Almond R-Series vs. "Other Soft Tops"

There are plenty of soft top surfboards on the market, but to be honest, I don’t even like to refer to our R-Series boards as "soft tops." That’s because the R-Series surfboards aren’t built using the same outdated construction methods that many soft tops rely on.

Instead of glued seams and plastic bottom sheets, the R-Series utilizes a 3D molded, closed-cell foam that allows for a waterproof construction. This innovative process means our boards feature the same rails, rockers, contours, and fin boxes as your favorite custom fiberglass surfboards.

But what truly sets the R-Series apart from other soft tops? Here’s why these boards—available in 5'4, 6'4, 8'0, and 9'2 options—stand out.

1. A Shape for Every Style and Skill Level

Whether you’re looking for a nimble shortboard or a stable longboard, the R-Series has a size that fits your style:

• 5'4 Secret Menu: Quick, responsive, and fun in everything from small beach breaks to chest-high surf. Ideal for those looking for a compact, lively ride.
• 6'4 Pleasant Pheasant: A versatile mid-length board for surfers wanting a bit more glide and easy paddling but without committing to a full longboard.
• 8'0 Joy: The perfect all-arounder. Stable, easy to paddle, and capable of catching waves early, making it a favorite among surfers of all levels.
• 9'2 Surf Thump: The classic longboard experience—ideal for those who love smooth, flowing rides and noseriding. A must for surfers who want to maximize glide and style.

This range offers a board for every level and style of surfer, from a beginner looking to get their feet wet to more experienced surfers refining their approach.

2. Superior Wave-Catching Ability Across the Board

Every R-Series board is designed to help you catch waves earlier in their formation. The secret? The right volume and buoyancy. Each board, whether it’s the compact 5'4 or the long 9'2, is shaped to give you just the right amount of foam for easy paddling and wave entry.

Early wave entry is key—catching the wave before it breaks gives you more time to pop up, plan your approach, and stay in control. This helps you avoid the frustrations of trying to catch waves late, which is common with many soft tops that lack proper volume and buoyancy.

3. Ready to Surf—No Wax, No Hassle

R-Series boards are ready to surf right out of the box. With no need for wax, you can skip the hassle and hit the water as soon as you install the fins, which is as easy as it gets. This is a big step up from many soft tops that still require waxing or complicated setups, making the R-Series more convenient for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.

4. Built Tough for the Real World

The R-Series construction is designed to withstand the bumps and bruises of real-world surfing. Unlike many soft tops that ding easily or take on water after rough use, R-Series boards are made with durable foam that won’t absorb water. This rugged construction means they can handle rough conditions, rocky beaches, and accidental drops without needing immediate repairs.

While other soft tops may get damaged and lose performance over time, the R-Series remains as tough as ever, session after session.

5. User-Friendly, Yet Capable of Progressing with You

Whether you’re new to surfing or looking for a board that can handle more advanced moves, the R-Series boards are designed to grow with you. While many soft tops are strictly for beginners and become limiting as your skills improve, the R-Series lineup gives you the versatility to progress.

• For beginners: The extra buoyancy and stability in models like the 8'0 Joy and 9'2 Surf Thump make them perfect for learning to paddle, stand up, and catch waves.
• For experienced surfers: The responsive nature of the 5'4 Secret Menu and 6'4 Pleasant Pheasant allows for sharper turns, more speed, and greater control as your skills advance.

6. Performance at an Accessible Price

One of the standout features of the R-Series is the value it offers. Priced at about half the cost of custom fiberglass boards, the R-Series provides performance and durability at an accessible price point. For surfers who want to invest in a quality board without breaking the bank, the R-Series offers a great balance of affordability and performance.

7. Environmentally Conscious and Recyclable

As an added bonus, every R-Series board is recyclable, meaning when it eventually reaches the end of its lifespan, it can be turned into new products rather than ending up in a landfill. This eco-friendly design makes the R-Series a responsible choice for surfers who care about the environment.

Ready to Experience the R-Series Difference?

Want to hear what others are saying? We’ve collected 800+ reviews from surfers of all ages and skill levels who rave about their experience with the R-Series range—from the 5'4 Secret Menu to the 9'2 Surf Thump.

Ready to experience a superior foam surfboard? Browse our entire R-Series range: