Are vacuum bagged soft surfboards more difficult to paddle than hard surfboards? This is a question that often pops up among surf enthusiasts, and as a supplier of vacuum bagged soft surfboards, I'm more than happy to delve into this topic.
Understanding the Basics
Before we can compare the paddling difficulty of vacuum bagged soft surfboards and hard surfboards, it's important to understand what each type is. Hard surfboards are typically made from materials like fiberglass and epoxy resin. They are known for their rigid structure, which provides excellent speed and performance in the water. On the other hand, vacuum bagged soft surfboards are constructed using a process where the materials are compressed under vacuum pressure. This results in a board that has a softer exterior, often made from materials like EVA or IXPE, which are known for their durability and shock - absorbing properties.
Factors Affecting Paddling Difficulty
Board Weight
One of the primary factors that can influence paddling difficulty is the weight of the board. Generally, vacuum bagged soft surfboards tend to be heavier than hard surfboards. The additional weight comes from the soft materials used in their construction. When you're out in the water, a heavier board requires more effort to paddle. Every stroke has to overcome the extra mass, which can be tiring, especially for beginner surfers or those with less upper body strength. For instance, if you're trying to catch a wave, you need to paddle fast enough to match the wave's speed. A heavier soft surfboard may slow you down in this regard compared to a lighter hard surfboard.
Buoyancy
Buoyancy also plays a crucial role in paddling. Vacuum bagged soft surfboards usually have higher buoyancy due to the materials they are made of. This high buoyancy means that the board floats better on the water's surface. While this might seem like an advantage, it can actually make paddling more difficult in some cases. A board with too much buoyancy can be more difficult to submerge slightly with each paddle stroke. When you paddle, you want the board to cut through the water smoothly. If the board is too buoyant, it may tend to skip on the surface, reducing the efficiency of your paddling.
In contrast, hard surfboards often have a more balanced buoyancy. They are designed to sit lower in the water, allowing for more effective paddling strokes. The shape and construction of hard surfboards enable them to glide through the water with less resistance, making it easier to generate speed.
Flexibility
Flexibility is another aspect to consider. Vacuum bagged soft surfboards are more flexible than hard surfboards. When you paddle a flexible board, some of the energy from your paddle stroke is absorbed by the board's flex. Instead of all the energy being transferred into forward motion, a portion is used to bend the board. This can make it feel like you're not getting as much propulsion for each stroke, making paddling seem more difficult.
Hard surfboards, with their rigid structure, transfer almost all of the paddling energy into forward movement. The lack of flex means that every stroke is more efficient, allowing you to move through the water more quickly and with less effort.
Advantages of Vacuum Bagged Soft Surfboards in Paddling
However, it's not all doom and gloom for vacuum bagged soft surfboards when it comes to paddling. Despite the potential difficulties, they also have some advantages.
The soft surface of these boards provides better grip. When you're paddling, having a good grip on the board is essential. A soft surfboard allows you to dig your hands in more effectively, which can help you generate more power with each stroke. This is especially beneficial in rough water conditions where maintaining a firm hold on the board can be challenging.
Additionally, the shock - absorbing properties of soft surfboards can be an advantage during paddling. If you hit a small wave or a bump in the water, the soft board will absorb the impact, reducing the jarring effect on your body. This can make the paddling experience more comfortable, especially over long distances.
Our Product Range
As a supplier of vacuum bagged soft surfboards, we offer a wide variety of products to suit different needs. Our High Quality EVA Soft Deck Surfboard is made from high - quality EVA material. It provides excellent grip and durability, and while it may have some of the typical characteristics of soft surfboards that can make paddling a bit more challenging, it also offers the benefits of a soft surface.
Our IXPE Soft Top Surfboards are another great option. The IXPE material used in these boards gives them a unique combination of flexibility and buoyancy. They are designed to provide a good balance between ease of use and performance.
We also have Epoxy Soft Surfboards. These boards are made using epoxy resin in combination with soft materials, offering a more rigid yet still soft - surfaced option. They can be a great choice for those who want some of the benefits of a hard surfboard while still enjoying the advantages of a soft board.
Overcoming Paddling Difficulties
If you find that paddling a vacuum bagged soft surfboard is more difficult, there are ways to overcome these challenges. Firstly, building upper body strength through exercises like push - ups, pull - ups, and rowing can make a significant difference. Stronger arms, shoulders, and back muscles will allow you to paddle more effectively, even with a heavier board.
Secondly, proper paddling technique is crucial. Focus on using your entire body when you paddle, not just your arms. Engage your core muscles to generate more power with each stroke. Also, try to find the right balance between applying enough pressure to submerge the board slightly and not over - doing it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, vacuum bagged soft surfboards can be more difficult to paddle than hard surfboards in many aspects. Their weight, buoyancy, and flexibility can pose challenges when it comes to generating speed and efficiency in the water. However, they also have their own unique advantages such as better grip and shock absorption.
If you're considering purchasing a surfboard, it's important to weigh these factors based on your skill level and personal preferences. Whether you're a beginner looking for a forgiving board or an experienced surfer wanting to try something new, our range of vacuum bagged soft surfboards offers a variety of options.
If you're interested in learning more about our products or are ready to make a purchase, we invite you to reach out to us for a procurement discussion. We'll be happy to assist you in finding the perfect surfboard for your needs.
References
- "Surfing Equipment: A Comprehensive Guide" by Surfing Magazine
- "The Physics of Surfing" by Ocean Sports Research Institute
- "Soft vs Hard Surfboards: A Comparative Analysis" by Surf Science Journal
