7 Best Soft Top Surfboards for Beginners, Compared
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Finding the best longboards for beginners requires looking at published specifications rather than hype. We compared 7 options ranked by their data. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board leads because its 22.5-inch width and 3.25-inch thickness provide the stability and volume new surfers need to stand up quickly. These picks are based strictly on the specs listed on the product pages. This guide helps you decide which board matches your size and learning goals.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want the most stable board for learning WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board Its 22.5-inch width and 3.25-inch thickness provide maximum volume and stability for beginners.
- You need the lightest board for easy carrying THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard Weighing only 9.04 pounds, it is the easiest option to transport to the beach.
- You want the shortest board for small waves Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard At 72 inches long, this compact board is ideal for smaller riders and portability.
- You prefer a durable fiberglass construction over foam Paragon Surfboards 8ft Epoxy Fiberglass Longboard This 8-foot epoxy fiberglass longboard offers durability and stability for calm water learning.
Our 7 picks
WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board
Best for: beginners seeking stability and safety
- Target Audience
- Beginners (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 8ft
- Core Material
- EPS core
- Stringer System
- 3 stringer system
- Slick Material
- HDPE Polyethylene
- Volume
- 86 liters
View on Amazon: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board Affiliate link
The WaveStorm 8ft longboard is a soft top surfboard designed for beginners. It features an EPS core with a 3-stringer system for durability. The board measures 8ft by 22.5 inches with a volume of 86 liters. This generous volume and width provide stability for new riders. It includes removable bolt-through fins and an ankle leash. The slick HDPE bottom skin aids in gliding on the water.
Pros
- 86 liters of volume for high stability
- 8ft length offers a large platform
- 22.5 inch width aids balance
- Removable bolt-through fins allow customization
- Soft top deck protects the rider
Cons
- 22.5 inch width may feel bulky for smaller riders
- 11.5 lbs weight is manageable but not ultra-light
- Fixed 3-stringer system limits repair options
Good fit if
- You need a stable board for learning
- You prefer a soft top for safety
- You want removable fins for versatility
Skip if
- You require a lightweight performance board
- You prefer fiberglass construction over foam
- You need a board under 7ft length
Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board provides the volume and width beginners need to stand up quickly. Its soft construction and removable fins make it a safe, adaptable choice for your first surf sessions.
Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard
Best for: smaller beginners needing portability
- Target Audience
- Adults, Youth, Beginners (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 6'
- Core Material
- EPS core
- Slick Material
- HDPE
- Fin Setup
- Removable fins
- Board Weight
- 10 pounds
View on Amazon: Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard Affiliate link
This Giantex board measures 72 by 20 by 3 inches. It uses an EPS core and a slick HDPE bottom for speed. The removable fins allow for easy transport. It weighs 10 pounds. This size suits small adults or youth beginners. You get a leash and traction pad included.
Pros
- Removable fins for easy transport
- Slick HDPE bottom for speed
- Includes leash and traction pad
- Lightweight 10-pound build
Cons
- Shorter 6-foot length
- Narrower 20-inch width
- Thinner 3-inch profile
Good fit if
- You are a smaller beginner
- You want easy transport
- You need a lightweight board
Skip if
- You need extra stability
- You are a large adult
- You want a longer board
Verdict: Giantex 6ft Foam Surfboard is a compact option for smaller beginners. You should choose it if you prioritize portability and speed over the stability of longer boards.
WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard
Best for: beginners wanting a lighter, manageable foam board
- Target Audience
- Beginners (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 7'
- Stringer System
- triple stringer system
- Slick Material
- high density slick bottom
- Volume
- 70 liters
- Fin Setup
- triple performance 4.5 fin set up
View on Amazon: WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard Affiliate link
The Wavestorm 7ft Soft Top Foam Surfboard is a mid-length foam board designed for learning wave basics. It gives you 70 liters of float across a 7-foot by 22-inch frame, reinforced with a triple stringer system for rigidity. At 10.2 pounds, you can carry it easily to the water, while the included three-fin set and traction pad help you maintain directional control.
Pros
- 70-liter volume provides beginner stability in a compact 7-foot size
- Triple stringer system adds structural stiffness to the foam core
- Lightweight 10.2-pound build simplifies transport
- Includes leash, tail pad, and removable three-fin set
Cons
- 7-foot length offers less gliding surface than 8-foot beginner boards
- 70-liter volume yields less buoyancy than full-size 8-foot foamies
Good fit if
- You want a lighter 10.2-pound foam board that is easy to carry.
- You prefer a 7-foot length over a bulkier 8-foot shape for maneuverability.
- You need an all-in-one setup that includes fins, a tail pad, and a leash.
Skip if
- You need the maximum stability and surface area of an 8-foot longboard.
- You want a hard fiberglass board rather than a soft-top foam construction.
Verdict: Wavestorm 7ft Soft Top Foam Surfboard gives beginners a lightweight 10.2-pound foam platform with 70 liters of volume for learning wave control without the bulk of an 8-foot board.
THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard
Best for: beginners wanting a lightweight, stable board
- Target Audience
- Adults, Youth, Beginners (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 7ft
- Core Material
- EPS foam core
- Stringer System
- Three wood stringers
- Slick Material
- HDPE
- Board Weight
- 9.04 pounds
View on Amazon: THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard Affiliate link
The THURSO SURF Aero is a 7ft soft top surfboard designed for beginners, adults, and kids. Weighing 9.04 pounds, it features an EPS foam core and an HDPE slick bottom. The board includes three wood stringers for added strength. Its 22.8-inch width provides stability for new surfers. This construction makes it a durable option for learning in small to medium waves.
Pros
- Lightweight 9.04-pound build for easy handling
- Three wood stringers for structural strength
- HDPE slick bottom and IXPE deck for grip
- 22.8-inch width enhances stability
Cons
- 7ft length is shorter than the 8ft boards on this list
- 0.1-inch thickness is very thin for a beginner board
- Soft top construction may feel less rigid than fiberglass
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight board that is easy to carry
- You are a beginner looking for a stable, forgiving platform
- You prefer a shorter board for maneuverability in small waves
Skip if
- You need the maximum stability of an 8ft longboard
- You prefer a thicker board for added buoyancy
- You want a traditional fiberglass construction for performance
Verdict: The THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top is a lightweight, stable choice for beginners who prioritize portability and ease of use over maximum volume. It fits new surfers who want to progress quickly in small to medium waves.
Waterkids 7ft Foam Longboard
Best for: Beginners seeking a stable 7ft foam board
- Target Audience
- Beginners (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 7ft
- Core Material
- Foam Core
- Slick Material
- HDPE
- Volume
- 72 liters
- Length
- 84 inches
View on Amazon: Waterkids 7ft Foam Longboard Affiliate link
This Waterkids longboard measures 7ft by 22 inches with 72 liters of volume. Its foam core and EBS IXL soft top provide stability for beginners. The HDPE bottom adds durability. It includes a leash for safety. This board suits new surfers seeking a forgiving, easy-to-paddle option in the water.
Pros
- 7ft length offers ample paddle room
- 22-inch width enhances stability
- 72 liters of volume aids flotation
- Foam core construction is durable
- Leash included for safety
Cons
- 22-inch width is narrower than 8ft competitors
- 72-liter volume is lower than larger boards
- No traction pad listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You want a stable 7ft board
- You prefer a foam construction
- You need a board with a leash
Skip if
- You require a board over 7ft long
- You need more than 72 liters of volume
- You want a fiberglass construction
Verdict: Waterkids 7ft Foam Soft Top delivers stable performance for beginners through its 72-liter volume and 22-inch width. It fits new riders who prioritize a manageable 7ft length and durable foam build over the bulk of larger 8ft models.
Paragon Surfboards 8ft Epoxy Fiberglass Longboard
Best for: Beginners seeking durable fiberglass stability
- Target Audience
- Adults, Youth, Beginners (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 8'0"
- Weight Capacity
- Up to 250lbs
- Fin Setup
- Single fin
- Board Weight
- 6 ounces
- Length
- 22 inches
View on Amazon: Paragon Surfboards 8ft Epoxy Fiberglass Longboard Affiliate link
This Paragon Surfboards longboard measures 8 feet 0 inches in length, 22 inches in width, and 3 inches in thickness. It features an epoxy fiberglass construction with a single fin. The board supports riders up to 250 pounds. It is designed for beginners, adults, and kids. The fiberglass material offers durability and stability for learning to surf.
Pros
- 8-foot length provides ample stability for beginners
- 250-pound weight capacity suits most adult riders
- Epoxy fiberglass construction offers durability and lightweight handling
- Single fin setup enhances tracking and straight-line performance
Cons
- Fiberglass material is less forgiving than soft tops on impact
- Single fin limits tight turning capability compared to thrusters
- Board is rigid and cannot be bent or compressed for storage
Good fit if
- You want a durable board that lasts longer than foam
- You prefer a stable platform for learning basic turns
- You are an adult or larger beginner needing high capacity
Skip if
- You need a board that fits in a small car trunk
- You are a small child who might fall frequently
- You prefer the soft, forgiving feel of a foam board
Verdict: Paragon Surfboards 8ft Fiberglass Longboard delivers a stable, durable ride for beginners who prioritize longevity over soft-top forgiveness. It suits larger riders seeking a reliable fiberglass board for calm water learning.
Paragon Surfboards 7'8" Fiberglass Longboard
Best for: Beginners transitioning from soft tops
- Target Audience
- Adults, Youth, Beginners (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 7'8"
- Weight Capacity
- Up to 250lbs
- Fin Setup
- Single fin
- Dimensions
- 7.8 × 21.8 × 0.1 inches
View on Amazon: Paragon Surfboards 7'8" Fiberglass Longboard Affiliate link
This 7'8" fiberglass longboard offers a stable platform for beginners. At 21.8 inches wide and 2 7/8 inches thick, it provides ample buoyancy. It supports up to 250 lbs, making it suitable for adults and kids. The single fin setup aids maneuverability. This board is a practical step up from soft tops for those ready to transition to a harder surface.
Pros
- 7'8" length provides stability for beginners
- 250 lbs weight capacity supports larger riders
- Single fin setup enhances maneuverability
- Includes 8-inch fiberglass fin
Cons
- Fiberglass construction is less forgiving than foam
- 250 lbs limit may restrict very heavy users
- No mention of leash or wax included
Good fit if
- You want to transition from a soft top board
- You need a stable board for learning
- You prefer a single fin for control
Skip if
- You require a board for very large waves
- You need a lightweight travel board
- You prefer a soft top for safety
Verdict: Paragon Surfboards 7'8" Fiberglass Longboard is a solid choice for beginners ready to move beyond foam boards. It offers the stability needed for learning while providing a more responsive ride through its single fin design.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board | Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard | WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard | THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard | Waterkids 7ft Foam Longboard | Paragon Surfboards 8ft Epoxy Fiberglass Longboard | Paragon Surfboards 7'8" Fiberglass Longboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Board Length | 8ft | 6' | 7' | 7ft | 7ft | 8'0" | 7'8" |
| Core Material | EPS core | EPS core | not stated | EPS foam core | Foam Core | not stated | not stated |
| Stringer System | 3 stringer system | not stated | triple stringer system | Three wood stringers | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Slick Material | HDPE Polyethylene | HDPE | high density slick bottom | HDPE | HDPE | not stated | not stated |
| Volume | 86 liters | not stated | 70 liters | not stated | 72 liters | not stated | not stated |
| Weight Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Up to 250lbs | Up to 250lbs |
| Fin Setup | Removable bolt thru fins | Removable fins | triple performance 4.5 fin set up | not stated | not stated | Single fin | Single fin |
| Board Weight | 11.5 lbs | 10 pounds | 10.2lbs | 9.04 pounds | not stated | 6 ounces | not stated |
| Construction | Soft Top | Foam | Soft Top | Soft Top | Foam | not stated | not stated |
| Activity | Surfing | Surfing | Surfing | Surfing | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Target Audience | Beginners | Adults, Youth, Beginners | Beginners | Adults, Youth, Beginners | Beginners | Adults, Youth, Beginners | Adults, Youth, Beginners |
| Features | Fins | Fins | Fins | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Length | 96 inches | not stated | 83.9 inches | not stated | 84 inches | 22 inches | not stated |
| Width | 22.5 inches | not stated | 22 inches | not stated | 22 inches | 8 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 11.5 pounds | 10 pounds | 10.2 pounds | 9.04 pounds | not stated | 6 ounces | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 72 × 20 × 0.1 inches | not stated | 96 × 22.8 × 0.1 inches | not stated | not stated | 7.8 × 21.8 × 0.1 inches |
| Size | 8 Feet x 22.5 Inch x 3.25 Inch | 72 inches x 20 inches x 3" | 7' | 7 ft | 7ft x 22 x 3.25" | 8'0" x 22" x 3" | 7'8"x 21 3/4"x 2 7/8" |
| Color | burst | White & Blue | Blue Pinline | Mint Green | Black | White | SeaFoam Green |
| Model | WS20SRF8 | SP34477WH | AZ22-WSSF700-PIN | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
Looking beyond this list? See best dj controllers for beginners.
How to choose the right board
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Check construction materials
Most options here use soft top foam, which offers forgiveness and safety for beginners. The WaveStorm 8ft and Giantex 6-Foot models feature this durable foam build. You should consider this if you want a board that resists dings and provides a soft surface for falls. The Paragon Surfboards 8ft Epoxy Fiberglass Longboard stands out with a fiberglass construction. This material offers greater durability and a different ride feel compared to foam. It suits riders who prioritize longevity and a firmer platform over the cushioned feel of soft tops. Choose based on your preference for impact resistance versus structural rigidity.
-
Match board length
Length directly impacts stability and volume. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board measures 96 inches, providing ample surface area for new surfers to balance. The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard is only 72 inches long, making it more maneuverable but less stable. If you are shorter or prioritize portability, the shorter length may suit you. The Thurso SURF Aero 7ft and Waterkids 7ft Foam Longboard offer a middle ground at 84 to 96 inches. Longer boards generally offer more stability, while shorter ones are easier to carry and turn. Select a length that matches your height and skill level.
-
Compare board width
Width contributes significantly to lateral stability. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board features a 22.5-inch width, offering a wide platform for beginners. The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard is narrower at 20 inches, which may feel less stable for some riders. The Thurso SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard provides 22.8 inches of width, enhancing balance. A wider board allows you to stand up more easily and maintain stability while paddling. If you are heavier or just starting, prioritize boards with widths above 22 inches for maximum confidence on the water.
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Evaluate board weight
Weight affects how easy the board is to carry and handle in the water. The Thurso SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard weighs only 9.04 pounds, making it the lightest option for transport. The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard is slightly heavier at 10 pounds. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board weighs 11.5 pounds. If you need to carry your board frequently or have limited strength, the lighter Aero model is advantageous. Heavier boards may offer more volume but require more effort to lug to the beach. Choose a weight that fits your physical capability for transport.
-
Review fin configuration
Fins provide tracking and control. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board includes removable fins, allowing you to adjust the setup based on conditions. The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard and WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard also feature fins for stability. The Paragon Surfboards 7'8" Fiberglass Longboard utilizes a single fin design for a responsive ride. Removable fins offer versatility, while fixed setups may provide consistent performance. Check if the fins are included and if they can be swapped. This feature helps you adapt the board to different wave sizes and your evolving surfing style.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best soft top surfboard for beginners?
The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board is the top choice for beginners seeking stability and safety. Its 22.5-inch width and 3.25-inch thickness provide ample volume to help you stand up quickly. The soft construction reduces injury risk, and removable fins allow for adaptable performance as you progress in the water.
Which surfboard is best for small beginners?
The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard is ideal for smaller beginners who prioritize portability. Measuring 72 inches long and weighing just 10 pounds, it is easy to carry. While it offers less stability than longer boards, its compact size suits those who need a manageable board for smaller frames or faster paddling.
Is a 7ft or 8ft board better for learning?
An 8ft board like the WaveStorm offers more volume and stability due to its 22.5-inch width and 3.25-inch thickness. A 7ft option, such as the WaveStorm 7ft Classic, provides 70 liters of volume and weighs 10.2 pounds. Choose 8ft for maximum stability or 7ft for a lighter, more manageable platform.
What is the lightest surfboard on this list?
The THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top is the lightest option at 9.04 pounds. It measures 96 inches in length with a 22.8-inch width, offering a stable yet portable ride. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners who want to transport their board easily without sacrificing too much stability.
Are fiberglass boards good for beginners?
Yes, fiberglass boards like the Paragon Surfboards 8ft Epoxy Fiberglass Longboard offer durable stability for beginners. They suit riders who prioritize longevity over the forgiveness of soft tops. The Paragon 7'8" Fiberglass Longboard also provides a responsive ride with a single fin design for those transitioning from foam boards.
How wide should a beginner surfboard be?
Most top picks range from 20 to 22.8 inches wide. The WaveStorm 8ft is 22.5 inches wide, providing maximum stability. The Giantex 6-Foot is narrower at 20 inches for speed. Wider boards like the THURSO SURF Aero at 22.8 inches offer a stable platform for new surfers learning to balance.
What construction material is best for new surfers?
Soft top foam is the most common and recommended material for beginners. It offers forgiveness and safety, reducing the risk of injury during falls. Models like the WaveStorm 8ft and Giantex 6-Foot feature this durable foam build. Fiberglass options like Paragon Surfboards provide durability but require more skill to handle safely.