What to Consider when Buying a Surfboard
Surfing is a fine hobby. In our age of digital devices, constant internet access, and unlimited entertainment at our fingertips, getting outside has never been more important. In our opinion, there are few finer ways to spend your time outside that are better than getting your toes in the sand and then into the water. Surfing has been a popular hobby for decades, and its been growing even more as of late!
Like most hobbies, getting started is the hardest part, and you can’t surf without choosing a solid board to ride. Even those who have some hours under their belt can be daunted by the sheer number of choices available. We hope this article simplifies the process of getting a board so you can get out on the swell ASAP!
What Type of Surfboard Do You Want?
At Ground Swell Surf Shop in Jupiter, FL, we think simplicity is the most important thing when taking up any new hobby or sport. There are always going to be a million details that you can get into your head and obsess over, but nothing will substitute time in the water. Better to grab a timeless design with time-tested features so you can get out in the water without much fuss.
One area that is important to fuss over is which board type do you want? Generally speaking, there are about 4 or 5 “main” board types—the shortboard, longboard, the malibu/funboard, guns, and fishboards. There are many more board types but they are generally a variation of some kind on these boards suited for more niche surfing purposes. See? Things are already getting complicated!
Personally, we think longboards are a great choice for beginners because they provide a ton of buoyancy, they are easy to paddle, and float amazingly well. Stability is the name of the game for the longboard, and what better way to kickstart your surfing journey than to actually be able to ride a few waves? After putting some time on your longboard, you can maybe think about graduating to a more difficult board type that is suited towards more difficult maneuvers.
Consider Your Weight and Height
There is no one size fits all solution when it comes to surfboards. The needs of someone who is 6’3 and 195 lbs will be greater than someone who is 5’5 and weighs 120lbs. While a 9-foot longboard would be serviceable for either party, it’s best to get a board that fits perfectly to your needs.
Make Decisions Based on the Long Haul
We love surfing. We want you to love surfing. We want everyone to love surfing! One of the ways we can help this goal along is to help people make choices that help them enjoy surfing for years to come. Making your surfing gear decisions should be focused on long-term decision making. For example, many beginners want to jump straight onto a shortboard because it looks very cool and they think it’ll help them be more agile in the waters.
Well, unless you’re the greatest prodigy the world has ever seen, chances are you’re going to be eating saltwater for a long time and not having very much fun. A hobby that isn’t fun at least some of the time is likely one you will drop. This is why so many surf authorities tell beginners to get on a longboard because it shows you how fun surfing is while letting you nail the basics. There will be plenty of time to explore the nuances of surfing down the road. For now, get a surfboard, wax, a leash, and a wetsuit and get out there!
Surf Shop Jupiter FL
Ground Swell Surf Shop is dedicated to bringing you the best surfing gear and equipment you could need either as a beginner or an expert! We also sell skate equipment and all of the most popular lifestyle brands such as Billabong, Volcom, Element, Emerica, and many more!
For any questions about our humble shop, our products, or your order, please feel free to contact us here.