How to Select a Surfboard

Source: wikiHow

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Whether you’re an experienced surfer or just getting started, choosing the right surfboard for you makes all the difference in being able to ride waves successfully. There are many different types of surfboards meant for different skill levels, weights, and conditions – but just like in any sport, if you don’t have the proper equipment tailored to you, you’re gonna have a bad time.

1. 1 Choose a longboard or funboard to learn the basics of surfing. A longboard is about 8 to 11 feet long and serves as a fantastic starting point for a novice due to its balance and ability to catch smaller waves. A funboard is a little smaller, at 7 to 9 feet long, but is wider than most other surfboards, giving it good stability.
   • A funboard is considered easier to maneuver than a longboard, but longboards are the best surfboard for a total beginner.^[1]
2. 2 Try a shortboard or fish board if you want to tackle more aggressive waves. A shortboard, at 5 to 7 feet long, has a pointed front end and is meant for shredding rough and aggressive waves. A fish board is even smaller than a shortboard but wider, with a dual-pointed rear resembling a large fin, and makes turns both quickly and smoothly.
   • If you are just moving beyond a beginner board, try a fish board before a shortboard. You will get used to the maneuverability of a shorter surfboard while adjusting away from long ones.^[2]
3. 3 Test a hybrid board to combine the aspects of two boards into one. A hybrid board is a combination of any two boards that are similar.
   • A shortboard and a fish board hybrid is a common combination, making the shortboard more balanced and able to turn without sacrificing speed.
   • A longboard and a funboard hybrid can make it easier to find stability on a heavier board, and can also serve as a good transition from a longboard to another style.
4. 4 Paddle a SUP instead, a board you can use in any body of water. A SUP is a stable, standing paddle board that can be used to surf very small waves and, with skill, surf larger waves. You can use it in freshwater too, so if you have the surfing itch and live nowhere near an ocean, you can bring this to the lake to start learning.

1. 1 Ask yourself what conditions and waves you plan to surf. When shopping for a new board, the types of waves you intend to ride and the conditions of the locations you plan on surfing at play a role in what choices you…

Click here to read more

The post How to Select a Surfboard appeared first on FeedBox.