What's unique about soft top surfboards?
Inside, a regular foam core and stabilizing stringers form the basis. Around this core nestles a pliable and, in most cases, non-slip polyethylene foam. The construction is reinforced on the underside by a plastic layer.
The soft surface is highly durable, which makes it ideal for traveling and river surfing. Additionally, soft top surfboards allow you to avoid many injuries that would result in more severe wounds with a hard top.
More buoyancy = more fun
The unique formula with which the trendy softies come along gives you more buoyancy than a classic board. This boost makes paddling easier, and you are carried faster by a wave. Ergo: more waves, more fun! You can get good rides in less ideal conditions depending on the shape.
Because of these characteristics, it was common for a long time to send beginners and surf students into the waves with planks that were often heavy and unwieldy at the time. In the meantime, however, the technology has improved so much that it inspires beginners and pros alike.
Performance Soft Tops
A wide range of high-performance shapes and variations makes you want to hang up the old polyester surfboard and switch to a softie. Pros like double world champion John John Florence and pipe legend Jamie O'Brien have long used their soft tops in the world's most challenging waves. Many of these models also make excellent river surfboards.
Why we love soft top surfboards:
- More buoyancy makes for easier paddling
- Higher wave yield due to more speed
- Less risk of injury
- Robust and ding-resistant: the ideal travel board
- Excellent price-performance ratio
- Funky colors and design
Which size do I need?
With our volume calculator in the Surfboard Buyer's Guide, you will find the right size quickly.
Which fins do I need for a soft top surfboard?
There are four common fin systems: FCS, FCS2, Futures, and Universal. Before you buy fins, you should know which system is compatible with your surfboard. Many softies already come with tuned fins. On the product page of our webshop, we provide information about the specific fins required for the product. Alternatively, you can check the fin boxes on the bottom of the board.
SoftDogs Surfboards with fins
General surfboard buying advice
We recommend our Surfboard Buyer's Guide if you still need to determine which surfboard is right for you. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, a shortboarder or a longboarder, we'll explain what you should look for when choosing your new surfboard.
