Beginner's Guide to Surfing: Understanding Surfboard Size, Volume, and Thickness

As a beginner surfer, choosing the right surfboard can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it's essential to understand the different factors that affect your board's performance and comfort. In this guide, we'll delve into the importance of size, volume, and thickness in determining the perfect surfing experience.

Scenario: You're a 5'2" (157 cm) beginner surfer with intermediate skills

Let's say you're just starting out and want to learn how to surf. Your goal is to find a board that will allow you to catch waves comfortably and perform basic maneuvers, like turning and stopping. You've spent the past week trying different boards at your local surf shop, but none of them seem right.

Size: A brief primer

When it comes to size, there are generally two categories: soft-top (foamie) and fiberglass/ carbon fiber. Soft-tops are ideal for beginners, as they're softer and more forgiving in case you fall off or lose your grip on the board. They're also generally lighter, making them easier to maneuver.

• Soft-top surfboards: 22-24 inches (56-61 cm) long, 2.5-3.5 inches (6.4-8.9 cm) thick
• Fiberglass/ carbon fiber surfboards: 23-26 inches (58-66 cm) long, 3-4 inches (7.6-10.2 cm) thick

For you, a soft-top surfboard with a length of 24 inches and a thickness of 3.5 inches would be an excellent choice.

Volume: Understanding the importance of volume

The volume of your surfboard refers to its overall size and shape. A higher volume board will have a larger surface area, which can make it more stable in the water. This is especially important for beginners, as it allows you to stay balanced on the board and maintain control.

• Soft-top surfboards: Typically have a lower volume (e.g., 35-45 liters)
• Fiberglass/ carbon fiber surfboards: Can have higher volumes (e.g., 50-65 liters)

For your needs, a soft-top surfboard with a volume of around 40-50 liters would be a great starting point.

Thickness: The sweet spot for comfort and performance

Now that we've covered size and volume, let's talk about thickness. A thinner board will be more maneuverable and easier to control, but it may also lose its pop (the initial lift off the water) when you turn or stop.

• Soft-top surfboards: Typically have a very thin profile (e.g., 1-2 inches)
• Fiberglass/ carbon fiber surfboards: Can be made with various thicknesses, from 2-4 inches

For your needs, a soft-top surfboard with a thickness of around 2.5-3.5 inches would provide the perfect balance between comfort and performance.

Conclusion: Finding your sweet spot

As you can see, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing a surfing board. By understanding the factors that affect size, volume, and thickness, you'll be better equipped to find the perfect board for your needs.

• Soft-top surfboard: 24 inches long, 3.5 inches thick
• Volume: 40-50 liters
• Thickness: 2.5-3.5 inches

Remember, it's always a good idea to try out different boards at the surf shop before making a purchase. The staff can provide valuable advice and help you find the perfect board for your skill level and style.

With this beginner's guide to surfing in mind, you're ready to hit the beach and catch some waves! Here is the information in a table format:

For a 5'2" beginner surfer with intermediate skills, consider the following board specifications:

• Length: 24 inches
• Thickness: 3.5 inches
• Volume: 40-50 liters

These parameters will provide a comfortable and balanced ride for beginners, allowing them to catch waves and perform basic maneuvers without too much difficulty.

Join our community on Discord: