Explore the differences between soft and hard boards, evaluating which option best suits your skill level and surfing style

When it comes time to choose a surfboard, the question to ask yourself is simple, but not at all obvious: is it better to have a softboard or a hardboard? This is the dilemma that many beginners and enthusiasts ask themselves-that’s why we decided to take a look at the features, advantages, and disadvantages of both types of boards. In short, we will guide you in choosing the perfect board according to your level of experience. Are you ready to follow along?

The characteristics of softboards

Softboards, the “soft boards,” are designed to be safer and easier to use than traditional hardboards.

Softboards are made of materials such as polyethylene foam for the outer cover, which provides a soft, cushioned surface, supported by an inner core of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane (PU), which provides buoyancy and rigidity to the board.

One of the main advantages of softboards is their safety-the soft surface reduces the risk of injury in case of a collision, making them ideal for beginners and children. In addition, they are usually lighter than hardboards, making them easier to carry and handle in the water. Softboards float better than hardboards, which allows surfers to catch waves even when they are smaller or less powerful.

Softboards also have some disadvantages:flexibility and lack of rigidity can limit performance, especially when trying to perform a complicated maneuver. In addition, a softboard can deteriorate faster than a hardboard and requires more frequent and careful maintenance.

Read also: How to choose the ideal surfboard leash: length, diameter and materials make the difference

Hardboard: here are the technical characteristics of hardboards

Hardboards are the “classic” surfboards, generally made of an inner core of polyurethane foam (PU) or expanded polystyrene (EPS), coated with an outer layer of fiberglass and resin. Epoxy resin and fiberglass are the most common materials used for the outer coating because they are strong and lightweight.

The main advantage of hardboards is responsiveness, which enables superior performance. Because of their rigidity, these boards are perfectly maneuverable in even the most powerful and largest waves. In addition, hardboards tend to be more durable and abrasion-resistant than softboards.

However, there is no shortage of disadvantages. One of the main ones is the risk of injury: the hard surface can cause problems in the event of a collision.
In addition, hardboards can be heavier and more difficult to transport, and maintenance can also be more complicated: a crack or damage to the resin can allow water to seep into the inner foam and compromise the board’s structure.

Finally, hardboards can have a greater environmental impact than softboards, given the materials used in their production and the difficulty in recycling them. However, there are “eco boards,” which are made from environmentally friendly and recyclable materials.

How to choose a surfboard based on your skills (and type of surfing)

The surfboard should be chosen according to one’s Surfing experience.

For beginners, softboards are often the best choice: long, wide, and thick, they are stable and easy to maneuver. Their buoyancy helps beginners catch waves more easily and maintain balance. A board of at least 8 feet is ideal for learning the fundamentals of surfing without too much risk of injury.

Intermediate surfers, who have already mastered the basics, can begin experimenting with somewhat shorter, more responsive boards.“Funboard” or “mini-malibu” boards between 7 and 8 feet (just over two meters or so) in length offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability and allow them to refine surfing techniques and begin performing more advanced maneuvers. Intermediates can also consider hardboards.

Experienced surfers usually prefer hardboards, which, as we have said, are lighter, thinner, and more responsive, allowing them to perform complex maneuvers and surf more powerful and larger waves. Shortboards, which range in size from 5 feet to just over 2 feet, are perfect for those seeking high-level performance, but beware: they should be used by those who already have an excellent command of the technique.

Board choice also depends on the type of waves and your surfing style: a board with a pointed nose and thin rails is perfect for big, powerful waves, while a board with a round nose and full rails is better suited. for small, soft waves.

Read also: Complete Guide to Surfboard Sizes: Choose the Right Size

In conclusion

The surfboard market offers a variety of choices that meet the needs of surfers of all levels. Softboards, with their safety and ease of use, are perfect for those new to surfing, while hardboards offer superior performance for more experienced surfers. But what will be the next step in the evolution of surfboards? Will new technologies and eco-friendly materials radically change the way we surf? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: innovation never stops.

Now that you’ve read the information you need to know what kind of board to choose, are you ready to get started with surfing? Well, if so, know that the Canary Islands is a great place to start!

Check out our surfing courses in Fuerteventura: our surf school is ready to welcome you!

Takeaways

• Softboards are designed to be safer and easier to use than hardboards. Made with an outer cover of polyethylene foam and an inner core of expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) or polyurethane (PU), they provide a soft, cushioned surface, reducing the risk of injury. They are lightweight, easy to carry and float better, making them perfect for beginners.
• Rigid boards, made of polyurethane (PU) or expanded polystyrene (EPS) coated with fiberglass and resin, are very responsive and maneuverable, ideal for surfing powerful and large waves. They are more durable and resistant to abrasion, but can cause injury because of their hard surface. They are preferred by experienced surfers because of their ability to perform complex maneuvers.
• Beginners should opt for softboards of at least 8 feet for stability and ease of use. Intermediate surfers can experiment with funboards or mini-malibu boards between 7 and 8 feet in length, which offer a good balance between stability and maneuverability. Experienced surfers prefer hardboards, which are lighter and more responsive.
• Although softboards are safer, their flexibility and lack of rigidity can limit performance and require more frequent maintenance. They can deteriorate more quickly than hardboards, which means care must be taken not to damage them.
• Hardboards can have a greater environmental impact because of the materials used in their production and the difficulty in recycling them. However, there are also “eco boards” made from environmentally friendly and recyclable materials, which are a step toward more sustainable surfing.

FAQ

What are the main characteristics of softboards?

Softboards are designed to be safer and easier to use than traditional hardboards. They are made with an outer cover of polyethylene foam and an inner core of expanded polystyrene foam (EPS) or polyurethane (PU). This design provides a soft, cushioned surface, reducing the risk of injury. Softboards are lightweight, easy to carry, and float better, making them ideal for beginners and children. However, their flexibility can limit performance and they require more frequent maintenance.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of hardboards?

Hardboards are classic surfboards with a polyurethane foam (PU) or expanded polystyrene (EPS) core, coated with fiberglass and resin. They are very responsive and maneuverable, offering superior performance in powerful waves. Hardboards are durable and abrasion resistant, but can cause injury because of their hard surface. They are also heavier and more difficult to transport, and their maintenance is more complicated.

How to choose a surfboard according to your experience level?

For beginners, softboards are ideal because of their stability and ease of use. A board of at least 8 feet is perfect for learning. Intermediate surfers can opt for funboards or mini-malibu, which offer a good balance between stability and maneuverability. Experienced surfers prefer hardboards, which are lighter and more responsive and ideal for performing complex maneuvers on powerful waves. Board choice also depends on the type of waves and surfing style practiced.