Surfing was once a sport of men and women, wild adults and thrill seekers. Today, youth rules the waves. Surfers are learning at younger and younger ages. The beach is flanked by bleach blonde Oompa Loompas dragging surfboards haphazardly through the sand. All this is due in no small part to surf schools and the advent of the soft surfboard.
Soft surfboards are traditionally longer (7-8 feet), thicker surfboards made of a soft bodyboard-like material. They flex and bounce and are literally beginner boards to their very core, perfect for surf camps and basic beginning surfers, but not optimal for budding intermediate to advanced surfers.
But just as fiberglass surfboard construction is no longer the only game in “hard” surfboard technology, soft boards have also evolved. Case in point, I just tried out a Liquid Shredder soft surfboard. Well, I didn’t try it, but rather, my 7 year old son did. And I think he dug it.
I was impressed with the construction and shape of this little nugget (I’m referring to the soft board not my kid). My son, weighing in at a bony 50 pounds, topped out the weight limit of the 4’2” Element, and his full suit did nothing to lighten his load, but he had a blast, catching waves with ease and getting to his feet even in the 50 degree water temps.
Looking at the Liquid Shredder Element, I was struck by its unique construction, different from the standard soft surfboard. This little guy is solid and firm but forgiving at the same time. No bouncing or vibrating while you ride. Its shape (outline and rocker curve) resembles a traditional surfboard. It’s just miniature and soft.
At 4’2” x 19.3” x 2.3” the Element is a “cork” that catches waves easily and floated my kid who was probably a bit too big for it. It comes standard with a nose guard and leash built in. I really like the twin fin configuration since kids who have perfected the straight shot to the beach on the big board need the freedom when moving on to smaller boards. It spices up the ride and allows for some creativity that the big boards won’t allow, especially on juicier waves.
Built with a wooden stringer for extra support and reinforced rails that add strength to its closed cell polysterene foam core, the Liquid Shredder Element stands firm but feels soft to the touch. Unlike most soft surfboards, the Element’s “high speed” vinyl skin needs wax, so be sure to get some before you head out for your first session.
Bottom Line
Priced under $150, the Liquid Shredder Element is a good buy for a beginning surfer who is ready for the next level. The construction is solid and the board comes ready to ride (just get some wax). The board offers everything a small surfer needs.
