What's a good beginner surfboard?

Question

I've had three surfing lessons, and now it's time for me to start practicing. What kind of soft-top board would you recommend for a beginner? For my lessons, I used a 9-foot INT board, which worked pretty well. I want something inexpensive, but not too cheap or crappy. I'm 5'9" and 150.

Answer 1

Any soft top board works... They are pretty similar anyway. BZ, Doyle.. Make sure it's long enough for you, but not too long.

Keep in mind:

- The thicker the board, the more it will float you. If it's too thick, you won't really feel a connection with the water. This will make it harder to turn.

- The wider the board, the more stable it will be. If you don't have a problem balancing, you can go narrower.

Remember, you are BUYING the board now. Take some time to find one that's right for you. It's out there. The more you go, the better you are going to get. Don't buy a huge board that you will out grow in several months when you get better. But also don't get one that's too small that you struggle on.

Basically, just don't settle for something that you think might work, or that looks good. Invest in a board that will challenge you but also be comfortable for you.

With all that being said, get a 9'0 board. You don't have too much say in the other dimensions of the board, but compare boards and make sure you get one that's the right width and thickness. Ask the people at the shops you look in. They are there to help you.

Just my $.02

Answer 2

The "Surface" brand also comes to mind. All the places you mentioned are pretty nice places to start surfing.