Learn to Surf: Choosing the Right Board

When choosing a board, it is important to consider your height, weight and ability level. If you are an adult just starting out, look for a board that is relatively thick and wide, something that will float well with you on it. As you progress, you will look for a board with sharper edges or rails.

If you are an teenager just starting out, a board that is a little larger in height than you is best suited, with enough volume to float you on top of the water when not moving. As you progress, you’ll want to look for a board that is a little thinner with sharper rails. With a little less volume, but more maneuverability on the wave. If you take to surfing, your first board will not be your last, but if you choose a board that is too advanced you may become frustrated and your first board will be your last.

While holding the board you will feel its edge, its thickness and the shape of the rail. Your board’s thickness should be relative to your weight. The heavier you are the thicker the board should be. The surfboard outer edges (rail’s) shape should be rounded for beginners, they become sharper for more powerful waves and rounded on the top then squared at the bottom (boxy) for quick maneuverability. The tail of the board is usually wide for smaller waves, and narrow for big waves, while being round for soft, slow maneuvers and square for quick, maneuvers with a lot of snap.

Take a look at the side profile of the board and you will see what is known as the rocker line. It’s the curve in the tail and the nose looking from the side of the board. A board with pronounced rocker is maneuverable and turns easily. A flat rocker means the board will be fast but a little harder to turn. Look at the board’s outline. A wide outline is good for smaller waves. A narrow outline is better for larger, more powerful waves. Choosing the right board at first will pay off in the long run, sacrifice a little ego and get a slower board until your ready to quit your day job. Chicks will still dig you… unless you’re a dork.