Hybrid surfboards for beginners?

Question

So I want to learn how to surf. I've heard people saying start with longboards but the thing is when you already learn how to surf pretty good you move on to different boards. So I was wondering if maybe you learn with a hyrbid as if you were to learn on a longboard.

All answers welcome =]. Thank you.

Answer 1

I just bought a 7'2" hybrid and its great... it's not much harder to get up on than a longboard and I'm told it'll be a lot more fun in the long run... and it'll always be good for the days where the surf is meh

Answer 2

If you don't surf, don't start.

Answer 3

are you trying to skip a step in learning because your an FBI agent tracking down a gang of bank robbers who you suspect to be surfers and are trying to gain access to their world more quickly?

If not...then i dont see any problem with using a hybrid

Answer 4

try a fish. its a long board in a shortboard size. it is wide and thick, for easy pop ups and paddling.

then when you start to get good it has really good balance and turning.

it teachs you how to have clean smooth turns

Answer 5

Surfing is an ocean sport, to do it right, you have to be at home in the ocean, with its currents, rips, undertows and sometimes big waves. I don't just mean being good at swimming in a pool, the ocean can be very unforgiving. I have seen lots of really good pool swimmers have to get rescued. You have to learn surf etiquette (so the experienced surfers in the line up don't want to drown you), how to paddle and take off on a wave, and how to ride a wave.

Lessons are usually the best way to start, unless you are an adolescent or young adult with lots of pals who surf who can teach you. Go to a real surf shop. The folks there can hook you up with lessons, and even rent you a board to learn on. Why not wait until you find out if you are really into it before you buy a board. There is no rush.

Be careful of what you read here on line. There are lots of really well meaning young folks who have neat answers about surfing, but at 55, I tend to classify anyone under 25 as a kid. After I found this site, I figured that I could answer a few questions, and spread the 'good news' of surfing. After you learn to swim and master the ocean, get your REAL advice from a surf shop, where industry professionals earn their rent money selling surfboards. However, if they think you are just a 'kook' tourist out to rent a board, you won't necessarily get the best attention.

Most people learn best on long boards, although I have seen lots of surfers start on a short board and master it. In the long run, there are NO RULES on what type of board you have to learn on. Long boards are ideal for learners. There are also good internediate length boards to learn on, funshapes, mini-mals and some hybrids. What you are going to need is a board that will float you well enough that you can paddle and take off (catch a wave).

The best answer for you will come form a local surfshop. I recommend lessons, if your pals can't get you started. The folks at your local surf shop will be able to recommend the right type (or types) of boards for you to learn on depending on the conditions you will encounter at you local breaks.

I have been surfing since 1966, and I guarantee that if if takle the time to learn (and learn the 'right way') you will have fun for life! Good luck!!