I'm a novice surfer that is 6'6 and weigh 230 lbs, whats the smallest board that can still float me well?

Question

The wave conditions are variable from small wash to overheaders. As I said I'm sort of a bigger guy and don't want to be limited to just a long board, but before I buy a smaller board, I want to know what can work for me. Currently I use a 9'2 longboard and just am not getting all the response I'd wish to have. Can anybody help me out with some advice?

Answer 1

I'm about the same weight and I have a 7 foot spoon that works real well. Talk to a shaper cuz you can probably go shorter but you will have to have a thicker blank. Don't buy off the rack, it's more expensive and you just don't get the right thickness for your weight.

Answer 2

I'd definitely go for a fish of some sort.  There are "big guy" fish built for surfers exceeding 180lbs.  I'd definitely get one from a shaper if you can wait for it... it's worth it.  But if not, go to a legit surf shop, and not a Sun Diego or any other chain store.  The privately owned surf shop will know what to get for your build and style.

A fish in either the twinnie or quad style is thicker than a regular thruster, and will let you transition to a thruster better.  Fish ride FAST... just don't go trying to take late drops on them.  They're usually too flat and don't have much rocker, so you'll be working hard not to get tossed while paddling into a wave.

If you really must get a thruster, get one with more thickness.  Again, definitely ask a shaper.

Answer 3

Yes Ive been surfing for 5 years and I started out on a board much smaller than me, I was 4'10 now am 5'6 but I started out on a 4'4 now Id suggest for your size go for a 6'6 to a 6'8 about 2 and a half to 3 and a half inches thick... hard to come by but dont by a board til you find one around this size, and also the width should be decent but not too much it should be about 22 inches or so

Answer 4

PROBALLY A WING OFF OF AN 747!

Answer 5

going from a 9'2" to a shortboard? That's a leap.

It comes down to skill, I saw a picture of a Hawaiian guy around 450lbs. rocking a 5'6".

but since you're coming from a longboard, maybe try a fish to learn the transition. It'll have extra float and width over a thruster. They're a blast to surf; and they smooth out your style.