Introduction
Surfing is one of the most exhilarating and popular water sports worldwide, attracting millions of enthusiasts from all walks of life. From the endless waves of Hawaii to the sandy shores of Australia, surfers enjoy the thrill of gliding across the ocean’s surface, riding waves with grace and style. The sport has a rich history, blending a deep connection with nature, a vibrant culture, and a sense of freedom that has captivated both professional athletes and casual beachgoers alike. Today, surfing continues to grow in popularity, with more people from diverse backgrounds eager to try their hand at riding the waves.
For beginners, however, the path to mastering surfing can be daunting. One of the first and most important steps in embarking on a surfing journey is choosing the right surfboard. While surfing may appear simple from a distance—just you and the ocean—there are countless variables involved in making the sport enjoyable, accessible, and safe for newcomers. The surfboard, in particular, is a key piece of equipment that plays a vital role in shaping a beginner’s experience.
When it comes to surfing, the right surfboard can make all the difference between an enjoyable experience and one filled with frustration. For beginners, a well-chosen surfboard can offer stability, ease of paddling, and a better ability to catch waves—three essential factors that are often challenging in the early stages of learning. Choosing the wrong board, on the other hand, can hinder progress, make the sport feel more difficult than it should be, and even lead to safety concerns. As a beginner, it’s not just about what looks good or what’s trendy—it’s about finding a board that fits your body, your skill level, and the conditions you’ll be surfing in.
The purpose of this guide is to help newcomers to surfing make an informed decision when choosing their first surfboard. Whether you’re standing on the beach for the first time, renting equipment for a lesson, or ready to purchase your very own board, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the ideal surfboard for beginners. From understanding the different types of surfboards and their designs to knowing how to assess factors like size, shape, and material, we’ll break down the key components that will shape your surfing experience.
Understanding the Basics of Surfboards
Before selecting a surfboard, it’s essential to understand the basic components and how they work together to impact your performance in the water. Surfboards are more than just planks of foam; they are finely tuned pieces of equipment that, when designed and used correctly, allow surfers to ride waves with control, speed, and style.
Explanation of Surfboard Components
A surfboard consists of several key parts, each playing a specific role in how the board performs:
Deck: The top surface of the surfboard where the surfer stands. It is often coated with a non-slip material to provide grip, especially when paddling or riding waves. The deck is typically made from foam or fiberglass, depending on the type of board.
Rails: The edges of the surfboard, which run from the nose (front) to the tail (back). Rails affect the board’s ability to carve through the water and its responsiveness to turns. Soft rails are common in beginner boards for added stability, while sharper rails are typically found in high-performance boards for quicker, more precise movements.
Nose: The front of the board, which can vary in shape depending on the type of surfboard. A wider, rounder nose adds stability, while a narrower, pointed nose provides more speed and maneuverability. The nose is crucial for paddling and catching waves.
Tail: The back end of the board, which influences its turning ability and overall stability. Tails come in different shapes, such as square, round, and pin, with each type affecting how the board handles and performs in different wave conditions.
Fins: Located underneath the surfboard, fins are critical for providing stability and control in the water. They prevent the board from spinning out and allow surfers to make sharp turns. Fins can come in various configurations (single fin, twin fin, thruster, etc.), and their size and placement significantly impact how the board behaves.
Bottom: The underside of the surfboard, which typically features contours such as concave or convex shapes. These designs help channel the water for improved speed, control, and maneuverability. A concave bottom, for instance, enhances lift and drive, while a flat bottom offers more stability.
Stringer: A thin, vertical strip of wood running down the center of the surfboard. The stringer provides strength and helps maintain the shape of the board, especially when dealing with the stresses of wave riding.
Leash: Although not part of the board itself, a leash is an essential accessory for safety. It is attached to the tail of the surfboard and to the surfer’s ankle, ensuring the board stays close by in case the surfer falls off.
Different Types of Surfboards
Surfboards come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each designed for different skill levels and wave conditions. For beginners, it’s important to choose a board that offers stability, buoyancy, and ease of use. Here are the most common types of surfboards:
Shortboards: Shortboards are typically between 5’6” and 6’8” in length, with a narrow design that allows for high performance, speed, and quick turns. These boards are favored by advanced surfers who have mastered basic skills and seek to perform maneuvers such as aerials and tight turns. Due to their smaller size, they are less stable and harder to paddle, making them unsuitable for beginners.
Longboards: Longboards are generally over 8 feet in length, with a wider and thicker design that provides enhanced stability and buoyancy. They are perfect for beginners because they make paddling easier, help with wave catching, and offer a smoother ride. Longboards are also ideal for surfers who enjoy the traditional style of surfing, focusing on nose riding and smooth carving.
Funboards: Funboards are a hybrid between shortboards and longboards, usually ranging from 6’6” to 8’ in length. These boards offer a good balance between stability and maneuverability, making them an excellent choice for beginners who are ready to move on from longboards but still want extra stability. Funboards are versatile and can perform well in a variety of wave conditions.
Soft-top Boards: Soft-top surfboards are made with a foam coating on top, which provides additional safety and comfort for beginners. These boards are ideal for those learning to surf because the soft surface reduces the risk of injury if you fall off. They are often wider and thicker, contributing to better buoyancy and easier wave catching.
Fish Boards: Fish boards are shorter than typical shortboards, with a wide and flat design that makes them more stable and easier to ride than traditional shortboards. These boards are great for surfers who want to perform in smaller waves or who are still mastering their skills but want something that can handle more challenging conditions than a longboard.
Overview of Surfboard Design and How It Impacts Performance
The design of a surfboard—its shape, size, and features—directly impacts its performance. Here are the key design elements to consider:
Length: Longer boards, like longboards, are generally easier to ride, offering better stability and paddling power. Shorter boards provide more maneuverability and speed but are harder to control for beginners. The length of the board affects how much surface area is in contact with the water, which impacts buoyancy and ease of use.
Width: Wider boards offer more stability, making it easier for beginners to balance and catch waves. A narrower board, on the other hand, is more agile and ideal for sharp turns, but requires more skill to ride effectively.
Thickness: Thicker boards have more volume, which translates to better buoyancy and stability, essential for beginners. A thinner board, while offering more performance, can feel unstable and difficult for a beginner to handle.
Rocker: The rocker refers to the curve of the board from nose to tail. A board with more rocker (a pronounced curve) is better for bigger, steeper waves as it allows for better control. Boards with less rocker (flatter) are faster and more efficient in smaller waves.
Concave and Convex Bottoms: The bottom shape of a surfboard also affects how it rides. A concave bottom creates more lift and drive, which helps maintain speed. A flat bottom offers better stability, while a convex (or V-shaped) bottom improves turning ability.
Why Choosing the Right Surfboard Matters for Beginners
For beginners, the surfboard is the most important piece of equipment you’ll use. It directly influences how easy (or hard) it is to get started in the sport and plays a crucial role in your learning curve. Choosing the right surfboard can mean the difference between a frustrating experience and an enjoyable one, making it essential to pick a board that suits your skill level, body type, and the conditions you’ll be surfing in. Below, we break down why selecting the right surfboard matters for beginners and explore the key factors that affect your choice.
Importance of Stability and Ease of Paddling
For anyone new to surfing, stability is paramount. The ocean’s waves can be unpredictable, and balancing on a surfboard while navigating them can be challenging, especially for beginners. A surfboard that provides the right level of stability makes it easier for you to get the basics right—paddling, balancing, and catching waves.
Stability: Surfboards with more surface area (such as longer and wider boards) provide greater stability. This makes it easier to maintain balance as you try to stand on the board. Stability also helps when you’re learning how to paddle out into the surf without constantly tipping over. A stable board allows you to get comfortable with the movements of surfing before you have to focus on advanced techniques like turning and carving.
Ease of Paddling: Paddling is one of the first skills you’ll learn in surfing, and the right board can make this easier. Larger, more buoyant boards help you float with less effort, allowing you to paddle out to the waves without exhausting yourself. The easier it is to paddle, the more time you’ll spend in the water, which directly improves your ability to catch waves and progress faster.
How the Right Surfboard Affects the Learning Curve
The surfboard you choose will significantly affect how quickly and effectively you can learn the sport. If the board is too difficult to control or lacks the right buoyancy, it can slow down your progress, making surfing feel frustrating rather than fun.
Learning to Catch Waves: A larger, more buoyant board will help you catch waves more easily, as it gives you the extra float you need to remain on top of the water and build speed. Shortboards, while great for advanced surfers, are much harder to paddle and catch waves with due to their smaller size and reduced volume. For beginners, a board that allows you to catch waves consistently is crucial for building confidence and experience.
Standing Up: For beginners, the key challenge is learning how to pop up (stand up) on the surfboard. A board with the right shape and stability makes it easier to find your balance and pop up on your feet. A board that’s too small or too thin can be unstable and may cause you to fall frequently, whereas a wider, thicker board will provide more support to help you succeed in standing up.
Developing Confidence: Surfing can be intimidating at first, but the right board will help you progress steadily. By having a board that’s stable, easy to paddle, and allows you to catch waves, you’ll be able to focus more on improving your technique rather than battling the board. This builds confidence, making it more likely that you’ll enjoy surfing and stay committed to learning.
Key Factors:
When choosing a surfboard, it’s essential to understand how size, shape, material, and volume play a role in your performance and overall experience as a beginner.
Size: The size of the surfboard directly impacts its buoyancy, stability, and ease of use. Larger boards, such as longboards or funboards, are perfect for beginners because they offer more surface area, making them easier to balance on. As a beginner, you’ll want a board that is long enough to provide stability, but not so long that it becomes difficult to maneuver. The general rule is that a larger board is better for beginners because it will be easier to catch waves and stay afloat.
Shape: The shape of a surfboard influences how it handles in the water. A wider board provides more stability, making it easier for beginners to balance. A narrower board, while faster and more maneuverable, requires more skill to control and may not be ideal for someone just starting out. The shape of the nose (round vs. pointed) and the tail (square vs. rounded) also impact how the board performs on different waves. For beginners, it’s best to choose a board with a rounded nose and a wider, more stable tail for better control.
Material: Surfboards come in various materials, most commonly foam, fiberglass, or epoxy. Foam boards, often used for beginner boards, are soft and lightweight, making them safer and easier to handle. They are great for paddling and catching waves. Fiberglass and epoxy boards are typically lighter and more durable, but they can be more rigid and harder for beginners to manage. For first-timers, foam or soft-top boards are usually the best choice, as they are forgiving and offer added safety.
Volume: The volume of a surfboard refers to the amount of space the board occupies, and it plays a critical role in how buoyant the board is. Volume is typically measured in liters, and a higher volume board will have more float, making it easier to paddle and balance. For beginners, a board with higher volume is preferred because it helps with wave catching and makes paddling less strenuous. Volume also affects the overall stability of the board—more volume means more stability.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Beginner Surfboard
Selecting the right surfboard as a beginner requires careful consideration of several key factors, including size, shape, material, and fins. These elements all impact the performance, stability, and overall experience you’ll have when learning to surf. Below is a breakdown of the critical aspects to keep in mind when choosing a beginner surfboard.
Size and Volume
Volume refers to the amount of space a surfboard occupies, usually measured in liters. It is a crucial factor in determining a surfboard’s buoyancy and stability in the water. The more volume a board has, the more float it provides, which makes it easier to paddle, catch waves, and maintain balance.
Buoyancy: A board with higher volume floats better, making it easier to stay on top of the water. For beginners, buoyancy is important because it reduces the effort needed to paddle and helps keep you upright as you learn to balance and catch waves.
Stability: The volume also affects stability. Boards with more volume provide a larger surface area, which translates to more balance. This makes it easier for beginners to stand up on the board and ride the waves, especially in the early stages of learning.
Ideal Size for Beginners Based on Weight and Skill Level
As a general rule, beginners should opt for a surfboard that is larger in size compared to the one you might use once you’re more experienced. Larger boards provide more stability and make paddling less exhausting. The ideal size for beginners typically ranges from 7 to 9 feet, depending on your weight and skill level.
Body Weight: Your weight is an essential factor in determining the right board size. Lighter surfers (under 140 pounds) may prefer boards around 7 to 8 feet, while heavier surfers (over 180 pounds) should consider boards that are 8 feet or longer to ensure sufficient buoyancy.
Skill Level: While beginners should generally choose a larger board, it’s also important to consider your current skill level. A less experienced surfer will benefit from a board with more volume, which offers easier paddling and wave catching. If you have some prior experience, you may be able to handle a slightly smaller board, but it’s important to prioritize stability during the learning process.
Shape and Design
The shape of a surfboard affects its stability, speed, and maneuverability in the water. Understanding the differences between wide, thick, and narrow boards is key to finding the right fit for your needs as a beginner.
Wide Boards: Wider boards offer more surface area, making them more stable and easier to balance on. They are ideal for beginners because they make paddling and wave catching easier. Wider boards also tend to be slower, but for someone learning, this trade-off in speed is worth the increased stability.
Thick Boards: Thicker boards have more volume, which contributes to greater buoyancy. This helps beginners stay on top of the water and makes paddling easier. Thicker boards are typically more stable but might feel less agile in the water compared to thinner boards.
Narrow Boards: Narrow boards, while more agile and faster, require more skill to control and balance. These are generally not recommended for beginners, as they tend to be less forgiving and can be harder to maneuver in small waves.
Importance of a Rounded Nose vs Pointed Nose
Rounded Nose: Surfboards with a rounded nose offer more stability and make it easier to catch waves. They also help with balance, which is essential for beginners. A rounded nose is generally seen as more forgiving for learning surfers.
Pointed Nose: Pointed noses are common on performance-oriented surfboards, such as shortboards. These designs help increase speed and allow for sharper turns. However, they can be more challenging to control and may not provide the stability that beginners need when learning to balance and catch waves.
Material
Foam Boards: Foam boards (often called soft-top boards) are the most common choice for beginners. They are made of soft foam, making them safer in case of a fall and easier to handle. Foam boards are typically more buoyant, which helps beginners paddle more easily and catch waves. They are also less likely to cause injury due to their soft construction. Additionally, foam boards are usually more affordable than fiberglass boards, making them a good option for newcomers.
Pros: Safer, more buoyant, easier to paddle, affordable, durable for beginners.
Cons: Less responsive than fiberglass, not as high-performance in larger waves.
Fiberglass Boards: Fiberglass boards are stiffer and more durable than foam boards. They offer more responsiveness and speed in the water, which is important for surfers as they progress in their skills. However, they are typically less forgiving and can be harder to control for beginners. Fiberglass boards also tend to be more expensive and can be prone to damage if not properly maintained.
Pros: More responsive, durable, faster, and better suited for more advanced surfers.
Cons: More difficult to control for beginners, more expensive, more prone to damage.
Which Material is Best for Beginners?
For most beginners, foam boards are the better choice due to their safety, buoyancy, and ease of use. They allow for a more relaxed and enjoyable learning experience, reducing the chance of frustration. Fiberglass boards are better suited for more experienced surfers who have mastered the basics and are looking for higher performance.
Fins
Fins are an essential part of any surfboard, as they provide control and stability in the water. They help keep the board from spinning out and enable sharp turns and maneuvers. The configuration and number of fins affect how the board handles on the waves.
Single Fin: Single-fin boards are typically seen on longboards and provide a smooth, stable ride. They are great for beginners looking for simplicity and stability in smaller, less challenging waves. However, single fins can limit maneuverability and make the board less responsive when trying to turn.
Twin Fin: Twin-fin boards have two fins, offering increased speed and maneuverability compared to single fins. They are suitable for surfers who want a bit more performance in smaller waves but still prioritize stability. While twin fins can be more agile, they may not provide as much stability as other fin setups, making them less ideal for true beginners.
Thruster (Three Fin Setup): The thruster setup consists of three fins: one large center fin and two smaller side fins. This is one of the most common fin configurations for modern surfboards, offering the best balance between speed, maneuverability, and stability. It is suitable for both intermediate and advanced surfers, but for beginners, it can still provide a stable ride with greater control, especially as they progress.
Quad Fin: Quad-fin boards have four fins, offering additional drive and control, especially in powerful or larger waves. While they are typically preferred by more experienced surfers, they may be challenging for beginners to control. They offer speed and stability but can require more skill to use effectively.
Which Fin Setup is Best for Beginners?
A single fin or thruster setup is usually the best option for beginners. The single fin offers smooth, stable rides, while the thruster setup provides more control and maneuverability as you advance in your skills. For complete beginners, stability should be the priority, so a single fin or thruster setup is the most recommended for an easy and fun learning experience.
Types of Surfboards Best for Beginners
Choosing the right type of surfboard is one of the most important decisions for a beginner. The board you choose can affect how quickly you learn, how comfortable you feel in the water, and how much fun you have. Different types of surfboards are designed with various features that cater to beginners, offering stability, ease of paddling, and overall comfort as you progress in the sport. Below are the three most common types of surfboards that are best suited for beginners.
Longboards
Longboards are typically the first choice for beginners due to their stability, ease of paddling, and forgiving nature on the waves. These boards are generally 8 feet or longer, with a wide and thick design that offers maximum floatation. Here are the key advantages of longboards for beginners:
Stability: The longer length and wide surface area of longboards provide a high level of stability, making it easier for beginners to balance while paddling or riding a wave. Stability is crucial for learning how to catch waves and stand up on the board without constantly tipping over.
Easy Paddling: The size and buoyancy of a longboard make paddling out to the waves much easier. The added floatation allows you to glide effortlessly on the water, helping you conserve energy as you practice paddling and getting used to the movements of surfing.
Learning to Catch Waves: Longboards are excellent for catching waves early, as their large size and ability to maintain speed make it easier to ride smaller, slower waves. They are especially helpful for beginners who are learning the rhythm of wave-catching and need a stable platform to practice getting up on the board.
Nose Riding: Longboards are often associated with traditional surfing styles, where surfers ride the nose of the board, providing a smooth and graceful surfing experience. Although beginners may not be doing advanced tricks like nose riding right away, longboards offer the opportunity to experiment with this classic surfing technique as you improve.
Overall, longboards provide a comfortable, stable, and forgiving ride for newcomers. Their ability to catch waves with ease and provide enough surface area for balance makes them ideal for first-time surfers.
Soft-top Boards
Soft-top boards, also known as foam boards, are particularly popular for beginners due to their safety features and ease of use. Made with a foam exterior, these boards have several advantages over traditional fiberglass boards:
Safety and Comfort: The soft foam surface reduces the risk of injury when you fall off the board. Beginners are more likely to wipe out as they learn to balance, and soft-top boards provide a safer option. They are less likely to cause cuts, bruises, or other injuries than harder fiberglass boards.
Ideal for First-time Surfers: Soft-top boards are often the best option for those who are completely new to surfing. Their soft, forgiving surface makes it easier to stay on the board and practice paddling and balancing. They also offer better buoyancy, helping beginners stay afloat with minimal effort.
Affordability: Foam boards are generally more affordable than fiberglass boards, making them an accessible choice for those just starting out. This allows beginners to invest in a good-quality board without spending too much money on something that may only be used for a short time.
Easy to Handle: Soft-top boards are lightweight and easy to handle both in and out of the water. Their foam construction provides a comfortable grip, making them easier to carry and maneuver compared to heavier, fiberglass boards.
For complete beginners, soft-top boards are an excellent choice due to their safety, comfort, and ease of use. They provide a solid foundation for learning basic surfing skills without the added pressure of dealing with a harder, less forgiving surface.
Funboards
Funboards are a hybrid surfboard that combines the best features of both shortboards and longboards. These boards typically range in length from 6’6” to 8’, offering a good balance between stability and maneuverability. Funboards are ideal for beginners who have some experience but are not quite ready for the more challenging nature of shortboards.
Versatility: Funboards are a great choice for beginners who want a versatile board that can handle a variety of wave conditions. Their moderate length allows them to perform well in both smaller, slower waves and larger, faster waves, giving you the opportunity to try different types of surfing. They provide a good balance of speed, stability, and maneuverability.
Good for Progression: As you improve your surfing skills, funboards offer the flexibility to progress in the sport. They allow you to practice more advanced maneuvers, like turning and carving, while still providing a stable and forgiving platform. Funboards give beginners the chance to grow into the sport without the limitations of a full shortboard.
Easier to Paddle: Like longboards, funboards offer good buoyancy, making them easier to paddle than shortboards. The extra flotation helps you stay afloat and catch waves with less effort, which is beneficial for beginners who are still mastering the technique of paddling.
Compact and Maneuverable: Although funboards are not as nimble as shortboards, they are more agile than longboards. This makes them a good choice for beginners who want to experience the feeling of turning and riding the wave in a more dynamic way while still enjoying the stability of a larger board.
Funboards are an excellent option for beginners who are looking for a board that can help them progress in the sport while still offering enough stability for learning. They provide a great middle ground between the stability of longboards and the performance of shortboards, making them a versatile choice for newcomers who want to try different surfing styles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Surfboard
When you’re starting out in surfing, choosing the right surfboard can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s easy to make mistakes that could hinder your progress and make the learning process more difficult than necessary. Below are some common mistakes beginners make when choosing a surfboard and how to avoid them.
Picking a Board That’s Too Small or Too Large
Too Small: One of the most common mistakes for beginners is choosing a board that’s too small. Smaller boards, such as shortboards, are designed for advanced surfers who have developed the skills to perform tricks, make sharp turns, and navigate larger waves. For beginners, a smaller board can be difficult to control and will require much more effort to balance and paddle, which can slow down the learning process. Small boards also tend to be less stable and harder to catch waves on, which can lead to frustration.
Why it’s a problem: A small board might make you feel unstable and less confident in the water, as you’ll spend more time falling off the board and struggling to catch waves. For beginners, it’s best to avoid shortboards and opt for a larger, more stable option like a longboard or a soft-top board.
Too Large: While it may seem like a larger board is always better, picking a board that’s too large can also present challenges. A board that is excessively long or wide can be difficult to maneuver, especially as you progress in your surfing. While larger boards are more stable and easier to paddle, they can be cumbersome when you start to experiment with turning and carving.
Why it’s a problem: A board that’s too large can hinder your ability to learn advanced skills because it might feel unwieldy and slow to turn. It may also be more difficult to carry and transport. It’s important to choose a board that is big enough to be stable but not so large that it becomes cumbersome or limits your progression.
Solution: Choose a board that is appropriately sized for your body weight, skill level, and the type of waves you’ll be riding. For most beginners, a board between 7 and 9 feet (such as a longboard or funboard) is ideal, providing a balance of stability and maneuverability.
Overlooking the Importance of Stability Over Performance
When choosing a beginner surfboard, it’s easy to be drawn to boards that promise high performance and quick turns. However, stability should be your top priority in the beginning. Many beginners make the mistake of choosing a board based on its performance features (such as a shortboard’s ability to turn quickly or carve sharp lines) rather than its stability, which is essential for learning the basics of surfing.
Why it’s a problem: Performance boards, such as shortboards or boards with sharp edges, are designed for experienced surfers who can handle advanced maneuvers and challenging conditions. These boards may be faster and more responsive, but they are harder to balance on and paddle, making them a poor choice for someone just starting out. If you focus too much on performance and overlook stability, you may find yourself struggling to catch waves, balance on the board, or feel comfortable in the water.
Solution: For beginners, prioritize stability and ease of paddling over performance. Look for boards that are longer, wider, and have more volume, as these features provide the floatation and balance needed for learning. Longboards and soft-top boards are great options because they give you a stable platform to practice your skills while gradually increasing your confidence in the water.
Choosing a Board Based on Appearance or Style Over Function
Another common mistake is choosing a surfboard based on how it looks or its style rather than its functionality. Surfboards come in a variety of colors, shapes, and designs, and it’s tempting to select a board that appeals to your personal taste. However, appearance alone doesn’t necessarily make a board suitable for beginners.
Why it’s a problem: A board that looks stylish or trendy may not provide the stability, paddling ease, or other essential features that beginners need to learn effectively. Many new surfers fall into the trap of choosing a board that they think looks cool but doesn’t meet their needs in terms of stability and performance. For example, choosing a small, high-performance shortboard because it looks fast can lead to frustration when you struggle to get on waves and balance.
Solution: Choose a surfboard that is practical and designed for your skill level rather than focusing on its appearance. Look for features like volume, size, shape, and construction material that prioritize stability and ease of use. You can always personalize your board with accessories or stickers later, but it’s essential to focus on function first.
Top Recommended Surfboards for Beginners
Torq 8’0″ Hybrid Soft Top
This hybrid board features a beginner-friendly soft top with a durable hard-bottom construction, combining safety and enhanced performance. It is stable, paddles well, and offers speed, making it great for progressing surfers.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 22.5″, Thickness: 3.25″
Volume:
80 liters
Fins:
Thruster fin setup (included)
Construction:
Soft EVA foam deck with a hard-bottom epoxy shell for durability.
Pros:
Combines safety and performance.
Durable construction for extended use.
Smooth paddling and good wave-catching.
Cons:
More expensive than standard foam boards.
Less forgiving for absolute beginners.
Catch Surf Beater Original 54”
The compact Beater Original 54” is designed for fun and maneuverability. Its soft-top construction ensures safety, while its buoyancy supports easy paddling and stability. Perfect for playful rides in small to medium waves.
Length:
54″ (4’6″)
Dimensions:
Width: 20″, Thickness: 2.5″
Volume:
42 liters
Fins:
Twin-fin setup (removable)
Construction:
Soft foam deck with dual maple stringers and a slick bottom for glide.
Pros:
Lightweight and easy to handle.
Compact for playful tricks and quick turns.
Soft and safe for beginners.
Cons:
Small size limits stability for larger riders.
Less effective for catching large waves.
NSP Elements 8’0″
A classic beginner longboard, the NSP Elements 8’0″ prioritizes stability and durability. Its large surface area makes balancing and wave-catching easier, while the robust construction ensures longevity.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 22.75″, Thickness: 3.25″
Volume:
80 liters
Fins:
Single fin setup (included)
Construction:
Epoxy shell with a durable foam core.
Pros:
Extremely durable and long-lasting.
Easy to paddle and balance on.
Suitable for small to medium waves.
Cons:
Heavier than foam boards.
May be harder to maneuver for smaller riders.
Soft-top Wavestorm 8’0″
The Wavestorm 8’0″ is a widely popular, beginner-friendly foam board. Known for its affordability, this board offers ample flotation and stability, ensuring an enjoyable learning experience.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 22.5″, Thickness: 3.25″
Volume:
86 liters
Fins:
Thruster fin setup (removable soft fins)
Construction:
Soft foam deck with an HDPE slick bottom.
Pros:
Highly affordable and accessible.
Lightweight and easy to transport.
Great flotation and stability.
Cons:
Limited performance for advanced users.
Durability may be lower than epoxy boards.
Takayama In the Pink 9’0″
This high-performance longboard offers stability and ease of use for beginners. With a premium build and smooth ride, it is ideal for catching small waves and learning traditional longboarding techniques.
Length:
9’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 23″, Thickness: 3″
Volume:
78 liters
Fins:
Single fin setup
Construction:
Epoxy resin with a lightweight foam core.
Pros:
Premium design for a smooth ride.
Stable and easy for beginners.
Great for traditional longboarding.
Cons:
Higher price point.
Bulky size can be hard to transport.
Bic Sport 9’0″ Dura-Tec
This nearly indestructible longboard is designed for beginners who need a tough, low-maintenance board. Its large size provides buoyancy and stability, ensuring confidence in the water.
Length:
9’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 22.5″, Thickness: 3.3″
Volume:
77 liters
Fins:
Single fin setup
Construction:
Dura-Tec polyethylene shell for unmatched durability.
Pros:
Nearly indestructible construction.
Stable and easy to ride.
Low maintenance.
Cons:
Heavier than most boards.
Basic design lacks advanced features.
Channel Islands Classic 8’0″
This longboard offers a premium surfing experience with a focus on stability and ease of paddling. It’s ideal for beginners who want to invest in a high-quality board to grow their skills.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 22.5″, Thickness: 3.25″
Volume:
79 liters
Fins:
Single fin with side bites
Construction:
High-quality epoxy and fiberglass construction.
Pros:
Smooth and stable ride.
Durable, premium build.
Great for developing skills.
Cons:
Expensive compared to entry-level boards.
Requires care to maintain.
Al Merrick Happy Hour 7’6″
The Al Merrick Happy Hour is a versatile funboard that balances flotation and performance. It’s responsive enough for turns and carving while providing enough stability for beginners.
Length:
7’6″
Dimensions:
Width: 22″, Thickness: 3″
Volume:
65 liters
Fins:
Thruster fin setup (included)
Construction:
Epoxy resin with reinforced core.
Pros:
Versatile and great for progression.
Lightweight and responsive.
Easy paddling and maneuverability.
Cons:
Less stable than larger boards.
Not ideal for absolute beginners.
Catch Surf Odysea Log 8’0″
The Odysea Log by Catch Surf is a fun, versatile soft-top surfboard. Its buoyant design and colorful aesthetic make it perfect for beginners who want a safe and lively board to learn on.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 23″, Thickness: 3.25″
Volume:
86 liters
Fins:
Thruster fin setup (soft fins included)
Construction:
Dual composite core with triple maple stringers and a slick HDPE bottom. Soft-top foam deck for safety.
Pros:
- Excellent durability for a foam board.
- Stylish, vibrant design.
- Stable and easy to paddle.
- High buoyancy makes wave-catching effortless.
Cons:
- Slightly heavier compared to other foam boards.
- Less maneuverable than smaller boards.
Wave Bandit EZ Rider 8’0″
Designed for fun and function, the Wave Bandit EZ Rider is an all-around soft-top ideal for beginners. It offers stability and buoyancy, making it perfect for small waves.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 23″, Thickness: 3.5″
Volume:
94 liters
Fins:
Twin-fin setup (soft fins included)
Construction:
Foam deck with dual wood stringers for added strength and an HDPE slick bottom.
Pros:
- Extra buoyant for maximum stability.
- Durable construction withstands beginner wear and tear.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons:
- Limited performance for faster waves.
- Fewer advanced features compared to higher-end boards.
Formula Fun DOHO 8’0″
The Formula Fun DOHO combines a soft-top design with performance features, making it a versatile choice for beginners and progressing surfers.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 23″, Thickness: 3.5″
Volume:
87 liters
Fins:
Thruster fin setup (soft fins included)
Construction:
Soft EVA foam deck with an HDPE bottom and reinforced core.
Pros:
- Combines beginner-friendly stability with solid performance.
- Sleek design for improved wave-catching and turning.
- Lightweight and durable.
Cons:
- Pricier than other foam boards.
- Requires maintenance to keep the slick bottom in good condition.
ISLE Coronado 8’0″
The ISLE Coronado is a soft-top longboard that prioritizes stability and ease of use for beginners. It’s designed for a smooth, enjoyable ride in small to medium waves.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 23″, Thickness: 3.75″
Volume:
95 liters
Fins:
Single fin setup (included)
Construction:
Soft foam deck with a hard epoxy core and HDPE slick bottom.
Pros:
- Extremely stable and buoyant.
- Durable, long-lasting materials.
- Ideal for first-timers in small waves.
Cons:
- Heavier than standard foam boards.
- Limited versatility for intermediate riders.
Boardworks Froth 8’0″
The Froth by Boardworks is a durable, soft-top board designed for beginners who want stability and ease of use.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 22.5″, Thickness: 3.3″
Volume:
85 liters
Fins:
Thruster fin setup (included)
Construction:
Soft EVA foam deck over an EPS foam core with an HDPE slick bottom.
Pros:
- Lightweight and durable.
- Soft-top for added safety.
- Easy to paddle and catch waves.
Cons:
- Slightly less buoyant compared to other foam boards.
- Not ideal for larger waves.
JJF by Pyzel Log 8’0″
The JJF by Pyzel Log is a premium soft-top longboard designed with input from surfing legend John John Florence. It offers a performance edge for beginners and intermediate surfers.
Length:
8’0″
Dimensions:
Width: 22.5″, Thickness: 3.25″
Volume:
80 liters
Fins:
Thruster fin setup (included)
Construction:
Soft EVA foam deck with a reinforced EPS core and durable slick bottom.
Pros:
- High-performance design.
- Durable and lightweight.
- Great for progression beyond basic skills.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- May feel less stable for absolute beginners.
