Best for: beginners, families and experienced surfers wanting a safe small-wave softboard.
The Softlite Chop Stick is the easy recommendation when the goal is simple: catch more waves, stand up sooner and keep the learning curve friendly. It has the broad, stable outline of a mini-mal, a soft deck and included thruster fins, but it feels livelier than the oversized foam boards used by many surf schools.
Why it works
Softlite uses a moulded waterproof EPS core, reinforced stringers, a 10lb PE deck skin and a high-density slick bottom. The result is buoyant, reasonably stiff for a softboard and forgiving when learner traffic gets chaotic. Six sizes run from 6’0 (45L) to 9’0 (90L). For most adult beginners, the 8’0 at 70L is the sweet spot; lighter riders can step down, while surfers above 90kg should look at the 9’0.
The board paddles early, carries speed through weak sections and gives a wide, calm platform for the pop-up. It will trim and turn, but the soft rails and generous volume are tuned for confidence rather than precision. Use plenty of wax and expect the supplied soft fins to trade some drive for safety.
What owners say
“I caught and stood up on more waves than I have in all the weeks using my old board.”
Peter W., public owner review originally posted on Softlite
Other public owner comments repeatedly praise easy paddling, quick progression and family-friendly fun. The useful caveats are equally consistent: a few riders find it less stable than a surf-school tanker, the deck can mark if handled roughly, and keen improvers may eventually want stiffer fins.
Verdict
Rating: 4.6/5. The Chop Stick is a very good first personal board and an excellent summer quiver option. It is easier to transport and turn than a giant learner board without throwing away the wave-catching advantage beginners need most.
Availability check: sold by Softlite Australia and Australian surf retailers; official 7’0 listing showed 120 public reviews and an AUD price of $529.99 when checked. Prices and stock change.
Sources: Softlite Australia product page; public owner-review excerpts syndicated from Softlite. Image used with credit to Softlite.
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