Types of Surfboards Explained: Which One Is Right for You?
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Surfers are always seeking the perfect wave – and the perfect board! Surfboards have evolved in both materials and different lengths. Here’s what to know about surfboard types, and pick the right one for you.
Besides surf lessons in San Diego, PB Surf Shop has surfboard rentals so you can try out different ones.
Introduction
Surfing is one of the oldest sports in the world. It became globally popular in the 1900s through the efforts of Duke Kahanamoku of Hawaii. Of course, it really exploded in the 50s and 60s, especially with the popularity of The Beach Boys and “surf culture.”
Surfboard design has evolved from simple wooden boards to lighter, more sophisticated materials and lengths, perfected by artisan surfboard shapers. Different sizes and construction methods perform differently.
Understanding Surfboard Materials & Construction
Ancient surfboards in Hawaii were long and heavy. They were made from native woods and hand- shaped with stone and natural tools. They’ve come a long way since then. Even with manufactured boards, some professional surfers use a local shaper to customize it.
Soft-Top Surfboards
- Lightweight and affordable
- Buoyant and great for beginners
Wooden Surfboards
- Environmentally-friendly
- Heavier: can better handle choppy waters, but also harder to control
- With care, they can last for years
Polyurethane (Poly) Surfboards
- PU core wrapped in fiberglass and resin
- More flexible than epoxy boards
- Inexpensive, easy to repair
- Heavier weight, which can be tricky for beginners
Poly vs Epoxy Surfboards: Which Should You Choose?
Poly surfboards offer more control, are inexpensive, and easy to repair.
Epoxy resin boards are environmentally friendly, very buoyant, and durable.
If you’re trading up, consider these facts (as well as your own preferences).
Surfboard Shapes & Sizes Explained
The size and shape of the surfboard affect its performance, speed, and maneuverability.
In general, a board that’s shorter will help you move through the water faster. Longer boards are more stable.
Shorter boards are more appropriate for experienced surfers than beginners. Longer boards are more stable. They make it easier to paddle and catch waves,
The Main Types of Surfboards
Surfboards are always changing. New designs (including tail designs, like a single fin, a twin fin, squash tail, or a three-fin setup) and materials impact the experience. Some surfers want fast, acrobatic thrills and need boards for generating speed. Others prefer something that offers more control over the ride.
Shortboards (5’–7’)
The greater maneuverability is used for speed and mobility on the water. Experienced surfers use shortboards for moves like turns, airs, and quick carves.
Longboards (9’+)
With its rounded nose, this traditional surfboard is more stable, making it great for beginners. Easier to paddle and catch waves.
Mid-Length / Funboards (6’5”–9’)
An “in-between” board that combines the maneuverability of the short board and the stability of the long board. A good choice for beginners who are progressing.
Fish Surfboards (5’–6’6”)
Shorter, wider, and thicker with a split tail that resembles a fish. They’re more stable than shortboards and offer versatility in different wave conditions.
Gun Surfboards (7’–11.5”)
Long and narrow, a gun board is for more advanced surfers. The design is created for big, fast, and powerful waves. They have thin rails to reduce drag, and the pointed nose makes it easier to paddle towards them.
Soft-Top Surfboards
Also called a “foamie” for its foam core, it’s an ideal first surfboard for beginners. Buoyant, with more stability, and easy to paddle.
Grovelers
Grovelers are for a better experience from subpar wave conditions. They’re flatter and wider, and can generate some speed. The rounder nose also creates stability.
Mini Simmons
This shorter board offers a fast, fun ride on mushy waves.
Bonzer Surfboards
A unique three-fin system maximizes wave energy and adapts to different conditions. Used in powerful surf, they also offer lots of control on weak waves and hollow waves.
Alaia Surfboards
A traditional Hawaiian board that’s connected to the heart of surf history and culture. Carved from wood, it’s narrow, has thin rails, and is without fins. Very challenging to ride.
Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs)
A paddle board is powered by a single stand-up paddle. They may be soft-top or made from epoxy and fiberglass, and can be used on small or mushy waves.
Step-Up Boards
A bit longer than a short board, it’s good when you’re ready to tackle bigger challenges. Its shape and volume give you more control, speed, and paddle power.
Tow Boards
These small, specialized boards tow (by boat or jet ski) advanced and expert surfers out to big waves of 20 or more feet. The board has foot straps and provides control and speed.
Foil Boards
Specialized boards with an underwater “wing” that lifts the board above the water. Creates a fast, flying sensation. Best for advanced surfers.
How to Choose the Right Surfboard for You
Finding the ideal board involves a few factors. Pacific Beach Surf Shop offers lessons in San Diego, as well as surfboard rentals, so you can try them out.
Your Skill Level
Beginner surfers need stability and paddle power. A “foamie” or a funboard will help you learn to stand. Intermediates can try a shortboard or longboard.
Wave Conditions You Surf Most
For smaller or softer waves, a bigger board with more volume helps you get the most out of them. Use a fish board, a fun board, or a longboard on medium waves. Larger, more powerful waves are better with smaller, lighter boards.
Your Height & Weight
Beginners should choose a board about 3 feet taller than they are. Intermediate surfers can be closer to your height or a little shorter. Volume in a board is key; beginners should choose a board with a volume close to the surfer’s weight.
Your Surfing Style (Cruising vs Performance)
Do you want to simply cruise the waves? Or are you looking to try faster, more advanced moves? Those affect the board you choose.
Budget & Construction Material
Material will affect both construction and price. A soft-top board is less expensive than other boards, like a classic wooden or epoxy board.
Comparison Chart: Types of Surfboards at a Glance
| Board Size | Skill Level | Ideal Waves | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soft tops / fun boards 8’0” – 9’6” 60–80L volume |
Beginner | 1–2 feet | Pros: stability, ease of paddling Cons: bulky, hard to maneuver |
| Short boards / fun boards 6’6” – 8’0” 40–60L |
Intermediate | 2–4 feet | Pros: speed and control for maneuvers Cons: harder to paddle, not great on mushy surf |
| Fish boards / Longboards 5’6” – 6’0” 25–40L |
Advanced | 3–6 feet or more | Pros: speed, stability, smooth rides Cons: less maneuverability; not for beginners |
Common FAQs About Surfboard Types
Which surfboard is best for beginners?
A soft-top or “foamie” makes it easier for beginners to learn how to paddle and stand. Fun boards are another option for beginners.
What’s the easiest surfboard to learn on?
A soft-top foam board that’s wide and about 8 or 9 feet long gives beginners the stability and buoyancy needed when starting.
Which type of surfboard is best for smaller waves?
Boards with more volume and width, and larger fins, generate more drive on weak waves. A longboard, fish board, or groveler will all work.
What type of surfboard is best for progression?
Choose step-up surfboards or a performance short board when you’re ready to level up your surfing game.
Conclusion
There are almost as many different types of surfboards as there are wave types! Some provide more speed over the surface, others help you better maintain direction, and some others are still better suited to varying surf conditions and wave size.
Choosing a good board begins with your expertise level. From there, factor in your physical specs and personal preferences. Pacific Beach Surf Shop offers private surf lessons in San Diego and is always here to help you find the right surfboard that will give you the most exhilarating experience on the water!
