What Surfboard Size Should I Get?

Are you ready to hit the waves and ride the perfect wave? Before you grab your board and head out, it’s crucial to ensure that you have the right surfboard size for your skill level and body type. The wrong size can result in frustration, difficulty maneuvering, and even injury.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about selecting the ideal surfboard size.

So, what surfboard size should I get?

When choosing a surfboard size, you can consider the following factors:

• Body weight: Beginners should use a board that’s 100% of their body weight in volume. For example, a 176 lb beginner should use a board that’s about 80 liters in volume.
• Experienced surfers can use a board that’s about 40% of their body weight.
• Height: For leaner surfers, match the board length to your height. For larger surfers, aim 4-6 inches longer or have it custom built 2 inches longer than your height. If you’re an average build for an intermediate surfer, ride the cloud 2-4 inches shorter than your height.
• Shape and style: The shape and style of the surfboard can affect the size you should get. For example, a fish is typically 2-4 inches shorter than your shortboard. A performance shortboard should be between 5’9 and 6’0 until you are more experienced.
• Thickness: Thicker boards are easier to catch waves, paddle, and sink. This is ideal for raiders that are looking to build up their chops and have more of a leveled experience throughout.
• Volume: Longer and/or more volume surfboards are easier to paddle, catch waves, and more stable, but less maneuverable. Shorter and/or less volume surfboards are harder to paddle, catch waves, and less stable, but more maneuverable.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking to upgrade your gear, keep reading to discover how to choose the perfect surfboard size for an epic surfing experience.

Surfboard size chart

When using a surfboard size chart to determine the ideal board for you, there are various crucial aspects to keep in mind. These include your level of expertise, weight, height, fitness level, and preferred surfing style.

Moreover, it is essential to have a good understanding of the different types of surfboards and their corresponding sizes, as each one is specifically designed for a particular purpose.

Ultimately, the best way to determine the right surfboard size for you is to seek advice from a local surf shop or shaper who can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique needs and preferences.

They can also help you understand the nuances of different surfboard sizes and shapes, ensuring that you make the best choice for your surfing experience.

Additionally, they may even share anecdotes and personal examples to illustrate their point and make the process more relatable and engaging.

Beginner Surfboard Size Chart

When it comes to picking the perfect surfboard size for beginners, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. The first step is to consider your weight and height. A general rule of thumb is to start with a longboard that is about 2 feet longer than your height.

For instance, if you are 6’0″ tall, an 8’6″ to 9’0″ longboard would be ideal for you. This size will provide the stability and buoyancy needed to catch waves and maintain balance.

Another way to determine the right surfboard size is by using a chart based on your weight:

However, it’s essential to note that these are just general guidelines. The best way to determine the perfect size is by trying out different boards and finding what feels most comfortable for you. Other factors to consider include your fitness level and preferred surfing style. If you’re more physically fit or prefer an aggressive surfing style, you may want to opt for a slightly smaller board.

Seeking advice from a local surf shop or shaper can also be helpful. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and skill level. Plus, they can explain the nuances of each board’s size and shape, making it easier for you to make an informed decision.

Funboard Surfboard Size Chart

Finding the perfect surfboard size can be a daunting task, but with the help of the funboard surfboard size chart, you can make an informed decision tailored to your specific surfing needs.

This comprehensive tool takes into account your weight, skill level, and preferred style of surfing to provide a range of recommended sizes.

To utilize the funboard surfboard size chart, follow these steps:

• Determine your weight: The first step is knowing your weight. This crucial piece of information will help narrow down the recommended size range for your surfboard.
• Consider your skill level: If you are a beginner, a larger board with more volume may be ideal for better stability and easier wave-catching. On the other hand, intermediate or advanced surfers may prefer a smaller board for better maneuverability and performance.
• Choose your preferred style of surfing: Different types of surfboards cater to specific styles of surfing. For instance, if you enjoy riding steeper waves and executing high-performance maneuvers, a shortboard may be the right fit. If cruising and catching smaller waves is more your style, a funboard or longboard may suit you better.
• Use the size chart: Once you have determined your weight, skill level, and preferred style of surfing, refer to the funboard surfboard size chart to see the recommended sizes for you. Keep in mind that this is just a guide and not a strict rule, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different sizes to find the perfect match.

Remember to also take into account other factors mentioned in the previous section, such as your height, fitness level, and preferred style of surfing.

Always keep in mind that the size chart is only a guide and not a substitute for trying out different boards and seeking advice from experts.

Shortboard Size Chart

Finding the perfect surfboard to match your abilities and preferences can be a daunting task. However, a shortboard size chart can serve as a helpful tool in this process. Here are some crucial steps you should follow when utilizing a shortboard size chart:

• Assess your skill level: Before consulting the chart, determine whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfer. This will significantly narrow down the range of sizes that would work for you.
• Consider your weight: Since surfboard sizes are often based on weight, knowing your weight can help you identify the ideal board size for you.
• Determine your desired surfing style: Are you looking to shred high-performance waves or cruise on smaller ones? Different surfboard shapes and sizes cater to different styles, so it’s crucial to know what you’re looking for.
• Seek expert advice: While a shortboard size chart can provide general guidance, it’s best to consult with a local shop or shaper. They can consider all factors and recommend the perfect board for your needs.
• Understand the measurements: Shortboard sizes are typically measured in length, width, thickness, volume (in liters), and sometimes tail width. Each surfboard shape and style will have different ideal measurements, so it’s crucial to understand how each factor plays a role.
• Consider other factors: Apart from weight, factors like height and fitness level can also impact the suitable shortboard size for you.
• Test out various boards: Ultimately, the best way to determine the right shortboard size is to try out different boards and see which one feels most comfortable and suits your surfing abilities and preferences.

Fish Surfboard Size Chart

When it comes to selecting the right fish surfboard size, there are several factors to take into account, such as your height and weight. Fish surfboards are renowned for their wider and flatter shape, making them ideal for weaker waves.

However, they can also handle bigger swells, making them a versatile choice for surfers.

Here’s how you can determine the perfect size for your fish surfboard:

Assess your surfing ability

The first step in choosing the right fish surfboard size is to evaluate your surfing skills. If you’re an intermediate or advanced surfer, you can opt for a smaller board that’s closer to your body’s height and weight.

But if you’re a beginner or still honing your skills, it’s best to go for a bigger board.

Consider your height and weight

Fish surfboards are typically 2-4 inches shorter than high-performance shortboards. For instance, if you’re 5’10” and weigh around 160 pounds, a suitable fish surfboard size would be between 5’8″ and 5’6″.

Keep in mind that this is just a general guideline and may vary based on your surfing ability.

Seek expert advice

If you’re unsure which size to choose, it’s always wise to seek guidance from an experienced surfer or a reputable surf shop.

They can offer valuable insights based on their knowledge and experience, helping you make an informed decision.

Don’t forget about longboards

Longboards are another popular type of surfboard that is larger than high-performance shortboards and fish surfboards. They are known for being easier to catch waves with but have less maneuverability.

When selecting a longboard, consider not just your bodyweight but also other factors such as your surfing ability and comfort level with handling a larger board.

Remember, selecting a fish surfboard size is not an exact science. It’s crucial to consider all the factors mentioned above and find the right balance between your height, weight, and surfing ability.

Longboard Size Chart

A Longboard Size Chart is a valuable resource in determining the perfect surfboard size for you. Here are some tips on how to use it effectively:

• Know your exact height and weight: Before consulting the Longboard Size Chart, it is crucial to have accurate information about your height and weight. These two factors greatly influence the ideal size of your surfboard.
• Consider your surfing ability: When using the Longboard Size Chart, take into account your skill level as well. If you are a beginner, it is recommended to choose a larger board for better stability and balance. For intermediate and advanced surfers, smaller boards provide greater maneuverability.
• Frequency of surfing matters: Frequent surfers may want to opt for a slightly larger board than what is recommended on the Longboard Size Chart. This will allow you to catch more waves and improve your surfing skills at a faster pace.
• Take note of the type of waves you ride: Different types of waves require different board sizes. For example, if you primarily surf small, mushy waves, a larger board may help you catch them easier. On the other hand, if you prefer bigger, steeper waves, a smaller board would be more suitable.
• Use the Longboard Size Chart as a guide: Once you have all the necessary information, refer to the Longboard Size Chart to find the recommended board length based on your height and weight. The chart also provides suggestions based on skill level and wave type.

Here is a Longboard Size Chart:

However, keep in mind that this is a general guideline and adjustments may be necessary based on personal preferences and surfing style. Seeking advice from a local surf shop or experienced surfer can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your specific needs.

Also Read: How To Surf A Crowded Lineup?

Conclusion

In conclusion, the right surfboard size is crucial for a successful and enjoyable surfing experience. It plays a significant role in not only your ability to catch waves and maneuver on the water, but also in preventing frustration and potential injuries.

Throughout this blog post, we have emphasized the importance of selecting the correct surfboard size, discussed key factors to consider when determining your ideal size, and explored different types of surfboards with their recommended sizes.

Additionally, we have provided helpful tips for trying out various sizes before making a purchase.

It’s important to keep in mind that your skill level, weight, height, fitness level, and preferred surfing style all play a role in choosing the right surfboard size. However, these are just general guidelines and seeking advice from professionals at a local surf shop or shaper can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique needs.

With our beginner and funboard surfboard size charts as a guide, you can make an informed decision tailored to your specific surfing needs.

So before hitting the waves, make sure you have the perfect surfboard size for an epic surfing experience.