How to Choose Surfboard Foam

Some say choosing a surfboard foam is almost as important as picking a tattoo. It is a reflection of who you are on the waves and what kind of rider you are. Where the industry was once dominated by one foam company, surfers have seen a recent boom in options, making choosing your foam a much larger choice than ever before.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose a surfer's board that's about 1/2 inch thick for every 25 pounds that person weighs. So if you weigh 200 pounds, your board should be 4 inches thick. Remember to add 10 pounds to the equation if you wear a wet suit.

2. Pick a board length that is about 2 inches taller than the rider. There are always exceptions. Properly choosing a density and length gives you an advantage when quickly trying to catch a wave in a crowd.

3. Choose a style of board foam that showcases what kind of rider you are. The "2 inches taller than the rider" rule can be sacrificed if you want a short board. A short board gives the rider more mobility and an ability to quickly turn. Long boards, on the other hand have more balance and a smoother ride, but offer less mobility.

4. Determine what waves you are riding. Small, slow waves accommodate a flat, thick board better. Larger, faster waves have more luck with narrow, thin boards.

5. Pick fins for your board. This also dictates how you ride. Shorter fins are good for slow, straight riding, while long fins aid in sharp, fast turns.