Looking for a less costly board, doesn’t dig, doesn’t need repair work, and does not damage as a typical soft-top surfboard does?
You can chuck the board in the back of your vehicle (or on the top of your mini-van) and have a blast no matter exactly how big the waves are … all the while not having to bother with the cons of a regular board.
They benefit everyone; both veterans and novices enjoy these boards.
That’s why people are catching on now to this as soon as a reclusive stick.
Need remains in and there has been a massive resurgence in the past couple of years.
That is specifically why a lot of brand-new firms are emerging to create this board and why it has actually become more difficult to arrange via and find the good ones. Be cautious, there are a couple of stinkers!
We boiled it down with a listing of the best foam surfboards listed below, these are the very best of the very best.
Select one of our suggested boards and you can’t go wrong.
Our Top Selection of Foam Surfboards
Our # 1 Choice – Wavestorm 8′ Soft Top Surfboard
- Best beginner surfboard
- 8′ lengthy and 86 liters
- Just 11.5 pounds
Our # 2 Choice of Best Foam Surfboards is SBBC Verve 8′
- Best surfboard shape
- Wax free
- Easy to install pop through fins
Our # 3 Choice of Best Foam Surfboards – Wave Bandit Ben Gravy Pro EZ Rider 8’0
- Best performance surfboard
- Awesome graphics.
- 86 liters for optimum buoyancy.
What Is A Foam Surfboard?
A “foam” surfboard is practically the soft foam core material that it is made out of however there are a few other materials associated with any type of any board that is taken into consideration to be a “foam surfboard” …
The top material of the foam board is additionally made from a soft spongy material (polypropylene or polyethylene). Because it can’t obtain dings and damaged like a hardtop fiberglass board, this is much a lot more forgiving when surfing and easier upkeep.
The bottom of the foam board is made out of a tough plastic material called surlyn.
These boards are in fact made out of the same material as a bodyboard (or “boogie board”).
This differs from a normal surfboard which is difficult with a fiberglass outer shell throughout the board, from the top to the bottom.
That’s amazing but what does that actually imply?
Well, these foam boards, when contrasted to a regular board, are a lot more fun-loving in that they are:
- more affordable
- way much less upkeep (no dings/repairs)
- do not damage.
That makes it perfect for either beginners or a sophisticated cyclist that just wishes to have a good time and take pleasure in these benefits. Trust us, these boards are a great deal of fun!
The Top 10 of the Best Foam Surfboards
Our # 1 Choice – Wavestorm 8′ Foam Surfboard
Wavestorm has actually been a prominent selection among consumers for years if you are looking for the best foam surfboard for newbies. Its durability, performance, and design make this soft top a fantastic buy for a novice.
Stability is the foundation for learning to surf. A good solid surfboard with a vast deck is best for learning to stand and ride waves. It is 22.5″ large, which is terrific for equilibrium, and 3.25 inches believe, great for buoyancy. Not only is this board very easy to pop upon, but it’s also terrific for entering waves as well.
It is made with an extremely solid EPS foam core with 3 stringers covered in a WBS-IXL leak-proof crosslink top deck. This surfboard can actually take a pounding.
The Wavestorm 8′ surfboard consists of an ankle leash, leash string, and 3 simple to mount pop through fins. Not only is this foam surfboard an excellent shape and made from the best materials, but it also looks incredibly cool too! The top deck is covered with Wavestorm’s signature Rasta red, eco-friendly and yellow. You’ll be riding with style and looking trendy doing it.
Our # 2 Choice – SBBC Verve 8′ Foam Surfboard
Don’t trouble to rush out and get a Costco surfboard, this SBBC Verve 8′ is a far better surfboard at a far better bargain! The exceptional layout, shape, and quality make this foam surfboard a must-have.
The wax-free top deck is made from high thickness polyethylene, with a clutched texture so there’s no need for wax. The foam core is sturdy and waterproof, so you won’t need to worry about water logging or damage like damages and holes. With three stringers, one fiberglass, and two marine plywood, the Verve 8′ will certainly keep its form for several years ahead.
This surfboard has efficiency in mind. The dual scooped bottom deck allows for a smooth and seamless trip down the wave.
Every SBBC Verve 8′ is marketed with an 8′ leash, leash string, plastic fins, and fin pop through plugs. This board is durable, easy to use, perfect for newbies. A wonderful plan on surfers of all degrees. You’ll be capturing all the waves and have the largest smile in the schedule.
Our # 3 Choice – Wave Bandit Ben Gravy Pro EZ Rider 8’0 Foam Surfboard
The improved design of the Wave Bandit Gracy Pro EZ Rider 8′ makes it exceptionally flexible. Whether you are traveling the whitewash or charging bigger waves, this foam surfboard can do every little thing.
Quality materials are utilized to make the Wave Bandit EZ Rider 8′ surfboard extremely sturdy. The top deck is made with EPS leak-proof foam and the bottom deck is fortified with a scrape and slit immune plastic. The dual maple timber stringers will keep the surfboard from breaking in rough surf or if it drops or it dropped.
The shape of this surfboard is one-of-a-kind. The tail is drawn in slightly to offer the board extra maneuverability while transforming. The rails are thinner so you will not dig them in the face of the wave. But since it has a great deal of buoyancy, it’s still excellent for finding out how to get into waves and appear. The round nose gives the surfboard extra surface area for security.
Now you are wondering “alright however what regarding the AWESOME pineapple graphics on the bottom deck!” Well, I wished to conserve the very best for last. These trendy pineapple visuals will certainly obtain you compliments from surfers and beachgoers around. Do not be shocked if you are voted the most trendy surfer in the line-up.
Our # 4 Choice – California Board Company 9′ Foam Surfboard
A tried and relied on brand, California Board Company has been pumping out enjoyable, top quality best foam surfboards for years, and their 9′ foam top surfboards are no exception! Finding out to surf and require the excellent surfboard to find out on?
The surfboard is constructed from an advanced, warm laminated EPS foam core that is ultra watertight. Soaking will not be a concern for you as you travel with the surf. The built-in stringers are best for keeping the integrity of the 9′ soft top. They have covered with water-resistant resin.
This surfboard is highly resistant to bottom deck scrapes and leaks. The rails of this foam surfboard are difficult so discovering to turn is a wind.
The CBC 9′ surfboard is only impeccably shaped, however, it additionally has a great look. The wood graphic lament top deck provides this foam surfboard a truly great retro feel and looks similar to real timber. If you are seeking a terrific top surfboard, don’t think twice about the CBC 9′ soft-top surfboard.
A nice solid surfboard with a large deck is ideal for finding out to stand up and ride waves. Do not trouble to hurry out and buying a Costco foam surfboard, this Verve 8′ soft-top surfboard from South Bay Board Co. is a far better surfboard at a far better deal! A attempted and relied on brand, California Board Company has actually been pumping out enjoyable, quality foam boards for years, and their 9′ foam top surfboards are no exception! The foam surfboard is created from high tech, warm laminated EPS foam core that is extremely water limited. The timber graphic lament top deck offers this foam surfboard an actually trendy retro feel and looks simply like real wood.
Our # 5 Choice – SBBC 7′ Soft Top Surfboard
South Bay Board Co. makes our checklist once more with its amazing 7′ soft-top surfboard. Very comparable to the Verve 8′ soft top surfboards, but with a somewhat various form for various designs of foam board surfing. With any type of SBBC surfboard, you can rely on the quality and stability of materials and layout.
The 7′ Ruccus surfboard additionally comes with a wax totally free top deck, made with the very best high-quality waterproof shut cell EPS foam core. You won’t have to bother with breaks with the double wood stringers and fiberglass rod stringer. The high-density polyethylene bottom deck is durable versus scrapes and the impact soaking up cross netting will avoid stress dings and punctures. Risk-free to claim, this board can withstand the toughest conditions.
The smaller size of these boards is great for learning to surf teens and children. The sharper nose and drew in the tail are excellent for more advanced surfers as well! The SBBC 7′ Ruccus foam surfboard is sold with a 7′ chain, leash string, and easy to set up pop with fins. You’ll promptly be able to take it out into the waves and have a blast once you purchase this foam surfboard.
Our # 6 Choice – Giantex 6′ Foam Surfboard
Suitable for teens and children, this youngster pleasant foam top surfboard additionally looks wonderful! Heaven flame graphics and hibiscus flower will capture the interest of young surf fanatics anywhere. However, this foam surfboard is not just suitable for children. Grownups with a bit more experience as well as intermediate and advanced surfers will love the shape and style of this foam surfboard, as well!
The top deck is made with ultra-solid expanded polystyrene EPS foam core and the bottom deck is made with HDPE plastic. The EPS foam core is covered with the EPE layer that is UV and scrapes evidence.
This board is all set to go right after purchase. The soft top foam board also comes with a 6′ chain, chain string, and watertight fin plugs.
Our # 7 Choice – Raystreak 7′ 2″ Foam Surfboard – Best for Beginner Surfers
South Bay Board Co. makes our list again with its fantastic 7′ foam top surfboard. A wonderful board for novices to catch the surf. The Raystreak 7′ 2″ foam top board is steady and exceptionally buoyant. The interior of this board is developed with 4 stringers for stamina and keeping board form.
South Bay Board Co. is a leading brand in board shape and design. The board is covered with the IXPE layer for a lengthy enduring surfboard life.
A terrific foam surfboard for beginners, the Raystreak 7′ 2″ foam top board is secure and incredibly resilient. Finding out to paddle right into waves will certainly be a piece of cake and you’ll be standing out up in no time.
The building and construction of this board are distinct. The foam board is after that warm pressed into also stronger IXPE skin technology which is incredibly ding and scrape resistant.
Even though this board is just 7′ 2″ long, it’s 72 liters, which can hold up to 170 pounds comfortably. The non-slip top deck surface means you will not have to fret concerning wax!
Our # 8 Choice – Empire Ehukai Soft Top Surfboard
Their 7′ foam core surfboard is a terrific example. The closed-cell foam likewise is immune to germs development and decay, so you’ll be assured a lengthy board life.
The inside of this board is developed with four stringers for toughness and preserving board form. The large deck allows for the outstanding balance and the high buoyancy is great for catching waves. This board is the best soft-top surfboard for beginners, it also formed to be ridden by advanced surfers.
The nose and tail of these soft tops are a little narrower for maneuverability while keeping a huge area for catching waves. The tough rails all over the surfboards are best for switching on the face of the wave. You can ride this as a novice and the foam board will grow with your ability level. You can hold this board in your quiver for as long as you can surf!
Did I notice all the accessories these soft top surfboards come with? The 7′ Empire Ehukai is offered with pop through fins, a leash, and a leash string. Regardless of your level of surfing, you’ll be ready to catch surf as quickly as you can take the soft top foam board out of its box.
Our # 9 Choice – California Board Company 6’2″ Fish Foam Surfboard
You guess a brand is excellent when it appears on our list of the top 10 best foam boards two times! Surfboard California Board Company is a prominent brand name in board form and style. The 6′ 2″ foam top fish boards would certainly be a perfect addition to any surfers quiver!
The foam surfboard is warmth covered with the IXPE layer for a long-lasting board life. You will certainly have these boards for years like it was still brand-new.
The inside of the boards is ultra solid also. The three laminated timber stringers are covered with water-resistant resin. Not only are the stringers secure from rot and degeneration, but they also preserve the board’s shape in even the toughest condition of the surf.
The fish form is high performance. The large tail and narrow nose are excellent for turning and developing your surf tricks! This is an optimal step-up board from a conventional longboard foam board surfboard. The 6′ 2″ fish is likewise sold with fins, a leash, and leash string so you’ll prepare to catch surf as quickly as it gets here to your house.
Our # 10 Choice – Liquid Shredder FSE Foam Surfboard
This 9′ soft-top foam surfboard is just one of the most effective surfboards you can locate! The shape, style, and quality make this soft top board has to have for any kind of quiver. You can learn to pop up and catch waves as a novice, or best your nose riding abilities as an experienced surfer! Do not skip the Liquid Shredder FSE in your search for the ideal foam soft-top surfboard.
The top deck is soft and risk-free for novices EPE foam, with 3 unbelievably solid stringers for strength. Two stringers are aquatic quality timber ply, and the center stringer is stiff fiberglass. You won’t have to bother about these foam surfboards breaking in big waves.
The bottom deck is made with HDPE slick polypropylene material so you obtain a smooth ride in the water. The anti-slip surface area gets rid of the need for surf wax. The deck is broad for equilibrium and the buoyancy of these foam surfboards is wonderful for catching waves. With leash and pop through fins included, you will not discover a far better offer on a soft-top surfboard.
Shapes and Sizes of Foam Surfboards
You are happy to start your surfing journey and ready to obtain your first foam top surfboard. You are possibly thinking to yourself, “What size foam surfboard should I get? Which of foam surfboards are the most effective for novices?” Below is a table to aid you to figure what would certainly be a good foam surfboard for grownups, in addition to some right sizes for kids foam surfboards.
For teens and grownups
For kids
Foam Surfboard Vs. Fiberglass
All surfboards have a foam core. This enables buoyancy to catch waves and surf down the wave. The difference is what covers the board. “Fiberglass” boards are covered with woven fiberglass cloth which then solidifies when the polyester resin is added. Epoxy boards do not make use of fiberglass or polyester, instead of covering an EPS foam core with epoxy layers. Epoxy is resilient and very solid, so it is swiftly filling in fiberglass.
These surfboards do not have anything covering the foam, which develops the core of the board, as well as the top deck. Most of the time, a plastic bottom is created for hydrodynamics. The foam may be covered with light resin for resilience and graphics, yet not almost as much material as traditional boards.
Foam surfboards are wonderful for buoyancy and equilibrium, but they aren’t rather as high performance as traditional surfboards. They are cumbersome and slow-moving moving, which in fact is an advantage if you are finding out to surf.
How To Choose a Foam Surfboard
Many foam boards are produced by beginners. They are wonderful and broad, with broader tails and a spherical nose for extra area. Some soft top surfboards, nevertheless, are shaped with a bit advanced efficiency in mind. The tail and nose can be a little narrower for additional turning power and maneuverability. The CBC 6′ 2″ fish, as an example, is a terrific board with a much more high-performance fish form. It is much shorter and more responsive, which is excellent for more advanced internet users.
This will provide you better balance to find out on and obtain right into waves much simpler. An optimal form for newbie surfers.
Height and weight are elements to think about too. Typically, a person who is bigger and much heavier must find out on a larger foam board, anywhere from 8′ to 9′. A child who is shorter and lighter, nevertheless, can get away with finding out on a smaller-sized, narrower board, considering that they do not require as much buoyancy or surface area to discover.
Pros & Cons of Foam Surfboards
Decks on foam boards tend to be a little wider too. This means that balance will be easier while you are learning to stand.
These boards are softer and lighter. Collisions with your board and other surfers are much safer on a foam board because the foam is softer.
Since foam boards are so resilient, they are near difficult to elude dive. They are better matched for softer waves that you can turtle roll via. They are ideal going in a straight line so individuals can need to secure to learn to stand up. Nonetheless, foam surfboards are tough to transform as a result of this.
The rails are really thick and tend to dig in the face of the wave while trying to turn. You can most definitely obtain a more high-performance foam top, however also then they do not turn as well as an epoxy or fiberglass board.
If you are learning to surf, however, this won’t be an issue as you will certainly be spending most of your time going straight so you can understand equilibrium and appearing.
Best Foam Surfboard Brands
Wavestorm
Wavestorm is usually the first brand that comes to mind when people think of foam boards. The construction, shape, and materials they use are long-lasting and can withstand a beating.
To see all the information, take a look at our Costco Wavestorm Surfboard Review web page.
California Board Company
They only use high-density polyethylene and EPS foam core so their boards are made to last. Their boards are shaped by surfers who have an incredible knowledge of board function and performance.
To learn more about this brand, see our CBC Surfboards testimonial web page right here.
South Bay Board Company
South Bay Board Co. prides itself on making flexible foam surfboards that every person can ride. The usage of cutting-edge form style and products to offer boards for kids, beginners, and progressed surfers alike. From egg shapes to standard longboard forms, there is something for everybody from SBBC.
BIC
Many are stunned that the well-known lighter firm likewise makes surfboards for newbies! My initial board was an epoxy BIC board. I can directly testify to the resilience of these boards, as I once dropped it from my three tales high veranda and it was great.
They make foam core and epoxy boards of every imaginable shape, and they last a long time. It has a wide deck for stability and is very buoyant for catching waves.
For more information about this business, see our BIC Surfboard Review web page.
StormBlade
Stormblade is another trusted surfboard company that makes excellent foam boards. These boards are wide, durable, and buoyant, perfect for a beginner who is learning how to take care of a surfboard and will wipe out a lot.
Catch Surf
One of the most control forces on the foam board market today is Catch Surf.
Their antics are retro 80’s surf culture influenced and they have been capturing up several of the top pro web surfers in the world to include as part of their team.
To learn more about them, see our review of their top marketing board at our Odysea Surfboard testimonial web page.
Wave Bandit
Wave Bandit is a new spin-off brand name from Catch Surf. Their boards are made much like a Catch Surf, which is great top quality. But don’t think that Wave Bandit is a cheap brand due to they are in the Big 5. Wave Bandit is doing quite possibly and is being marketed in popular showing off goods shops.
FAQ
Are Foam Surfboards Good For Beginners?
Foam boards are perfect for newbies! The foam core is very buoyant and gets momentum extremely conveniently. This is excellent for catching waves. Because paddling calls for a very new set of muscle mass, most individuals need to develop them up. It’s easier to do this on a board that captures waves quickly.
Foam surfboards have larger decks, which implies much more surface location to discover to stand on. Much more buoyancy is much better for equilibrium as well, as foam boards don’t tend to sink in the wave as a lot as standard fiberglass or epoxy boards.
Should I Get A Foam Surfboard Or a Regular Longboard?
If you are discovering to surf, foam boards are the way to go. They are generally extra stable and buoyant than traditional longboards. This is better for balance and finding out how to paddle into waves.
Conventional fiberglass and epoxy longboards are much harder, too. When learning to surf, you’ll be wiping and dropping out a whole lot. There is less hazard of injury with a softer foam core soft-top surfboard.
Do You Have To Wax A Foam Surfboard?
Some boards don’t need waxing and come with a top deck with a grippy surface area. If you are not sure concerning whether or not your board needs wax, you can check with your regional surf shop, the brand internet site, or ask your surfer, good friends!
How To Wax A Foam Surfboard?
Waxing a foam surfboard is essentially like waxing a standard fiberglass or epoxy board. First, you’ll desire some base coat. The skim coat is extremely difficult and acts as a catch-all to the softer wax utilized to keep your feet on the board.
You will want to cover the board with wax in a round motion. The circle only requires to be a couple of inches in size. Proceed with the circular pattern up until the board where your feet will certainly go is covered. You can duplicate this procedure with the top coat of wax over the skim coat.
How Do You Take Care of a Foam Surfboard?
If they are taken care of right, the 10 foam surfboards on this list will certainly last you a lifetime. Maintenance is reasonably easy, as well. First off, attempt to rinse your board with fresh water after each usage. Saltwater can be degrading and freshwater rinses maintain material stability.
It’s likewise vital to maintaining your board saved in a trendy, dry location out of straight sunshine. Though the foam boards on our checklist are made to be difficult and sturdy, saving them in color maintains UV rays from tarnishing them. Severe cold and heat can additionally warp the board, so a storage place with a constant modest temperature level is optimal.
How To Repair A Foam Surfboard?
Boards like the SBBC 7′ Soft Top are made to be durable and damage immune. That being said, sometimes unforeseen dings, slits, and scratches can still occur. Repair is very easy, nonetheless, and you can easily do it yourself for a low-cost.
You can get replacement foam cells and resin to repair holes and dings. Many repair service packages come with foam cell powder and activator liquid.
History of Foam Surfboards
Thank you, Tom Morey, for invented perhaps one of the funniest water sports in the background! Morey developed to boogie board in the ’60s and in the ’80s and ’90s, his boogie board soft top layout was surpassed by Matt Zilinskas and John Yeh of AGIT.
They realized they might take Morey’s boogie board polystyrene foam and slick plastic bottom and make a surfboard from it. They promptly understood this board design was perfect for beginners and unique board enthusiasts. It is softer to minimize the danger of injury, really buoyant to capture waves, and absolutely water-proof! Thanks, people.
Where Should I Buy?
Because we know searching for a foam surfboard can be a great deal of work, we made this checklist to take the effort out of your shopping experience. There’s no better place to buy a foam top surfboard than right from this list! The quality and efficiency of our top 10 best soft top surfboards are assured and you won’t find far better deals anywhere else!
Do I Need A Warranty?
Much of these boards include a warranty. Once again, these boards are made to last, but occasionally things take place. In the event you get damage to your board that is too complicated for you to repair on your own, like a damaged fin box, it’s a great concept to have a service warranty.
You’ll be able to get the manufacturer to repair the board at no added expense to you, other than maybe shipping. And many times the service warranty consists of replacing missing components, like if you lose a fin in the waves.
Final Words – Which Board Should I Get?
If you desire a board with a unique shape, while still using the foam top modern technology, the Surfboard California Board Company 6’2″ Fish is an interesting mix of efficiency and the soft top layout. IT can be ridden like a typical fish but is a lot more resilient and buoyant than a traditional fish.
Several surfers that are extra advanced in ability love to ride foam boards, too. A board like the SBBC 8′ Verve board has board form information that make it much higher efficiency for even more experienced riders.
Searching for a perfect novice surfboard? You can not go wrong with the Wavestorm 8′ Soft Top. Wavestorm is known for perfecting the excellent shaped board for novices. The deck is wide permanently equilibrium, it’s very thick for exceptional buoyancy, and the nose and tail are round for excellent wave capturing and developing up paddle stamina. Arguably among one of the most prominent brands of soft tops on the marketplace, it’s no wonder why Wavestorm covers our list of the very best foam surfboards to acquire!
