WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard vs WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard: Spec Comparison
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You are comparing the wavestorm 8ft soft top longboard vs 8ft foam longboard. Both boards share an 8-foot length, 22.5-inch width, and a triple stringer system for rigidity. They both use a foam core and HDPE slick bottom skin. The main difference lies in the deck construction and included accessories. The soft top model features a specific crosslink top deck, while the foam version includes removable fins, a leash, and a tail pad. These variations affect weight and usability for different surfers.
Key differences
| Aspect | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard | WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Soft foam construction with WBS-IXL crosslink top deck | Foam constructed with WBS-IXL crosslink top deck |
| Weight | 14 pounds | 11.5 pounds |
| Volume | not listed | 86 liters |
| Weight Capacity | not listed | 200lbs |
| Fin Setup | not listed | 3 removable bolt thru 4.5" performance fins |
| Included Accessories | not listed | Double swivel ankle leash and tail pad |
Which one should you choose?
Choose WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard if
- You prefer a board with a slightly higher weight capacity implied by the heavier build
- You want a classic soft top feel with a dedicated crosslink top deck
- You are buying for youth or adults who do not need included fins
Choose WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard if
- You want a lighter board at 11.5 pounds for easier handling
- You need included accessories like removable fins, a leash, and a tail pad
- You value the specified 86-liter volume and 200lbs weight capacity
Verdict: Choose the soft top model if you prefer a heavier, classic soft deck feel without needing extra gear. Pick the foam longboard if you want a lighter board that comes with fins, a leash, and a tail pad for immediate use.
Specs: Soft Top vs Foam Longboard
Board Weight
The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard weighs 14 pounds. This is a solid weight for a board of this size, offering stability without being overly cumbersome to carry. The WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard is lighter, coming in at 11.5 pounds. This 2.5-pound difference is noticeable when carrying the board to the water or lifting it onto a rack. Lighter boards are generally easier to maneuver on land and require less effort to transport. If you prioritize ease of handling and transport, the lighter foam option has a clear advantage here.
Volume and Capacity
Only the WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard lists its internal volume and weight capacity. It provides 86 liters of volume and supports up to 200 pounds. This data helps you gauge buoyancy and stability. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard does not list volume or weight capacity in the provided specifications. Without this data, it is harder to determine exactly how much buoyancy you get or who the ideal rider is. The foam board gives you concrete numbers to plan around, making it the safer choice for heavier surfers or those needing high stability.
Fin Setup
The WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard includes three removable bolt-through 4.5-inch performance fins. This means you can adjust or replace the fins as your skills progress or if they get damaged. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard does not list any fin information in its specifications. It is unclear if it comes with fins or if they are fixed. For beginners who want a complete setup ready to go, the foam board is more practical. Having removable fins also allows for future upgrades or tuning, which the soft top board lacks in the data provided.
Construction Material
Both boards use a foam core and HDPE slick bottom skin. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard features a soft webs-IXL water barrier skin on the top deck and rails. This soft top design is gentler on the body, which is helpful for beginners who might fall often. The WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard also uses a soft WBS-IXL crosslink top deck. Both offer similar surface comfort. The soft top construction on both models ensures a forgiving experience for learners. Since both use similar materials for the deck and rails, this aspect is a tie.
Stringer System
Both boards utilize a three-stringer system. The WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard uses a 3 Stringer System to provide structural integrity. The WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard uses a triple stringer system for the same purpose. This design adds rigidity and strength to the foam core, preventing the board from flexing too much during use. This feature is common in foam boards to ensure durability. Since both products specify the same stringer configuration, there is no difference in this specific build feature. Both offer similar structural support.
Which board fits your needs best
Beginners prioritizing durability and safety
The Soft Top model features a soft webs-IXL water barrier skin on the top deck and rails. This construction reduces impact risk, making it safer for beginners and kids. The 14-pound weight provides stability, while the 3-stringer system ensures the board holds its shape during frequent, low-speed learning sessions without being too heavy to handle.
Surfers seeking lighter weight and volume
The Foam Longboard weighs only 11.5 pounds, making it significantly easier to carry and maneuver than the 14-pound soft top. It offers 86 liters of volume and supports up to 200 pounds. The included 4.5-inch fins and tail pad provide immediate performance traction, allowing you to focus on riding rather than managing board weight.
Users wanting complete accessory setup
This version comes with three removable bolt-through fins, a double swivel ankle leash, and a tail pad. These accessories are included directly in the package, saving you from purchasing them separately. The 86-liter volume and 200-pound capacity ensure the board performs well with the added gear, providing a ready-to-ride experience right out of the box.
The products compared
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 8ft longboard features a soft top design with an EPS core and a 3-stringer system. It measures 96 inches long and 22.5 inches wide, weighing 14 pounds. The HDPE polyethylene slick bottom and webs-IXL water barrier skin provide durability. It is suitable for adults and kids of all levels who want a stable, wax-free surfboard.
Pros
- Soft foam construction for safety
- EPS core with 3-stringer system
- HDPE polyethylene slick bottom
- Wax-free soft top deck
Cons
- Heavier than foam-only boards
- Limited color options
- No included accessories
Good fit if
- You are a beginner surfer
- You want a stable board
- You prefer wax-free decks
Skip if
- You need a lightweight board
- You want advanced performance
- You prefer hard tops
Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard is a durable, stable option for beginners. It fits those who prioritize safety and ease of use over speed and agility.
WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard
Best for: Beginners needing stability and included fins
- 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 8-foot foam longboard offers 86 liters of volume and weighs 11.5 lbs. It features a triple stringer system for rigidity and a high-density polyethylene slick bottom. The package includes three removable bolt-through fins, a leash, and a tail pad. It suits beginners needing stability and traction aids.
Pros
- 86 liters of volume for high buoyancy
- Triple stringer system adds core rigidity
- Includes three removable bolt-through fins
- Comes with a tail pad for traction
Cons
- 200 lbs weight capacity is modest
- 22.5 inch width limits advanced maneuverability
- Foam construction lacks rigid performance edge
Good fit if
- You are a beginner seeking stability
- You want included fins and a leash
- You prefer a lightweight 11.5 lb board
Skip if
- You weigh more than 200 lbs
- You need high-performance carving ability
- You prefer a rigid fiberglass shell
Verdict: WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard with Accessories provides essential volume and included traction aids for new riders. It fits beginners who prioritize stability and ease of use over advanced handling.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WaveStorm 8ft Soft Top Longboard Surfboard | WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard |
|---|---|---|
| Board Length | 8ft | 8ft |
| Core Material | EPS core | foam core |
| Stringer System | 3 Stringer System | Triple stringer system |
| Slick Material | HDPE polyethylene | High Density (HDPE) Polyethylene |
| Volume | not stated | 86 liters |
| Weight Capacity | not stated | 200lbs |
| Fin Setup | not stated | 3 removable bolt thru 4.5" |
| Board Weight | 14 pounds | 11.5lbs |
| Construction | Soft Top | Foam |
| Activity | Surfing | not stated |
| Target Audience | Adults, Youth | not stated |
| Dimensions | 96 × 22.5 × 0.1 inches | 86 × 22.5 × 0.1 inches |
| Weight | 14 pounds | 11.5 pounds |
| Size | 8' | 8' |
| Color | Sunburst | Blue Pinline |
| Model | AZ22-WSSF800-B | not stated |
Frequently asked questions
Which WaveStorm 8ft board is lighter to carry?
The WaveStorm 8ft Foam Longboard is the lighter option. It weighs 11.5 pounds, compared to the 14 pounds of the Soft Top Longboard. This 2.5-pound difference makes the Foam model easier to transport to and from the beach. You will find it less cumbersome to handle on land.
Do both boards have the same width?
Yes, both boards share identical width specifications. Each model measures 22.5 inches wide. This consistent width provides similar stability and planing surface for you. You can expect comparable balance characteristics regardless of which construction style you choose for your surfing sessions.
Is there a color difference between the two models?
Yes, the models come in different standard colors. The Soft Top Longboard is available in Sunburst. The Foam Longboard comes in Blue Pinline. These distinct color options allow you to choose based on personal preference while maintaining the same core performance dimensions.
Which board is better for younger surfers?
The Soft Top Longboard is explicitly listed for youth. Its attributes include both adults and youth as target audiences. The soft top construction reduces impact risk, making it safer for younger riders. The Foam model does not specify youth suitability in its provided data.
Are the board lengths exactly the same?
The specifications list both as 8-foot boards. However, the detailed length measurements show a slight variation. The Soft Top is listed at 96 inches. The Foam Longboard is listed at 86 inches. You should verify the exact linear length if precise fitment is critical for your storage or transport needs.
Which board has a higher height specification?
Both boards list the same height specification. Each model is listed at 0.1 inches in height. This identical measurement suggests a similar rail profile and thickness. You will not notice a difference in board height between the Soft Top and Foam construction styles based on these specs.
Does the Soft Top model include accessories?
The provided data does not list specific accessories for the Soft Top Longboard. The Foam Longboard description mentions included fins and traction aids. You should check the package contents for the Soft Top model separately if you require specific included hardware for your setup.