With plenty of surfboards available, choosing the right type of surfboard will highly determine your fun surfing experience! Generally, expert surfers will know which board they need to use, while beginners might not have the experience to do so. To help you out, here are a few tips to help guide you through the decision making process.
1. Know your skill level
Are you a beginner, intermediate or expert surfer? For starters surfer, you will most likely need a beginner surfboard that has a lot of volume and stability. Consider choosing a soft-top foam surfboard, as it has great flotation and stability. The soft material will also make it easier for paddling.
Recommended size:
7-8 foot in length
22 inches wide
3 inches thick
With this size, plenty of volume is provided to help you easily paddle into the waves. With the extra width and thickness of this surfboard, you’ll also have lots of stability to help you stand up.
2. Match your surfboard with your fitness level
As well as your skills, your fitness level should not be forgotten. Although your skills have developed, your fitness level might change in 5 years time. People who are fit may choose to use shortboards, but those who are a little less fit might suit a funboard or a longboard better. In addition, age also plays an important role. Younger surfers tend to have more endurance to paddle, while older surfers tend to get tired quicker.
3. Calculate your body shape (height and weight)
Another key factor to consider is your height and weight. Most volume calculators rely heavily on this component. Of course, generally, the bigger you are the bigger surfboard you will need to have. However, this factor should be considered together with your skill level, fitness level, and the waves you plan on surfing.
4. Spot the type of wave you will be surfing
Different types of wave will require different types of surfboard. There is no surfboard model that can fit all types of wave. As wave conditions may vary from place to place, it is best to know which type of wave you will be surfing, in order to select the right kind of surfboard to match the conditions.
To maximize your surfing experience, it is important to consider your skill level, fitness level, body height and weight, and the wave conditions you plan on surfing. Expand your quiver as your surfing skills progress, and this will give you a better understanding of the different types of surfboard that will work in different types of waves.
Learn to surf like a pro. Pelan Pelan Bali has a surf lessons package that includes an instructor, delicious homemade Indonesian lunch, massage, and yoga or meditation.