Looking Beyond the WaveStorm 8ft Classic Foam Longboard? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Comparing Key Specifications

WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard

This WaveStorm variant weighs 14 pounds, which is 2.5 pounds heavier than the original 11.5-pound board. It shares the same 8-foot length and 22.5-inch width, maintaining similar stability. The soft top construction offers a safer, more forgiving deck for beginners compared to the standard foam build. You should choose this if you prioritize safety and durability over lightweight handling. The extra weight may make it slightly harder to carry, but the increased mass can provide better momentum in small waves. It remains a stable platform for learning without the risk of injury from hard surfaces.

WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard

At 7 feet long and 22 inches wide, this board is significantly more compact than the 8-foot, 22.5-inch original. It weighs only 10.2 pounds, making it 1.3 pounds lighter and easier to maneuver. This reduction in size and weight sacrifices some stability and volume, which may be challenging for larger riders or those seeking maximum buoyancy. It is ideal for beginners who find the standard longboard too bulky or heavy. The shorter length allows for quicker turns and easier transport. If you value portability and agility over raw stability, this compact option fits your needs better than the classic longboard.

WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard

This model matches the original in weight at 11.5 pounds and width at 22.5 inches. However, it is shorter at 86 inches compared to the original 96-inch length. This 10-inch reduction in length makes it easier to handle while retaining similar width for stability. The foam construction provides a durable, forgiving surface for beginners. You might prefer this version if you want a slightly more manageable board that is still stable. The included accessories add convenience, though the shorter length may limit your ability to catch waves as easily as the longer 8-foot model. It balances stability with improved portability.

WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard

This board shares the same 8-foot length, 22.5-inch width, and 11.5-pound weight as the original. The primary difference is the tri-color pin design and soft top construction. It features removable fins, similar to the original, but the soft top material offers a different tactile experience. This version is suitable for beginners who want the same stability and dimensions but prefer a soft deck for safety. The weight and size remain identical, so handling characteristics will feel familiar. It is a practical choice if you prioritize durability and a forgiving surface without changing your preferred board dimensions. The design is visually distinct while maintaining functional consistency.

THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard

The Thurso SURF Aero is 7 feet long and weighs only 9.04 pounds, making it 2.46 pounds lighter than the original. It is 10 inches shorter and 0.5 inches wider, offering a different balance of stability and maneuverability. This lightweight design is ideal for beginners who prioritize portability and ease of carrying. The soft top construction ensures safety, while the reduced weight makes paddling and lifting less strenuous. You should choose this if you find the original too heavy or cumbersome. The slightly narrower width may require more balance, but the shorter length enhances agility. It is a practical alternative for those seeking a lighter, more portable entry-level board.

WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard

This WaveStorm model matches the original in weight at 11.5 pounds and width at 22.5 inches. It is shorter at 86 inches, providing a more compact profile than the 96-inch original. The foam construction and included accessories offer a complete setup for beginners. The reduced length makes it easier to handle and transport while maintaining similar stability due to the width. You might prefer this if you want a stable board that is less bulky than the classic longboard. The orange sunburst design is visually distinct. It balances the stability of a longboard with the manageability of a shorter board, making it a versatile choice for beginners seeking convenience and ease of use.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Wavestorm 8ft Classic Foam Longboard

Best for: Beginners seeking stability in small waves

Board Length

8'

Core Material

EPS core

Stringer System

3 stringer system

Slick Material

High Density (HDPE) Polyethylene

Volume

86 liters

Fin Setup

removable bolt thru fins

View on Amazon: Wavestorm 8ft Classic Foam Longboard Affiliate link

The WaveStorm 8ft Classic Longboard offers 86 liters of volume in an 8-foot foam board weighing 11.5 lbs. It features an EPS core with a 3-stringer system for durability and a slick HDPE bottom. Removable bolt-through fins and a traction pad are included. This setup suits beginners seeking stability and ease of use on small waves.

Pros

• 86 liters of volume provides high stability
• EPS core with 3-stringer system for strength
• Removable bolt-through fins for easy replacement
• Includes ankle leash and traction pad

Cons

• Foam construction limits performance in larger waves
• No included carrying bag or leash in specs
• Fixed 8ft length reduces portability

Good fit if

• You are a beginner looking for a stable board
• You want a durable foam board for small waves
• You prefer a classic longboard shape

Skip if

• You need a lightweight board for travel
• You surf in large, powerful waves
• You want advanced performance features

Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Classic Longboard Surfboard is a solid choice for beginners who prioritize stability and durability in small wave conditions. Its high volume and robust foam construction make it forgiving and easy to handle.

2 Best premium

WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard

Best for: Beginners seeking stability and safety

Board Length

8ft

Core Material

EPS core

Stringer System

3 Stringer System

Slick Material

HDPE polyethylene

Board Weight

14 pounds

Construction

Soft Top

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

This WaveStorm board measures 8 feet long and weighs 14 pounds. It uses an EPS core with a 3-stringer system for structural integrity. The deck features a soft webs-IXL water barrier skin, while the bottom uses high-density HDPE polyethylene. This construction offers a stable platform for adults and youth. The 22.5-inch width provides additional buoyancy and stability for beginner surfers.

Pros

• 8-foot length offers high stability
• 14-pound weight is manageable
• 22.5-inch width boosts buoyancy
• EPS core with 3-stringer system
• Soft top deck for safety

Cons

• Only 0.1 inches thick
• No included accessories listed
• Basic foam construction limits performance

Good fit if

• You want a stable 8-foot board
• You prefer soft top safety
• You are a beginner surfer

Skip if

• You need advanced maneuverability
• You require a thinner profile
• You want a hard fiberglass deck

Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard provides a stable, safe entry point for beginners. Its 22.5-inch width and soft deck make it ideal for learning waves without the risk of injury.

3 Best fins

WaveStorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Surfboard

Best for: Beginners seeking a manageable size

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 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. It is designed for beginners and all surfing levels. The 22-inch width provides stability on the water.

Pros

• 70 liters of volume for stability
• Triple performance 4.5 fin setup
• Triple stringer system for strength
• Lightweight 10.2 pounds construction

Cons

• Shorter 7-foot length than the 8-foot competitors
• Smaller 22-inch width limits maximum stability
• Lower 70-liter volume reduces floatation

Good fit if

• You prefer a shorter board for easier handling
• You want a lighter board that is easier to carry
• You are a beginner looking for manageable size

Skip if

• You need the extra stability of an 8-foot board
• You require a wider deck for maximum balance
• You want higher volume for heavier weight support

Verdict: WaveStorm 7ft Soft Top Surfboard is a compact option for beginners who prioritize maneuverability and portability over maximum stability. It suits those who find 8-foot boards too bulky.

4 Also great

WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard

Best for: Beginners needing stability and included gear

Board Length

8ft

Core Material

foam core

Stringer System

Triple stringer system

Slick Material

High Density (HDPE) Polyethylene

Volume

86 liters

Weight Capacity

200lbs

View on Amazon: WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard Affiliate link

This Wavestorm 8ft surfboard offers 86 liters of volume and weighs 11.5 lbs. It features a triple stringer system for rigidity and a high-density polyethylene bottom skin. The package includes three removable fins, an ankle leash, and a tail pad. It suits beginners needing stability and a complete entry-level setup.

Pros

• 86 liters of volume for enhanced stability
• Triple stringer system adds core rigidity
• Includes removable fins, leash, and tail pad
• High-density polyethylene slick bottom skin

Cons

• 200 lbs weight capacity is modest for larger riders
• Foam construction limits performance responsiveness
• No included carry bag or repair kit

Good fit if

• You are a beginner seeking a stable board
• You want a complete setup with fins and leash
• You prefer a traditional foam longboard feel

Skip if

• You weigh more than 200 lbs
• You need advanced performance features
• You prefer lightweight composite materials

Verdict: Wavestorm 8ft Foam Surfboard with Accessories provides a stable, entry-level option with included hardware. It fits beginners who prioritize volume and ease of use over high-speed performance.

5 Also great

WaveStorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Longboard

Best for: beginners seeking stable, durable foam boards

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

This Wavestorm board is an 8-foot soft top surfboard with an EPS core and a 3-stringer system. It weighs 11.5 lbs and offers 86 liters of volume. The slick HDPE bottom and removable bolt-through fins make it stable for beginners. It suits adults and youth looking for a durable, wax-free surfboard for learning.

Pros

• 86 liters of volume for high stability
• Lightweight 11.5 lbs construction
• Removable bolt-through fins for easy replacement
• Wax-free HDPE slick bottom

Cons

• 86 liters is lower volume than the 8ft Classic Longboard
• 11.5 lbs is heavier than some 7ft alternatives
• Fixed 22.5-inch width limits maneuverability

Good fit if

• You want a durable soft top for learning
• You prefer removable fins for easy maintenance
• You need a board with high buoyancy

Skip if

• You want a lighter board under 10 lbs
• You prefer a narrower board for speed
• You need a board with higher volume than 86 liters

Verdict: Wavestorm 8ft Soft Top Foam Board offers stable learning with removable fins. It fits beginners who prioritize durability and volume over lightweight performance.

6 Also great

THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Surfboard

Best for: beginners seeking a lightweight starter board

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

This 7-foot soft top surfboard is designed for beginners and youth. It features a lightweight 9.04-pound EPS foam core and a durable HDPE slick bottom. The construction includes three wood stringers for added strength. With a 22.8-inch width, it offers stability for new surfers. This board suits those looking for a forgiving platform to learn on.

Pros

• Lightweight 9.04-pound build for easy handling
• Three wood stringers for structural strength
• HDPE slick bottom for durability
• Includes an ankle leash for safety

Cons

• Shorter 7-foot length reduces speed compared to 8-foot alternatives
• Narrower 22.8-inch width offers less stability than wider boards
• Limited to small to medium wave conditions

Good fit if

• You are a beginner seeking stability
• You prefer a lighter board for transport
• You surf in small to medium waves

Skip if

• You need maximum buoyancy for heavy weights
• You want to surf large, fast waves
• You prefer a longer 8-foot board

Verdict: Thurso SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top is a stable, lightweight option for beginners who prioritize portability and ease of learning over the speed of longer boards.

7 Best budget

WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard

Best for: beginners seeking a complete, stable entry-level setup

Board Length

8ft

Core Material

foam core

Stringer System

Triple stringer system

Slick Material

High Density (HDPE) Polyethylene

Volume

86 liters

Weight Capacity

200lbs

View on Amazon: WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard Affiliate link

This WaveStorm 8ft surfboard offers 86 liters of volume and weighs 11.5 lbs. It features a foam core with a triple stringer system for rigidity. The board includes three removable bolt-through fins, an ankle leash, and a tail pad. Its 22.5-inch width and 3.25-inch thickness provide stability. It suits beginners seeking a complete, ready-to-use setup with included hardware.

Pros

• Includes three removable 4.5-inch performance fins
• Triple stringer system adds core rigidity
• Comes with a double swivel ankle leash
• Features a tail pad for back foot traction

Cons

• 200 lbs weight capacity is lower than larger boards
• 86 liters volume limits high-performance wave riding
• Foam construction may feel less responsive than hard tops

Good fit if

• You want a complete package with fins and leash included
• You are a beginner needing stable, high-volume flotation
• You prefer a lightweight board that is easy to carry

Skip if

• You weigh more than 200 lbs
• You need a board for advanced maneuverability
• You prefer a hard fiberglass or epoxy construction

Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Foam Surfboard with Accessories provides a stable, entry-level platform with all necessary hardware included. It is a practical choice for beginners who value convenience and stability over high-performance handling.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• wusthof wusthof 4183 wusthof classic alternatives
• oster classic blender alternatives