3 Best Soft Top Surfboards with Fins, Compared
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Finding the best longboards with fins requires checking published specs, not hype. We compared 3 soft top surfboards to help you choose. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board leads because its 22.5-inch width and 3.25-inch thickness provide reliable stability for beginners. These dimensions offer a large surface area for easy balance. Each pick is ranked strictly by the specifications listed on the product pages. This guide helps you decide which board matches your size and skill level.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board Best overall | beginners needing stability and removable fins | Check price of WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board on Amazon |
| 2 | Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard Best budget | beginners seeking a portable board | Check price of Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard on Amazon |
| 3 | WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard Best premium | Beginners wanting a lightweight, maneuverable setup | Check price of WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You need the most stable board for beginners WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board Its 22.5-inch width and 3.25-inch thickness provide high volume for reliable stability.
- You want the most compact and portable model Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard The 6-foot length and 10-pound weight make it easy to transport and store.
- You prefer a lightweight and maneuverable setup WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard Weighing only 10.2 pounds, it offers easier handling than longer boards.
Our 3 picks
WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board
Best for: beginners needing stability and removable fins
- Features
- Fins (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
This 8-foot soft top surfboard offers 86 liters of volume and weighs 11.5 pounds. It features a strong EPS core with a 3-stringer system and a slick HDPE bottom. The board includes removable bolt-through fins, an ankle leash, and a traction pad. This setup provides stability for beginners while allowing you to adjust the fin configuration for different surfing conditions.
Pros
- 86 liters of volume for high stability
- Removable bolt-through fins for customization
- Lightweight 11.5 lb construction
- Durable 3-stringer EPS core
Cons
- Soft top construction limits performance for advanced maneuvers
- 8-foot length may be cumbersome for small rooms
- No included wax or repair kit listed
Good fit if
- You are a beginner seeking a stable board
- You want removable fins for easier transport
- You prefer a lightweight board for carrying
Skip if
- You need a high-performance shortboard
- You require a rigid fiberglass deck
- You want a board under 7 feet long
Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top with Removable Fins delivers reliable stability for novices through its high volume and soft deck. It suits those who value easy handling and customizable fin setups over advanced speed or agility.
Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard
Best for: beginners seeking a portable board
- Features
- Fins (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 foam surfboard is a soft top board designed for beginners, kids, and adults. It features a durable EPS core and a slick HDPE bottom for speed. The removable fin setup allows for easy transport and maintenance. With a 72-inch length and 20-inch width, it offers stability on the water. This board is a practical entry point for learning to surf.
Pros
- Removable fins for easy transport
- HDPE slick bottom for speed
- EPS core for durability
- Soft top for safety
Cons
- 6-foot length is shorter than the 7ft and 8ft options on this list
- 20-inch width is narrower than typical longboards
- 10-pound weight may feel light for heavy riders
Good fit if
- You are a beginner looking for a stable board
- You need a lightweight board for easy transport
- You prefer a shorter board for maneuverability
Skip if
- You require the maximum stability of an 8-foot board
- You are a heavy rider needing high volume
- You want a board with fixed fins for performance
Verdict: Giantex 6ft Foam Surfboard is a compact option for beginners who prioritize portability over the extra stability of longer boards. It suits smaller riders or those with limited storage space.
WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard
Best for: Beginners wanting a lightweight, maneuverable setup
- Features
- Fins (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 surfboard is a beginner-friendly option featuring a 70-liter volume and 10.2-pound weight. It includes a triple performance 4.5 fin setup for improved maneuverability. The board uses a triple stringer system for rigidity and a high-density slick bottom. Its soft deck and tail pad provide traction. This model suits those seeking a stable, lightweight entry-level board with essential fin performance.
Pros
- 70 liters of volume for stability
- Triple performance 4.5 fin setup
- Lightweight 10.2-pound construction
- Triple stringer system for rigidity
Cons
- 7-foot length is shorter than the 8ft competitor
- No adjustable fin boxes mentioned
- Soft top material may wear faster than hard resin
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight board under 11 pounds
- You need a triple fin setup for maneuverability
- You are a beginner seeking high volume
Skip if
- You require a board longer than 7 feet
- You prefer a hard resin bottom surface
- You need adjustable fin configurations
Verdict: WaveStorm 7ft Soft Top offers a stable 70-liter volume and a dedicated triple fin setup for beginners. It fits riders who prioritize a lightweight, maneuverable board over maximum length.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board | Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard | WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Board Length | 8ft | 6' | 7' |
| Core Material | EPS core | EPS core | not stated |
| Stringer System | 3 stringer system | not stated | triple stringer system |
| Slick Material | HDPE Polyethylene | HDPE | high density slick bottom |
| Volume | 86 liters | not stated | 70 liters |
| Fin Setup | Removable bolt thru fins | Removable fins | triple performance 4.5 fin set up |
| Board Weight | 11.5 lbs | 10 pounds | 10.2lbs |
| Construction | Soft Top | Foam | Soft Top |
| Activity | Surfing | Surfing | Surfing |
| Target Audience | Beginners | Adults, Youth, Beginners | Beginners |
| Features | Fins | Fins | Fins |
| Length | 96 inches | not stated | 83.9 inches |
| Width | 22.5 inches | not stated | 22 inches |
| Weight | 11.5 pounds | 10 pounds | 10.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | not stated | 72 × 20 × 0.1 inches | not stated |
| Size | 8 Feet x 22.5 Inch x 3.25 Inch | 72 inches x 20 inches x 3" | 7' |
| Color | burst | White & Blue | Blue Pinline |
| Model | WS20SRF8 | SP34477WH | AZ22-WSSF700-PIN |
Key Specs to Check Before Buying
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Check Board Construction
Start by reviewing the construction material listed in the product data. Soft top and foam boards are designed for safety and durability. They resist dings better than hard fiberglass. This makes them ideal for beginners who might fall frequently. The WaveStorm 8ft uses a soft top deck. This provides a non-slip surface for your feet. It also cushions impacts if you wipe out. Foam construction generally offers more buoyancy. This helps you paddle and catch waves with less effort. Choose this material for long-term reliability and ease of use.
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Match Length to Skill
Board length directly affects your stability and control. Longer boards are easier to balance on. The WaveStorm 8ft measures 96 inches. This extra length provides a stable platform for novices. Shorter boards are more maneuverable but less stable. The Giantex 6-foot model is 72 inches long. It is better for smaller riders or those with limited storage. Consider your height and weight when choosing length. A longer board supports more weight. It also offers a smoother ride in choppy water. Pick the length that matches your current skill level.
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Review Width for Stability
Width is a critical spec for balance. A wider board offers more stability while you stand up. The WaveStorm 8ft has a width of 22.5 inches. This generous width helps beginners maintain balance. Narrower boards require more core strength and balance. The Giantex 6-foot model is 20 inches wide. It is suitable for lighter riders or experienced surfers. Check the width spec to ensure it supports your body type. A wider deck gives you confidence. It allows you to focus on your stance. Choose a width that feels secure under your feet.
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Consider Weight for Portability
Board weight impacts how easy it is to carry. Lighter boards are easier to transport to the beach. The Giantex 6-foot foam board weighs only 10 pounds. This makes it highly portable for storage or travel. The WaveStorm 8ft weighs 11.5 pounds. It is still manageable but slightly heavier due to its size. Check the weight spec if you have a car roof rack. You need to lift the board over your head. A lighter board reduces strain on your shoulders. Choose a weight that fits your physical capabilities and storage needs.
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Evaluate Fin Setup Options
The fin setup affects your board's performance. Removable fins allow you to change configurations. The WaveStorm 8ft features removable fins. This lets you adjust traction and control. Triple fin setups offer stability and speed. The WaveStorm 7ft Classic includes a dedicated triple fin setup. This provides a balanced ride for beginners. Fixed fins are more durable but less flexible. Check if the fins are included or sold separately. Removable fins allow for easier transport and repair. Choose a setup that matches your surfing style and conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Are soft top surfboards with removable fins good for beginners?
Yes, they are excellent for novices. The WaveStorm 8ft model offers high volume and a 22.5-inch width for stability. Removable fins allow you to customize the setup. This design supports easy handling and reliable performance for those learning to surf.
What is the best soft top board for small riders?
The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard is ideal for smaller riders. It measures 72 inches long and weighs only 10 pounds. This compact size prioritizes portability and maneuverability. It suits those with limited storage space or who prefer a lighter board.
How wide should a beginner soft top surfboard be?
Look for a width between 20 and 22.5 inches. The WaveStorm 8ft provides a 22.5-inch width for maximum stability. The Giantex 6ft offers a 20-inch width for a more manageable feel. Wider decks help beginners balance while paddling and catching waves.
Do soft top surfboards come with triple fin setups?
Some models include dedicated triple fin configurations. The WaveStorm 7ft Classic features a specific triple fin setup. This arrangement enhances maneuverability for beginners. It allows for easier turns and better control compared to single or dual fin options.
Which soft top surfboard is the lightest to carry?
The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard is the lightest option. It weighs just 10 pounds. This makes it very easy to transport to the beach. The WaveStorm 7ft is also lightweight at 10.2 pounds. Both are easier to handle than heavier boards.
Can I use a soft top surfboard for yoga?
Yes, their stable design supports balance activities. The WaveStorm 8ft has a 3.25-inch thickness and high volume. This provides a solid platform for standing still. The soft deck offers grip and comfort. These features make it suitable for paddling and light yoga sessions.