Foamies vs Epoxy Softboards vs Hard Boards: Which One Should You Start With?
If you're just starting your surfing journey, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing your first surfboard. The three main options beginners consider are foamies (softboards), epoxy softboards and hard boards (Epoxy or PU surfboards). Each has its own advantages, and selecting the right one can make or break your learning experience. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide which board suits your needs best.
WHAT IS A FOAMIE SURFBOARD?
A foamie (or “softboard”) is a surfboard with a soft, foam-covered deck instead of a hard fibreglass or epoxy outer shell. These boards are popular for surf schools and beginners because they are forgiving, buoyant, and safe.
PROS OF FOAMIE SURFBOARDS:
✅ Beginner-Friendly: The extra volume and soft deck make them stable and easy to paddle.
✅ Safer for You and Others: Falls are inevitable when learning, and a foamie is far less likely to cause injury if it hits you or another surfer.
✅ Durable: These boards can handle rough treatment and dings without major repairs.
✅ Great for Crowded Lineups: If you’re surfing in beginner-friendly locations with lots of people, a foamie reduces the risk of accidents.
✅ Affordable: Foamies are often cheaper than traditional hard boards, making them a great investment for first-time surfers.
CONS OF FOAMIE SURFBOARDS:
❌ Limited Performance: Foamies tend to be heavier and less manoeuvrable, making it harder to progress to advanced turns and manoeuvres.
❌ Slower Speed: The soft surface creates more drag in the water, meaning you won’t generate as much speed as a hard board.
❌ Less Responsive: Compared to hard boards, foamies don’t allow for deep rail engagement, limiting the ability to carve or cut back.
WHAT IS AN EPOXY SOFTBOARD?
Epoxy softboards are a hybrid between traditional foamies and hard boards. They feature an epoxy core with a soft deck, combining the durability and safety of a foamie with the improved performance of a hard board. These boards are ideal for surfers looking for a more responsive ride without sacrificing stability.
PROS OF EPOXY SOFTBOARDS:
✅ Enhanced Performance: More responsive than a full foamie, allowing for better control and manoeuvrability.
✅ Increased Durability: The epoxy core makes these boards stronger and more resistant to damage compared to traditional foamies.
✅ Safer Than a Hard Board: The soft deck still provides some cushioning in case of falls.
✅ Good for Progression: A great stepping stone between foamies and full hard boards, making the transition smoother.
✅ Versatile: Can be used in a wider range of surf conditions.
CONS OF EPOXY SOFTBOARDS:
❌ Still Not a Full Hard Board: While they offer better performance than a foamie, they don’t match the speed and sharp responsiveness of a full hard board.
WHAT IS A HARD BOARD?
A hard board is a traditional surfboard made from a fibreglass or epoxy shell over a foam core. These boards offer better performance and responsiveness but require more skill to control.
PROS OF HARD BOARDS:
✅ Better Performance: Lighter and more responsive, allowing for sharper turns and improved manoeuvrability.
✅ Faster Paddling and Wave Entry: Hard boards glide through the water more efficiently, helping you catch waves earlier.
✅ Long-Term Progression: Ideal if you plan to improve your skills and eventually ride bigger, steeper waves.
✅ More Customization: Available in various shapes, materials, and fin setups for different surf styles and conditions.
CONS OF HARD BOARDS:
❌ Falling on or being hit by a hard board hurts more than a foamie.
❌ Can ding, crack, or break with rough handling.
❌ Hard boards typically cost more than soft tops and epoxy softboards.
WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
The decision between a foamie, an epoxy softboard, or a hard board depends on your goals, skill level, and surfing environment. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Choose a Foamie if:
- You’re a complete beginner and want the easiest, safest learning experience.
- You surf at crowded beginner-friendly spots where safety is a concern.
- You want a durable board that can handle rough use and last a long time.
- You’re on a budget and want an affordable entry into surfing.
Choose an Epoxy Softboard if:
- You want a balance between performance and safety.
- You’re looking for a board that’s more durable than a foamie but still forgiving.
- You want something that will help you transition from a beginner board to a traditional hard board.
- You need a board that works well in a variety of surf conditions.
Choose a Hard Board if:
- You’ve already gained basic surfing skills and want to progress further.
- You’re looking for a board that offers better speed, manoeuvrability and performance.
- You want a long-term investment in a surfboard that will grow with your skills.
- You surf in a variety of conditions and need more customization options.
All three surfboard types—foamies, epoxy softboards, and hard boards—have their place in surfing. If you’re just starting out, a foamie is the best choice for a stress-free and safe learning experience. However, if you’re looking for a step-up option, an epoxy softboard is a fantastic bridge before moving to a full hard board. And if you’re committed to improving and ready for a challenge, transitioning to a PU or SLX epoxy board can take your surfing to the next level.
One of the key considerations when choosing between these construction options, is determining what volume is right for you. Check out our Volume Calculator Tool to find the right board for your skill level and weight and also have a read of our volume blog here.
No matter what you choose, the most important thing is to get out there, have fun, and surf as much as possible. Life is better when you surf!
