6 Best Alternatives to the WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top (2026)

How alternatives compare to WaveStorm

WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board

The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board increases length to 96 inches and width to 22.5 inches. This adds volume for greater stability compared to the 7ft model. It weighs 11.5 pounds, which is slightly heavier than the 10.2-pound original. The thicker 3.25-inch profile enhances buoyancy. You should choose this if you need more paddle room or plan to surf in smaller, gentler waves. It sacrifices some maneuverability for increased ease of use. The larger surface area helps beginners catch waves more consistently. This board is ideal for those who prioritize durability and steady riding over quick turns.

THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard

The Thurso SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard offers a similar 7-foot length but weighs only 9.04 pounds. This makes it lighter than the 10.2-pound WaveStorm. It features a width of 22.8 inches, providing a slightly wider platform for balance. The reinforced foam core aims to deliver rigidity without the extra mass. You might prefer this board if portability is a priority or if you are a lighter rider. The reduced weight can make carrying and paddling easier. It maintains a stable profile suitable for beginners in small to medium waves. This option trades some of the original's specific stringer construction for a lighter overall feel.

Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard

The Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard is significantly shorter at 72 inches and narrower at 20 inches. It weighs 10 pounds, which is comparable to the original. This compact size makes it highly portable and easier to handle for smaller individuals. However, the reduced dimensions mean less volume and stability compared to the 7ft WaveStorm. You should select this board if you are a smaller beginner who finds longer boards cumbersome. It sacrifices the easy wave-catching ability of the longer model for maneuverability and storage convenience. This board is best for flat water or very small surf conditions where high volume is not required.

WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard

The WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard matches the 8ft alternative in length and width but shares the same 11.5-pound weight. It provides high volume for maximum stability, exceeding the 7ft model's capacity. The 22.5-inch width offers a broad platform for learning. You should choose this if you want the WaveStorm brand reliability with even more buoyancy. It is ideal for beginners who struggle with balance or plan to surf in challenging conditions. The longer length aids in paddling speed and wave selection. This board gives up the agility of the 7ft version for a more forgiving and stable ride experience.

Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard

The Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard features an 8-foot length and 22.5-inch width. It weighs 11.5 pounds, making it heavier than the original. The 3.25-inch thickness adds to its volume and stability. This board is designed for beginners seeking a durable and stable entry point. You might prefer this if you need extra volume to stay afloat easily. It lacks specific fin adjustability details in the data, focusing on core stability. The larger dimensions help in catching waves with less effort. This option is suitable for those who prioritize a secure riding platform over the lighter feel of the 7ft model.

Waterkids 7ft Foam Longboard

The Waterkids 7ft Foam Longboard matches the original's 7-foot length but includes a 3.25-inch thickness. This extra thickness increases volume and buoyancy compared to the 3-inch original. It weighs a comparable amount, though exact weight is not listed. The 22-inch width is identical to the WaveStorm. You should pick this board if you want similar dimensions with potentially more lift. It is a stable choice for beginners who need a manageable size. The foam construction ensures durability and safety. This board offers a familiar footprint with slight modifications to thickness for enhanced stability in gentle waves.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard

Best for: beginners seeking stable foam boards

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

Board Weight

10.2lbs

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 weighs 10.2 pounds and offers 70 liters of volume. The triple stringer system adds rigidity to the foam core. A high-density slick bottom aids performance. It includes a triple fin setup for maneuverability. This design suits beginners seeking stability and ease of use in the water.

Pros

• 70 liters of volume provides strong flotation.
• Triple stringer system enhances core rigidity.
• Includes triple performance 4.5-inch fins.
• Tail pad improves back foot traction.

Cons

• Fixed triple fin setup limits customization.
• Soft top construction offers less precision.
• No leash plug mentioned in specs.

Good fit if

• You want a stable board for learning.
• You prefer a lightweight board under 11 pounds.
• You like a standard 7-foot length.

Skip if

• You need adjustable fin configurations.
• You require a hard fiberglass surface.
• You want advanced performance features.

Verdict: WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top delivers reliable volume and rigidity for novices. It fits beginners who prioritize stability over advanced maneuverability.

2 Best premium

WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board

Best for: beginners needing high volume and durability

Board Length

8ft

Core Material

EPS core

Stringer System

3 stringer system

Slick Material

HDPE Polyethylene

Volume

86 liters

Fin Setup

Removable bolt thru fins

View on Amazon: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board Affiliate link

The WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top offers 86 liters of volume in a 96-inch length. Its 11.5 lb weight and EPS core with a 3-stringer system provide stability for beginners. The HDPE slick bottom and removable bolt-thru fins make it easy to handle in the water. This board suits surfers seeking a durable, high-volume entry-level option.

Pros

• 86 liters of volume for high stability
• 11.5 lb weight for manageable handling
• Removable bolt-thru fins for easy replacement
• 3-stringer EPS core for structural strength

Cons

• 22.5-inch width is narrower than 8ft alternatives
• Soft top construction may wear faster than hard boards
• No integrated leash plug mentioned in specs

Good fit if

• You need extra volume for early surfing stages
• You prefer a removable fin system for maintenance
• You want a durable foam board for beach use

Skip if

• You require a wider board for maximum stability
• You are an experienced surfer seeking performance
• You prefer a hard fiberglass or epoxy deck

Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top delivers reliable stability for beginners through its high volume and durable construction. It fits surfers who prioritize ease of use and repairability over advanced performance features.

3 Also great

THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard

Best for: beginners in small to medium waves

Board Length

7ft

Core Material

EPS foam core

Stringer System

Three wood stringers

Slick Material

HDPE

Board Weight

9.04 pounds

Construction

Soft Top

View on Amazon: THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard Affiliate link

The Thurso SURF Aero 7ft soft top surfboard features a lightweight EPS foam core and an HDPE slick bottom. Weighing 9.04 pounds, it includes three wood stringers for added durability. The 22.8-inch width provides stability for beginners. This board suits adults and youth looking for a forgiving platform to learn surfing in small to medium waves.

Pros

• Lightweight 9.04-pound construction for easy handling
• Three wood stringers reinforce the EPS foam core
• HDPE slick bottom and IXPE deck enhance grip
• 22.8-inch width offers beginner stability

Cons

• Fixed 0.1-inch thickness limits performance in larger waves
• 7ft length may be less stable than longer 8ft alternatives
• No fin system details provided in specifications

Good fit if

• You are a beginner seeking a stable, forgiving board
• You want a lightweight surfboard for easy transport
• You surf in small to medium wave conditions

Skip if

• You require a fin setup detailed in the specs
• You prefer a board longer than 7ft for extra volume
• You need a board suitable for large, powerful waves

Verdict: Thurso SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top delivers a stable, lightweight entry point for new surfers. Its reinforced foam core and wide profile help beginners catch waves with confidence in gentle conditions.

4 Best budget

Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard

Best for: smaller beginners seeking portability

Board Length

6'

Core Material

EPS core

Slick Material

HDPE

Fin Setup

Removable fins

Board Weight

10 pounds

Construction

Foam

View on Amazon: Giantex 6-Foot Foam Surfboard Affiliate link

The Giantex 6ft surfboard is a compact soft top designed for beginners. It features an EPS core and a slick HDPE bottom for speed. The board measures 72 inches by 20 inches with a 3-inch thickness. Weighing only 10 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to carry. Removable fins allow for simple transport. This model suits smaller riders or those needing a manageable board.

Pros

• Lightweight 10-pound build for easy handling
• Removable fins simplify transport and storage
• HDPE slick bottom enhances board speed
• EPS core provides durable foam construction

Cons

• 6-foot length offers less stability than 7ft or 8ft alternatives
• 20-inch width provides less volume than wider boards
• Requires simple assembly before first use

Good fit if

• You are a beginner with limited storage space
• You are a smaller rider or youth surfer
• You want a lightweight board for easy transport

Skip if

• You need maximum stability for standing up
• You are a large adult needing high volume
• You prefer a longer board for bigger waves

Verdict: Giantex 6ft Foam Surfboard is a lightweight option for smaller beginners. It fits riders who prioritize portability over the stability of longer boards.

5 Also great

WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard

Best for: Beginners seeking stability and durability

Board Length

8ft

Core Material

EPS core

Stringer System

3 stringer system

Slick Material

HDPE Polyethylene

Volume

86 liters

Fin Setup

Removable bolt thru fins

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

The WaveStorm 8ft surfboard features an EPS core with a 3-stringer system for durability. Its 86-liter volume and 11.5 lb weight provide stability for beginners. The soft top deck includes a traction pad and removable fins. This model suits adults and youth seeking a reliable, wax-free entry point into surfing.

Pros

• 86 liters of volume for enhanced stability
• 3-stringer system for structural strength
• Removable bolt-through fins for easy transport
• Wax-free HDPE slick bottom skin

Cons

• Heavier at 11.5 lbs compared to shorter boards
• Fixed 8ft length limits maneuverability in small waves
• Soft top construction wears faster than hard fiberglass

Good fit if

• You are a beginner needing high volume
• You want a durable board for learning
• You prefer a wax-free surface

Skip if

• You need a board for advanced maneuvers
• You prefer lightweight equipment for travel
• You surf in very small, critical waves

Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard offers high volume and durability for learners. It fits beginners who prioritize stability over speed.

6 Also great

Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard

Best for: beginners seeking high volume and stability

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.

Fin Setup

performance fin set

View on Amazon: Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard Affiliate link

The Bloo Tide 8ft surfboard offers 81 liters of volume for stable beginner riding. It weighs 13.3 lbs and measures 22.5 inches wide. The construction uses a molded foam core with three stringers. A 5mm EBS-IXL top deck provides traction. It includes a performance fin set and a basic leash. This board suits riders needing high buoyancy and a durable, glue-free build.

Pros

• 81 liters of volume for superior floatation
• Lightweight 13.3 lbs construction
• EBS-IXL 5mm foam top deck for traction
• Hot air and heat laminated without epoxies

Cons

• 8ft length may be bulky for small spaces
• Includes only a basic leg leash
• Fixed performance fin set lacks adjustability

Good fit if

• You want high volume for stability
• You prefer a lightweight soft top
• You need a durable glue-free board

Skip if

• You need adjustable fin boxes
• You prefer a shorter board for maneuverability
• You require a premium leash setup

Verdict: Bloo Tide 8ft Soft Top Surfboard is a stable, lightweight option for beginners who prioritize volume and durability over fin adjustability.

7

Waterkids 7ft Foam Longboard

Best for: beginners seeking a 7ft foam board

Board Length

7ft

Core Material

Foam Core

Slick Material

HDPE

Volume

72 liters

Target Audience

Beginners

Length

84 inches

View on Amazon: Waterkids 7ft Foam Longboard Affiliate link

The Waterkids 7ft longboard offers 72 liters of volume in a 22-inch width. Its foam core and EBS IXL soft top with HDPE bottom provide stability for beginners. The board includes a leash for safety. This setup suits new surfers who need a forgiving platform for learning waves and maintaining balance on the water.

Pros

• 72 liters of volume for high buoyancy
• 7ft length with 22-inch width for stability
• Foam core construction for durability
• HDPE bottom slick material for scratch resistance
• Leash included for safety

Cons

• 72 liters volume is lower than 8ft alternatives
• No fins listed in specifications
• Only available in black color

Good fit if

• You are a beginner needing a stable foam board
• You prefer a 7ft length for maneuverability
• You want a board with a leash included

Skip if

• You need a board longer than 7ft for maximum stability
• You prefer a specific color other than black
• You require a board with listed fins

Verdict: Waterkids 7ft Foam Soft Top Surfboard is a stable entry-level option for beginners who prioritize a manageable 7ft length. It fits those who want a durable foam board with a leash, though it lacks the volume of longer 8ft models.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions