Are you excited to ride the waves and have fun surfing? If you’re starting, the first thing to do is choose the perfect surfboard. That’s the first step to making your dream of surfing in the ocean come true! In this guide, we’ll talk all about surfboards and help you find the best one for beginners. It’ll be just right for you, and make sure you have a successful and fantastic time in the waves.
Surfboard For Beginners. Understanding the full Basics
Surfing is an entertaining water sport where you get to ride the big waves of the ocean! If you’re starting, knowing the basics is essential. This part will discuss the important things to help you pick the perfect beginner surfboard. That way, you can feel sure about your choice and have a great time in the water!
Types of surfboards
If you’re new to surfing and want to buy a surfboard, it’s essential to know about the different types of surfboards and which ones are good for beginners. Here are the main kinds of surfboards to think about.
1. Soft –Top surfboards
A soft-top surfboard is like a regular surfboard but has a soft, cushiony top surface instead of a hard one. This soft top makes it ideal for beginners and even intermediate surfers for a few important reasons:
1. Safety: Soft-top surfboards are safer for beginners because the soft material reduces the risk of injuries. If you fall or accidentally hit the board, it’s less likely to hurt you than a hard-top board.
2. Stability: These boards are broader and more stable, making it easier for beginners to balance them. This stability helps you catch waves and stand on the board more comfortably.
3. Buoyancy: Soft-top boards are usually relatively buoyant, which means they float well on the water. This buoyancy makes it easier for beginners to paddle out to the waves and stay afloat while waiting for the right wave to ride.
Longboard
A longboard is like a big, steady ship among surfboards. It’s called “longboard” because it’s long! Here’s why it’s super for beginners:
1. Steadiness: Longboards are wide and stable, making them easy to stay on. If you’re starting to surf, it’s like having training wheels on a bike – you won’t fall off easily.
2. Paddling Made Simple: These boards float well, so you will stay energized when you paddle out to where the waves are. It’s like a lazy river ride to the fun waves.
3. Wave Catching: Longboards are champs at catching even small waves. You don’t need super strong waves to have fun, which is perfect for beginners still figuring things out.
4. Cozy Ride: They allow ample space to move around comfortably. It’s like having a big, comfy sofa on the water where you can find your balance.
In short, longboards are the kind and patient giants of surfboards. They keep you steady, make paddling easy, and are fantastic for learning to surf. If you’re new to surfing, starting with a longboard is often the best way.
If you want the ‘Best Long Surfboard,’ you’re in the right place
Mini-Malibu( Funboards)
A Mini-Malibu or Funboard is like a mix between a longboard (the big, stable one) and a shortboard (the small, agile one). It’s not too big, not too small, just right! Here’s why it’s a great choice:
1. Balanced: Mini-Malibus are in the middle regarding size, which means they offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability. You can catch waves well and start doing some cool tricks, too.
2. Learning Bridge: A Mini-Malibu is an intelligent step if you’ve learned the basics on a longboard and want to progress. It helps you get used to a slightly smaller board without diving straight into the tricky shortboards.
3. Fun Tricks: These boards allow you to try fun tricks because they’re more elegant than longboards. It’s like going from a bicycle with training wheels to a bike without them – more freedom to explore.
4. Versatile: You can ride them in various wave conditions, which means you’re not limited to just one type of wave. It’s like having a car that can handle different road types.
Think of Mini-Malibu or Funboards as the “just right” surfboards. They’re not too big or small – perfect for having a fun and balanced time in the waves. If you know some basic surfing skills and want to try more exciting moves, these boards are a wise choice.
Fish Surfboards
Sure, let’s talk about fish surfboards in simple terms:
A fish surfboard is like a short and wide rocket on the water. It’s called a “fish” because its shape resembles a fish. Here’s why it’s interesting:
1. Speedy: Fish surfboards are shorter and have a unique shape that makes them super fast. They’re like a sports car for waves, great for going fast.
2. Maneuverable: Their width and shape make them very handy. It’s like having a skateboard on the water so you can make quick turns and tricks.
3. Small Wave Masters: Fish surfboards are excellent for catching even small waves. You can have a blast on days when the waves aren’t huge.
4. Unique Look: They stand out with their distinctive shape, which surfers often find cool and stylish.
In short, fish surfboards are like the sporty, small cars of surfing. They’re fast, maneuverable, and perfect for riding smaller waves. A fish surfboard could be your wave-riding buddy if you like speed and tricks.
Choosing the Right Size Of Surfboard For Beginners
Choosing the right size means getting something that fits you and what you want to do. It’s like getting shoes that are not tight or loose, perfect for your feet.
The right size matters greatly for surfboards because it affects how well you can ride waves. Here are some easy tips:
1. Your Surfing Level: If you’re new to surfing, go for a giant, stable board like a longboard. You can try a smaller, more agile board if you’re getting better.
2. Your Body Size: Your board should match how tall and heavy you are. If you’re big, you need a more giant board for balance and staying afloat.
3. Wave Size: Consider the size of the waves where you surf. If they’re small, a bigger board is OK. In more giant waves, a smaller board gives you more control.
4. How Fit You Are: If you’re fit and strong, you can handle a smaller board that’s harder to paddle. If not, go for an easier-to-paddle, more giant board.
What You Want to Do: Decide if you want to do tricks or have a relaxed ride. Schemes need a smaller board, while a bigger one is better for a laid-back ride.
5. Ask Experts: Talk to experienced surfers or go to a surf shop. They can help you pick the right size based on your needs and the waves near you.
In short, finding the right surfboard size is like finding the perfect fit for your surfing style and body. It’s all about having the best time riding waves, just like getting comfy shoes for your feet.
Recommended Surfboards
Now that you know about the different kinds and sizes of surfboards, let’s check out some suggestions for the best ones if you’re starting. These surfboards are picked because they work well for beginners and make learning to surf easy and fun.
1. WaveMaster Classic Beginner Soft-Top Surfboard
. Length: 8’0″. Volume: 86 liters. Features: Durable soft-top construction. Full-length traction pad. Leash plug for safety. Why it’s great for beginners: The WaveMaster Classic is an excellent surfboard. It helps you stay steady, so learning how to balance and catch waves is easy. Plus, it’s made with a soft top, making it less likely to cause injuries. It’s just suitable for people who are new to surfing.
2. SurfRider Easy Glide Longboard
. Length: 9’6″. Volume: 98 liters. Features. Extra-wide nose for stability. Durable epoxy construction. FCS II fin system for easy setup. Why it’s great for beginners: The SurfRider Easy Glide Longboard is perfect because it helps you stay steady in the water. It’s made to be super stable, which is excellent for people new to surfing. The board is nice and long, making paddling and catching waves easy. Learning to surf with this board is a smooth and fun experience!
3. BeachBum Mini-Malibu Funboard
. Length: 7’6″. Volume: 61 liters. Features: Versatile shape for different conditions. EPS foam core for lightweight performance. The BeachBum Mini-Malibu is a fantastic choice for beginners because it has three fins, which makes it easier to move around in the water. It’s suitable for people who are starting to learn to surf because it gives a good balance of staying steady and turning quickly. It allows you to easily progress from catching your first waves to more challenging ones.
4. AquaWave Fish Surfboard
. Length: 6’0″. Volume: 45 liters. Features: Broad, fish-shaped outline for agility. EVA foam deck for comfortable grip. Thruster fin setup for control. Why it’s great for beginners: The AquaWave Fish Surfboard is excellent for beginners who want an exciting ride. It’s shorter and broader, helping you switch from longer boards to easier ones as you get better at surfing.
When choosing the right surfboard, consider your preferences, goals, and the type of waves you plan to ride. These surfboards from different brands are suggested because they have various options that can work well for you as a beginner.
Whether you want a steady, versatile, or fun ride, there’s a surfboard that will make your surfing journey happy and unforgettable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, surfing is an exhilarating journey that begins with choosing the right surfboard. From stable and forgiving longboards ideal for beginners to Mini-Malibu or Funboards providing a balanced experience, and Fish Surfboards for those seeking speed and tricks, there’s a surfboard tailored to every surfer’s needs. The appropriate size is key, considering factors like skill level, body size, and wave conditions. The recommended surfboards for beginners offer a smooth introduction to the sport, ensuring an enjoyable and safe learning experience. So, find the board that suits you best, catch those waves, and make your surfing adventure unforgettable!
FAQs
How do I choose my first surfboard?
Choosing your first surfboard involves considering your skill level, weight, and the type of waves you’ll be riding:
Skill Level: If you’re a beginner, start with a longboard (8-9 feet) for stability. Intermediate surfers can go for a funboard (7-8 feet), while advanced surfers can opt for a shortboard (5-7 feet).
Weight:
If you’re a bigger person, pick a surfboard with more volume to float better. If you’re smaller, choose a smaller board with less volume.
Wave Type: Match your board to the type of waves you’ll encounter – longer boards for small, slow waves and shorter boards for fast, powerful waves.
What is the most popular type of surfboard?
The favorite kind of surfboard can differ depending on where you are and how good you are at surfing. But one of the liked styles is called a “shortboard.” Shortboards are usually 5 to 7 feet long and are made for really good or getting better surfers. They can turn quickly, which is great for riding fast and tricky waves.
Shortboards are great because they can do tricks and turns quickly. But many people also like longboards and funboards. These are good for beginners and those wanting a more stable and relaxed surfing time. Different surfers like different kinds of boards!
Are shorter surfboards easier to ride?
Longboards, which are long (over 8 1/2 feet), are fantastic because they’re stable and easy to paddle. They’re perfect for beginners and smaller, slower waves. Riding them feels relaxed and easy. But shortboards are shorter, faster, and need more skill. They’re great for surfers who are better and like the challenge of riding fast waves and doing tricks. Whether someone picks a longboard or a shortboard depends on how good they are at surfing, the kind of waves they want to ride, and what they like best.
Are long or short surfboards better?
Choosing between long and short surfboards depends on how good you are at surfing, the kind of waves there are, and what you like.
Longboards, which are long (over 8 1/2 feet), are super for beginners. They’re stable, easy to paddle, and catch waves well. Riding them feels relaxed and easy, which is perfect for learning.
Shortboards, usually under 7 feet, are great for good surfers who want to go fast, turn quickly, and do tricks. They work best on fast and powerful waves.
Ultimately, neither is inherently better; it’s about what suits your skill level and the type of waves you want to ride. Many surfers eventually use various board types depending on the conditions and their evolving skills.
Can a beginner learn on a shortboard?
Yes, you can technically use a shortboard for surfing, but you shouldn’t, especially if you’re starting. Learning to surf on a shortboard, especially for beginners, can be frustrating and not helpful. It’s better to begin with a longboard or a more giant, stable board. This helps you learn the basics before trying a shortboard when you’re more experienced and confident in the water. Starting with the right board for your skill level is essential for a fun and safe surfing experience.