Spheros 8000 gets my vote for a "surf" reel.

If you will get splashed by saltwater then get the Spheros - its dark brown and less flashy as well.
The Stradic is much smoooother, but the lack of the waterproof drag steered me away from it. I wouldn't hesistate to use the Stradic as a boat reel or an inshore reel (I have a 4000FH - first season w/ just mono).
I use 50 lb PowerPro on my 8000 Spheros and it is pretty happy. The only time I run into problems is when I am using very light lures and I can't keep a good tension on the line.
The Spheros (4.7:1) is geared a little slower so it will have better pulling power over the Stradic (5.7:1). I think I've forgotten to mention that in the dozen or so posts about what I liked about the Spheros line.
The rotor on the Spheros sort of locks in place so the bail will never slam shut on you. Stradic doesn't have this feature.
Stradic has a grease port on the side and the Spheros doesn't. May be just another spot saltwater could potentially enter.
Rinse it off lighty and keep it oiled - both are solid performers.