Woman entering the ocean with an orange 7 foot 10 inch Formula Fun Foamies DOHO surfboard

5 Factors When Choosing The Right Surfboard

Learning to Surf Reading 5 Factors When Choosing The Right Surfboard 4 minutes Next The Joy of Surfing

When it comes to choosing a surfboard, it's not a simple question with a simple answer. There's a variety of different variables that might influence your decision. From style and length to volume and tail shape, selecting the right board can make all the difference in your surfing experience. So how do you know what board is right for you?

Well, you'll have to take the following 5 factors into consideration:

1. SKILL LEVEL

First and foremost, it's important to consider your skill level. If you're a beginner, you'll want to look for a board that is easy to ride and forgiving, with a wider, more stable shape. On the other hand, if you're more advanced and looking for a board to help you progress and push your limits, you'll want something with a narrower, more performance-oriented shape.

2. LENGTH

Length is also an important factor to consider. Generally speaking, a longer board will be more stable and easier to ride, making it a good choice for beginners or larger surfers. A shorter board, on the other hand, will be more maneuverable and responsive, making it a better choice for advanced surfers looking to perform more advanced maneuvers.

3. VOLUME

Volume, or the amount of foam in the board, is another important factor to consider. A board with more volume will generally be more stable and easier to ride, making it a good choice for beginners or larger surfers. A board with less volume will be less stable, but more responsive and agile, making it a better choice for advanced surfers looking to perform more advanced maneuvers.

4. STYLE & SHAPE

In addition to these factors, you'll also want to consider the style of board that best fits your needs. There are several different types of surfboards, including but not limited to shortboards, longboards, and funboards, each of which is designed for a specific type of surfing. Shortboards, for example, are designed for high-performance surfing and are best suited for advanced surfers. Longboards, on the other hand, are designed for a more relaxed, cruising style of surfing and are a good choice for beginners or surfers looking for a more laid-back ride. Funboards, or mid-length boards, fall somewhere in between and are a good choice for intermediate surfers looking for a versatile board that can handle a wide range of conditions.

5. WAVE TYPE

To get the best ride, different types of waves require different types of boards. For instance, a longboard is ideal for small, slow waves, while a shortboard is better suited for larger, faster waves. Understanding the characteristics of different wave types and how they affect the ride is crucial for selecting the right board and having the best surfing experience.


LATER FACTORS:
Other factors to consider when choosing a surfboard include the tail shape, rocker, and fin setup. The tail shape, or the shape of the back end of the board, can have a big impact on the board's performance. A square tail, for example, will provide more stability and drive, while a round tail will be more maneuverable and responsive. The rocker, or curve of the board from nose to tail, will also affect the board's performance. A board with a lot of rocker will be more maneuverable and responsive, while a board with less rocker will be more stable and easier to ride. Finally, the fin setup, or the number and placement of fins on the board, can also affect the board's performance. A thruster setup, with three fins evenly spaced out along the tail of the board, is a good all-around setup that provides a good balance of stability and maneuverability.

All in all, choosing the right surfboard is a personal decision that will depend on your skill level, size and weight, and surfing style. Keep in mind though, the point of surfing is to enjoy yourself in the water and have fun so don't take yourself too seriously - play around with different options and see what works for you!