FAQS

What is the best size board for me?

Please see our size recommendations page.

  • Choose the highest volume board that you can realistically carry and comfortably control in the water. 
  • A longer mini-mal or longboard with a full round shape will provide the best platform for you to learn how to paddle around in the water, get comfortable catching waves (and whitewater), and stand up on your surfboard.
  • Once you’ve mastered the basic wave-catching skills, you can progress to other boards (short, long, or in between) depending on your preference. Don’t be too impatient to progress before you’ve mastered the basics!

 

  • Length-to-Skill Level:

    • 7'0" to 7'6": Suitable for lighter beginners (Under 75/80kg) or progressing surfers looking for more maneuverability while still benefiting from some stability.
    • 8'0" to 9'0": Ideal for beginners of average to heavier weight (80/85+kg). These boards provide the best balance between floatation, stability, and ease of catching waves.
    • 9'0": Great for heavier beginners (90+kg) or those who want maximum stability and an easy, smooth ride on small to medium waves.

 

  • Why Length Matters:

    • Length affects the way the board sits in the water and how easily it catches waves. Longer boards allow beginners to paddle faster and catch waves sooner because of their large surface area.
    • Stability is key when learning, and a longer board provides a more stable platform for standing up and riding waves.

    In summary, while volume helps with floatation, length adds to the board’s overall stability, ease of paddling, and wave-catching ability, making it a critical factor in board selection for beginners.

Can't track my order?

For all our orders, we use Direct Freight Express Courier.

You can track your order directly on the courier's website below with your tracking/consignment number starting with #20746XXXXXXXX which you receive via email once you've placed your order with us:

https://www.directfreight.com.au/Default.aspx

Can't find the fins?

Yes. All boards come with a set of Soft Fins suitable for learning/use between the flags. (If you cannot find them in the carton box, please make sure that you open both ends of the box and put it flat down to make sure that there is nothing left inside, they should be located behind the tail where it says "Fins here" on the carton box).

Does the board come with a leash?

Leashes can be added separately as a package deal option at the checkout page.

Can't find the leash?

If you did purchase an add-on leash, it would be placed inside the carton box.

As accessories might move inside the box during transportation, it can happen that the leash or fins end up in a hidden corner of the box.

We recommend opening the main carton box at both ends and putting it completely flat down to make sure that there is nothing left inside before storage or disposal of the carton box.

What kind of fins are Softlite Boards compatible with?

We include a spare Soft Fins Set with every Softlite Board purchase.

All of our current Softlite Boards are equipped with our "Bones and Shank" fin boxes system which are compatible with all FCS1 or dual tab fins alike:

https://shapers.com.au/fibre-flex-medium-1/

If you want to use hard fins, you will have to purchase them separately. 

 

Do I need to wax my board?

Yes, although they generally don't require as much wax as a fiberglass board. The boards can be a bit slippery when first taken out of their packaging, so a good wash-off with fresh water and a decent coat of wax will help. After this, just a light coating every few surfs,  where your chest and feet go will suffice. 

For more details about how to wax a softboard, check out the link below:

https://getfoamie.com/how-to-wax-a-soft-top-surfboard/

How do I install the fins in the fin boxes?

That's easy! You can just use the little fin key provided with the fins to unscrew the touch the little silver grub screws already present in the fin boxes (only 2 grub screws are needed per fin box) so they are not in the way (avoid taking the entire screw off the fin box as you might lose them due to their small size). Then push the fins into the fin box and screw them back in until they feel firmly in! (Be gentle and do not overtight them, you can damage the fin or the screw head and the fin key).

How do I install properly the leash in the leash plug?

You will just need to slip the little leggie string through the leash plug :

   

(keep the original knot on nice and tight so it does not come undone in the surf)

Just make sure that the leggie string is not too long and that it does not sit on the edge of the tail of your board otherwise it might ding into the foam over time or break the tail of the board after repetitive stress. To minimize leverage on the tail and avoid repetitive pulling on the leash. Proper handling of the board can significantly reduce stress on critical points.

    How do I repair my softboard?

    Please see our board repair page. 

    How long does it take to have my board delivered to my address?

    Please check out our Shipping and Delivery page.

    Any more questions?

    Please send us an email with your request from our "Contact Us" page.

    Thank you.

    The Softlite Team.