In recent years, surfing enthusiasts have witnessed the rise of soft top surfboards as a popular choice for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Two prominent options on the market, the Gerry Lopez soft top and the Wavestorm, offer unique features and have garnered attention from the surfing community. This article aims to provide an insight into the similarities and differences of these two popular soft top surfboards by diving into their performances and user experiences.
The Gerry Lopez soft top, available at Costco, is an 8-foot model that proudly displays the influential Hawaiian surfer’s logo and face on its packaging.
Known for his mastery of the Banzai Pipeline, Gerry Lopez’s endorsement of this board brings a sense of credibility and quality to those looking for a durable, user-friendly option.
On the other hand, the Wavestorm has been a go-to choice for many surfers due to its affordable price, availability, and reputation for being a reliable choice for learning and improving one’s surfing skills.
When comparing these two soft top surfboards, many factors come into play such as construction, design, performance, and user feedback.
This article aims to provide readers with a well-rounded understanding of the features and benefits of both the Gerry Lopez soft top and the Wavestorm, ultimately allowing them to make an informed decision on which board is the right fit for their own surfing journey.
Defining Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm Surfboards
Gerry Lopez is a legendary professional surfer known for his incredible skills and contributions to the sport. He has developed various surfboards throughout his career, aiming to create high-quality, accessible options for surfers of all levels.
In recent years, Gerry Lopez teamed up with Costco to create an affordable, high-performance soft-top surfboard, the Gerry Lopez 8′ foam surfboard. This board has quickly garnered positive attention among surfing enthusiasts due to its design and performance.
On the other hand, Wavestorm is a well-known brand in the soft-top surfboard market, with their boards being commonly found at Costco stores. They offer affordable, foam-based surfboards that cater to a wide range of skill levels.
The most popular model is the Wavestorm 8′ Classic Longboard, which has been a favorite for beginners and experienced surfers alike. These surfboards are acknowledged for their durability and user-friendliness.
Both Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm surfboards are constructed with foam materials that make them lighter and more buoyant than traditional hard-top surfboards.
Soft-top surfboards are known for their forgiving nature, allowing beginners to easily learn the basics of the sport without the risk of injury. They provide a more stable platform for the rider, making it easier to catch waves and maintain balance.
Additionally, both brands feature similar dimensions, with their 8-foot-long models being the most sought after. However, some differences in shape and design between the Gerry Lopez surfboard and Wavestorm may affect their performance.
The Gerry Lopez soft-top has a slightly narrower and thicker profile, which might make nose riding a bit more challenging compared to the more rounded shape of the Wavestorm board.
FCS fins, which are well-regarded in the surfing community, are integrated into the Gerry Lopez surfboard. This feature, along with the styrofoam core, is believed to contribute to the board’s better performance as compared to the Wavestorm. Despite these differences, both boards cater to casual surfers seeking an affordable and enjoyable surfing experience.
In summary, the Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm surfboards are both popular, foam-based, soft-top options targeting various skill levels.
These boards provide an accessible entry point for surfers, with their user-friendly designs and affordable price points. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preferences and specific performance goals.
The Fundamentals: Foam and Soft-top Boards
Foam boards, also known as soft top surfboards, or simply softboards, are designed to offer a forgiving and user-friendly experience for surfers of all skill levels.
Made from a combination of materials like EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam core, wooden stringers, and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) slick hard bottom, these boards provide stability, buoyancy, and durability which is perfect for beginners and proficient surfers alike.
Soft-top surfboards typically have a more flexible and resilient construction compared to traditional hard surfboards.
Their foam composition helps in reducing the chances of injury during wipeouts, which makes them a popular choice for surf schools and casual surfers. Moreover, the soft top, combined with the foam core, allows for better grip and traction, increasing the overall control on the wave.
When comparing the Gerry Lopez 8′ soft top surfboard with Wavestorm, it is essential to acknowledge their common features and subtle differences.
Both models share a similar construction, boasting a 100% waterproof EPS foam core, three wooden stringers for reinforcement, and an HDPE hard bottom.
However, the Gerry Lopez board features a specially designed shape by the renowned surfer himself, adding a unique touch to the design elements like the signature deck and logo graphics.
Additionally, this board has a weight capacity of up to 200 lbs and includes a traction pad for extra grip, a protective tail cap, and a tri-fin system.
On the other hand, the Wavestorm board is known for its affordability and wide availability, especially at Costco locations. Although, some surfers may argue that there are minimal performance differences between the two boards, opting for the Gerry Lopez soft top surfboard might give you a more personalized and high-quality experience due to its refined design elements.
When choosing between a Gerry Lopez 8′ soft top surfboard and Wavestorm, it is essential to consider your individual preferences, skill level, and budget. Both boards provide a reliable and enjoyable surfing experience, but the unique design touches on the Gerry Lopez board may sway some surfers in its direction.
Understanding Performance: Gerry Lopez vs Wavestorm
When considering the performance of Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm soft-top surfboards, it’s essential to analyze factors such as maneuverability, speed, and volume. This section offers a comparison between the two brands, highlighting their differences and similarities.
In terms of maneuverability, the Gerry Lopez 8′ soft-top surfboard has a narrower and thicker design than the Wavestorm counterpart.
This aspect of its design may make it slightly more challenging to perform nose riding, but it still offers similar floatation. The narrower nose enables the Gerry Lopez soft-top to deliver greater control during turns and a more agile performance overall.
Speed is another critical aspect of a surfboard’s performance. Both the Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm soft-top surfboards are designed with beginner to intermediate riders in mind. Their wide and stable designs provide sufficient speed in small to medium-sized waves, allowing surfers to catch waves easily and perform basic maneuvers.
Regarding volume, the difference between these two soft-top surfboards is minimal. Both Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm surfboards offer plenty of buoyancy and stability for new surfers.
Although the Gerry Lopez 8′ soft-top may have a marginally thicker profile, it does not translate to a significant advantage in volume or floatation.
When comparing the performance analysis of the two soft-top surfboards, it is clear that both have their strengths and weaknesses in specific areas. The Gerry Lopez surfboard excels in the realm of maneuverability and control, while the Wavestorm is known for its user-friendly design that caters to those learning to surf.
However, the performance distinctions between the brands may not be drastic enough to impact the overall experience for beginners and intermediate surfers.
In conclusion, choosing between the Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm soft-top surfboards ultimately comes down to personal preference and comfort level.
While the Gerry Lopez surfboard may be slightly more maneuverable, both brands will deliver a similar performance in terms of speed and volume, providing a fun and enjoyable surfing experience for riders of all skill levels.
Accessibility: Costco and Other Purchasing Options
When it comes to purchasing a surfboard, Costco has become a popular destination for surf enthusiasts seeking affordable and beginner-friendly options.
Two of the most well-known foam surfboards available at Costco are the Wavestorm and the Gerry Lopez 8′ Soft Top.
Costco offers the Gerry Lopez 8′ Soft Top surfboard, which is an exclusive product available in their stores. This surfboard comes with 3 surf fins, a surf leash, and an attached traction pad, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced riders.
The board’s price at Costco ranges from $89.99 on sale to $129.99 at its regular price, making it an affordable option for those entering the sport or looking for a versatile soft top.
In addition to Costco, potential buyers may find pre-owned Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm surfboards on Craigslist or other online marketplaces. Prices for these surfboards may vary depending on their condition and the seller’s location. It’s essential to inspect the board and ensure it is in good working condition before making a purchase.
Meanwhile, the Wavestorm soft top surfboards are more widely available. They can be found at Costco stores, as well as third-party retail outlets such as Amazon.
Those who prefer shopping online can easily purchase a Wavestorm surfboard on Amazon, where the price is typically comparable to Costco’s offers. Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the board’s performance and durability, making the purchasing decision more informed.
Ultimately, determining where to purchase a surfboard depends on the buyer’s preferences and needs. Costco offers an exclusive Gerry Lopez model, while Amazon and Craigslist provide additional options for acquiring a Wavestorm board or pre-owned options.
Regardless of the choice, both the Gerry Lopez 8′ Soft Top and the Wavestorm surfboards can offer individuals an accessible, beginner-friendly, and budget-conscious entry into the world of surf.
Ideal for Beginners: Stability and Ease of Use
When it comes to beginner surfers, selecting the perfect surfboard can greatly impact their initial experiences in the water.
Both the Gerry Lopez 8′ soft top and the Wavestorm have features that cater to newbies, making them candidates for the best beginner surfboards.
One key aspect that beginners require in a surfboard is stability. The Wavestorm boasts an 86L volume, providing it with ample buoyancy and float, which translates to increased stability for inexperienced surfers.
On the other hand, the Gerry Lopez 8′ soft top has a slightly lower volume at 73.5L but still offers adequate float for beginners. The difference in volume may not be significant enough to impact the choice for a novice rider, as both surfboards provide the necessary stability for learning.
When comparing the two boards, the rocker in the design should also be considered. The Gerry Lopez 8′ surfboard reportedly has more rocker, which can be beneficial for catching waves and enabling smoother turns.
While the Wavestorm may have lesser rocker, its construction and design still enable ease of use and maneuverability, delighting many beginner surfers.
In terms of ease of use, the Gerry Lopez 8′ surfboard comes with an attached traction pad and three surf fins, ensuring a swift setup process. The Wavestorm also comes with essential accessories, further simplifying its functionality for newcomers to the sport.
Lastly, materials contribute to the overall durability of these beginner surfboards. The Gerry Lopez 8′ features a styrofoam core, while the Wavestorm may use different material for its core. Regardless, both surfboards are strong and forgiving, allowing beginners to practice without fear of damaging their board.
In conclusion, the similarities of these two surfboards – stability, ease of use, and durability – make them ideal choices for those just starting their surfing journey.
Depending on personal preferences for volume, rocker, and materials, either the Gerry Lopez 8′ soft top or the Wavestorm could be the perfect beginner surfboard to build confidence and hone skills in the water.
Exploring Size Variations: 8ft, 9ft, and More
When comparing the Gerry Lopez 8ft soft top surfboard to the Wavestorm, there are noticeable differences in their dimensions and volume.
The Gerry Lopez 8ft board measures 96″ x 22″ x 3″ and has a volume of 73.5L. In comparison, the Wavestorm 8ft board has a higher volume of 86L, which results in more buoyancy and floatation.
Riders might find that the Gerry Lopez 8ft surfboard offers better paddling efficiency and responsiveness in turns. Its slightly reduced volume may provide a better feel and control in various wave conditions. This surfboard is suitable for weight capacities up to 200 lbs.
For those seeking a larger option, consider exploring 9ft surfboards or even the ultimate longboard experience. A 9ft surfboard provides additional stability and greater surface area, ideal for beginners looking to catch waves with ease.
Longer boards also perform well in small or mushy wave conditions since they allow for graceful gliding and smooth turns.
Ultimate longboards are versatile options that cater to various skill levels and wave conditions.
These boards often range from 9ft to 12ft, enabling surfers to experiment with different styles and maneuvers. Key features of longboards include a rounded nose, wide platform, and extended length, all of which contribute to an enjoyable and leisurely ride.
In conclusion, when selecting a soft top surfboard, riders must consider the size and features that best fit their preferences and skill levels. The Gerry Lopez 8ft surfboard and larger options, like the 9ft surfboard or ultimate longboard, offer distinct characteristics to enhance the surfing experience in different ways.
Experiences: Surfing with Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm
When it comes to choosing between the Gerry Lopez soft top and the Wavestorm, surfers have shared their experiences highlighting the differences in performance, design, and overall enjoyment.
In terms of paddling, both boards offer a relatively easy experience. However, some users have noticed that the Gerry Lopez board feels narrower and thicker than the Wavestorm, making it a bit more challenging to find the perfect balance on the nose.
Despite the narrower nose, the Gerry Lopez board maintains a similar float to the Wavestorm, allowing for stable paddling and balance.
When it comes to performance differences, many surfers report that the Gerry Lopez board seems to turn better compared to the Wavestorm.
This characteristic is often attributed to the stiffness of the FCS fins, which are a noticeable upgrade from the Wavestorm fins. Additionally, the Gerry Lopez’s core is made from styrofoam instead of the usual bodyboard foam found in Wavestorm boards.
The surfing experience with both Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm boards can be fun and enjoyable for surfers of different skill levels, particularly those who enjoy riding soft top boards. Both boards provide a stable and satisfying ride in varying wave conditions, making them suitable choices for beginner to intermediate surfers.
Although neither Gerry Lopez nor Wavestorm boards are Hawaii or California Board Company products, they are frequently found in the hands of surfers in these popular surfing destinations.
In fact, these boards are well-suited for riding shorebreak waves typically found in these locations, providing an exciting surfing experience without the worry of damaging more expensive hard-top boards.
While the Gerry Lopez soft top and Wavestorm are comparable in many aspects, there are subtle differences in design and performance that can alter the overall surfing experience. From paddling to catching waves and making turns, each board offers unique characteristics that cater to an individual’s preference, ultimately shaping their surfing adventure.
Making a Choice: Gerry Lopez vs Wavestorm
When comparing the Gerry Lopez 8′ soft top with Wavestorm surfboards, there are a few key points to consider to make an educated decision on which board is best suited for your needs.
- Performance and Shape: The Gerry Lopez 8′ soft top has a slightly narrower and thicker design compared to Wavestorm boards. This may make getting 5 on the nose a bit more challenging, but the board maintains similar float as a Wavestorm. Both boards are suitable for beginners, however, advanced surfers may prefer the performance of a real surfboard.
- Materials and Durability: Wavestorm boards are made from EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam, while the Gerry Lopez soft top uses a different foam construction. These materials affect the overall durability and lifespan of the boards. In general, more expensive soft top boards, like those from South Bay Board Co or Catch Surf Odysea Log, tend to last longer and may be more durable than Wavestorm boards.
- Ease of Progression: While a more expensive soft top board (like Catch Surf Odysea Log or South Bay Board Co) can help in skill progression, the same can be achieved on cheaper boards like Wavestorm or Gerry Lopez. However, once surfers reach a certain level of skill, they may want to switch from foam top boards to a 7-8′ funboard for further progression.
- Comparing Alternatives: Some surfers may prefer a soft top from brands like Odysea or South Bay Board Co, due to their higher quality materials and durability. The Catch Surf Odysea Log, for example, is another popular foam board option for those looking for a longer-lasting foam board.
The choice between Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm soft top surfboards will ultimately come down to personal preference and budget.
Both boards are suitable for beginners, though advanced surfers may consider investing in a real surfboard for better performance. Keep in mind that higher priced foam board alternatives may offer better durability and quality materials.
Progress and Improvement: The Surfer’s Journey
As a surfer progresses in their journey, they often seek to expand their quiver with boards that offer different performance characteristics.
Experienced surfers constantly look for new ways to hone their skills and get the most out of their surf sessions. In this context, let’s examine the two popular soft top surfboard options: the Gerry Lopez Soft Top and the Wavestorm.
The Gerry Lopez Soft Top is an 8-foot surfboard designed by the legendary Gerry Lopez, also known as “Mr. Pipeline”. This board features a 100% waterproof EPS foam core, three wood stringers, and an HD polyethylene slick hard bottom.
The deck is made with IXPE/XPE deck skin, and a tri-fin system along with a traction pad for grip is included. Bonus gear, such as surf fins and a PU dual swivel surf leash with a padded ankle strap, comes with the board as well. This particular soft top is tailored to provide surfers with confidence and an enjoyable experience while out on the waves.
On the other hand, Wavestorm has been a popular choice among surfers for many years, known for its affordable and user-friendly foam boards.
Wavestorm boards typically share similar construction features with the Gerry Lopez Soft Top. However, the main difference between these two options lies in the design philosophy and branding behind them.
While the Wavestorm targets a more general audience, the Gerry Lopez Soft Top is created by a surfing legend with a clear emphasis on shaping and performance.
Gerry’s extensive experience in tube riding and surfboard design sets his board apart from the competition, as he strives to offer a board specifically tailored to enhancing the progress and improvement of surfers in their journey.
In summary, both the Gerry Lopez Soft Top and the Wavestorm have their merits as soft top surfboards for progressing surfers. While the Wavestorm might appeal to a broader audience, the Gerry Lopez Soft Top provides a unique touch from a surfing legend focused on advancing the surfer’s skills on the waves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm surfboards?
Gerry Lopez soft top surfboards are generally narrower and thicker compared to Wavestorm surfboards.
The nose of a Gerry Lopez soft top is also narrower, making it difficult to have a 5 on the nose experience. Additionally, Gerry Lopez surfboards feature a styrofoam core, whereas Wavestorms use bodyboard foam.
Which surfboard is better for beginners: Gerry Lopez or Wavestorm?
Both Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm surfboards are suitable for beginners.
However, due to their wider design and more forgiving foam construction, Wavestorm surfboards may be more comfortable for beginners learning to surf.
How do Gerry Lopez soft tops compare in performance to Wavestorms?
Gerry Lopez soft tops offer better performance than Wavestorms, according to some users.
This may be attributed to the more refined dimensions of the board and the use of stiffer FCS fins that are included with Gerry Lopez surfboards.
Are Gerry Lopez surfboards more affordable than Wavestorms?
It is difficult to make a price comparison between Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm surfboards because prices vary depending on the retailer and specific models.
It is best to research and compare prices from various sources to determine which brand offers the best value for your needs.
What type of surf conditions are best for Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm soft tops?
Both Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm soft top surfboards perform well in small to medium-sized waves, making them suitable for a wide range of surf conditions.
However, their performance may differ in specific conditions due to the differences in design and construction.
Do Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm offer similar board varieties and sizes?
Both Gerry Lopez and Wavestorm offer various board sizes and styles. Gerry Lopez has a collection under Surftech and offers specific models such as the Something Fishy Surfboard.
Wavestorm, on the other hand, is known for its lineup of affordable foam surfboards that cater to different skill levels and preferences. It is advised to explore the range of options from both brands to determine the most suitable surfboard for your needs.