If you're new to the sport, then you should start off with some sort of "mini mal" shaped board. These come in a variety of forms and the Soft Top is probably the most ideal board to start on. In fact all BSA approved surf schools have to use them for their surf lessons, as standard.

Effectively they're heavier than a traditional custom board and therefore serve a limited purpose as progression with them is limited. But to get going (for the first time particularly), then they're ideal. Like custom minimals they're geared up for catching waves and provide superb stability when trying to stand up. They have the added benefit of having the soft deck which reduces the risk of accidents.

Soft Tops are ideal for first timers, but if you're serious about getting your own board then perhaps a slightly more progressive board would be more suitable. Soft Tops are fairly hard to turn and lack any real control compared to custom boards, they're also fairly heavy. This is why you wont see nearly as many Soft Tops for sale new or second hand, as you will compared to a custom shapd board.

However, for youngsters (under 12's in particular) they're possibly the best "learn to surf" choice as they're the most user friendly, due to their soft deck.