Buying Your First Board

Buying your first board is pretty exciting. Choosing the right board will take you on the path to becoming a better surfer and enjoying all conditions. Surfing is not a sport you can just pick up and go, it can be very frustrating at times and takes a ton of practice and persistence to become a good surfer. 

I often see people struggle to catch the wave and struggle to stay on the wave, and many times it looks like their board is the incorrect size for their skill level. There are so many factors in a day of surfing that you can’t control. Waves, wind, tide, all out of your control. Choosing the correct board size is one thing you can control. 

As a beginner, a board with more width and volume is a good idea. Check out mini-mals (mini longboards) or fun boards. Though some people shy away from the fun board or mini’s because traditional guys and fish boards look cooler, I guarantee they will not help build your skill if you’re not there yet. The rounder nose of the fun board or mini is designed to help give you stability while picking up speed, and for the snap to your feet. The width of the board will help you gain confidence and will quickly become your best friend. The best thing about the mini-mals and fun boards is you can use them in most surf conditions. They’ll let you build your skills and will progress you to faster and bigger waves. 

Now in some cases, wider isn’t always better. If you’re a short or small person having too wide or too long of a board will be tiresome and awkward. You may want a slightly more narrow board because it will give your arms and shoulders the space they need to get a strong paddle stroke. Having a good paddle stroke is important because you want to match the speed of the wave, snap up early and be in a standing position while you come down or across the wave. 

The biggest thing to remember for your first board is that this will be a transition board. It takes time and practice to be a good surfer and that is what this board will allow you to do - practice.