9ft Surfboard
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Whether you're a beginner or looking to take advantage of that smooth, classic longboard style, a nine-footer is an excellent choice.
Of course, with so many 9ft surfboards on the market today, making a commitment to one can be difficult if you don't know what you're looking for.
Luckily, we've done the research for you.
Come paddle out with us as we take a look at some of the best 9ft surfboards in the industry.
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At A Glance:
#1 Best Overall - SBBC Heritage 8'8 →
#2 Good Beginner Surfboard - SBBC Tortuga 9'6" →
#3 Best For Performance - SBBC Panda Log 9' →
South Bay Board Co is one of the best foam surfboard manufacturers in the industry.
The Heritage 8'8", which is arguably one of the company's most popular soft surfboards, is an excellent choice for those who want a good beginner board.
With 86L of volume, this log can support riders up to 260lbs!
On the bottom of the Heritage lies a unique double concave bottom, which channels the water across the underside of the Heritage and out next to the fins.
Pair that with the entry-level rocker and you get surprising stability.
One thing we truly love about the Heritage is that it doesn't require wax! With the fingerprint textured IXPE deck, you can get in the water right away without having to worry about losing your grip.
The thruster setup was a bit of a surprise considering the size, but we're glad SBBC considered optimizing performance as much as possible.
In terms of strength, the 6 oz resin layer that covers both the top and bottom of the Heritage protects it from nasty impacts. The Heritage also has a rear rubber bumper, a triple-stringer system, and HDPE plastic netting, all of which provide long-lasting durability.
The heat-release valve, which is found on many SBBC boards, is there to prevent bubbling and delamination, two things that seem to plague foam surfboards, especially if they are often left in the sun.
Pro's
Con's
Another absolute killer from SBBC, the Tortuga is a bit like the bigger brother of the Heritage with 84L of volume, 9'6" of length, and a weight capacity of 300lbs. The Tortuga also comes with a thruster setup, though it is composed of two FCS fins and bond longboard-style 9" FCS single fin in the middle. As you might expect, the board comes with a fin key and a leash.
The nose on the Tortuga is extra-round for added stability. Once you get comfortable on your Tortuga, you'll be able to perform nose rides like it's nobody's business.
As for strength, you get the I-Beam Stringer System, which is made up of dual wooden stringers. These stringers run from the tail of the Tortuga to the nose, providing much greater durability.
As with the Heritage, the Tortuga also comes with a heat-release valve to protect it from bubbling and delamination.
Pro's
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#3 SBBC Panda Log 9' - Best For Performance
While you may think of a panda as one of the cutest and most harmless creatures on Earth, the SBBC Panda is a force not to be reckoned with.
At 9' long and with 65L of volume, the Panda can support up to 250lbs.
As with most of SBBC's Pro-Series surfboards, the Panda utilizes a closed-cell EPS core and dual-sided wooden body armor.
The subtle, single concave that runs throughout the underside of the Panda starting from the nose before moving into a double concave as it reaches the tail, provides more flow, speed, and power when in the waves compared to most soft-top models.
For added maneuverability, while surfing, you get 60/40 rails.
However, thanks to the rounded nose and square tail, very similar to the Tortuga, the Panda is incredibly stable and easy to stand on, perfect for surfers who are just getting in the white water for the first time.
Of course, you get the standard durability features that you might expect to see with SBBC boards, including the I-Beam stringer system, the 6oz fiberglass layer on the top and bottom, and the carbon fiber wrapped rails.
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#4 Boardworks Froth 9'
You may have seen Froth models out in the water before.
Boardworks is known for its high-quality, minimalistic line of soft-tops, many of which are great for beginners and kids.
However, Boardworks is also known for crafting high-quality and versatile foamies that are great for surfing numerous kinds of waves.
Whether you're looking for your first board or you're a veteran surfer in the market for a soft-top you can rip on, the Boardworks Froth 9' should do you well.
The Froth utilizes lightweight and durable construction techniques, making it very rider-friendly.
We love the simple soft foam deck designs, as they don't scream "I'm a kook!" as some soft-top models do.
For added long-lasting durability, the Froth has a fully glassed EPS foam core and soft EVA outer skin. You'll feel comfortable riding this bad boy no matter the type of wave.
Whether you're just starting out in the world of surfing or you're looking to change things up at your local shore break, the Froth is there for you with one of the most understated and versatile designs on the market.
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FAQ
Is a 9ft surfboard good for beginners?
Absolutely! A good nine-footer should be more than stable and buoyant enough to help you surf with ease. Because 9ft surfboards have more volume compared to shortboards, they can support additional weight, making them seem as if they float directly over the surf of the water.
What sized person does a 9ft surfboard fit?
When you're just starting out, it is highly recommended that you get a soft-top that is at least two to three feet taller longer than your height. Essentially, if you are a newbie who is 6ft tall, a nine-footer would be perfect for you!
Is a longer surfboard easier?
Yes. Longboards have been around for hundreds of years, and though the materials and construction methods have changed, the basic qualities have remained the same. One of those qualities is buoyancy, which makes sense. The longer and larger and object, the easier it will be to float on it.
Beginners will often buy soft longboards as their first surfboard models, thanks to the fact that they provide tons of buoyancy, are much safer to ride than a fiberglass shortboard, and can surf in shorter or mushier wave conditions.
If you're a newbie to the sport and you're not sure what kind of log to go with, we highly recommend getting yourself a longboard.
Final Thoughts
We hope that our review of this one-of-a-kind soft-tops was helpful in narrowing down your purchasing choices.
As you can see, there are plenty of great nine-foot options to choose from. From heat-laminated cores to unique fin system designs, there are plenty of things to consider when searching for the perfect log. Choose from one of the reliable and high-quality models above, however, and you will be able to surf with a carefree attitude.
