Buying a softboard is really quite simple - you just need the right size, a good brand and the right price.
Size: How do I know what size softboard to buy?
We recommend you do a surf lesson first and ask your coach after the lesson what size they would recommend.
We also recommend buying a softboard from a surf school as they will have the knowledge to recommend the correct size board for you or your kids. Buying a softboard from a large department store is not recommended as the staff are not surf coaches and chances are you will buy the wrong board.
The correct size depends on your body weight, how often you plan on surfing, and how fit and athletic you are.
Brand: What is the best soft surfboard brand to buy for beginner surfers?
This is important to get right.
The good brands are durable, stable and user friendly.
We recommend, Oasis Softboards, 88 Surfboards, Ocean Soul,
Gnaraloo and Softech.
Average brands will air bubble, delaminate, take on water and snap. They are also thin narrow and hard for beginners to ride.
Some of the softboards on the market we least recommend are: Maddog, Bombora, Elnino, Olaina.
The right price: How much should I pay for a beginner soft surfboard?
You are normally only on a softboard for a year or so then you progress to a hard board.
If you plan on selling your board after a year or so and you don’t want to spend $600 on a beginner board,
the best value for money softboards are Ocean Soul and Oasis Softboards. They are priced from $180 to $300 depending on the size. They are both very durable and if looked after can last 6+ years.
If you plan on keeping the board for 10+ years and are happy to invest a bit more we recommend 88 Softboards. They are the best quality soft surfboard on the market. They are priced from $500 to $700 depending the size.
Happy Surfing
Manly Surf Guide
