How do I know what sort and size surfboard is right for me?

Question

How do I know what sort and size surfboard is right for me?

Answer 1

Coyote is right. When you start, the longer the better. First you have to work on your balance. As you get better, get shorter boards because they manouver better.

Caution.. do you even know if you LIKE surfing? You may end up buying a board that will then stay the next 10 years in your garage.

My personal experience .. I did not know if I would like surfing. So I got a piece of plywood, cut it in half, glued them together and started my balancing act on it. After a while, I decided that, yes, I can really get into surfing

So I went out and bought a used long board, and then went on from there. I am on my 14th board now

I was lucky to find a secluded beach where the other surfers will not laugh at my home made custom plywood!

Answer 2

Basically you want to start out with a long board, that's long and has thick rails.  The Long Board enables you to catch the wave easier, stand up easier, and is better overall to figure out wave timing.  A long board will allow you the most balance and stability; which is what you need to develop when you start surfing.  Please resist the temptation to buy yourself a 6'4" shredder just because you see all the guys on the beach ride one.  I've had friends start out on shorter boards, but they haven't had as fun and it's taken them long to figure out things then friends that have started on a long board.  Start with a long board, then a "fun board" and then a short board.  It's the best way to go because you won't be riding something that's too advanced for you having no fun! If you are serious about surfing and you want to be able to accomplish things right away, buy a long board and you won't regret it.

Answer 3

How tall are you?

if you're between 5'3-5'8, i would get a 6'3 feet board

it also depends on how big and small the waves are, if the waves are small, go with a larger board. if the waves are big, get a smaller board