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.

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

Instructions

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.