Best Soft Top Surfboards for Surfing: 6 Spec-Based Picks

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You want the most stable, longboard option WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard Its 96-inch length and 22.5-inch width provide maximum stability for beginners.
• You need the lightest board for easy carrying THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard At 9.04 pounds, this 7ft soft top is the lightest model listed.
• You want a compact board for small waves Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard Its 72-inch length and 10-pound weight make it a portable, stable choice.
• You seek a premium lightweight starter board WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard This 7ft board offers 10.2 pounds of weight with 70 liters of volume.

Our 6 picks

1 Best overall

WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard

Best for: Beginners and casual surfers

Activity

Surfing (what this guide is about)

Board Length

8ft

Core Material

EPS core

Stringer System

3 Stringer System

Slick Material

HDPE polyethylene

Board Weight

14 pounds

View on Amazon: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard Affiliate link

This WaveStorm longboard measures 8 feet long and 22.5 inches wide, offering a stable platform for surfing. It weighs 14 pounds and features an EPS core with a 3-stringer system for durability. The soft top uses HDPE polyethylene for a non-slip surface. It is designed for adults and youth who want a reliable, wax-free board for learning or casual riding.

Pros

• 8-foot length provides excellent stability
• 22.5-inch width supports heavier riders
• 14-pound weight is manageable for transport
• HDPE polyethylene top is wax-free and grippy
• 3-stringer system adds structural strength

Cons

• Soft foam construction absorbs some wave energy
• Limited size options compared to hard-top boards
• Basic color options only

Good fit if

• You are a beginner seeking stability
• You want a wax-free surface
• You need a board for youth or adults

Skip if

• You prefer high-performance hard fiberglass
• You need advanced maneuverability for sharp turns
• You require multiple size variations

Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard delivers stable, beginner-friendly performance through its generous 8-foot length and 22.5-inch width. It suits learners and casual surfers who prioritize ease of use and durability over high-speed agility.

2 Best budget

Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard

Best for: beginners in small waves

Activity

Surfing (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

The Giantex 6ft surfboard is a foam construction board designed for beginners, youth, and adults. It measures 72 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 3 inches thick, weighing 10 pounds. The board features an EPS core and a slick HDPE bottom for speed. It includes removable fins for easy transport and comes with a leash and traction pad. This model offers a stable platform for learning surf techniques in ocean conditions.

Pros

• Removable fins simplify transport and storage
• HDPE slick bottom adds stiffness and speed
• Includes a free leash and traction pad
• Lightweight 10-pound build for easy handling

Cons

• 6-foot length limits performance in larger waves
• Foam construction lacks the responsiveness of hard boards
• Requires simple assembly before first use

Good fit if

• You are a beginner looking for a stable board
• You want a lightweight board for easy transport
• You need a board for small, gentle waves

Skip if

• You surf in large, powerful waves
• You prefer the performance of a hard fiberglass board
• You require a board longer than 6 feet

Verdict: Giantex 6ft Foam Surfboard provides a stable, lightweight entry point for beginners in small surf. Its removable fins and included accessories make it a practical starter option for calm ocean conditions.

3 Also great

WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard

Best for: Beginners needing stable, lightweight entry

Activity

Surfing (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

This 7-foot soft top surfboard offers 70 liters of volume and weighs 10.2 pounds. It features a triple stringer system for rigidity and a high-density slick bottom. The board includes a triple performance 4.5 fin setup for maneuverability and a tail pad for traction. It is designed for beginners and all surfing levels, providing stability in the water.

Pros

• 70 liters of volume for stability
• Triple stringer system for strength
• Includes triple performance 4.5 fin setup
• Tail pad for back foot traction

Cons

• 7-foot length may be short for very tall beginners
• Soft top construction limits high-performance carving
• Fixed fin setup offers less customization than box mounts

Good fit if

• You are a beginner seeking stability
• You want a lightweight board for easy transport
• You prefer a complete set with fins included

Skip if

• You need a board longer than 7 feet
• You want to customize your fin configuration
• You are an advanced surfer needing high performance

Verdict: WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top provides essential stability for novices through its 70-liter volume and 10.2-pound weight. It suits those who prioritize ease of use and included fins over advanced maneuverability or length.

4 Also great

WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard

Best for: beginners needing stability

Activity

Surfing (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 Classic Soft Top Longboard Affiliate link

This 8-foot soft top surfboard features an EPS core with a three-stringer system for durability. It has an 86-liter volume and weighs 11.5 lbs, making it stable for beginners. The deck uses a water barrier skin, and the bottom is HDPE polyethylene. It includes removable bolt-through fins, an ankle leash, and a traction pad. It suits adults and youth learning to surf.

Pros

• 86 liters of volume for stability
• Removable bolt-through fin system
• Includes ankle leash and traction pad
• Lightweight 11.5 lb construction

Cons

• Soft foam construction limits performance for advanced maneuvers
• Fixed 3-stringer system offers less flex than single-stringer boards
• No mention of a wax-free deck surface despite marketing claims

Good fit if

• You are a beginner learning to stand up
• You want a durable board for casual ocean use
• You prefer a stable platform with high volume

Skip if

• You need a lightweight board for easy carrying
• You are an experienced surfer seeking speed
• You require a rigid fiberglass construction

Verdict: Wavestorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard is a stable, high-volume entry point for beginners. It fits learners who prioritize buoyancy and durability over advanced performance features.

5 Best premium

THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard

Best for: beginners in small waves

Activity

Surfing (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 foam surfboard designed for beginners, adults, and kids. It features a lightweight 9.04-pound build and an EPS foam core with three wood stringers for durability. The HDPE slick bottom and IXPE deck provide stability and grip. This board suits new surfers seeking a forgiving platform for small to medium waves.

Pros

• Lightweight 9.04-pound construction for easy handling
• Three wood stringers add structural strength
• Soft top design enhances safety and stability
• HDPE slick bottom offers durable performance

Cons

• 7ft length may be less maneuverable for advanced surfers
• Soft top foam construction limits high-speed performance
• No mention of included leash quality or attachment type

Good fit if

• You are a beginner looking for a stable board
• You want a lightweight board for easy transport
• You surf in small to medium wave conditions

Skip if

• You need a board for large, powerful waves
• You prefer a rigid fiberglass or composite board
• You are an advanced surfer seeking high performance

Verdict: Thurso SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top is a stable, lightweight option for beginners and casual surfers. It fits those prioritizing safety and ease of use in gentle conditions.

6 Also great

Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard

Best for: beginners seeking stability

Activity

Surfing (what this guide is about)

Board Length

8ft

Core Material

EPS core

Stringer System

3 Stringer System

Construction

Soft Top

Target Audience

Adults, Youth

View on Amazon: Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard Affiliate link

The Wavestorm 8ft is a soft top surfboard designed for adults and youth. It features an EPS core and a 3 stringer system for durability. The board measures 8 feet long and 96 inches wide. This size offers stability for beginners learning to surf. The foam construction reduces impact risk. It is a practical option for those prioritizing safety and ease of use over advanced performance.

Pros

• 8ft length provides excellent stability
• Soft foam top reduces injury risk
• EPS core with 3 stringer system
• Wide 96 inch deck for balance

Cons

• Soft top construction limits speed
• No wax required but less grip
• Heavier than hard foam boards

Good fit if

• You are a beginner surfer
• You want a durable board
• You prioritize stability over speed

Skip if

• You need high performance
• You prefer hard foam boards
• You want advanced maneuverability

Verdict: Wavestorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard suits beginners who value stability and safety. Its large size and soft construction make it ideal for learning basics without the risk of hard impacts.

Specifications side by side

How to Choose a Soft Top Surfboard

1. Check the Construction Material

   Look for soft top or foam construction to ensure safety while learning. These materials absorb impact better than hard fiberglass, reducing injury risk during falls. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard uses a soft top design that prioritizes durability and ease of use. Foam boards like the Giantex 6-Foot model offer similar benefits. This construction style is ideal for beginners who are still developing balance and technique without worrying about damaging the board or hurting themselves during frequent wipeouts.

2. Match Length to Skill Level

   Select a board length that supports your current ability. Longer boards provide more stability and glide, making them easier to catch waves. The 8-foot WaveStorm models offer 96 inches of length for maximum stability. Shorter boards like the 6-foot Giantex are lighter but less stable. Beginners should generally choose longer boards to build confidence. As you improve, you might move to shorter, more agile options. Consider your height and weight when deciding on the optimal length for your specific needs and local wave conditions.

3. Evaluate Board Width for Stability

   Width directly impacts how stable the board feels under your feet. Wider decks offer more balance, which is crucial for new surfers. The top-ranked WaveStorm 8ft model features a 22.5-inch width for exceptional stability. The Thurso SURF Aero offers 22.8 inches, providing ample room for foot placement. Narrower boards like the 20-inch Giantex require better balance but are easier to maneuver. If you struggle with stability, prioritize boards with widths above 21 inches. This extra surface area helps you stay upright longer while learning proper stance and paddling techniques.

4. Consider Weight for Portability

   Board weight affects how easily you can carry it to the beach. Lighter boards reduce strain on your shoulders and back. The Thurso SURF Aero weighs just 9.04 pounds, making it the lightest option listed. The Giantex 6-Foot board is also lightweight at 10 pounds. Heavier boards like the 14-pound WaveStorm 8ft are more stable but harder to transport. If you live far from the surf or carry your board frequently, choose a lighter model. This spec is often overlooked but significantly impacts your overall convenience and comfort.

5. Review Target Audience Fit

   Ensure the board is designed for your specific experience level. Many soft tops target beginners, adults, or youth specifically. The Giantex 6-Foot explicitly lists beginners in its target audience, ensuring it meets novice needs. The WaveStorm 7ft Classic is also aimed at beginners needing stability. Some models cater to both adults and youth, offering versatility. Avoid boards designed for advanced performance if you are just starting. Matching the target audience to your skill level ensures the board’s volume and shape support your learning curve effectively.

Frequently asked questions

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