestructible, the softboards or foamies are being put to use by many surfers.
While they are generally associated with beginner surfers, advanced surfers are also jumping onto the foamies bandwagon.
Take Jamie O’Brien, for example. He’s among the godfathers of the softboards, and even with his experience, he still uses a model foam board by Catchsurf.
See, at the end of the day, surfing is all about having fun.
And if you look at the soft top surfboard craze through this lens, you’ll understand why they’re so wildly popular.
Sure, they might not be the greatest options for duck-diving, but they have a lot going for it.
Extremely buoyant, stable, and impressive floatation, the foam boards are easy to paddle through the water.
From the spilling waves, whitewater rollers to playful peaks out the back, the stability of these boards is impressive and an ideal option for first-time surfers.
Beyond the enjoyable performance characteristics, most of the foam boards are affordable.
This is also not to mention they’re generally much safer for beginner surfers and won’t leave you with aching ribs and back injuries after a day out in the water.
Of course, they’ve their performance limitations, but even hardboards do.
What matters most is they’re fun to surf with, and their pros outweigh the cons by far.
Now, if you’re in pursuit of the never-ending effort to increase the amount of fun on your surf sessions, here’s a list of the best foam surfboards that will increase your wave count and smile.
Table of Contents
- 1 Table of Contents
- 2 Quick Comparison Table!
- 3 The Best Foam Surfboards For The Money
- 4 #1 Verve 8’8 - Ideal for Beginners
- 5 #2 South Bay Board Co - Ruccus 7′ - Best Soft Top Surfboard for Smaller and Young Riders
- 6 #3 Liquid Shredder FSE Soft Top Surfboard - Best for Foam Top Surfboard Speed
- 7 #4 Wavestorm 8' Classic Surfboard
- 8 #5 South Bay Board Co. Guppy 6′ - Best Foam Top Surfboard for Kids
- 9 Best Foam Surfboards Buying Guide
- 10 Wrap Up: Our Choice
Table of Contents
Quick Comparison Table!
The Best Foam Surfboards For The Money
#1 Verve 8’8 - Ideal for Beginners
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
We start our search for the best soft-top surfboard with an option tailored for beginners, learners, and kids.
The Verve 8′, a product of South Bay Co., has a great design that supports your wobbly feet well, and allows you to progress into the finer and more sophisticated surfing.
In fact, this is an option which many surfing instructors will point you towards. No surprise considering stability is key in Verve’s design. A wide top deck and decent volume provide the perfect platform for riders to learn to stand up and catching waves.
But how good is this foam surfboard, and how does it stack up against the competition?
Let’s find out in our Verve 8” South Bay Board Co review.
Features and Benefits
Shape
The Verve 8” is definitely along the lines of a hybrid/ mini-log board.
It’s an incredibly fun and easy soft surfboard and a great pick for beginners to learn on. It works well, especially on those smaller mushy days when you just want to get out in the water and have a good time.
It can easily catch the small whitewash waves and can perform in larger 6-8′ sets surprisingly well.
Shape-wise, this board has slight entry and exit rockers with a relatively flat center section. The flat section is useful in maintaining your speed on the board, while the front entry rocker keeps the board’s nose out of the water.
When paddling, the entry rocker keeps you from nose-diving, giving you sufficient time to stand and get situated on the board.
On the other hand, the slightly curved exit rocker gives the board a lot of releases, enhancing the overall smoothness and overall transitions. This helps the board flow nicely and fluidly throughout the entire wave.
Size
While still on the board shape, the guys at South Bay Co. have stuffed enough foam inside this bad boy to make catch waves and to learn to surf a bliss.
With a volume of 49L and an incredible length of eight feet, this South Bay Board will provide the floatation and stability you need to find your sea feet.
Textured Top Deck
By far, the most impressive feature of the South Bay Co.’s Verve series is the Irradiated Cross-linked Polyethylene.
It’s a fingerprint-style deck that gives you a complete wax-free surfing experience. Your board will always look new even after use, and you’ll never have to experience the inconvenience of re-applying surf wax every single time.
The other benefit of this foam deck is you won’t be required to put a stomp pad on the board. This is because the deck allows for extra traction, so it’s much easier to stand up on your board as it keeps you from slipping around.
Of course, as with everything in surfing, it’s all about preferences and what feels best to you. So, you can go ahead and throw a pad if you like.
But honestly, you don’t have to; it just feels great to ride all day.
And the best part, you don’t have to deal with rashes, skin abrasion, or the dreaded nipple chafe. The deck is ultra-smooth and forgiving on your skin.
Material
Verve’s foam core, as with most of the boards on South Bay Co., utilizes closed-cell EPS.
It’s a nice material and quite beneficial in surfboarding, especially soft-tops, because it helps create a water barrier skin between the board and water.
The heat laminated EPS core technology aims to prevent water from getting absorbed even if the board is dinged.
See, other materials allow the absorption of water, making the board waterlogged, heavier, and less efficient.
It’s far from happening with The Verve.
Along with the closed-EPS core, this board is also sturdy as it’s supported by two full-length stringers and 2/3 fiberglass center stringers. Combined, these features help in adding to the overall stiffness, firmness, and strength.
Performance
Verve’s HDPE slick bottom features double wood stringers and a 2/3 fiberglass center stringer.
The double maple wood stringers are useful in the Verve’s performance, helping redistribute the direct impact evenly across the board.
This is important because it increases the lifespan of your board. This is not to mention it enhances the overall durability, allowing the board to handle the scraping on the reefs or even collisions like a champ.
The slick HDPE bottom deck section also features double concave bottom deck sections, and this helps with the flow of water over to the removable fins and increases the board’s performance.
Accessories
Verve 8′ has a lot going for it, and with love, it comes as a full package, with plenty of accessories.
For instance, the top deck includes an SGS camera mount, a lead plug screw, and a heat release valve. The plug allows heat release inside the board, thus promoting extra durability and a longer lifetime.
It also comes with removable fins. And the good thing is you don’t need any special tools for tightening them as they’re tightened with a simple groove or anything else sturdy.
Pros
- Reliable build- EPS core
- Best for beginners
- Floats easily
- HDPE Slick Bottom
Cons
- Tad expensive
#2 South Bay Board Co - Ruccus 7′ - Best Soft Top Surfboard for Smaller and Young Riders
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
Surfers seeking out the fun over everything else, should look at the South Bay Company Ruccus 7′.
It has plenty of resemblance to the Verve board, including a high-density polyethylene slick bottom, IXPE wax-less deck, heat-release valve, and so much more.
So, what’s the difference between the two California Board Company models?
Size.
The Ruccus 7′ is only 7feet and weighs only ten pounds. It also has a maximum carrying capacity of 200 pounds, far less than the 250 pounds of the Verve.
With such modest dimensions, it’s not a surprise that the board is only suited for the younger and smaller riders with such modest dimensions.
But does this take a toll on the surfing performance?
Let’s find out in our South Bay Company Ruccus 7’ review.
Features and Benefits
Shape and Design
The first thing you’ll notice with the Ruccus 7’ is the amazing choice of colors.
It’s available in 4 fresh colors, mostly influenced by the funboard and free surf-style design.
When it comes to the shape, Ruccus is a classic mini and has all the characteristics of a modern longboard, only that it has been scaled down to create smooth paddling on a more maneuverable version.
Its specs, dimensions, and design offer a well-balanced ride without being too outrageous or challenging to handle.
It’s a great pick for those who don’t want to deal with the bulkiness o a longboard but still want to have the experience of easy catch waving.
Size
A foot smaller than the Verve, Ruccus is an ideal pick for the smaller surfers.
It has a weight-bearing of 160 pounds, though the 200 pounds surfers can still use the board comfortably. It means they’re still big enough for the smaller adults to ride without being too bulky for the young or slightly framed surfers.
At 7″, it strikes a nice balance between weight, performance, stability, and maneuverability.
By all means, Ruccus size is still enjoyable for surfers of all experience levels, but the real price to pay for maneuverability is control.
It’s a bit challenging to learn how to control and use the Ruccus than the traditional foam boards.
Deck
Rucuu’s fingerprint texture top deck is unique to South Bay Boards.
It’s a soft board, and so it’s more forgiving to your skin. It’s less likely to cause any skin abrasion or rashes, even after a day out in the water.
Secondly, it’s less likely to knock off your kid’s teeth as the fiberglass options would do in case of a wipe-out.
Another benefit of this deck is that it’s a wax-free option. It looks as new as you bought it even after several uses, and more importantly, it holds traction superbly.
With an Irradiated Cross-linked Polyethylene deck, you won’t need to invest in a traction pad as the board holds your feet well, eliminating slippage. Simply put, it still offers a similar grip to the traditional surfboards, but with less fuss and maintenance, all the while preserving the board’s aesthetic appeal.
Material/Durability
As with the Verve 8’, Ruccus utilizes a closed-cell foam for its foam core.
It’s a nice choice of material that doesn’t absorb or even get waterlogged once it’s dinged or broken.
Instead, it preserves the structural integrity of the board, even in the worst possible scenarios.
Along with the double wood stringers, the material on this board will allow you to push Ruccus to the limits.
Some users have docked the board against the rocky beaches, hit the reefs, and even get hit by the big waves, and yet, the board still holds steady.
Performance
Ruccus is a crowd-favorite and has been one of South Bay Beach Company’s more prolific beginner soft top surfboards.
Its design is mainly inspired by the funboard, but it incorporates the traits on a traditional epoxy board, so it can definitely catch some nice waves.
Its custom-molded for the small riders comes with a wider chest area, making paddling easier while enhancing the overall stability.
The generous centerboard rails are also helpful with the stability, while the tapering on both ends allows the board to cut into the wave’s face for more responsive transitions and turns.
We’ve a double HDPE slick double concave on the bottom, scooped out from the nose and rounded rubber tail. It’s a useful feature, channeling the water to the underside of the board through the reinforced fin plug inserts for the fin area for optimized speed and maneuverability.
Pros
- Doesn’t get waterlogged, thanks to the foam core
- Ideal for small riders
- Lightweight
- Grippy-no need for traction pad
Cons
- A bit challenging to control
#3 Liquid Shredder FSE Soft Top Surfboard - Best for Foam Top Surfboard Speed
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
Our third pick, the Liquid Shredder FSE, doesn’t closely live up to its name of being a Liquid Shredder. Rather, it’s a cruiser. But one with a lot of speed.
While it isn’t as much of a shredder as its smaller sibling, the EZ Slider 7′, this monstrous 9-inches, has lots of speed and is big enough to increase your wave count.
What about its surfing performance?
Let’s find out in the Liquid Shredder Soft Top Surfboard review.
Features and Benefits
Shape and Design
As I mentioned in the introduction, Liquid Shredder is a monster foam surfboard.
With a length of 9 feet and a volume of 95 liters, it’s definitely a longboard and among the bigger boards in the market.
While it may look intimidating at first, all that changes once you set your feet on the board.
Yes, it’s bigger, but it’s a meek monster and a wave-catching machine.
It’s ultra-stable, helping newbies steady their rides as they learn to stand, balance, and move on the board.
Shredder is also an awesome pick to use in the less-than-ideal surfing conditions, allowing you to catch waves for the small, mushy days!
Deck
As with all the foam surfboards on our list, this option won’t crack your head or ribs when bumping or wiping out.
The soft deck never exposes you to possible bruises or deadly injuries unless the waves are massive and powerful and can’t handle them.
Our only concern was with the removable fins (skags), but they don’t hurt like the old days, not like that fiberglass with large, sharp edge fins.
While offering a safety cushion, Shredder’s top deck has enough traction and won’t probably need extra surf wax. Of course, it doesn’t hurt applying some surf wax, but it shouldn’t be a problem if you don’t.
Material
The guys at Liquid Shredder opted out for HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) and instead decided to go with the simple PP (polypropylene).
This means the board isn’t as rigid as other options on our list, but it does compensate for the shortcoming with double maple wood stringers and fiberglass center stringer. The unique stringer system gives the foam surfboard a more balanced longboard feel.
The foam core, on the other hand, is made up of closed-cell EPS. It creates a barrier between the water and the board, eliminating the board’s chances of becoming waterlogged if it dings.
Also, unlike a couple of foam boards I’ve come across, the Shredder’s heat laminated EPS foam core has wrap-around linoleum-like material covering its surface. It’s a sort of lightweight plastic that doesn’t ding easily as fiberglass does.
Instead, it holds up even when the board is dragged across a rocky beach or hits a reef. Overall, the board feels like it’s going to last for a long time to come.
Performance
For such a heavy board, it’s difficult to get over how fast Shredder is. In fact, many Shredder foam surfboard reviews aver on how effortlessly it paddles, thanks to the torpedo-like shape.
As its name suggests, Shredder is fast, and I suppose it’s because it also floats well. It effortlessly glides across the wave face while you paddle with ease.
Secondly, the boar instantly catches small waves, and not even the gentlest waves will escape this longboard.
Several days of small waves won’t bore you anymore, and even a little bit of paddling can make this board move fast.
This benefit has to do with its buoyancy. Liquid Shredder seems to float forever when you ride it.
Pros
- Catches waves easily
- Fast
- Buoyant
- Durable- EPS foam core
Cons
- No leash
#4 Wavestorm 8' Classic Surfboard
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
While many people hit Costco for cheap pizza, free samples a great deal on bulk samples, surfers visit to pick the Wavestorm Surfboards.
This is because the brand is known for manufacturing high-quality, durable, and performance-oriented foam surfboards that cater to the needs of different surfers.
And today, we look at one of the popular foam surfboards in Wavestorm’s lineup, the Wavestorm 8” Classic Surfboard.
This board made it to our list of the best foam surfboards because it’s light, soft, easy to use, and reliable.
But how good is it as a foam surfboard?
Let’s find out in our Wavestorm review.
Features and Benefits
Shape and Design
The first thing I noticed with the Wavestorm was the colorful and eye-catching design.
Wavestorm dubs the design AGIT Global’s Patented Graphic Technology.
It’s a nice technology that will immediately get you in the mood as soon as you see it.
Beyond aesthetics, this technology is practical in numerous other ways. For instance, its bright colors make it clearly visible in the water, so other surfboarders can easily see you avoid collisions.
Secondly, it utilizes GFTTM, a Graphic Film Technology that allows the board to stay under the sun for extended periods without fading.
When it comes to the shape, Wavestorm has a traditional longboard shape, a rounded nose, and a wide, squash tail.
The round nose is great for adding buoyancy to the board by increasing the overall surface area of the deck. At the same time, it prevents riders from nose-diving, and when correctly set up, it makes it easy for riders to cut through the face of the wave and stand up.
On the other hand, the tail is nice and wide as well. The square tail is optimal for balance and will help you maintain your direction well in the wave.
Plus, the tail is stiff, eliminating the loosey-goosey experience that will likely make you lose balance.
Size
Wavestorm looks big and buoyant- it’s for a purpose.
The board is specifically designed to stay a lot and easily glide through the water as you paddle.
For example, every time you perform a stroke on the Wavestorm Classic, you’ll feel yourself coasting above the water, where other surfboards would feel draggy.
Deck
As with all surfboards on our list, Wavestorm is a soft foam top deck.
It’s not hard on your body or skin; you won’t even need a swimsuit because it doesn’t cause any rashes or abrasion.
At the top of the deck, you’ll also find a solid non-slip surface to stand on. The textured traction pad gives your feet solid ground to stand on and has a lot of traction to eliminate any slipperiness.
Your chances of wiping out on this board are slim, even when faced with the big waves.
Material
As for the actual materials, Wavestorm uses a superior heat laminated EPS core foam and 3x epoxy set marine-ply stringers.
Combined, both materials will take on any surfing abuses and beatings, including drops, crashes, and collisions.
The underside isn’t left out either as it utilizes a diamond weave slick HDPE/ HDPE slick bottom to create a resilient base against the ocean wave’s impact. It’ll handle the scathing and scratching of the sea bottom as well as accidental contact with the reefs.
Performance
Surfing on the Wavestorm is pure fun.
It’s easy for beginners, and after a few falls, you’ll be up and riding.
The board’s dimensions are covered with plenty of foam, so it offers the perfect equation for a stable and easy ride.
Additionally, the Wavestorm’s heat laminated construction makes it rideable even in the sparsest conditions, so no need to obsess about the weather forecast before going out.
Pros
- Plenty of floatation
- Ideal for beginners
- Fun to ride
- UV resistant soft top layer
Cons
- Less responsive
#5 South Bay Board Co. Guppy 6′ - Best Foam Top Surfboard for Kids
- Quality
- Price
- Our Rating
The Guppy 6” is one of South Bay Board Company’s boards for the young surfers.
With the ability to support up to only 150 pounds, Guppy might not be the ideal soft top board for everyone.
However, kids new to surfing will enjoy the smaller design that strikes a balance between stability and performance.
But how good is the South Bay Board Co Guppy as a surfing soft board?
Let’s find out in our short review below.
Features and Benefits
Shape and Design
One of the beautiful things about Guppy is the lightness.
Newer surfers often complain about the weight, but this shouldn’t pose any problem on the South Bay Board Co Guppy.
Coming in at a modest 10 pounds, even the young surfers can run down to the water with the board in their hands without a fuss.
Despite the lightness, it still has a decent weight capacity of 100 pounds.
Sure, it may not support adults, but here’s the thing, Guppy isn’t meant for adults, but kids.
Size
Guppy is short and may rightly be classified as a shortboard.
However, even with its small size, it matches up to longer foam surfboards in terms of buoyancy.
It has a decent volume of 40 liters, and while not as controllable as a true longboard, it offers a relaxed sensation when paddling out to get the first few waves.
Deck
Guppy utilizes a soft top surfboard deck.
It’s a safe option, especially for kids, eliminating the risk of unavoidable tumble most surfers go through as they move into the higher skill levels.
The deck is grippy too, and the traction padding on the deck’s surface ensures your kids don’t lose their footing while surfing.
Material
Like most foam surfboards in the new South Bay Board Company, Guppy utilizes a closed-cell expanded polystyrene foam.
It’s a nice choice of material that keeps the water from waterlogging the solid board to extend the life of the board and enhance the performance.
On top of that, this South Bay Board has two layers of epoxy resin to ensure it doesn’t crack under the pressure of big surf.
Plus, Guppy utilizes a heat lamination process to increase the overall durability.
Performance
With a 7’ length, South Bay Board Co Guppy is a high performer, allowing you to catch the surf waves up to six feet tall, so you won’t have to buy a new board as you progress to bigger waves.
The board is also built for speed, with the narrow nose and thruster fin setup making it surf in all conditions while retaining the original integrity of the board.
Pros
- Perfect for kids
- Lightweight
- Easy to handle
- Great foam board
Cons
- Not much floatation
Best Foam Surfboards Buying Guide
From our foam surfboard reviews, it’s evident these boards have a lot to offer.
Now, if you’re still undecided on what pick to go with, our best foam surfboard buying guide will help.
In the section below, we’ll outline everything you need to know about selecting the best foam surfboards for your needs.
But first, for those still new to these types of surfing boats, let’s have a look and understand what they are.
What are Foam Surfboards?
The foam surfboards, also known as foam boards, are foam surfboards built using foam in the middle.
They’re the modern versions of the first boards, which were mainly made out of wood.
The older models were heavy, hard to repair, and got marred easily.
However, foam boards are lighter, easy to float, and easier to mend.
Foam boards are generally coated with different types of materials, such as fiberglass cloth or epoxy resin.
They’re also different types of foam used on these boards, and this is what probably gives each foam surfboard unique characteristics that add to the overall character of the foam surfboards.
Some of the quality materials used for the foam surfboards include:
Polyurethane (PU)
PU is the most popular material for foam surfboards and is loved by many surfboarders because it’s light and shapeable.
Most of the custom-molded surfboards are also made from PU.
PU is brittle and soft, so you can simply take sandpaper to shave off the corners without tearing it.
However, this material is highly toxic, and by nature, it’s probably its biggest snag.
Polystyrene (PS)
PS gained huge popularity after Clark Foam, one of the biggest suppliers of PU, closed shop in 2005.
Since then, the demand for PS has been growing higher and higher.
This material is gaining popularity because it’s conventionally lighter and less resistant than PU.
And unlike PU, PS is environmentally friendly, reusable, and recyclable.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)
Expanded Polystyrene or heat laminated EPS core is a version of PS but features small foam balls close together.
This material is super light and buoyant but can be challenging to shape by hand.
It’s also more prone to water absorption.
Extruded Polystyrene Foam (XTR or XPS)
The XTR foams are 100 closed-cell foams that don’t absorb water even when dinged or bent. The cells act as a water barrier skin to prevent waterlogging of the foam surfboard.
They’ve an amazing flex memory and will stand up to the powerful impacts. They don’t feel too stiff to ride either.
Type of the Foam Surfboard
There are plenty of different designs for foam surfboards.
These designs may come in both long and short designs, but they differ in the overall design of the body.
Some of the popular designs include:
1) Fish Shape Surfboards
These are common with intermediate and expert surfers.
This unique fish shape design lets you catch surf with ease and support smooth transitions when making turns.
Typical fish surfboards also have a little rocker that makes it easier to boost your speed in small waves.
2) Egg surfboards
Egg surfboards get their name from their egg-shaped rounded nose and short stubby size.
They’re more like a mix of shortboards and longboards.
While not exactly round like an egg, they’ve a distinct ovular shape, and they’re best suited for those who need to learn catching a wave.
This means both the nose and tail of the foam surfboard are rounded like an egg.
3) Hybrid
The hybrid foam surfboards are great for intermediate surfers.
As their name suggests, the hybrid design is a combination of two designs.
They’re plenty of variations of the hybrid design, but the most popular is the combination of the egg and fish styles.
Another popular combo is the hybrid design featuring the high-performance characteristics of a shortboard plus extra width and tail.
4) Gun
The gun-shaped boards have a pointy nose and tail.
They’re less common with soft boards but can be used by intermediates and expert surfers.
5) Mini Malibu
Mini Malibu soft top surfboards are generally between 6 and 8 feet long and feature a rounded longboard shape.
This foam surfboard style is popular among loggers, and those who can’t let go of their foam surfboard.
It’s a forgiving option, especially when it comes to wiping out, and a great choice for beginners.
Generally, foam surfboards are best for beginners, but the foam boards with the rounded nose and tails will make learning easier.
These surfboards are also safer, and should the foam surfboard hit you, their blunt end won’t leave bruises or leave cuts like a pointed nose and tail design could.
Also, a soft surf design with a pointed nose and tail cut through the water easier and faster. For beginners, it can be challenging to learn how to control the soft surfboard because it’s ultra-sensitive to any shift in motion.
Why you should use a Foam Surfboard
Why you should use a Foam SurfboardEven with the huge advancement of foam surfboards, it is still hard to say they’re suited for everyone.
But, to put it simply, if you need to catch more waves, then yes, the foam surfboards are the best options.
Here’re some of the more obvious reasons why you should use a foam surfboard;
Catch Waves in any Weather Conditions
There’s a common saying in the surf world, “foam is your friend!”. And that’s true.
See, catching waves in unpleasant conditions can be challenging.
But with the right foam surfboard, it’s easier.
Why?
Because these surfboards are generally big, wider, broader, and with more volume. Their largeness translates to more float and buoyancy.
The extra volume lets riders cover the flat sections and so you can ride the longer waves effortlessly.
These boards also excel even when the conditions are windy; riders can easily muscle their way through the bumpy rides with crosswinds.
Simply put, you shouldn’t let the conditions dictate whether you’ll have fun on not. You can always have fun, even on days when the weather isn’t so great.
However, for the days the waves are glassy and hollow, you may want to choose surfboards that aren’t as full volume as the foam boards.
Dominate Crowded Surf Spots with Comfort
Surfing is by no means a dangerous activity, but the number of accidents of the last decades is on the sharp rise.
Part of the reason behind the increase in accidents is that many people join the sport, making it a crowded space.
To counter this, a lot of municipalities have banned several types of surfboards that pose a greater safety risk.
For example, municipalities such as Anglet have banned oil boards and other types of surfing boards.
Instead, they promote risk-averse surfboards such as foam surfboards.
So, with a foam surfboard, you’re less likely to get banned or restricted from surfing in any location because they’re generally safe.
Easy and Safe Transport
Unless you own front beach property, we wouldn’t recommend choosing a fiberglass board for your foam surfboard.
Instead, we recommend foam surfboards because they’re easy to transport.
You simply need to pop them to your bike’s rack or hold them while walking, and they won’t tire you at all.
Secondly, remember dings, fall and impact are all part of a surfboard’s life. But if an epoxy or fiberglass board gets dropped on the floor, the damage is irreparable, which is unlikely for a foam surfboard.
Avoid Trips to Repair Shop
Avoid Trips to Repair ShopDings and damages don’t just happen during transport, but it’s one of the common reasons the high-performance surfboards get damaged.
Impact with another foam surfboard means an expensive trip to the repair shop.
The damage here may range from a scratched coating to a cracked top layer.
Even after repairs, the crack at the top of your hardboard lets water seep in and soak the foam. Waterlogging your foam leaves it heavier and sluggish.
On the other hand, surfboards with closed-cell foam technology rarely suffer from such. Instead, they keep the water from entering the foam cell, therefore buying you sufficient time before paying a visit to the repair shop.
Foam Surfboards are multi-Purpose
Foam surfboards are safe, perfect for use for both the kids and seniors, beginners and intermediates.
Unlike the hardtops, the foamies don’t leave bruises or marks on your body after a long day of surfing.
They’re also generally extremely durable and have better resistance to holes and cracks, so you won’t have to hold back when someone borrows them for a quick ride.
It’s not a surprise that surfing schools use foam surfboards to save them a lot of time and effort in repairing dings and cracks.
What to Look Out for when selecting the Best Foam Surfboards
What to Look Out for when selecting the Best Foam SurfboardsDesign
Generally, most foam surfboards have a similar design.
The deck, core, and rails are all the same.
So, when choosing a soft top surfboard, pick an option covered with a material that promotes traction, padding and is easily floatable.
Volume
Volume refers to the amount of space or level of water displacement a soft top surfboard takes.
To find the volume of a soft top surfboard, you simply need to multiply the length, width, and thickness.
Generally, if you want to surf on the larger waves, you need a small-volume foam board. This is why you see the experienced and intermediate surfers on the shortboards.
The reverse is true; the larger volume boards are best suited for the smaller waves. Think of an 8-to-9-foot soft top surfboard as an option.
Long surfboards are more user-friendly as they’re balanced, easy to paddle, and quick in catching waves.
The long foam surfboards have more volume, so they’re great for catching the smaller and flatter waves.
However, if you’re an experienced surfer, you’ve more freedom in choosing the size of your foam surfboard. You just need to ensure the soft top surfboard can support your weight.
Durability
Of course, you’ll want a foam surfboard that can last.
Durability is essential when selecting a foam surfboard.
While many people don’t consider foam surfboards as extremely durable, they’ve come a long way, not just with designs but with the technology they’re produced with.
Modern-day foams are now heavy-duty, reliable, and strong.
Of course, durability mostly depends on materials and the technology used in the manufacturing process.
A foam board constructed from heat laminated EPS foam core, for example, is reliable and sturdy. Also, soft top surfboards coated with epoxy resin can stand up to abuse and harsh use.
What size foam surfboard should I get? : Long or Short Foam Surfboards
What size foam surfboard should I get? : Long or Short Foam SurfboardsAnother important consideration to make when selecting the best foam surfboard is the length.
Should your foam board be longer? Or fun-size, just right?
To cater to the needs of different surfers, manufacturers come up with foam surfboards of different sizes. Some of the common sizes are long, short, sporty, and flat.
We recommend beginners pick the longer foam surfboards as they’re easier to paddle and have enough room to stand on.
On the other hand, the shorter surfboards are ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. These boards are faster and reactive enough to allow you to take your skills to the next level.
Simply put, the size of your longboard will depend on your skills, and of course, your physique.
Extra Features
Surfing requires a good amount of balance. You’ll get better sooner if you constantly practice, but before then, consider a foam surfboard with a traction pad.
A traction pad is essential in providing the much-needed grip of the foam board and helps keep balance. It will prevent you from slipping off the foam board, especially when turning.
Another important feature of the foam surfboard is the fins. Some boards have fins at the back, middle, or lateral side.
These fins are vital for speed and maneuverability, especially when making sharp turns.
Having fins is good, especially for beginners, as they allow you to make quick turns while maintaining your stability.
If the foam board has fins, check to see whether they’re removable for easy portability and storage. Boards with removable fins mean you can remove the fins to prevent them from breaking during transport or while in storage.
Some of the foam boards have accessories such as a leash or cord. The leash attaches to the ankle using a Velcro strap.
It’s an essential feature, ensuring you don’t have to worry about losing your board if you sustain a wipe-out.
Price
The best foam surfboard doesn’t always have to be the most expensive option, just as the inexpensive product isn’t always bad in quality.
Depending on your preferences and style, you can get a foam surfboard with basic features anywhere from $100 to $20. But better-quality foam surfboards typically cost over $300 and above.
Best Foam Surfboard Brands
Best Foam Surfboard BrandsOne of the surefire ways of striking quality and performance-oriented foam surfboards is choosing reputable brands.
Some brands have levitated above the rest and are synonymous with quality. They’ve for a long time consistently manufactured quality surfboards.
Some of these brands include:
Wavestorm
Wavestorm is usually the first brand that comes to mind when people think of foam board.
The Wavestorm boards are known for their durable construction, aerodynamic, and durable board materials that can withstand a beating.
One of their popular models is the Costco Foam Surfboard.
California Board Company
California Board Company has been in the foam surfboard market for years.
California Board Company boards are only made from high-density polyethylene and recycled EPS foam, so they’re built to last.
Additionally, California Board Company boards are shaped by experienced surfers with knowledge of board function and performance.
South Bay Board Company
South Bay Board Co prides itself on making versatile surfboards that everyone can ride.
They use innovative shape design and materials to offer the perfect foam f for kids, beginners, and advanced surfers.
BIC
This famous lighter company also makes surfboards for beginners.
Their boards are built with durability in mind and will stand up to beating and abuse.
Also, their EPS foam core and epoxy boards come in every imaginable shape.
BIC’s most popular board is the Inspired soft top. It has a wide deck for stability and is buoyant for catching waves.
StormBlade
This yet another trusted foam surfboard company.
Their boards are wide, stable, and buoyant, perfect for beginners learning to take care of surfboards and wipe out a lot.
The brand also uses the highest-grade EPS core and high-density polyethylene for durable construction.
Wave Bandit
Wave Bandit is a new kid on the block and a new spin-off brand from some established players.
While they might be new entrants in the market, Wave Bandit makes quality and reliable boards, just as the Catch Surf or other established players do.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Q: Are foam surfboards good for beginners?
A: Yes, they’re a great choice for beginners because they’re easy to paddle, have great floatation, and can catch waves easier. Their stability also makes standing up easier.
Q: Are foam surfboards any good?
A: Yes, foam surfboards are good because they’re generally light, have volume (good for floatation), and are safe (don’t result in skin bruising or abrasion).
Q: Who makes the best soft top surfboards?
A: There’re many brands out there known for producing quality soft top surfboards. However, from our experience and customer reviews, we feel the South Bay Board Co. leads the pack. This brand has a reputation for manufacturing high-quality, performance-oriented, and durable foam surfboards.
Q: How long do foam surfboards last?
A: Generally, the foam surfboards last between 5 to 10 years. Of course, their longevity will also depend on how frequently they’re used and the maintenance.
Wrap Up: Our Choice
Our review for the best foam surfboard is finally over.
If you’re still undecided on what option to go for, I recommend the Verve 8′.
I choose this option because it ticks all the right boxes for the ideal foam surfboard.
First, it’s from one of the reputable brands in the market, California Board Company.
Secondly, it has a decent volume, with great floatation, and will catch the 1 feet wave well as it does the 6 feet waves.
Additionally, it’s buoyant, and its choice of materials makes it sturdy enough to withstand surfing abuses.
Simply put, it’s a great all-around option that works well for different kinds of surfers.
