Are you interested in getting into the world of surfing, but unsure which surfboard is right for you? Unraveling the various types of surfboards available can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect board to cater to your needs and skill level. Surfboards have a rich history, evolving significantly over time, and are now designed to cater to varying surfing styles, conditions, and personal preferences.
In this article, we will explore different types of surfboards including, but not limited to, longboards, shortboards, and hybrids. These boards are crafted with specific characteristics to perform optimally in different wave conditions and cater to the unique skills and styles of individual surfers. We’ll also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each type, ensuring that you can make a well-rounded decision on which surfboard best suits your needs.
As you delve deeper into the fascinating world of surfboards, you’ll discover not only the perfect board for you but also gain insight into how these designs have been meticulously crafted over the years to suit diverse surfing experiences. Ready to catch your first wave? Let’s begin by learning more about the different types of surfboards that await you.
Soft Top Surfboards
What Are the Benefits of a Soft Top Surfboard?
Soft top surfboards are an excellent choice for beginner surfers due to their soft and non-intimidating nature. They are lightweight, easy to paddle, less prone to damaging dings, and provide better stability and buoyancy. Soft top surfboards also offer increased safety for crowded lineups and are generally more affordable than their hardtop counterparts.
How Much Does a Soft Top Surfboard Cost?
The average price of a soft top surfboard can range anywhere from $200 to $600, making them a cost-effective option for those starting their surfing journey.
What Are the Soft Top Surfboards Made Of?
Soft top surfboards are constructed with an EPS foam core (similar to epoxy surfboards) and wrapped in either fiberglass or a synthetic wrap. The primary difference when compared to hard top surfboards is the replacement of the hardened fiberglass or epoxy top layer with a soft, dentable Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA) sheet.
What Are the Cons of Soft Top Surfboard?
There are a few drawbacks to using a soft top surfboard. They tend to be less maneuverable than fiberglass boards, with their extra volume and soft fins making them difficult to turn on the wave. Paddling out to the lineup on bigger days can be more challenging due to the added buoyancy, making it difficult to duck dive through large waves and white water. Finally, soft top surfboards usually have a flatter rocker, which can make steep drops challenging, even for experienced surfers.
Recommended Soft Top Surfboards
Long(er) Boards (7 ft. plus):
- Best Performance: JJF by Pyzel Log
- Classic Foamboard Fun: Catch Surf Odysea Log
- Best Price: Wavestorm Classic Surfboard
- Tons of Options: Boardworks Froth! Surfboard
Shortboards:
- Best Performance: Degree33 Cloud Epoxysoft Shortboard
- Classic Style: Catch Surf Skipper Quad J.O.B. Pro
- Best Price: Wavestorm Swallowtail Surfboard
- Durable and Recycled: Formula Fun Shortboard Fish
- Easily-Removed Fins: Softech Eric Geiselman Flash
- Best for Kids: South Bay Board Co. Guppy ($279)
Overall, soft top surfboards offer an appealing option for beginner surfers due to their increased safety, affordability, and ease of use. However, they do have some limitations, particularly when it comes to maneuverability and paddling through more challenging conditions.
Wooden Surfboards
What Are the Benefits of a Wooden Surfboard?
Wooden surfboards have several benefits. First and foremost, they offer a connection to the surfing tradition, as wood was the original material used for surfboards. In addition to their historical significance, wooden surfboards are often more durable than their foam counterparts. The wood skin adds extra strength and resilience, which can result in a longer-lasting surfboard.
Another benefit of wooden surfboards is their environmental friendliness. Wood is a renewable resource, and using it to construct surfboards can reduce the amount of non-biodegradable waste produced by the surfboard industry. Furthermore, wooden surfboards are known for their excellent balance and performance on the water, allowing you to glide smoothly and swiftly through the waves.
How Much Does a Wooden Surfboard Cost?
While the cost of a wooden surfboard can vary depending on its size, materials, and craftsmanship, you can generally expect to pay around $1,200 or more for a high-quality wooden board. This price range reflects the intricate work and attention to detail that goes into creating these boards, ensuring that you receive a durable and visually appealing product.
What Are Wooden Surfboards Made Of?
A wooden surfboard typically consists of the following components: core, deck, rails, and fins. The core is commonly made from balsa wood, offering a lightweight yet strong foundation. This core is then sandwiched between two layers of fiberglass for added strength and stability. The deck, which protects the wood core, is often constructed from various wood veneers or solid wood, both for aesthetic purposes and to provide a hard-wearing surface. Finally, the rails and fins are fashioned from wood or other suitable materials, depending on the design and functionality of the board.
What Are the Cons of Wooden Surfboards?
Despite their many benefits, wooden surfboards come with a few drawbacks. First, they tend to be more expensive than other types of surfboards. This is largely due to the craftsmanship required to build a wooden board, as well as the cost of the materials themselves. Additionally, wooden surfboards usually weigh more than their foam or fiberglass counterparts, which can make them more challenging to maneuver for some surfers.
Recommended Wooden Surfboard
If you’re considering purchasing a wooden surfboard, here are some top recommendations:
- Tonn The Lysander Wooden Surfboard
- Truwood Black Mamba Wooden Surfboard
- Otter Island Hopper Surfboard
- Kayu The Brunette
- Grain The Sapling Surfboard
- No-Made Nostromo Fish & Retro
- Flama Calamar Evolve Shortboard
- Buchholz Nafish
These boards represent a diverse selection of shapes and styles, catering to different preferences and skill levels. By choosing a wooden surfboard, you’ll not only enhance your surfing experience but also contribute to a more sustainable surfboard industry.
Polyurethane Surfboard
What Are the Benefits of a Polyurethane Surfboard?
Polyurethane (PU) surfboards are known for their flexibility and responsiveness, making them a popular choice for surfers of all skill levels. Due to their closed-cell foam structure, PU boards have good resistance to water and salinity, ensuring their durability even with continuous use. The hard material also provides a solid resistance to impacts, preserving the board’s performance over time.
How Much Does a Polyurethane Surfboard Cost?
When it comes to cost, you can expect a polyurethane surfboard to range between $500 and $1000. This price range depends on various factors such as the brand, the board’s dimensions, and the level of customization. It’s important to choose a board that meets your specific needs while staying within your budget.
What Are Polyurethane Surfboards Made Of?
A polyurethane surfboard consists of a polyurethane foam core, which gives the board its shape. This foam core is then wrapped in fiberglass cloth for added durability and strength. To complete the construction, it’s coated with a layer of polyester resin, ensuring a watertight seal and smooth finish.
What Are the Cons of Polyurethane Surfboards?
Despite their popularity, polyurethane surfboards have a few drawbacks. These boards can be prone to damage and are relatively heavier compared to other surfboard materials like epoxy. This additional weight can make maneuvering and control more challenging for beginners. Additionally, polyurethane surfboards are more susceptible to yellowing with time due to UV exposure, which might affect their aesthetics over the years.
Recommended Polyurethane Surfboard
When looking for a PU surfboard, these are some of the top recommendations to consider:
- Channel Islands Happy
- Lost Surfboards Rocket
- JS Industries Monsta 8
- Firewire Surfboards Dominator
- Pyzel Surfboards Ghost
- DHD Surfboards Black Diamond
- Haydenshapes Surfboards Hypto Krypto
Keep in mind that the ideal surfboard for you will depend on your specific requirements, skill level, and style. It’s essential to test different options and gather feedback from fellow surfers to find the perfect polyurethane surfboard that suits your needs.
Epoxy Surfboard
What Are the Benefits of an Epoxy Surfboard?
Epoxy surfboards have distinct advantages. They are lighter than traditional surfboards, making them great for high-performance surfers. The lightweight nature of epoxy boards results from their polystyrene core, high-density foam sheets, and epoxy resin reinforcement. In addition to being lightweight, epoxy surfboards are also durable, thanks to their hard outer shell created by compression molding.
How Much Does an Epoxy Surfboard Cost?
When it comes to the cost of an epoxy surfboard, you can expect a range between $500 and $1,200 USD. Entry-level or beginner epoxy surfboards may be available at the lower end of this range, while high-performance or custom epoxy surfboards from well-known brands can be at the higher end or even exceed this range. It’s essential to keep in mind that epoxy surfboards are generally more expensive than traditional fiberglass surfboards.
What Are Epoxy Surfboards Made Of?
The primary materials of an epoxy surfboard include a polystyrene core coated with an epoxy resin. The entire structure is then reinforced with glass and sealed for added strength and durability.
What Are the Cons of Epoxy Surfboards?
While there are many benefits to epoxy surfboards, they aren’t without their drawbacks. One of the main cons is the higher price tag, typically $100 to $150 more than a standard PU/fiberglass board. Additionally, despite being lightweight, EPS boards offer more buoyancy, making them harder to duck dive. Some surfers may also find the reduced weight of epoxy surfboards to be a disadvantage, depending on their surfing style and preferences.
Recommended Epoxy Surfboard
Here are some of the top epoxy surfboards for various surfing needs:
- Best high-performance shortboard: Happy Every Day Spine-Tek EPS
- Best for speed: Firewire Slater Designs Sci-Fi 2.0 LFT
- Best for beginners: Rocket Wide Spine-Tek EPS
- Best all-rounder: Hayden Shapes Hypto Krypto Epoxy Surfboard
- Best small wave performance: Haydenshapes The Untitled Futureflex Epoxy
- Best epoxy longboard: Firewire HI4 Thunderbolt Black Tech
- Best for small waves: Puddle Jumper Pro Lightspeed Epoxy
- Best value for money: STCY Master Killer Phantom Phlex Epoxy
As a surfer, you now have a better understanding of epoxy surfboards, including their benefits, costs, construction, and some recommendations to consider when selecting an epoxy board for your next ride.
Shortboard Surfboard
In this section, we will discuss the characteristics, benefits, limitations, and recommendations for choosing the right shortboard surfboard to suit your needs.
What Are the Benefits of a Shortboard Surfboard?
Shortboards offer several advantages that cater to experienced surfers striving to improve their performance. These benefits include:
- Maneuverability: Thanks to their shorter length and narrower shape, shortboards allow you to make quick, sharp turns and have an increased responsiveness to your input.
- Performance in critical waves: Designed for steep and hollow waves, shortboards enable you to drop into the wave quickly, navigate steep sections, and perform maneuvers with precision.
- Speed and responsiveness: Shortboards allow for generating and maintaining speed in the wave, providing an exhilarating surfing experience.
- Advanced surfing techniques: Preferred by experienced and advanced surfers, shortboards support high-performance surfing, including aerial maneuvers and progressive turns.
- Competitive advantage: In professional surfing competitions, shortboards offer an edge, thanks to their ability to execute advanced maneuvers and generate speed.
How Much Does a Shortboard Surfboard Cost?
The cost of a shortboard surfboard varies based on the materials, craftsmanship, and brand reputation. Here’s a general breakdown of what you should expect to pay:
- Entry-Level Shortboards: Approximately $200 – $500 USD
- Mid-Range Shortboards: Approximately $500 – $900 USD
- High-End Shortboards: Approximately $900 – $2000 USD or more
What Are Shortboard Surfboards Made Of?
Shortboard surfboards can be made with various materials, each offering different performance characteristics. Here are some common materials:
- Polyurethane (PU) Foam with Fiberglass: A traditional construction method that balances performance, weight, and cost.
- Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Foam with Epoxy: Offers lighter, more buoyant, and more durable boards favored by performance-oriented surfers.
- Carbon Fiber: An advanced lightweight and strong material that increases responsiveness and performance benefits.
- Soft-Top Construction: A popular choice among beginner and intermediate surfers for added safety and durability.
What Are the Cons of Shortboard Surfboards?
While shortboards provide many benefits, they also have some limitations:
- Shortboards can be harder for beginners to learn on due to their sensitivity and responsiveness.
- They may struggle in small waves, providing limited performance in mellow conditions.
- Shortboards can be more challenging to paddle, given their reduced buoyancy.
Recommended Shortboard Surfboard
To help you choose the perfect shortboard surfboard, here is a list of some highly recommended options:
- Slater Designs Sci-Fi
- JS Monsta 2020 Squash Tail HYFI
- Black and White
- Thing V2
- DX1 Phase 3
- Alley
- Blackbird
- Sabo Taj
- Mad Cat 2020
Fish Surfboard
What Are the Benefits of a Fish Surfboard?
A fish surfboard is an excellent choice for small wave conditions, thanks to its unique fish-shaped swallow tail design. The wider tail makes it easy for you to drive the line smoothly and efficiently. If you’re transitioning from a longboard to a shorter board, a fish surfboard is a perfect intermediate option with its not-too-short length compared to a traditional shortboard. The fish surfboard offers a good balance between paddle power and stability, allowing you to catch waves with ease and maintain control while riding.
How Much Does a Fish Surfboard Cost?
The cost of a fish surfboard can vary, with prices ranging from $300 to $800 USD on average. Factors such as brand, materials, and size will influence the overall cost.
What Are Fish Surfboards Made Of?
Fish surfboards are typically constructed using a combination of materials including:
- Foam Core
- Fiberglass Cloth
- Resin
- Stringer
- Fin Boxes
These materials come together to form a lightweight, responsive, and durable surfboard designed for optimal performance in small waves.
What Are the Cons of Fish Surfboards?
While there are many benefits to riding a fish surfboard, there are also some drawbacks to consider, such as:
- Limited Wave Range: Fish surfboards perform best in smaller, mushier waves, but may not be as suitable for larger, more powerful waves.
- Reduced Stability at High Speeds: The shorter length and wider outline can result in less stability at high speeds or in steep wave sections.
- Challenging in Hollow Waves: Due to their wider outline and lower rocker, fish surfboards might struggle in hollow or barreling waves.
- Limited Performance in Competitive Surfing: Fish surfboards are more geared towards cruising rather than advanced maneuvers and competitive surfing.
- Learning Curve for Transitioning Surfers: If you’re used to riding longer or more traditional surfboard shapes, adapting to a fish surfboard may require some adjustment.
Recommended Fish Surfboard
If you’re considering a fish surfboard, here are some top recommendations:
- Surftech x AIPA Dark Twinn Surfboard
- Seaside by Firewire
- Skipper Quad x Jamie O’brien Pro
- Something Fishy by Gerry Lopez
- Firewire Too Fish Surfboard by Rob Machado
- Round Nose Fish by …Lost Soft Top
- Fishbeard by Channel Islands
- Red Baron by JS
Remember to take into account your skill level, local wave conditions, and personal preferences when choosing a fish surfboard that works best for you.
Funboard Surfboard
What Are the Benefits of a Funboard Surfboard?
A funboard surfboard is great for surfers of various levels, offering a balance between the ease of use of a longboard and the performance of a shortboard. On a funboard, you’ll enjoy benefits such as:
- Versatility: Funboards are created to be versatile, with their hybrid design making them adaptable to a wide range of wave conditions.
- Easy paddling: The increased width of funboards results in better paddling efficiency, allowing you to get into waves easier and faster.
- Enhanced stability: Funboards offer additional stability due to their wider outlines, giving you more confidence while riding waves.
- Improved maneuverability: Despite being larger than shortboards, funboards are still responsive and maneuverable, allowing you to practice and refine your surfing techniques.
How Much Does a Funboard Surfboard Cost?
Depending on the materials used and the brand, the cost of a funboard can vary:
- Entry-level Funboards: Ranging from $200 to $500, suitable for beginners or occasional surfers seeking an affordable option.
- Mid-range Funboards: Prices vary between $500 to $800 for those made from higher quality construction materials like fiberglass and epoxy.
- High-end Funboards: For those seeking premium performance and durability, expect prices to range from $800 to $1,500 or even more.
What Are Funboard Surfboards Made Of?
Funboard surfboards are typically constructed using polyurethane (PU) or expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam cores for buoyancy and responsiveness. These cores are then covered with durable and lightweight epoxy or polyester resin for a strong, protective outer layer.
What Are the Cons of Funboard Surfboards?
Despite their many advantages, funboards do come with some drawbacks which include:
- Not as beginner-friendly as longboards: Funboards may be more challenging for absolute beginners due to their smaller size compared to longboards.
- Limited performance in small surf: Funboards may not perform optimally in smaller surf conditions, where a longboard would fare better.
Recommended Funboard Surfboard
Here are some popular funboard options worth considering for your quiver:
- 4 x 4 by Chemistry Surfboards
- The Plunder by Haydenshapes Surfboards
- The Pill 2 by Timmy Patterson Surfboards
- The Scrambled Egg by Elemnt Surfboards
- Big Baron by JS Industries
- Beer Fridge by Chemistry Surfboards
Ultimately, funboards can be a practical and enjoyable addition to your surfboard collection, providing versatility and performance across a wide array of conditions.
Longboard Surfboard
What Are the Benefits of a Longboard Surfboard?
Longboard surfboards offer numerous benefits to surfers. They are easier to catch waves with, making them suitable for various wave types. Due to their increased buoyancy, longboards provide a better experience when surfing on weaker waves or if you are not used to intensive paddling. The increased length and stability of longboards make them more comfortable when you stand up, allowing you to enjoy the surfing experience with more consistency.
How Much Does a Longboard Surfboard Cost?
The cost of a longboard surfboard can range greatly, usually falling between $500 and $1500 or more. Affordable, entry-level longboards constructed from basic materials are found at the lower end of the price spectrum. In contrast, high-end custom boards featuring advanced construction techniques and premium materials will be on the higher end of the range.
What Are Longboard Surfboards Made Of?
Longboard surfboards are generally made from one of the following materials:
- Polyurethane (PU): combined with fiberglass and polyester resin
- Expanded polystyrene (EPS): used alongside epoxy resin
Both materials have their benefits and drawbacks, but both options are widely used in longboard construction.
What Are the Cons of Longboard Surfboards?
Despite their advantages, longboard surfboards have some downsides as well. The large size of longboards makes them less manageable and more challenging to maneuver in the water. Additionally, they are heavier to carry, which can make transportation to and from your surfing spot more cumbersome.
Recommended Longboard Surfboard
To help you choose the right longboard surfboard for your needs, here is a list of some recommendations:
- Bing Silver Spoon
- Takayama Model T
- Robert August What I Ride
- Stewart Redline 11
- Infinity RNB
- Walden Mega Magic
These longboards cater to various skill levels and surfing conditions, ensuring that you can find the perfect one for your preferences and needs.
Gun Surfboard
What Are the Benefits of a Gun Surfboard?
Gun surfboards are designed specifically for big wave surfing, making them ideal for catching and riding massive waves. If you choose to ride one, you’ll likely be seen as an experienced and skilled surfer, as guns are typically used by advanced surfers. Their large size and fine-tuning make them perfect for tackling those huge swells with confidence.
How Much Does a Gun Surfboard Cost?
The cost of a gun surfboard can range from around $650 to $1300, depending on the brand, materials, and your personal preferences. This price range reflects the high-performance features and quality craftsmanship that goes into creating these boards specifically for big wave surfing.
What Are Gun Surfboards Made Of?
Gun surfboards can be made from various materials, such as:
- Polyurethane (PU) Foam: A traditional foam core that provides flex and responsiveness.
- Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Foam: A lightweight foam core with added buoyancy and durability.
- Fiberglass Cloth: Reinforces the foam core and provides strength and rigidity.
- Epoxy or Polyester Resin: A coating that seals the board, protecting it from water damage and giving it a smooth finish.
What Are the Cons of Gun Surfboards?
There are a few drawbacks associated with using a gun surfboard, such as:
- Difficulty in duck diving: Due to their size, guns can be challenging to maneuver and control when duck diving under waves.
- Hard to travel with: The larger size of gun surfboards can make them more cumbersome to transport and store.
- Only suitable for big wave surfing: Gun surfboards are specifically tailored for big waves, which means they aren’t versatile for small or medium waves.
Recommended Gun Surfboard
Here are some recommended gun surfboards to consider if you’re thinking about tackling big waves:
- Golden Gun by Haydenshapes
- The Double Up by Lost
- Stretch Gun by Stretch Surfboards
- 9’ 6” Gun by Jeff Clark Board
- The Chase by Xanadu
- Semi-Gun by Stretch Surfboards
- The Archangel by Proctor Surf
Keep in mind that gun surfboards are meant for experienced surfers who are comfortable in big wave conditions. Always practice safety and ensure you have the appropriate skills and experience before attempting to surf massive waves.
How to Store a Surfboard
Storing your surfboard correctly is crucial for preserving its condition and maintaining its performance. Two common methods of storage are roof racks and garage racks. In this section, we will cover how to use these storage options to ensure the longevity of your surfboard.
Roof Rack
When using a roof rack to store your surfboard, it is important to secure the board carefully. Follow these steps to correctly store your surfboard on a roof rack:
- Place your surfboard on top of the padded cross-bars with the fins facing up.
- Wrap the straps through the side-rails, around the cross-bars, and over the top of the surfboard, then around the cross-bars on the other side.
- Tighten the straps evenly, making sure not to over-tighten them, as this may cause damage to your board.
By properly securing your surfboard on a roof rack, you protect it from both damage and theft while also ensuring a safe drive for you and others on the road.
Garage Rack
Garage racks are another excellent option for storing your surfboard. Here are some tips on how to store your surfboard using a garage rack:
- Choose a suitable location for your rack, away from heat and sun, and ensure that the area is clean and clutter-free.
- Opt for wall-mounted racks that can either hold your surfboard horizontally or vertically, ensuring that your board is off the ground and secure.
- Keep your surfboard clean, and consider using a protective board sock or bag whenever it is not in use.
By following these steps, your surfboard will be safe and ready for your next session!
Along with the proper use of roof and garage racks, it’s important to maintain your surfboard by keeping it out of direct sunlight and heat, washing it thoroughly after each use, and being gentle when setting it down. Investing in a board sock or bag is also recommended for added protection. Following these simple guidelines will ensure that your surfboard stays in top shape for the best possible surfing experience.
What Should I Use for All the Activities?
In this section, we will discuss the best surfboard types for various activities, including racing, tricks, small waves, and huge waves.
For Racing
When it comes to racing, performance is crucial. You’ll want a board that’s fast, responsive, and easy to maneuver. Shortboards are ideal for racing due to their streamlined shapes and reduced size. The sharp tail shape and narrow width make it easier for you to cut through the water, allowing for better acceleration and top speeds.
For Tricks
If you’re into performing tricks, you need a surfboard that offers excellent maneuverability, stability, and balance. A fish surfboard or a hybrid surfboard can be a great option. Fish surfboards have a wider nose and swallowtail shape, providing you with better balance for aerials and aggressive turns. Hybrids, on the other hand, combine the best of shortboards and fish surfboards, making them suitable for a wide range of tricks.
For Small Waves
Small wave conditions call for a surfboard that can generate speed and maneuverability on weaker waves. The following options can be ideal for these conditions:
- Foamies: These surfboards are great for beginners, as they are lightweight and offer excellent buoyancy.
- Mini Mals: With a fuller nose, a rounded tail, and extra width, Mini Mals provide excellent stability and glide on small waves.
- Funboards: A hybrid of longboards and shortboards, these versatile boards offer both stability and high-performance capabilities, making them ideal for small wave conditions.
For Huge Waves
When tackling huge waves, you need a surfboard that can handle the power and speed while maintaining control. Gun surfboards are designed specifically for big wave conditions. Their elongated shapes, narrow noses, and pin tails allow them to maintain stability and control while dropping into massive waves. Additionally, their increased length allows you to paddle into the waves more efficiently.