Surfboard Review

When a person is first learning how to surf, one of the main questions that will be asked is what type of board to choose. In the beginning, this means that you will need to have the ability to choose between a longboard and a shortboard.

Both options offer an exciting approach to surfing, but they are very different. Keeping these differences in mind when deciding which board is best for you will allow you to make the best decision possible. Before making your decision, it is first best to learn more about the differences in these types of boards.

Longboards

Longboards were the first devices used for surfing. Their existence can be traced back to the 1500s. They were the first boards to enter the water and are still very popular. Over the years, the materials they are made from has changed dramatically, but their basic design remains unchanged.

They were initially created from redwood but now are made from a combination of Styrofoam and fiberglass. These materials help make the boards lighter and easier to maneuver and use. They are just as popular as their shortboard counterpart and offers a unique experience when surfing.

As their name suggests, these boards are longer than shortboards. While a longboard will be designed for 10 feet, a shortboard will only be 6 feet long. One of the main benefits of the longboard is that they are more stable than a shortboard. The reason for this is because of the additional space. You can place your feet further apart, which helps to make them stable. Plus, there is more surface space touching the water, which also makes them more durable.

The longboard is often the choice for beginners to surfing. They can learn how to surf easier because they find that the board is more stable. Another benefit of this type of surfboard is that it is much easier to paddle. For the most part, people can simply lie on their stomach and paddle. Large waves may still pose a complication, but usually, people can paddle through most waves.

Shortboard

Shortboards are a newer form of a surfboard and were first created in Australia. Naturally, they are shorter than a longboard, which can make it difficult for beginners to learn on them. One reason that they are so popular is because of the freedom that they offer to people who are surfing with them.

While they don't offer a great deal of stability, they are easier to maneuver. Most professional surfers use shortboards for this reason. For those who are looking to complete sharp cuts in the water, the shortboard is the best option and should be chosen.

Another benefit of the shortboard is that they make it easier to pick up speed. If the wave is hit at the right angle, you will simply be able to use your body to propel the board across the water. The critical thing to remember about shortboards is that timing is everything. Practice and experience will help you to learn the best way to master wave timing. To maximize your speed, you will need to hit the wave at precisely the right angle and time.

For Beginners

When first starting out, it is best to choose an inexpensive board that is sturdy and reliable. Avoid boards that have dings deep enough to show Styrofoam. However, small dings and coloring changes is not that big of a deal. Remember you will be abusing the board at the beginning, so it is best to start with a beginner board before moving on to your dream board.

It is also important to note that there are many styles and shapes of surfboards. Some come with multiple fins, and others come with none. In the beginning, there is really no need to worry about these items. Instead, choosing a board that is thick and large is the best option. For the first several months, the benefits of fins and different shaped boards will be lost on a beginner.

During this time, beginners will not be doing much turning or maneuvering on their board. This is another reason that a longboard is a better option for beginners. Longboards offer a stable environment for surfers to master the basics of surfing before moving onto more agile boards.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the two styles of boards can be challenging. To do so, it is best to consider both your experience level as well as your surfing style. Since a longboard is easier to use, this is the popular option for beginners. However, some people feel as though a shortboard is more exciting and fun. Just remember that both are challenging when you are first learning how to surf, but a longboard can make the journey a little simpler.