Best Soft Top Soft Top Surfboards in 2026: 6 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Selecting the best soft top longboards requires looking past marketing claims and focusing on hard data. We compared 6 options to help you find the right fit. Our top pick is the WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard because its 14-pound weight offers manageable handling for beginners. This list ranks boards strictly by published specifications, ensuring you see what each model actually offers. You will use these specs to decide which board matches your size and skill level. Focus on length and weight to ensure stability and ease of use in the water.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard Best overall | beginners seeking stability and ease of use | Check price of WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard on Amazon |
| 2 | WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard Also great | Beginners wanting a lighter, shorter board | Check price of WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard on Amazon |
| 3 | WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard Also great | Beginners seeking stability and ease | Check price of WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard on Amazon |
| 4 | THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard Best premium | Beginners seeking stability and light weight | Check price of THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard on Amazon |
| 5 | Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard Also great | Beginners seeking stability and durability | Check price of Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard on Amazon |
| 6 | Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard Best budget | beginners seeking stability and ease | Check price of Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You want the most stable and versatile board 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 transport THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard Weighing only 9.04 pounds, it is the easiest to carry and handle.
- You prefer a shorter board that is still stable WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard At 83.9 inches long and 10.2 pounds, it balances manageability with buoyancy.
- You want a durable board with high volume WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard Its 86-liter volume and durable EPS core ensure reliable flotation and longevity.
Our 6 picks
WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard
Best for: beginners seeking stability and ease of use
- Construction
- Soft Top (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 8-foot soft top surfboard features a strong EPS core and a 3-stringer system for durability. Weighing 14 pounds with a 22.5-inch width, it offers high stability for beginners and kids. The slick HDPE polyethylene bottom and webs-IXL water barrier skin provide a wax-free surface. It is designed for adults and youth seeking a reliable, easy-to-maintain board for learning.
Pros
- 8-foot length provides excellent stability
- Lightweight 14-pound construction
- Wax-free HDPE slick bottom
- Durable 3-stringer EPS core
Cons
- Narrow 22.5-inch width limits advanced maneuverability
- Soft foam deck offers less precise foot grip than hard tops
- No included leash or fin system listed
Good fit if
- You are a beginner looking for a stable, easy-to-paddle board
- You want a lightweight board that is easy to carry
- You prefer a wax-free surface for low maintenance
Skip if
- You need a narrow board for high-speed carving
- You require advanced performance features like a fin box system
- You prefer a hard fiberglass or epoxy construction
Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard is a stable, lightweight option ideal for beginners who value easy paddling and low maintenance. Its generous volume and durable core make it a practical choice for learning the basics of surfing.
WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard
Best for: Beginners wanting a lighter, shorter board
- Construction
- Soft Top (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 WaveStorm board measures 7 feet long, 22 inches wide, and 3 inches thick. It offers 70 liters of volume and weighs 10.2 pounds. The triple stringer system adds rigidity to the foam core. A high-density slick bottom supports stability. This setup suits beginners seeking a manageable, stable ride for learning basic surfing skills.
Pros
- 70 liters of volume for enhanced stability
- Triple stringer system for core rigidity
- 10.2-pound weight for easy handling
- Includes triple 4.5-inch fin setup
Cons
- Shorter 7-foot length compared to 8-foot competitors
- Narrower 22-inch width reduces planing surface
- Smaller 70-liter volume limits float capacity
Good fit if
- You want a shorter board for easier transport
- You prefer a lighter board under 11 pounds
- You are a beginner learning basic turns
Skip if
- You need extra volume for heavier weight
- You prefer longer boards for maximum stability
- You want wider platforms for beginners
Verdict: WaveStorm 7ft Soft Top Longboard provides a lighter, shorter alternative for beginners. It trades the volume of 8-foot boards for easier handling and transport.
WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard
Best for: Beginners seeking stability and ease
- Construction
- Soft Top (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 Wavestorm model is an 8ft soft top longboard built for adults and kids. It features a strong EPS core with a 3-stringer system and a volume of 86 liters. The board weighs 11.5 lbs and includes removable bolt-through fins. You will get a wax-free deck and a slick HDPE bottom. It suits beginners seeking stability and easy paddling.
Pros
- 86 liters of volume for high stability
- EPS core with 3-stringer system for strength
- Includes removable bolt-through fins
- Wax-free soft top deck
Cons
- Heavier at 11.5 lbs than lighter alternatives
- Narrower 22.5-inch width limits planing speed
- Basic 3-stringer construction limits performance flexibility
Good fit if
- You want a stable board for learning
- You prefer a wax-free deck surface
- You need removable fins for transport
Skip if
- You prioritize lightweight portability under 10 lbs
- You need a wider board for maximum buoyancy
- You seek advanced performance features
Verdict: Wavestorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard offers solid stability for beginners with its 86-liter volume and durable EPS core. It is a practical option for riders who value ease of use over high-speed performance.
THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard
Best for: Beginners seeking stability and light weight
- Construction
- Soft Top (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 an EPS foam core with a heat-laminated HDPE slick bottom and an IXPE deck. Weighing 9.04 pounds, it includes three wood stringers for strength. This lightweight board offers stability and grip, making it suitable for small to medium waves and learning sessions.
Pros
- 7ft length provides a stable platform for beginners.
- Lightweight 9.04 pounds for easy handling.
- Three wood stringers enhance durability and responsiveness.
- Soft top design adds safety and grip.
Cons
- 7ft length is shorter than the 8ft boards in this list.
- 22.8 inch width offers less volume than wider longboards.
- No leash pocket mentioned in specifications.
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight board for easy transport.
- You are a beginner looking for stability.
- You surf in small to medium waves.
Skip if
- You need maximum stability from a wider board.
- You prefer longer boards for easier wave catching.
- You require a board with a built-in leash pocket.
Verdict: Thurso SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top is a stable, lightweight option for beginners. It fits riders who prioritize easy handling and durability in small waves.
Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard
Best for: Beginners seeking stability and durability
- Construction
- Soft Top (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 8' (243.8cm)
- Core Material
- Molded contoured foam core
- Stringer System
- three 9-ply laminated stringers
- Slick Material
- High density graphic slick bottom
- Volume
- 81 ltrs.
View on Amazon: Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard Affiliate link
This 8-foot soft top longboard offers 81 liters of volume for stable flotation. It weighs 13.3 lbs and features a molded foam core with three stringers. The 5mm EBS-IXL deck provides wider grip for traction. You get a performance fin set and basic leash included. It suits beginners seeking a durable, high-volume board for calm waters.
Pros
- 81 liters of volume for superior floatation
- 13.3 lbs weight for manageable handling
- 5mm EBS-IXL foam top deck for traction
- Three 9-ply laminated stringers for rigidity
Cons
- Includes only a basic leg leash
- No wax-free deck surface mentioned
- Standard soft top construction limits performance
Good fit if
- You need high volume for stability
- You prefer a durable foam core
- You want a complete beginner setup
Skip if
- You require advanced performance fins
- You want a wax-free deck
- You prefer lightweight epoxy boards
Verdict: Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Longboard fits beginners who prioritize stability and durability over advanced features. Its high volume and soft top construction make it ideal for learning in gentle conditions.
Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard
Best for: beginners seeking stability and ease
- Construction
- Soft Top (what this guide is about)
- Board Length
- 8ft
- Core Material
- EPS core
- Stringer System
- 3 Stringer System
- Activity
- Surfing
- Target Audience
- Adults, Youth
View on Amazon: Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard Affiliate link
This 8-foot soft top board features an EPS core and a 3-stringer system for added durability. The 96-inch length and wide profile provide stability for beginners. It is designed for adults and youth looking for a reliable foam surfboard. The wax-free top simplifies maintenance. This model offers a straightforward setup for learning to surf without complex gear.
Pros
- 8-foot length for enhanced stability
- EPS core with 3-stringer system
- Wax-free soft top surface
- Suitable for adults and youth
Cons
- Limited color options compared to competitors
- No additional fin configurations listed
- Basic construction without advanced features
Good fit if
- You want a stable 8-foot board for learning
- You prefer a wax-free surface for easy cleanup
- You need a durable EPS core for beginner use
Skip if
- You require multiple fin setups for varied conditions
- You prefer advanced construction materials over foam
- You need a board with specific color designs
Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard is a stable choice for beginners seeking a durable foam board. It fits riders who prioritize ease of use and stability over advanced performance features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard | WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard | WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard | THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard | Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard | Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Board Length | 8ft | 7' | 8ft | 7ft | 8' (243.8cm) | 8ft |
| Core Material | EPS core | not stated | EPS core | EPS foam core | Molded contoured foam core | EPS core |
| Stringer System | 3 Stringer System | triple stringer system | 3 stringer system | Three wood stringers | three 9-ply laminated stringers | 3 Stringer System |
| Slick Material | HDPE polyethylene | high density slick bottom | HDPE Polyethylene | HDPE | High density graphic slick bottom | not stated |
| Volume | not stated | 70 liters | 86 liters | not stated | 81 ltrs. | not stated |
| Fin Setup | not stated | triple performance 4.5 fin set up | Removable bolt thru fins | not stated | performance fin set | not stated |
| Board Weight | 14 pounds | 10.2lbs | 11.5 lbs | 9.04 pounds | 13.3 lbs. | not stated |
| Construction | Soft Top | Soft Top | Soft Top | Soft Top | Soft Top | Soft Top |
| Activity | Surfing | Surfing | Surfing | Surfing | not stated | Surfing |
| Target Audience | Adults, Youth | Beginners | Adults, Youth | Adults, Youth, Beginners | not stated | Adults, Youth |
| Features | not stated | Fins | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | 96 × 22.5 × 0.1 inches | not stated | 96 × 22.5 × 0.1 inches | 96 × 22.8 × 0.1 inches | 96 × 22.5 × 3.25 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 14 pounds | 10.2 pounds | 11.5 pounds | 9.04 pounds | not stated | not stated |
| Length | not stated | 83.9 inches | not stated | not stated | not stated | 96 inches |
| Width | not stated | 22 inches | not stated | not stated | not stated | 96 inches |
| Size | 8' | 7' | 8' | 7 ft | 8' | 8' |
| Color | Sunburst | Blue Pinline | Tri Color Pin | Mint Green | Red | Multi |
| Model | AZ22-WSSF800-B | AZ22-WSSF700-PIN | WS18SRF106TRI | not stated | Bloo Tide Surfboard | F-SBS-0800-WAVE-02-COCO-16 |
How to choose the right soft top
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Match length to skill
Longer boards provide greater stability for beginners. The 8-foot models, such as the WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard, offer 96 inches of length. This extra surface area helps you balance while learning. Shorter boards, like the 7-foot options, are more maneuverable but less stable. If you are new to surfing, start with an 8-foot board. As you gain confidence, you can move to a shorter length. Check the listed length before buying to ensure it fits your current ability level.
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Consider board weight
Weight affects how easy the board is to carry. Lighter boards reduce strain on your shoulders and back. The Thurso SURF Aero weighs just 9.04 pounds, making it the lightest option here. Heavier boards, like the 14-pound WaveStorm 8ft, offer more mass for stability. You must decide if you prioritize easy transport or maximum stability. If you carry your board far, choose a lighter model. If you only walk to the water, a heavier board is fine.
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Check width for stability
Width determines how stable the board feels in the water. Wider boards are easier to balance on. Most boards in this list have a width around 22.5 inches. The Thurso SURF Aero is slightly wider at 22.8 inches. A wider platform helps beginners stay upright longer. Narrower boards require more balance and skill. Look for a width of 22 inches or more if you are just starting out. This spec is crucial for your initial learning curve.
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Verify target audience
Ensure the board matches your experience level. Many models list beginners as the target audience. The WaveStorm 7ft Classic explicitly targets beginners. Other boards list adults and youth. If you are a child, check if the board fits your size. Some boards are designed for youth riders. Always read the target audience field. Buying a board meant for advanced riders can be frustrating for a novice. Match the label to your skill level.
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Assess volume and size
Volume impacts buoyancy and ease of paddling. Higher volume means the board floats better. The 8-foot boards generally have more volume than 7-foot models. This extra buoyancy helps you catch waves easier. The Thurso SURF Aero is shorter and lighter, so it has less volume. If you are heavier, you need more volume for stability. Check the size and length to estimate volume. Larger boards are more forgiving for new surfers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the lightest soft top surfboard on the list?
The Thurso SURF Aero 7ft is the lightest option at 9.04 pounds. This low weight makes it significantly easier to carry to the beach and handle in the water. It is ideal for beginners who prioritize easy transport and maneuverability over the maximum stability of heavier boards.
Which soft top board offers the most stability for beginners?
The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard provides excellent stability with a 96-inch length and 22.5-inch width. This generous volume helps beginners balance while learning to paddle and stand. The 14-pound weight also adds to the board's steadiness in the water, making it a reliable choice for new riders.
Can I use a soft top surfboard for youth riders?
Yes, several boards on this list are suitable for youth. The WaveStorm 8ft and the Thurso SURF Aero 7ft both list youth as a target audience. Their soft construction reduces the risk of injury during falls, making them safer options for younger surfers who are still developing their skills and strength.
How thick is the Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard?
The Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard has a thickness of 3.25 inches. This substantial height contributes to its high volume and buoyancy. The extra thickness helps keep the board afloat easily, which is beneficial for beginners who need maximum support while learning to catch waves in gentle conditions.
Is there a shorter soft top option for easier handling?
The WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard is the shortest board at 83.9 inches. It weighs only 10.2 pounds, making it much easier to transport and maneuver than longer 8-foot models. This shorter length is a practical choice for beginners who want a lighter board that is simpler to carry.
Do these soft top boards come with fins?
The WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard explicitly lists fins as a feature. While the data does not specify fin details for other models, soft top longboards typically include a fin setup for directional control. You should check the specific product listing for each board to confirm the included fin configuration before purchasing.