Surfing is one of the most thrilling and fulfilling activities that one will ever engage in during one’s lifetime, and there is barely any activity one will engage in that does not require the right tools to begin with. As for novices, the choice of the proper surfboard may be either beneficial or catastrophic for the complete novices’ practice. It might get confusing when there are so many boards out there, but if one considers a few factors, it becomes easier.
Consider Your Skill Level and Physical Attributes
If you are thinking of buying a surfboard, there are some factors that you have to take into account first and foremost. For starters, there is the need to find a board with the most flotation and the least wanders. A board with more volume and larger size makes it easier to maneuver and ride the waves since you do not need to paddle an extra long distance to get to the waves. Generally, a student using a surfboard for the first time should get one with a length of between 7 and 9 feet, depending on their size.
For instance, a man who is more massive or tall will need a board that is longer and thicker to be strong enough or comfortably float on water. On the other hand, a lighter or shorter individual can do with a slightly smaller board, depending on whether they are right or left-footed. So marked attention to various boards enables a person to find the most suitable for their body size to be comfortable while handling it in water.
Choose the Right Surfboard Type
There are various types of surfboards available to surfers, depending on their skills and the waves they choose.
Foam Boards
Foam boards are suitable for beginners mainly because they are relatively soft, thereby causing minimal harm to the trainee.
They are also very strong, which makes it easier to get onto the waves, especially those in shallow waters; balance is also easy. Foam boards are typically bigger, and this gives them stability and the user the comfort that they need, especially those who are beginners.
Long Boards
Longboards are also good for the newbies and are quite popular with extreme sports enthusiasts. These are usually over 8 feet to 10 feet and have what is referred to as a rounded nose, which aids in paddling and wave catching. Longboards are said to be very stable and thus easy to use, which makes them ideal for learners who want to learn how to surf. It also has the capability of being used as you increase your level of surfing.
Minimals
Minimals are shorter in length than a longboard, yet they are more significant than a shortboard. It is mainly used in distances of between 7 to 8 feet and offers good stability and maneuverability. Minimals are perfect for first-time riders interested in a board that can be used throughout the different levels of surfing.
Consider the Surfboard’s Volume and Dimensions
It also means that for beginners, the volume of a surfboard is a critical factor. Volume is the capacity of the surfboard inside and is given in litres, although the imperial measurement system is also acceptable. A higher-volume board is stronger than a lower-volume, so paddling it, catching waves, and balancing is relatively easy. For one, it is said that a beginner should go for surfboards with a volume equal to their weight. For instance, if you are a 70 kg man, then your selected surfing board should be somewhere in the 70 litres range.
Length, width and thickness of the board also have an influence on the performance of the given board. A board with size and girth will provide more stability, especially for the starters; this is why a longer, broader and thicker board is better, as per my experience. Despite this, you can upgrade to a board that is a little smaller as you become more experienced with the activity.
Conclusion
Choosing the right surfboard is a critical step for beginners eager to start their surfing journey. By considering your skill level, physical attributes, the type of board, and its volume and dimensions, you can find a surfboard that offers the stability and ease of use needed to enjoy your time in the water. Remember, surfboards come in many shapes and sizes, so take the time to select one that aligns with your needs. With the right board, you will be well on your way to catching your first wave and experiencing the joy of surfing.
