How to Choose the Right Surfboard Size
What Size Surfboard Do I Need As a Beginner? Before you invest in a beginner surfboard its best to get some hands on experience. Take a few lessons using the Surf school’s boards. The instructor will help you determine the best size for your skill level and weight. Or, if you can’t get lessons, rent a board based on suggestions of the rental staff. After completing your surfing lessons, it is time to figure out How to Choose the Right Surfboard Size. The choice you make determines how much you will enjoy your life as a surfer. Since most surfers tend to remember their first surfboard more than any other, it is important that you be highly cautious when purchasing your first board. Unlike pro surfboards, beginner’s surfboards have very special features that allow them acquaint themselves with sporting on the waves.
You might be tempted to buy a cool surfboard, but it will be useless if you cannot surf it. When buying a surfboard, it is important to choose the one that matches your abilities and surfing conditions. To avoid making mistakes, consider the following elements when first learning How to Choose the Right Surfboard Size. There are several manufacturers of entry level beginner surfboards. You can find additional information on the types and of kids and beginner surfboards at Beginnersurfboards.life One of the best resources for beginner surfboards is Liquid Shredder Soft Surfboards
Volume
The volume of a surfboard determines how well it is going to float. As a beginner, you need to make sure your surfboard has plenty of volume. The greater the volume, the easier it is for you to stand and catch the waves. Volume is usually measured in liters and as a beginner, you need to ensure your surfboard is at least 60 liters. Such a board will help you surf in any kind of water including catching unbroken green waves and white water surfing.
Size
Your height and weight are the major determinants of how much volume you will need for your surfboard. As a beginner, you need a longer and thicker surfboard since it offers extra floatation and stability. However, your height and weight will highly determine the volume of surfboard you should go for. For instance if you are tall and heavier, you will need a slightly bigger board than a short and light surfer. The following chart will guide you when purchasing your first surfboard.
Longboard Size/Weight Chart
| Body Weight (Lb.) | Board Size |
| 95- 140 | 9’2- 9’4” |
| 140- 160 | 9’4- 9’6” |
| 160- 180 | 9’6- 9’8’ |
| 180- 200 | 9’8- 10” |
| >200 | >10’0” |
Fish Tail Boards
| Body Weight (Lb.) | Board Size |
| 90- 140 | 5’8- 6’4” |
| 140- 160 | 6’3- 6’8” |
| 160- 180 | 6’5- 6’10” |
| 180- 200 | 6’9- 7’4” |
| >200 | >7’8” |
Funshapes
| Body Weight (Lb.) | Board Size |
| 100- 140 | 7’2- 7’4” |
| 140- 160 | 7’4- 7’6” |
| 160- 180 | 7’6- 7’8” |
| 180- 200 | 7’8” |
| >200 | >7’8” |
SUP
| Body Weight Lb.) | Board Size |
| 100- 140 | 10’0- 10’8” |
| 140- 160 | 10’0- 10’8” |
| 160- 180 | 11’3- 12” |
| 180- 200 | 11’8- 12” |
| >200 | 11’11- 12” |
Fitness Level
Your level of fitness matters a lot when choosing your surfing board even at advanced levels. If you are not particularly fit, consider choosing a high volume surfing board to help maximize the number of waves you catch. A high volume board also helps lengthen the surfing sessions.
Surfboard Construction
Although not as crucial as volume and size, each surfboard construction material offers certain characteristics that determine your surfing experience. When considering this feature, you can choose from the following material:
- Fiberglass– this is the most common type of surfboard. It has the advantages that it’s easy to repair should it break in future. Most people prefer it due to its traditional gloss and matt finish.
- Epoxy surfboard– generally, boards made from this material are lighter and durable enough to overcome everyday dents. Their lightweight nature make them suitable for kids and women.
- Softboards– these are the most suitable for beginners since they are affordable and safer. They have soft and rounder fins which minimize chances of cutting yourself when surfing.
