How exciting, you’re going to buy your first surfboard! I remember buying my first board: a secondhand 8-footer, totally beaten up, but I loved every inch of it. Until I didn’t and wanted a new one. That’s how it goes. You progress and you want to try different boards.
Buying your first surfboard is an important step. It can affect how long it takes you to reach the next level. Before you head out to buy that special first surfboard, here are 8 tips for choosing the right one.
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How to choose the right board: 8 tips
1. Don’t spend too much money (unless you want to)
It’s easy to get carried away and spend big money on a surfboard, but the reality is that you simply don’t have to. I recommend going for something economical.
There are a few reasons for this.
- The first is that you are still starting out, maybe you’ll fall out of love with surfing one day (as if).
- The second reason is that you’ll be in the surf nonstop while you’re learning, putting in the hours and punishing that board with wave after wave after wave.
- And thirdly, as your skills develop you’ll probably need to buy another one. That’s when you can start committing to something more expensive.
The second-hand market is worth considering, but if you buy used, watch out for boards with too many dings. Small marks are fine. Yellowing can be harmless, but it might also mean water has seeped in, so if in doubt, keep looking.
2. Your first board should be big, thick, and buoyant
The super cool surfers you admire might be riding small, narrow boards and looking great while they do it. For beginners, however, it’s better to find something thick. A thicker board floats more easily and helps you keep your balance in the water.
In terms of length and size, much depends on your height and weight, but aim for something around 7 or 8 feet long (or at least 12 inches taller than you) and at least two to three inches thick.
That way you’ll have something more forgiving of mistakes and paddling out will be much easier. Make sure you can carry it comfortably, because you’ll be doing plenty of that too.
When you’re a bit older (40+), having a bigger board makes learning to surf much easier. I share more tips for learning to surf in your 40s and 50s here.
3. Soft top or hard top?
Most beginner surfers (and hopefully all of them, especially in a crowded lineup) have their first lessons on a soft top. This is a foam surfboard with a soft deck.
Many beginners hate soft tops. I did too when I started. The rough surface kept irritating my hands. But soft tops can also be super easy, super fun, and super safe.
They usually have more volume, which makes waves easier to catch. And the more waves you catch, the quicker you progress.
Hard boards can feel easier to manage once you gain a bit more experience. Good beginner options are a mini malibu or a funboard.
4. Don’t worry about fins
Some surf shops will talk to you about fins and ask where you are with learning maneuvers and tricks. The answer is: nowhere yet.
Don’t stress about the number of fins, their shape, or any of that. Yes, they look cool, but at this stage you really don’t need to worry about them.
The most common fin setup is a thruster (1 central fin and 2 side fins) with beginner-friendly fins. You can always change them later for sharper ones.
5. Find the right match for the surfer you are now
This is a key point for anyone starting out – your board needs to match you in many ways, and ability is a big one.
It can be tempting to act like you’re further along than you are, but choosing a board that’s beyond your current level won’t do you any favours.
Be realistic and you’ll benefit from it in the water.
6. Become buddies with a local shaper
A custom-shaped board isn’t usually something you get as a beginner, but it can still be helpful to talk to a few shapers about what they would recommend for you.
When you’re progressing and feel ready, a shaper can create a board that’s perfectly suited to your body, your skills, and the type of waves you want (and are able) to ride.
Talk to them about what you’re looking for. Be honest about your current level and where you want to go.
7. Choose a board that is durable and strong
Chances are you’ll sell your first board once you’ve progressed. Although it might feel hard to let go of your baby, surfers tend to change boards often. They move on to something that better suits their level.
Consider a brand like NSP (New Surf Project), as some of their boards include a thin layer of wood under the deck.
This makes them extra durable and helps prevent dings. As a result, they keep their value and you’ll be able to sell your board for a good price when you’re ready for the next step.
Avoid boards made from polyester (easier to ding) for now, and choose one made from epoxy.
8. Enjoy the experience
You only get to do this once, so enjoy it. Savour the moment and don’t feel inhibited, nervous, or out of place. This is a rite of passage for every surfer, man or woman.
Have fun, pick a board you love, and good luck!