Tips for beginner surfers?

Question

ok, so i just took a surfing course last week.... and as they say.. its pretty addictive :D So, i was wondering what is the best board to purchase? I'm 15, about 5"4 and a surfaholic ... lol. So, any suggestions?? Photos and websites are welcome. Thanks!!!

Answer 1

It is foolish to make recommendations for size and design of surfboards to people on line. It is even more follish to take those suggestions seriously. You need to go to a good local surf shop, where they can help you find the right board for your weight, skill level, local wave conditions and your budget.

I'm 5'10", 215, and at about the same size, I rode a neat 6'4" for twenty years. I have been surfing since '66, and at age 56, the shortest board that I still ride regularly is 7'8".

Go to a real surf shop. The folks there can hook you up with lessons, and even rent you a board to learn on. (and, it's going to be either a longboard or a funboard [mini-mal]) Just work on your basics, and after you feel good, think about buying a board, but don't rush into anything. And, please don't waste your time (or money) buying something on line. Don't be in a rush to buy a board! TRY before you BUY. Rent a variety of types of surfboards, or borrow them from your friends who surf. A surfboard is a big investment.

And if you are curious, yes, I cut and pasted part of this answer, because people keep asking the same question, and the only right answer is always the same. I have been surfing since 1966, and I know to get the right answer from the professionals at the local surf shops where I surf, not a teenager old on line.

Like I said, I have been surfing for 42 years, and it is the greatest stoke of all. Take your time and learn the right way, and you will have fun for life, too.

http://360guide.info/surfing/surfboard-t...

http://www.mckevlins.com/nopopstory.htm

http://hbsnakesurf.com/

http://www.surfingforlife.com/history.ht...

http://www.surfline.com/travel/index.cfm...

Answer 2

I run a surfing website. Always start out on a longboard. Somewhere around 7-9 foot. And just make sure you have fun.

The Surfboard Man

http://www.thesurfboardman.com/