Foam or Soft Top Soft Top Surfboards? Compared by Specs
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When you search for foam vs soft top longboard options, you will find two distinct approaches to beginner surfing. Both the Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard and the WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard use EPS cores for buoyancy. The main difference lies in their outer layers. One uses a hard slick bottom with a foam top, while the other features a full soft top deck and rails. This guide compares their specs to help you choose the right board for your size and skill level.
Key differences
| Aspect | Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Foam top with HDPE slick bottom | Soft webs-IXL water barrier skin with HDPE slick bottom |
| Board Length | 6 feet (72 inches) | 8 feet (96 inches) |
| Board Weight | 10 pounds | 14 pounds |
| Fin Setup | Removable fins | Not listed |
| Stringer System | Not listed | 3 Stringer System |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard if
- You are a smaller surfer or child who needs a lighter board that is easier to carry.
- You want removable fins for easier transport and storage.
- You prefer a shorter board that is easier to maneuver in smaller waves.
Choose WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard if
- You want maximum stability and buoyancy from a longer 8-foot design.
- You prefer a full soft top deck and rails for added safety and comfort.
- You value the structural reinforcement provided by a 3-stringer system.
Verdict: The Giantex board suits smaller or lighter surfers who need a manageable size and removable fins. The WaveStorm board is better for taller or heavier beginners who need the extra length and soft top safety of an 8-foot longboard. Your choice depends on your body weight and the size of the waves you plan to ride.
Foam vs Soft Top Surfboard Specs
Construction materials
The Giantex board uses a durable foam top with an EPE deck and an EPS core, finished with a slick HDPE bottom skin for speed and stiffness. The WaveStorm model also features an EPS core but adds a 3-stringer system for structural integrity. Its top deck is a soft webs-IXL water barrier skin, while the bottom uses HDPE polyethylene. Both designs prioritize durability for beginners, but the WaveStorm includes stringers for added rigidity that the Giantex does not list.
Board length
Length significantly impacts stability and ease of paddling for new surfers. The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard measures 72 inches long, making it a compact option suitable for smaller waves or younger users. In contrast, the WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard extends to 96 inches. This extra length provides more planing surface area and stability, which is generally preferred for learning the basics of standing up and maintaining balance on the water.
Board width
Width affects how stable the board feels under your feet. The Giantex measures 20 inches wide, offering a solid platform for beginners who need confidence. The WaveStorm is wider at 22.5 inches. This additional width increases the board's volume and stability, making it easier to balance while catching waves or paddling out. For absolute beginners, the wider profile of the WaveStorm may offer a more forgiving experience compared to the narrower Giantex.
Weight capacity
Both boards are lightweight, which aids in carrying and maneuvering. The Giantex weighs 10 pounds, while the WaveStorm weighs 14 pounds. Although the WaveStorm is longer and wider, it remains relatively light. The Giantex is lighter overall, which might be preferable for children or users who need to carry the board over long distances. However, the WaveStorm's larger dimensions likely support a higher total weight capacity, though specific limits are not listed in the data for either model.
Fin setup
The Giantex features removable fins, which allows for easy transport and potential customization or replacement. The product description highlights this convenience for users. The WaveStorm data does not explicitly mention removable fins or the specific fin setup configuration. While both boards include fins for traction and hold, the explicit mention of removability on the Giantex offers a practical advantage for storage and shipping, whereas the WaveStorm's fin details remain unspecified in the provided specifications.
Which foam or soft top board fits you
Small beginner needing portability
The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard weighs only 10 pounds and measures 72 inches long. Its compact 20-inch width and removable fins make it easy to carry and store. This lightweight design helps beginners maneuver on smaller waves without the bulk of a larger board, offering a manageable entry point for learning balance and stance.
Taller surfer seeking stability
The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard provides a longer 96-inch platform and a wider 22.5-inch base. This extra surface area offers superior stability for taller riders or those new to surfing. The 3 Stringer System adds structural integrity, while the 8-foot length helps catch waves more easily, making it ideal for smooth, steady riding.
Surfer wanting easy transport
You can easily transport the Giantex board thanks to its removable fins and 10-pound weight. The 6-foot length fits into smaller vehicles or roof racks more readily than the 8-foot WaveStorm model. This practicality allows you to take the board to various surf spots without the logistical challenges associated with hauling a longer, heavier longboard.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard | beginners seeking easy transport | Check price of Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard on Amazon |
| 2 | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard | beginners seeking stability and safety | Check price of WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard on Amazon |
The products compared
Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard
Best for: beginners seeking easy transport
- Construction
- Foam (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 surfboard uses a durable foam top with an EPS core and a slick HDPE bottom. It measures 72 by 20 by 3 inches and weighs 10 pounds. The board includes removable fins for easier transport. It is designed for beginners, adults, and youth. The construction prioritizes stiffness and speed on the water. You get a colorful deck with a traction pad for better grip.
Pros
- EPS core with HDPE slick bottom for speed
- Removable fins simplify transport and storage
- 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 rigidity of hardboards
- Simple assembly required before first use
Good fit if
- You are a beginner looking for a stable board
- You need a lightweight board for easy carrying
- You want a surfboard with removable fins
Skip if
- You require a hardboard for advanced maneuvers
- You need a board longer than 6 feet
- You prefer a board with a fiberglass shell
Verdict: Giantex 6ft Foam Surfboard is a stable entry point for beginners who value easy transport. The removable fins and light weight make it practical for casual ocean use.
WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard
Best for: beginners seeking stability and safety
- 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 WaveStorm board measures 8 feet long and weighs 14 pounds. It features an EPS core with a 3-stringer system for structure. The deck and rails use a soft webs-IXL water barrier skin, while the bottom has a slick HDPE polyethylene layer. This soft top construction makes it suitable for adults and kids learning to surf. The 22.5-inch width adds stability.
Pros
- 8-foot length provides ample surface area
- Soft top deck and rails for safety
- EPS core with 3-stringer system
- HDPE polyethylene slick bottom skin
- 22.5-inch width for stability
Cons
- 14-pound weight is heavy for lifting
- 0.1-inch thickness offers limited volume
- No leash plug mentioned in specs
Good fit if
- You are a beginner learning to surf
- You need a stable board for calm water
- You want a soft top for safety
Skip if
- You prefer lightweight boards under 10 pounds
- You surf in big waves requiring thin profiles
- You need a board with a leash plug
Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard is a stable, safe option for beginners. Its soft top and wide design help new surfers catch waves easily.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard |
|---|---|---|
| Board Length | 6' | 8ft |
| Core Material | EPS core | EPS core |
| Stringer System | not stated | 3 Stringer System |
| Slick Material | HDPE | HDPE polyethylene |
| Fin Setup | Removable fins | not stated |
| Board Weight | 10 pounds | 14 pounds |
| Construction | Foam | Soft Top |
| Activity | Surfing | Surfing |
| Target Audience | Adults, Youth, Beginners | Adults, Youth |
| Features | Fins | not stated |
| Dimensions | 72 × 20 × 0.1 inches | 96 × 22.5 × 0.1 inches |
| Weight | 10 pounds | 14 pounds |
| Size | 72 inches x 20 inches x 3" | 8' |
| Color | White & Blue | Sunburst |
| Model | SP34477WH | AZ22-WSSF800-B |
Frequently asked questions
Are foam surfboards safe for beginners?
Yes, foam boards offer a forgiving surface that reduces impact during falls. The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard is designed for beginners, youth, and adults. Its soft material minimizes injury risk while you learn balance and stance on the water.
How heavy is a foam surfboard?
Foam surfboards are typically very light. The Giantex model weighs only 10 pounds. This low weight makes it easy to carry to the beach and handle in the water. It is ideal for those seeking easy transport and storage.
Do soft top boards have removable fins?
Some models include removable fins for easier transport and replacement. The Giantex foam board features removable fins. This allows you to pack the board more compactly. It also lets you swap fins if they become damaged during use.
What is the width of a soft top longboard?
Soft top longboards are often wider for stability. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard measures 22.5 inches wide. This extra width helps new surfers catch waves more easily. It provides a stable platform for learning basic surfing techniques.
Can youth surfers use these boards?
Yes, both board types are suitable for younger surfers. The Giantex foam board targets youth and beginners. The WaveStorm soft top longboard also lists youth as a target audience. These designs accommodate smaller bodies and developing skills.
How long is a typical foam surfboard?
Foam boards vary in length but often stay compact. The Giantex foam surfboard is 72 inches long. This size balances stability with maneuverability. It is manageable for beginners who need a board that is not too large to handle.
Are soft top boards good for beginners?
Soft top boards are excellent for beginners due to their stability. The WaveStorm 8ft model offers a wide, soft deck. This design helps new surfers maintain balance. It is a safe option for learning to stand and ride waves.