Purchasing a kids first surfboard can make or break their experience. Soft top surfboards for kids allow a much higher chance for success when learning to surf. After teaching my niece and nephew how to surf, I’ll explain why I think soft top surfboards are best for kids and which brands & models are my favorites.
Why Soft Tops are Good for Kids
Normally, soft top surfboards are less expensive, less likely to cause injury, and overall, more user friendly than a traditional hard top or fiberglass finish. For this reason, they are a great choice for kids.
Forgiving – Let’s face it. Kids are fragile. When they are likely to be falling a lot, it’s better for them to fall on a board that is soft. Kids are less likely to be bruised or scraped on a soft top surfboard.
Durable – Since kids are expected to fall a lot when surfing, having a durable board is important too. This will prevent dents and pressure dings which are much more common on a fiber glass board.
No Wax – You are already going to have your hands full taking your kid(s) surfing. No reason to make it harder by having to fuss over wax. It’s messy, melts in the car, and will save you a few bucks too. If you do get a board with wax, try an eco-friendly surf wax.
Affordable – In general, soft top surfboards are less expensive than epoxy or fiberglass surfboards. The materials used in construction are not as high performance which lowers the price. But hey, a kid doesn’t need a high-performance surfboard either.
Whether your kid is learning to surf or more experienced, these same reasons still apply. There are several soft top surfboard models that are also suited for kids as their skills improve.
Surfboards for Kids: How to Choose
When choosing a soft top surfboard for your kid, I think of it in three categories: classic soft tops or soft tops based on price point + quality. Here are my recommendations for each category.
The Classic Soft Top
Soft top surfboards are synonymous with Wavestorms. Launched in 2004, it’s actually the best selling surf board ever and notorious for sales at Costco. Not only is it affordable but it’s suited for all types and ages of surfers.
I like this soft top surfboard for kids because it’s super buoyant and soft. Buoyancy is critical for kids to have a stable foundation when trying to stand up for the first time. The Wavestorm also has a soft and forgiving foundation making it difficult to hurt yourself.
The Wavestorm sells in sizes including 7ft, 8ft, and 9ft models. I like the 7ft model for kids since it’s smaller size + length is easier to handle.
The affordable and easy choice. Great for both kids and adults.
The Affordable Soft Top
Based in San Clemente, Catch Surf is notorious for it’s lineup of fun, soft top boards; many of which are perfectly suited for kids.
The smaller stature of their Shred Sled Twin Fin model makes it perfect for progression from bodyboarding to surfing. So, if your kid doesn’t end up taking up surfing – they can still rip it like a bodyboarder! Combined with the low price, you can’t beat the value you are receiving here.
Great for body boarding, pushing into waves, and more performance as your kid's skills progress.
The High Quality Soft Top
Degree 33 is my favorite local surf brand in Carlsbad, CA. Degree 33 has really upped the craftsmanship with their Epoxy Soft Top lineup. I consider their epoxy soft top series to be premium soft top boards. Their EVA foam deck is grippier than what you’ll find on a traditional soft top board from Wavestorm or Catch Surf. Additionally, the base is constructed of highly durable epoxy as opposed to plastic.
I think most of Degree 33’s soft top surfboards are great for kids but the 5’7 Cloud model really stands out to me. Similar to the Catch Surf Shred Sled, this model can just as easily be used for pushing your kid into the surf as it is for standing up on. It is smaller than the classic Wavestorm but it is still buoyant enough for a grom to stand on.
As an added bonus, this board is also great for adults so you can get two boards for one here. Plus, it will last for years.
If you are looking for higher quality that your kid can float on and you can also rip on after teaching them, look no further.
Soft Tops vs Hard Tops
As stated, soft top surfboards are better for kids than hard tops for a few primary reasons. 1) Soft tops are forgiving for falls 2) Soft tops have an affordable price tag. However, you might consider a hard top if you are seeking a long lasting board that you can continue to surf as your skills progress.
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$239.99
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$825
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- Soft top, forgiving on falls
- Great price point!
- Construction quality not as long lasting
- Perfect for all levels of surfers
- Great for higher performance surfing
- Pricier for an entry level surfer
Thanks for reading! If you are still unsure which board to purchase, try Degree 33’s board demo program.
