How to pick a surfboard:
4 things to consider for beginners
Lesson 9
Post contents
Introduction
Choosing the right surfboard can significantly impact your surfing progress as a beginner. How to pick a surfboard comes down to 4 considerations; surfboard size, surfboard material, surfboard shape, and tailoring your choice to local conditions.
The size part of it covers both volume and length, where you want to opt for a board volume of 75% of your weight in litres, and a board that fits your length according to this chart. When it comes to surfboard material, soft tops (foamies) are recommended for beginners due to their increased buoyancy, durability, and forgiving nature, which provide added stability and safety. Hard-top surfboards also have their advantages if you’re not a complete beginner. As for the shape of the surfboard, beginners should opt for a surfboard with a rounded nose and a stable, wider outline.
Now, let’s dive into the details of why it’s important to choose the right surfboard and what to look for! Or, why not check out my post on the top beginner surfboard picks out there.
Why is it important to choose the right surfboard?
You don’t want to go for a surfboard that is not suitable for your skill level, as it can slow down your progress towards becoming a good surfer.
When I surfed in Buffelsbai in South Africa not too long ago, there were not too many surfboard options to pick from at the local surf rental place. I made the mistake of choosing a surfboard that was way too small for me, and I ended up catching no waves, feeling frustrated and looking like a kook. After 30 minutes in the water, I decided to switch to a 9ft longboard from Roxy (which I loooved by the way!) and that made all the difference. Suddenly I was catching almost every wave I paddled for, and I could really feel how I was slowly starting to progress. With the right board for my skill level, I had so much fun the remaining part of my surfing session!
If you choose a surfboard as a beginner that is not suited for beginners, chances are you will not catch as many waves. And when you are new to surfing, you’ll want to use a board that allows you to catch as many waves as possible. The more waves you catch, the more practice you will get, and the more used you will become to riding waves. The more waves you catch, the faster you will progress.
How to pick a surfboard: 4 things to consider for beginners
1. How to pick a surfboard with the right size
As a beginner, selecting the right size surfboard is important. Opting for a board with a larger volume provides stability, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. Larger boards, often classified as longboards, are generally recommended for those just starting out.
As an example, I am 168cm long and weigh 54kg. The size of this surfboard would be quite ideal for me if it was my first time going for a surf, while the size of this surfboard would be too small for me.
Volume
Choosing the right surfboard volume is important for stability and ease of paddling. A simple method to determine the ideal volume is to calculate 3/4 (75%) of your body weight in kilograms (kg) and select a board with that volume in liters (L) on average.
Example: If you weigh 60kg:
- 3/4 (75%) of 60Kg = 45kg
- Therefore, for a weight of 60kg, aim for a surfboard with at least 45L of volume.
Length
The length of your surfboard also plays a vital role in your surfing experience. Longer boards generally offer more stability and are easier to paddle, making them well-suited for those just starting. Choose the best surfboard length for your weight and height using this size chart:
Surfboard length chart for beginners:
Lengths are in feet (ft) and they are approximate.
2. How to pick a surfboard with the right material
When exploring surfboard options, you’ll encounter different materials, each influencing your surfing experience. Understanding the material of your surfboard will help you in how to pick a surfboard.
Soft-top surfboards (foam boards)
Soft-top boards, often made of foam, offer a forgiving and comfortable learning experience. Consider the advantages of foam boards, especially in terms of safety and ease of use, as you take your initial steps into the waves.
This is an example of a soft-top surfboard suitable for beginners.
Advantages:
- Safety: Foam boards, often referred to as soft-tops, are known for their forgiving nature. The soft construction minimizes the risk of injury, making them ideal for beginners.
- Buoyancy: Foam boards provide excellent buoyancy, making paddling and catching waves more accessible for those just starting out.
- Durability: The soft and buoyant material is often more durable and resistant to dings and dents.
Considerations:
- Performance Limitations: While foam boards are excellent for learning, they may have performance limitations as your skills progress.
- Weight: They can be heavier than hard-top boards, which may impact maneuverability.
Hard-top surfboards
Embarking on the journey of learning to surf, beginners sometimes encounter a choice between foam boards and hard-top boards. Hard-top boards, crafted from materials like fiberglass or epoxy, provide a more performance-oriented option for those seeking versatility and maneuverability as they progress in their surfing skills.
This in an example of a hard-top surfboard suitable for beginners that are ready to switch up from a foamie- it’s actually the surfboard that I own myself and I really enjoy it!
Advantages:
- Performance: Hard-top boards, usually made of fiberglass or epoxy, offer superior performance as you advance in your surfing skills.
- Versatility: These boards are versatile and suitable for various wave conditions.
- Maneuverability: Hard-top boards often provide better maneuverability and responsiveness.
Considerations:
- Learning Curve: They may have a steeper learning curve for absolute beginners due to their less forgiving nature.
- Potential for Injury: The rigid construction can pose a higher risk of injury if proper safety precautions are not followed.
3. How to pick a surfboard with the right shape
The shape of your surfboard affects its performance in the water. For beginners, a rounded nose and a stable, wider outline contribute to ease of paddling and better balance. Understanding how different shapes influence maneuverability helps in choosing a board that aligns with your skill level and progression goals.
This is an example of a surfboard with a well-rounded nose and a wide outline, which is ideal for beginners. This surfboard on the other hand has a nose that is rather pointy and not well suited for complete beginners.
4. Tailor your choice to local conditions
Local wave conditions play a crucial role in determining the type of surfboard that suits your needs. Whether you’re dealing with beach breaks or point breaks, matching your board to the specific conditions of your local spot enhances your overall surfing experience.
Additional tips on how to pick a surfboard as a beginner
1. Renting vs. buying
Before I bought my very own board, I used to rent surfboards. This was a good way for me to learn what types of surfboards I like and not.
Deciding whether to rent or buy your first surfboard is a common dilemma for beginners. Renting provides the opportunity to try different boards and discover your preferences before committing to a purchase. This initial exploration ensures you find the best surfboard that aligns with your evolving skills.
2. Seek expert advice
I’ve always found it helpful to seek expert advice from local surf shops and surf schools, both to choose a board that fits my level of surfing but also to find a board that suits the local conditions of where I am planning to surf.
In the vast sea of surfboard options, seeking advice from experienced surfers or local surf shop experts is invaluable. Their insights can guide you toward the best choice based on your individual preferences, skill level, and the unique characteristics of your local waves.
Lesson quiz: test your knowledge
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this post! Whether you have suggestions for improvement, want to share what you liked, or have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below. Your feedback helps me create better content for all aspiring surfers!