Small waves present a unique challenge and opportunity for surfers of all levels. While they may not provide the powerful, thrilling rides of larger swells, small waves offer a relaxed and enjoyable session, perfect for honing skills or just catching some fun, easy-going waves. The key to making the most of these conditions lies in selecting the right surfboard. A board designed specifically for small waves ensures better paddling efficiency, stability, and maneuverability, allowing surfers to enjoy every wave with ease. In this article, we’ve explored ten of the best surfboards for small waves in 2025, detailing their unique features, benefits, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Lost Short Round 2
The Lost Short Round 2 has emerged as a go-to option for small wave riders seeking a balance of stability and performance. This board builds on the success of its predecessor, offering an updated design that’s more versatile and user-friendly. Its rounded nose and fuller outline increase paddling power, making it easier to catch waves in weaker conditions.
Key Features:
- Fuller outline and rounded nose for better stability and wave-catching
- Improved paddling efficiency for effortless wave entry
- Versatile shape suitable for various wave conditions
Ideal for: Beginners and intermediate surfers looking to build confidence and improve their skills on small waves.
2. Firewire Seaside
The Firewire Seaside is a hybrid performance board that caters to surfers who want a high-performance feel even in small, mushy waves. With its low rocker and forward-shifted wide point, this board excels at generating speed and maintaining control in weak conditions.
Key Features:
- Low rocker design for enhanced speed and glide
- Forward-shifted wide point for improved stability and wave entry
- Lightweight, high-tech construction for better performance
Ideal for: Surfers seeking a performance-oriented board that thrives in small to medium waves.
3. Channel Islands Twin Pin
The Channel Islands Twin Pin combines modern twin-fin technology with a performance-oriented shortboard shape. Its wide tail, single to double concave hull, and loose, fast feel make it a standout option for surfers looking to capitalize on small waves with playful and smooth turns.
Key Features:
- Twin-fin setup for increased maneuverability and speed
- Wide tail for stability and glide in weaker conditions
- Thruster setup compatibility for versatile performance
Ideal for: Surfers who want a playful, loose-feeling board for small waves and relaxed sessions.
4. JS Industries Monsta Box 3
The Monsta Box 3 by JS Industries delivers an excellent blend of performance and ease-of-use, making it ideal for small wave conditions. Its wide outline and low rocker provide ample speed and glide while offering maneuverability for critical turns.
Key Features:
- Fast rocker combined with wide outline for easy paddling and wave-catching
- Tri-fin or quad-fin setups for added versatility and performance
- Durable multi-layer construction for lightweight performance
Ideal for: Intermediate and advanced surfers looking for a board that performs well in a range of small wave conditions.
5. Hypto Krypto
Designed by Hayden Shapes, the Hypto Krypto has become a highly regarded board in the small wave category. Its wide outline, medium rocker, and twin-fin or thruster setup offer a user-friendly yet performance-driven option that excels in soft wave conditions.
Key Features:
- Wide outline and low rocker for effortless paddling and wave entry
- Versatile twin or thruster setup for stability and maneuverability
- Smooth rail-to-rail transitions for enhanced performance
Ideal for: Surfers of all skill levels looking for an easy-to-ride board that delivers fun, high-performance waves in smaller conditions.
6. Lost Rocket
The Lost Rocket blends the best aspects of a traditional shortboard and a groveler, making it a great choice for surfers in search of performance in small waves. Its wide outline and flatter rocker ensure glide and speed in weaker conditions, with added maneuverability for more playful rides.
Key Features:
- Wide outline and flatter rocker for enhanced paddling and speed
- Groveler-inspired design for effortless wave catching
- Thruster setup for maximum control in varied wave conditions
Ideal for: Intermediate to advanced surfers who want a high-performance board suited for small waves.
7. Firewire Sweet Potato
The Sweet Potato by Firewire is widely regarded as one of the best groveler boards for small waves. Its unique shape delivers incredible stability, speed, and ease of paddling, making it a popular choice for surfers of all skill levels looking to catch more waves.
Key Features:
- Short, wide shape for increased wave entry efficiency
- Low rocker and single fin setup for smooth glide
- EPS core and bamboo stringer for durability and lightweight performance
Ideal for: Surfers of all skill levels who want an effortless, fun ride in small, mushy conditions.
8. DHD Fish 5’8
The Fish 5’8 by Darren Handley Design (DHD) blends the traditional fish design with modern performance characteristics. Its wide tail, pulled-in nose, and low rocker make it a great option for small wave conditions, offering both stability and speed.
Key Features:
- Fish-style tail for added speed and stability
- Low rocker and wider outline for efficient paddling
- Thruster or quad setup options for versatility
Ideal for: Surfers looking for a performance fish board that thrives in small to medium waves.
9. Pod Mod by Pyzel
The Pod Mod by Pyzel is a hybrid shortboard/groveler that’s particularly effective in small to medium waves. Its full outline, low rocker, and thruster setup provide exceptional wave catching and control in weak conditions.
Key Features:
- Full outline and low rocker for increased glide and speed
- Thruster setup for improved control and responsiveness
- EPS construction with carbon reinforcements for lightweight durability
Ideal for: Surfers looking for a playful, high-performance board tailored to small wave conditions.
10. Al Merrick Flyer
The Flyer by Al Merrick is a small wave performance board with a combination of low rocker, wide outline, and single to double concave that ensures great wave speed and maneuverability.
Key Features:
- Low rocker for enhanced speed and glide
- Wide outline for improved stability and paddling
- Single to double concave for smooth rail-to-rail transitions
Ideal for: Intermediate surfers looking for a reliable, fun board suited for small waves.
Conclusion
Choosing the right surfboard for small waves can transform your experience, offering more enjoyment and ease of surfing. Each of the boards listed above provides unique features that cater to different skill levels and riding preferences. Whether you’re a beginner looking for stability or an advanced surfer seeking high performance, there’s a board that suits your needs. Consider your riding style, wave conditions, and personal preferences to select the ideal board, and get ready to maximize your fun on small waves in 2025!
