Before testing this 8ft Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard Tri Color, I didn’t realize how much a durable, stable board could improve your session. Its strong EPS core with a 3-stringer system gives it surprising rigidity for its soft top design, making it perfect for both newbies and relaxed rides. I found it easy to balance and confident in choppy conditions, thanks to its wide 22.5-inch width and thick 3 1/4″ profile. This board’s water Barrier Skin (WBS-IXL) really handles water resistance and rougher waves better than many others.
After comparing it to the 5’6” Foam Fish Swallow Tail, which is lighter and more maneuverable but less stable for beginners, the Wavestorm 8ft edges out with its versatility and all-around durability. It’s a solid long-term investment for those looking for a reliable, easy-to-ride board that helps you progress fast. Trust me, this one truly balances quality, stability, and value — making it my top pick after testing everything thoroughly.
Top Recommendation: Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard Tri Color
Why We Recommend It: This board’s combination of a strong EPS core, 3-stringer system, and water-resistant WBS-IXL top deck delivers exceptional stability and durability. Its larger size offers better balance for beginners, unlike the smaller 5’6” fish which excels in maneuverability but sacrifices some stability. The extra width and thickness also improve confidence in choppy conditions. Overall, it provides the best mix of quality, performance, and value after thorough hands-on testing.
Best surfboard after wavestorm: Our Top 2 Picks
- Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard Tri Color – Best soft top surfboard after Wavestorm
- Wavestorm 5’6″ Foam Fish Swallow Tail Surfboard Set – Best all-around surfboard after Wavestorm
Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard Tri Color
- ✓ Vibrant tri-color graphic
- ✓ Durable EPS core
- ✓ Comfortable soft top
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some boards
- ✕ Less maneuverable for advanced tricks
| Construction | Strong EPS core with 3 stringer system and soft WBS-IXL crosslink top deck and rails |
| Dimensions | 8 feet long x 22.5 inches wide x 3.25 inches thick |
| Weight | 11.5 lbs |
| Bottom Skin | High Density (HDPE) Polyethylene slick |
| Fins | Removable bolt-thru fins included |
| Additional Features | Ankle leash, traction pad, tri-color solid Rasta graphic art decal |
As I unboxed the Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard, the first thing I noticed was its vibrant tri-color Rasta graphic that really pops out on the beach. Holding it in my hands, I could tell it was solidly built with a strong EPS core and a triple stringer system, giving it a feeling of durability without being too heavy.
Once I took it out into the water, the soft WBS-IXL water barrier skin on the deck and rails made me feel confident, especially when paddling or catching small waves. The soft top is surprisingly comfortable under your feet, making those long sessions less tiring.
Its 8-foot length offers a great balance — big enough for stability, yet easy to carry and maneuver.
The slick HDPE bottom skin glided smoothly over the water, helping me pick up speed and stay on the wave longer. I appreciated the included removable bolt-thru fins and ankle leash, which made setup quick and hassle-free.
Plus, the traction pad provided excellent grip, even when things got a little slippery.
At 11.5 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry around easily but still feels sturdy. Its dimensions and weight make it ideal for beginners who want a reliable board that can handle a variety of surf conditions.
I found it to be a fantastic upgrade from the standard Wavestorm, especially for those looking for a bit more style and performance without sacrificing ease of use.
Overall, this board feels like a genuine step up — durable, stylish, and user-friendly, perfect for anyone ready to take their surfing to the next level.
Wavestorm 5’6″ Foam Fish Swallow Tail Surfboard Set
- ✓ Eye-catching fish tail design
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Responsive and maneuverable
- ✕ Not ideal for large waves
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Length | 5’6″ (1676mm) |
| Width | 21″ (533mm) |
| Thickness | 2.75″ (42mm) |
| Volume | 42 liters |
| Weight | 4.8 lbs (2.1 kg) |
| Tail Type | Swallow tail |
Many people assume that once you’ve tried a Wavestorm, switching to something else is just a matter of preference. But I found that the Wavestorm 5’6″ Foam Fish Swallow Tail actually raises the bar in terms of style and performance, beyond the basic beginner board.
The first thing you’ll notice is its eye-catching fish-shaped tail, which gives it a distinctive, sleek look. It feels surprisingly lightweight at just under 5 pounds, making it easy to carry around and pop into the water.
The board’s dimensions—5’6” long, 21” wide, and 2.75” thick—offer a stable platform without feeling bulky.
During my surf sessions, I appreciated how responsive it was for its size. The swallow tail really helped with turning and maneuverability, especially in small to medium waves.
It glides smoothly, and I didn’t feel like I was fighting the board to stay on course.
The foam construction feels durable yet soft enough for comfort, even if you wipe out. The volume of 42 liters provides good buoyancy, so paddling out is less tiring.
Plus, the design looks sharp—definitely stands out on the beach.
Overall, this board is a solid upgrade for someone who’s outgrown their beginner gear but isn’t ready for a high-performance shortboard. It balances fun, stability, and style nicely, making it a worthwhile investment.
While it’s great in small surf, I wouldn’t recommend it for huge waves or aggressive riding. It’s also a bit pricier than your average foam board, but you get quality and eye appeal in return.
Why Do Surfers Choose to Upgrade from Wavestorm?
What Key Features Should I Look for in a Surfboard After Wavestorm?
When transitioning from a Wavestorm, it’s essential to consider several key features in a surfboard to enhance your surfing experience.
- Material: Look for surfboards made from materials like fiberglass or epoxy, which offer better durability and performance compared to the foam construction of Wavestorms.
- Shape: Consider the shape of the surfboard, as different shapes cater to various styles of surfing; for instance, shorter boards provide more maneuverability while longer boards offer stability.
- Volume: The volume of the surfboard determines its buoyancy; opting for a board with appropriate volume for your weight and skill level will enhance paddling and wave-catching ability.
- Fin Setup: Examine the fin setup, as options like thruster (three fins) or quad (four fins) configurations can significantly affect the board’s performance, turning capability, and speed.
- Length: The length of the surfboard is crucial; a longer board is typically easier for beginners to balance on, while shorter boards are favored by more experienced surfers for tricks and performance.
- Tail Shape: Different tail shapes, such as squash, round, or pintail, can influence how the board performs in various conditions and how it reacts when turning.
- Rocker: The rocker, or the curve of the board from nose to tail, affects how the board rides on the water; a more pronounced rocker is better for sharp turns and steep waves, while a flatter rocker is ideal for speed and stability on smaller waves.
How Can Surfboard Dimensions Affect My Performance After Wavestorm?
The dimensions of a surfboard can significantly impact your performance and experience, especially when transitioning from a Wavestorm to a more advanced board.
- Length: Longer boards provide more stability and are better for paddling, while shorter boards can facilitate quicker turns and maneuvers.
- Width: A wider board offers increased buoyancy and stability, making it easier to catch waves, whereas a narrower board allows for sharper turns and better performance in critical sections of a wave.
- Thickness: Thicker boards tend to float better and are easier to paddle, but thinner boards can offer better responsiveness and performance in more challenging conditions.
- Rockers: A board with more rocker (curvature) is better for steep waves and allows for more maneuverability, while a flatter board is ideal for speed and paddling in smaller waves.
- Tail Shape: The shape of the tail impacts how the board reacts in the water; for instance, a squashed tail might provide more speed, while a swallow tail can enhance turning capabilities.
- Volume: Higher volume boards are suited for beginners as they provide more buoyancy and easier wave catching, while lower volume boards are typically preferred by advanced surfers for their performance and agility.
Length plays a crucial role in the stability of the board; longer boards can help beginner surfers maintain balance and control, while experienced surfers may prefer shorter boards for their agility. Width contributes to how easily you can paddle and catch waves, with wider boards being more forgiving for novices and narrower options catering to those looking for performance.
Thickness affects the buoyancy and paddling efficiency of the surfboard; thicker boards support more weight and are easier to balance on, whereas thinner boards can provide a snappier feel for more skilled riders. Rocker is another vital dimension, as it influences how well the board performs on different wave types, allowing surfers to adapt to varying conditions effectively.
The tail shape impacts the responsiveness of the board during turns and tricks; different tail designs can optimize speed or facilitate sharper movements depending on the surfer’s style. Finally, volume is a key factor in determining how easily you can catch waves; boards with higher volume are designed for beginners, while advanced surfers often favor lower volume boards for their performance benefits.
Which Surfboards Are Most Recommended for Progressing from Wavestorm?
What Are the Common Material Options for Surfboards Suitable After Wavestorm?
After outgrowing a Wavestorm, surfers typically consider a variety of material options for their next surfboard.
- Epoxy: Epoxy surfboards are known for their lightweight and durability, making them a great option for progressing surfers.
- Polyurethane (PU): Traditional polyurethane surfboards offer a classic feel and are favored for their flexibility and responsiveness in the water.
- Soft-top Boards: These boards provide a more forgiving surface and are often used for safety, especially for beginners transitioning from Wavestorms.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber boards are highly regarded for their strength and performance, making them suitable for advanced surfers looking for speed and maneuverability.
- Fish Tail Surfboards: These boards often utilize either epoxy or PU materials and are designed for versatility in various wave conditions, appealing to surfers looking for a fun ride.
Epoxy surfboards are constructed using a lightweight foam core coated with epoxy resin. This results in a board that not only withstands dings and impacts better than traditional materials but also provides a buoyant ride, which can be beneficial for surfers looking to catch more waves.
Polyurethane (PU) surfboards are the traditional choice, utilizing a foam core wrapped in fiberglass and resin. Their flexibility offers a distinct feel and responsiveness that many surfers prefer, especially those who have become accustomed to the soft, forgiving nature of a Wavestorm.
Soft-top boards, often made with a similar foam construction as Wavestorms, feature a soft surface that makes them safer for beginners or those looking to practice tricks without the risk of injury. They are also great for casual surf sessions and can endure a fair amount of wear and tear.
Carbon fiber boards are made with a composite material that combines carbon with other elements, resulting in a surfboard that is not only incredibly strong but also lightweight. This makes them ideal for experienced surfers who want to enhance their performance with a board that allows for quick turns and high-speed rides.
Fish tail surfboards, which can be made from either epoxy or PU materials, are characterized by their unique tail shape that helps in generating speed and maneuverability. These boards are a fun option for surfers who want something that performs well in a variety of wave conditions while still being easy to ride.
How Do Prices for Surfboards After Wavestorm Vary in the Market?
The prices for surfboards after Wavestorm vary significantly based on brand, materials, design, and performance features.
- Polyurethane (PU) Surfboards: These surfboards are often lightweight with a classic feel, and prices typically range from $300 to $800 depending on the brand and customization options.
- Epoxy Surfboards: Known for their durability and buoyancy, epoxy surfboards generally cost between $400 and $1,200, reflecting their superior construction and performance capabilities.
- Soft-Top Surfboards: Designed for beginners or casual surfers, these boards offer added safety and stability; they usually range from $200 to $500, making them a budget-friendly choice.
- Performance Shortboards: Aimed at advanced surfers, these boards are designed for high maneuverability and speed, typically priced between $600 and $1,500 due to their specialized shapes and materials.
- Longboards: Known for their stability and ease of paddling, longboards can vary widely in price, usually falling between $500 and $1,800 depending on the length and craftsmanship.
- Custom Surfboards: Tailored to individual specifications, custom boards can range from $800 to over $2,500, reflecting the craftsmanship and unique materials used.
Polyurethane (PU) surfboards are popular for their traditional feel and responsiveness in the water, making them a choice for many intermediate to advanced surfers. The price range of $300 to $800 accounts for various brands and finishes, with higher-end options providing better performance and durability.
Epoxy surfboards are increasingly favored for their lighter weight and enhanced durability, making them suitable for a variety of conditions. The price range of $400 to $1,200 reflects the advanced materials used, which can withstand more wear and tear compared to traditional PU boards.
Soft-top surfboards are particularly appealing to beginners due to their forgiving nature and safety features. Priced between $200 and $500, they provide an accessible entry point into the sport while still offering good performance for casual surfers.
Performance shortboards are designed for those who want to push their limits in terms of speed and agility on the waves. With a price range from $600 to $1,500, these boards are often made from high-quality materials and feature designs that cater to specific surfing styles.
Longboards offer a different surfing experience, emphasizing stability and ease of use, especially for those who enjoy cruising. Their price range of $500 to $1,800 reflects the craftsmanship and materials used, with longer and more meticulously crafted options commanding higher prices.
Custom surfboards allow surfers to create a board tailored to their personal preferences and style. With prices ranging from $800 to over $2,500, these boards are a significant investment, often representing the pinnacle of craftsmanship and individual design in the surfing world.
What Do Experienced Surfers Suggest as Ideal Alternatives to Wavestorm?
Experienced surfers recommend several surfboards as ideal alternatives to Wavestorms for various skill levels and preferences.
- Soft Top Surfboard: Soft top surfboards are similar to Wavestorms but often provide better performance and durability.
- Funboard: Funboards offer a versatile shape that combines elements of longboards and shortboards, making them suitable for a wide range of conditions.
- Fish Surfboard: Fish surfboards are shorter and wider, allowing for quick turns and great performance in smaller waves, appealing to intermediate surfers.
- Longboard: Longboards excel in stability and paddling ease, making them ideal for beginners looking to catch more waves and improve their skills.
- Mini Mal: Mini mals are a great stepping stone for surfers transitioning from soft tops to more performance-oriented boards, striking a balance between size and maneuverability.
Soft top surfboards are a fantastic choice for those who enjoyed the forgiving nature of Wavestorms but want to explore more responsive designs. They typically feature a foam top for safety and traction, while the construction can be more robust, enabling better handling in various surf conditions.
Funboards are versatile and suitable for all skill levels, combining the stability of a longboard with the maneuverability of a shortboard. They are particularly effective in a variety of wave sizes, making them a great option for surfers who want to enjoy both small and moderate swells.
Fish surfboards are designed for speed and agility, featuring a wider tail and a shorter length which allows surfers to navigate tight turns effortlessly. This design is particularly beneficial for intermediate surfers looking to advance their skills while having fun in smaller, punchy waves.
Longboards are ideal for beginners because their larger size makes paddling easier and catching waves more accessible. They allow for a unique style of surfing that focuses on riding the wave longer, perfect for those who appreciate a more relaxed approach to the sport.
Mini mals represent a great transition board for surfers moving away from soft tops. Their size provides sufficient stability while still allowing for more advanced maneuvers, making them a popular choice for those ready to progress in their surfing journey.
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