How To Choose a Surfboard

Home | Lifestyle | Gear | How To Choose a Surfboard

How to Choose a Surfboard

If you are taking up surfing for the first time, finding the right surfboard for you can seem a bit overwhelming. Many choices are available in different shapes, sizes, and materials – all made to adapt to unique surfing methods or styles. Even seasoned surfers can have a little trouble choosing the right board for them!

Does My Surfboard Choice Matter?

Sometimes the simple solution is to pick any board – but it’s not advised to choose one and hope for the best. Surfboards can be an expensive investment on your part, and getting one that doesn’t suit may take away from your surfing experience. Choice of the board does matter to ensure you get the best from every session.

Things To Consider When Choosing a Surfboard

The factors to consider when choosing a surfboard may seem complicated at first. There are some technical options to choose from, but as a recreational surfer, it’s something you don’t need to worry about just yet. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a surfboard.

Skill Level

How many times have you surfed before? If you are a beginner, you are going to want a more stable board. You’ll need a soft top, a longer and wider one with volume to get going. As your skills advance, you can look into the shorter fiberglass boards. They have more maneuverability and are faster on the waves.

Fitness Level

Surfing needs quite a bit of paddle power. Therefore, fitness levels matter when choosing a surfboard. If you are an active person and in good physical shape, a shorter board will suit you fine as you’ll be able to catch the waves easier.

Height and weight are easier to figure out for board style than some of the other factors. The rule is – the bigger you are, the bigger your board will have to be. The board needs to be large enough to support your size to get the best surfing experiences. For tall people, your board will have to be longer. For heavier people, the board chosen will need to have a greater length and width.

Wave Type

How do you like to surf? Do you enjoy chilling out and peacefully riding the small waves? Then a longboard would be a good choice. Or are you a thrill seeker and enjoy the challenge of larger and rougher waves? If so, you’re going to want to invest in a high-performance shortboard.

Grab Your Board and Go!

We’ve given a general guide on choosing your board. As you get better at surfing – you may develop a more custom style and need special requirements. Surf shops and professionals love to talk about boards – if there’s anything specific you are looking for, have a chat with them. Most likely, they’ll know what to do or where to go. Otherwise – choose your board and get out there!