What size surfboard should I buy?

Question

I'm petite 5" & 105lbs. & I'm just picking up surfing. I've been working with a board about 6'8" but I want to know what would be best to practice on & can still be used once I get better. thanks

Answer 1

Definitely go with a fish.  They're thicker and wider so you'll have plenty of float without having to lug around a longboard.  9:Fish Surfboards have a bunch of fishes you should check out.  Their boards are designed to paddle really well and catch a ton of waves while still being very maneuverable.  The more waves you catch, the faster you'll improve.  The 6'10" Yellowtail or 6'4" Fugu would probably be really good fits. http://www.9fishsurf.com/yellowtail.html / http://www.9fishsurf.com/fugu.html.  The Fugu also has a quad fin setup that gives it a lot of versatility.

Answer 2

The length of the board is just one of the factors you should look at when buying a surfboard.  

I agree with Peahi, a fish would be a good board to learn on.  But I also recommend what's called a "fun board" to learn on.  It's kinda like a long board, but it's shorter.  And it's kinda like a short board, but it's got the wide nose of a long board.  

It's easier to catch waves on, and still small enough to maneuver and have fun with.  

A used board is a great idea for your first few boards.  When buying a used board though, look for wear and tear and don't overpay for something that won't last.  Look for any open dings or holes.  Some smaller ones you can repair with a tube of Solarez.  Anything too big and you'll be spending $$ at the surf shop for professional repairs.  Also, look for delamination, that's when the fiberglass delaminates from the foam underneath.  A very expensive thing to fix, most people just get rid of the board when this happens.  So, used is fine to buy, just be careful what you're buying.  You can buy used surf boards from surf shops, they might charge more than a private party, but they'll probably give you a more honest sale.

Answer 3

U should buy a surfboard about 2ft 2 1ft taller than you.

Answer 4

if youre just starting you probably want a long board for your height longer boards are easier to stand up on but harder to manuever i would go with something thats close to 6'6" or a little smaller

Answer 5

I'd go with something in the 6 ft range. Get something that has some width especially in the tail to help you catch waves easier. I love my McCoy Nugget clone it's the best board I've ever had in 20 years of surfing.  It catches the waves like a long board but surfs like a short board.  Good from 1 foot surf up to 15 ft. plus.

This guy in Florida named Noel sells them on the internet, I got a great deal and the shipping was excellent.   Email him at: [e-mail]  and he can give you the details.

Answer 6

You don't mention what type of waves you're in or what your goals are. What you're using right now sounds fine although because of your height and weight you may want to consider boards designed for kids (no offense). You don't mention the thickness either.

The shorter and narrower a board is the more difficult it becomes to catch waves and manuever it. Without more details it's difficult to give an accurate answer.

Answer 7

Go with a Nezzy 5'8"-6' Clarissa Moore.

Answer 8

Dawnie, at five foot, one hundred five pounds, a 6' 8" board is a little big for you. You might have a better experience riding a 6' 1", or 6' 3" fish,( twin-fin). When you get used to it, you'll rip girl.............

Answer 9

that board is a little small. get about a 6'footer or maby a little smaller board, the guys  at the surf shop can help a lot too