I'm a beginner surfer. What size of board and wet suit should i get and where can get new cheap items?

Question

Im 5"11 and weight 205, and athletic built. Going to surf 2-3 times a week. Going to take surfing up as a new hobbie.

Thanks for your time

Answer 1

Do not get a foam board! you will want to sell it after just a couple months of ridicule and being asked what surf camp you're part of.

I would ask around, friends, neighbors, garage sales.. If you still can't find anything go to a used board shop and get a 8'0 to 8'8 long board.  Make sure to ask any questions you have before buying the board. Once you've accomplished catching waves and controlling your board switch to short boarding. It is a lot harder, but much more rewarding and exciting! maybe a 6'6 short board.

Starting on a long board is a lot easier, but Kelly Slater learned to surf on a Boogie board and won surf contests on it.. So if you have decided on learning on a short board, there's nothing wrong with it.

Answer 2

start out with a board atleast 3' taller than you and eventually start to work your way down I would start with a soft board they are usually a whole lot cheaper than a fiberglass board and they are easier to balance...better for beginners

Answer 3

Make sure you learn your way around the ocean first. I've seen too many good 'pool swimmers' get rescued. Then, go to a real surf shop. I mean a real surf shop, not a bathing suit and skateboard store that has some surfboards for sale in the back room. Talk to the folks there. They will help you buy the right board for you and the break you will be surfing. They can turn you on to some lessons and help you find some bargains. Unless you live in a cold water place, you don't need a wet suit, although I see lots of folks wearing them even when the water is warm (65-70). Either they are weaklings, or they are posing. But, it is good to have one for those cold air days, or year round surfing, depending on where you will surf.

Surfing isn't a hobby, my friend. It is an experience. It is not something that you should do unless you are in tune with the water and your fellow surfers. Learn surf etiquette first. There is nothing like surfing, but I get upset when I see too many people who don't appreciate it, or who don;t respect the ocean, doing it because it seems "cool."

Answer 4

Either take some lessons, (where they will provide you with a board and wetsuit), or get a used longboard, (fiberglass).

You want a board that's at least 9' long. They're easier to paddle, catch waves and balance on.

As far as a wetsuit get a size that fits.  :-)

Here's a great article called 'Learn How To Surf in One Day' that I always recommend to beginners:

http://www.beachtrading.com/learn-how-to...

Most importantly: have fun!