How to Choose Your First Surfboard

Although you'll probably develop a sentimental attachment to your first board, that doesn't mean it should be expensive - odds are you're going to trash it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Women's Athletic Swimsuits
• Sunscreen
• Adhesive Traction Pads
• Board Shorts
• Surf Leashes
• Surf Waxes
• Surfboard Bags
• Surfboard Ding Repair Kits
• Surfboards
• Surfing Rash Guard
• Surfing Wet Suits
• Surfing Videos

1. Use an old, inexpensive surfboard or borrow one until you've been surfing for six months. Beginners put a lot of wear and tear on a board.

2. Search the classified ads of your local newspaper for an old board, ask surfer friends for an old "beater" surfboard, or search the racks of used boards in the surf shops.

3. Ask questions to get a feel for the capabilities of different boards. No two surfboards are exactly the same. Try all shapes and sizes.

4. It's much easier to learn the basics of surfing on a longboard than it is on a shortboard. Teenagers can probably get by with a board in the 7- to 8-foot range, but full-sized adults will be better off learning on a legitimate longboard spanning more than 8 feet.

Tips & Warnings

• A longboard is wide and thick and usually has a rounded tail and nose. A "gun" is also long but not as wide. It has a pointed tail and nose designed for surfing big waves.
• If you get an old board that has dings or cracks in the surface, patch them up with a ding repair kit. This will prevent water from getting into the foam and causing irreversible damage.
• Surfing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.
• Always wear a leash when surfing. Strap the leash around your ankle so the board doesn't get out of your control and potentially hurt you or other surfers.

Who Can Help Sponsored

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[Ajaxrice]

on 4/9/2008 longboards are for kooks and old guys( who could actually ride them with style since they were around) if you're starting out and arent over 50 go short, you could switch to a long board if you feel like it but when you learn with a short board you would have a head start in surfing.

[Ajaxrice]

on 4/9/2008 longboards are for kooks and old guys( who could actually ride them with style since they were around) if you're starting out and arent over 50 go short, you could switch to a long board if you feel like it but when you learn with a short board you would have a head start in surfing.

on 11/22/2005 When buying your first board go long! If you are over 5'8" or 180lbs get as close to 10' as possible, also go wide (around 22-23") and thick. This gives you a stable, bouyant platform to start with, helps you build confidence, and will get you ready for your next, slightly shorter board.
Most important, have fun, smile at the locals and get toknow them, you'll be surprised how many will help you out.

on 11/22/2005 I started with a long-board. They are easier to learn on and find your sweet-spot. If you get a long-board, keep it. your kids could use it to learn on!

on 11/22/2005 Make sure you stay away from the more advanced surfers in the lineup. They like to toy with the beginners and often times will be aggressive. It is best to surf where the advanced surfers are not.