So, what surfboard should you buy?

Start with the type of board

There isn't one answer because the right board depends on the surfer as much as the board itself.

But there is one mistake that comes up again and again: buying a board that's too small because you want to progress quickly.

A board that catches plenty of waves will help you progress much faster than one that looks impressive under your arm but spends most of its time frustrating you.

If you've never surfed before, a softboard (foamie) is usually the easiest place to start. They're stable, buoyant and more forgiving when you're learning to paddle, stand up and control the board.

They're also safer when you're still figuring out where your board is going — which is quite often somewhere you didn't intend it to go.

But not all foamies are the same

This is worth knowing before you automatically buy the cheapest one you can find.

There are basic learner foamies that are mainly designed to get you standing up, and there are much better-quality softboards that are shaped more like proper surfboards.

Some have shaped EPS or epoxy cores, stringers, better fin systems and more refined rails and rocker. They're still soft where it matters, but they can have considerably more drive and responsiveness.

If you think you're going to surf regularly, spending a bit more on a good softboard can make sense because you may not outgrow it nearly as quickly.

A good softboard can be a board you enjoy surfing, not just something you use until you're allowed onto a “proper” board.

How long should your board be?

This is where things get a bit more complicated because your weight matters, but so does your ability.

Length gives you paddle speed and stability but less maneuverability. For a beginner it's best to start with something that you can easily catch waves on. A longboard can be good for this but can also feel like a lot to manage in the water. Most beginners start with a mini-mal that's usually somewhere between seven and eight foot. This lets you catch lots of waves but then you're not trying to wrestle a nine foot board when you're still learning how to duck dive or turtle roll.

A 7'6" board isn't automatically better than an 8'0" because you're keen to progress. If the 8'0" catches you twice as many waves, you're going to learn faster.

There are plenty of volume calculators and size charts around, but don't treat a number as gospel. Two boards with the same litres can feel completely different because of their shape.

What does volume mean?

Volume is simply the amount of space inside the board, measured in litres.

More volume generally means more flotation, which makes it easier to paddle and more stable when you get to your feet.

As you improve, you can get away with less volume because your balance, paddling and wave positioning improve.

So don't choose a board just because the litre number sounds right. Look at the whole board.

Shape matters too

Two boards can be the same length and volume and feel completely different.

A wide, fuller board with a rounded nose will generally be more stable and forgiving.

A narrower board with more rocker (the curve of the board from nose to tail) and a more performance-oriented outline will suit hollow waves but needs more skill.

The tail makes a difference too. A wider tail can add stability and speed in smaller waves, while a narrower tail can give more control when the waves get bigger or more powerful.

You don't need to understand every surfboard measurement before buying your first board.

Softboard, mid-length, fish or shortboard?

Softboard / foamie
The obvious starting point for most complete beginners. Stable, forgiving and generally the safest option while you're learning.

Mini mal
A good next step if you want something that still has plenty of stability but is easier to turn and feels more like a conventional surfboard.

Mid-length/funboard
Longer and generally more forgiving than a shortboard, but with more performance and manoeuvrability than a traditional longboard. A good option for someone who can already catch waves and wants something they can keep surfing for years.

Fish / groveler
Shorter, wider and designed to generate speed, particularly in smaller waves. They can be incredibly fun but aren't necessarily the easiest choice for someone who is still struggling to catch waves.

Shortboard
Great if you're already surfing confidently and want to concentrate on turning and performance. Usually a terrible first board for someone who has never surfed before.

What about epoxy and polyurethane?

You'll see these terms everywhere when you start looking at surfboards.

A traditional polyurethane (PU) board has a polyurethane foam core covered in fibreglass and resin. They're the classic surfboard construction and are still extremely common.

EPS/epoxy boards use an expanded polystyrene foam core with epoxy resin. They're generally lighter and can be more durable than traditional PU construction.

Neither is simply “better”. They have different characteristics and different surfers prefer different constructions.

And remember that “epoxy” doesn't automatically mean “indestructible”. Both types can be damaged.

Buying new vs buying second-hand

A second-hand board can be a great way to save money, but you need to know what you're looking at.

Check the rails and bottom for repairs, cracks or soft spots. Look closely around the fin boxes and leash plug.

A repaired ding isn't necessarily a reason to walk away. A well-repaired board can be perfectly good.

What you don't want is a board that's taken on water. If you're not sure what you're looking at, it's worth getting someone experienced to check it before handing over your money.

How much should you spend?

You don't need to spend a fortune on your first board.

But cheap isn't always cheap if you buy something you'll want to replace after a few months.

If you're only going to surf occasionally, a decent basic foamie may be all you ever need.

If you're planning to surf regularly, spending more on a well-made softboard or a board you can progress onto can make much more sense.

The best board is the one that gets you into the water and catches waves.