How to Choose a Longboard

Try out a few boards and understand the factors involved to determine which longboard is the best for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Swimsuits
• Longboards
• Surfboard Bags
• Surfboard Ding Repair Kits
• Surfboard Racks
• Wet Suits
• Swimsuits

1. Borrow and test as many longboards as you can. Some surf shops rent boards, but usually they are fairly low-end, and often not real surfboards at all. If you borrow someone's board, ask what he or she likes and dislikes about it.

2. Understand that bigger boards are more stable than smaller boards, making them easier to stand on. However, as you progress, a bigger board will hold you back.

3. Note that smaller boards are easier to turn and maneuver, as well as to paddle out through the surf.

4. Understand the difference in fin systems on longboards. The fin boxes are built in, so while fins can be left out of boxes, it is difficult to add boxes where there are none. Single fin boards ride looser on the wave, meaning they turn more easily, but also may be harder to control. Tri-fin boards have more control and stability, but take a little more effort to turn.

5. Decide what type of longboarding you are going to be doing. Bigger boards are better for cruising, while smaller boards carve better.

6. Go to your local surf shops and look first at the used section. Longboards can get pretty expensive and a used board is often almost as good as a new one.

7. Talk to people in the shop and tell them what you're looking for. They'll be able to size you up and figure out about what size board you need. Average longboards run from 8 feet long to a bit more than 10 feet long.

Tips & Warnings

• Lighter is almost always better where boards are concerned. This really becomes apparent when paddling and turning.
• If you're buying a used board, watch out for discoloration, which means the board has taken on water and either has or had some cracks or holes.
• 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.

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on 11/22/2005 I personally prefer big, heavy boards. If you want a board that is an awesome nose-rider, get something with Oldman's or walker foam. Also, you'll want Volan glass. Your board will float and will be far easier to nose ride. Besides, locals will dig it, and they'll give you a little more respect than if you were to paddle out on some beat up high-performance board.

on 11/22/2005 While a longboard is more stable and easier to stand up on, one's progression is not inhibited by the length. There are lots of performance oriented shapes and designs, like thinner rails and different tails, that will help your surfing progress.