Small waves are awesome for two big reasons: 1. You can learn any style of surfing on them, and 2. They provide the opportunity for beginners to really feel the difference in board type. The list that we’ve crafted here offers a variety of board types across a spectrum of skills.

If you’re a true beginner with no experience, stick to the top of this list. As the list goes on, it scales up to intermediate surfers who have had a few lessons or learned on vacation. The last few boards are aimed at advanced beginners who have a decent skill set and are looking to add some variety to their surfing.

Variety is the spice of life and the boards we’ve chosen reflect that! Your smorgasboard of surfboards await…

For more of our top surfing gear recommendations, check out the Best Surfboards.

Reviews - The Best Surfboard for Small Waves

ECS Boards Bulldog V-Flex

Specs

• Length: Short (5 ft 8 in)
• Thickness: 2.75"
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fins Included?: No

Features

• Universal Fin Mounts
• Epoxy Finish Is More Durable
• Highly Buoyant Design Make Floating Easier

BEST FOR: PROGRESSING PAST THE BEGINNER STAGE

Speed and control are two words that come to mind when asked to describe this board by both pros and amateurs alike. Performing best in smaller waves, but certainly more than capable of scaling up, the Bulldog V-Flex is designed to give some extra punch when the waves are otherwise just plain bad. 

It achieves this through it’s short and wide design, giving it some extra lift and allowing it to “skate” atop the waves, sitting higher and lighter than other boards would in the same conditions. It’s for this design reason that we recommend this board for the advanced beginner – it will keep you buoyant and having fun as you take your skills to the next level. 

Use the 5-fin box to your advantage and be sure to test out a few different fin setups! When you’re getting creative and playful with your surfing, different setups can make all the difference.

View at Amazon

NSP Elements Longboard

Specs

• Length: Long (10 ft)
• Thickness: 3”
• Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Single Fin Included
• Super Thick Shaping Makes Floating Easier
• Ankle Leash Plug Is Ready For Quick Attachment

BEST FOR: TRUE BEGINNERS

If you’re just making your foray into surfing, then big boards and small surf is exactly what you want! Generally speaking, the longer, wider, and thicker a board is, the shorter your learning curve will be. Do yourself a favor and snag the NSP Elements Longboard as it fits all three of these criteria.

Exceptionally thick for a longboard, the NSP Elements Longboard provides superior buoyancy which will help keep you afloat. Its width also lends itself to more stability, giving you a helping hand as you learn balance. All in all, this board is an exceptional choice for anyone, regardless of their skill level.

View at Amazon

South Bay Board Co. – Casper

Specs

• Length: Medium (6 ft 8 in)
• Thickness: 2.75"
• Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Action Camera Mount
• Wax-Free Textured Soft Top
• Heat Release Valve (prevents delamination and bubbling for long lasting quality)

BEST FOR: CATCHING ANY AND EVERY WAVE

Fun, fast, and snappy, this crossover board might be one of the best all around boards with the biggest bang for your buck! At just under 7’ feet in length, the Casper is a hybrid board that can catch almost any and every wave in swells up to 6’ feet tall.

What makes this board so versatile is its unique styling that offers a variety of possibilities:

• It’s the perfect board for a beginner transitioning to smaller boards
• It’s big enough to handle the power of larger waves
• It’s small enough to practice turning and be playful in smaller surf

This board truly caters to beginners of all skill levels – he’s a friendly little ghost that will never let you down!

View at Amazon

Scott Burke Baja

Specs

• Length: Medium (7 ft 6 in)
• Thickness: 3.5"
• Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Includes 3 High Quality Fins
• Lightweight Design Weight Just Under 11 Lbs.
• Ankle Leash Is Included To Help You Keep Track Of Your Board

BEST FOR: PICKING UP FROM YOUR LAST LESSON 

If you’ve been surfing once or twice on vacation and were left feeling confident in your novice abilities, chances are you don’t need a surfboard the size of a farmhouse table. Although bigger is better, the Scott Burke Baja Surfboard measures in at the upper end of the Medium size range. 

This means that while it’s technically not a “longboard”, it has enough length to keep you feeling stable as you get back into the groove of things. I’d label this board as Beginner +, ideal for someone who isn’t a true beginner but just a few sessions away from the Intermediate Beginner badge.

View at Amazon

Empire Ehukai

Specs

• Length: Medium (7 ft)
• Thickness: 3”
• Weight Capacity: 220 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Includes 3 Universal Fins
• Available In 3 Different Colors
• Soft Top Construction Is Perfect For Beginners

BEST FOR: ADVANCING YOUR SKILLS QUICKLY 

Known as a “small-wave utility board”, the Empire Ehukai Soft Board is a great choice for intermediate to advanced beginners looking to expand their repertoire of surfing skills. If you’re a rider who can stay up on a wave 90% of the time and you’re ready to start mixing in a little move here and there, look no further. 

This board has a flat, stable deck that will provide great security for any beginner and it’s higher volume design provides maximum floatability. Where the Empire Ehukai Soft Board excels is in maintaining buoyancy on smaller waves that would otherwise knock you down.

View at Amazon

Liquid Shredder

Specs

• Length: Short (5 ft 5 in)
• Thickness: 3"
• Weight Capacity: 215 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Universal Fin Mounts
• Fish Shape Means This Board Excels On Small Waves
• Ankle Leash Plug Is Ready For Quick Attachment

BEST FOR: GETTING MORE OUT OF SMALL WAVES

This is certainly one of the more unique boards we’ve ever seen but we are SO stoked that we simply cannot contain our excitement! This funky little board will be warmly welcomed by intermediate beginners who are looking for something fresh. That’s because The Liquid Shredders Fish Board excels on small waves that would typically call for a longboard. 

Simply put, there are no bad days on this Fish Board! Powerful and fast, this board literally makes small waves work to your advantage when they would otherwise frustrate you. Its design also makes you feel more grounded in the wave, adding a touch of security and confidence to your ride.

View at Amazon

South Bay Board Co. – Mahi

Specs

• Length: Short (5 ft 8 in)
• Thickness: 2.75"
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Ankle Leash And Fins Included
• Universal Fins With Key For Removing
• “Fish” Shaped Board Is Ideal For Small Waves

BEST FOR: LEARNING HOW TO TURN

Aptly named after one of the most delicious fish in the sea, the Mahi serves up a slice of power in small surf while packing a punch in larger waves.

The shape is known as a fish board due to its decidedly thick, super wide, and especially short design. The extra thickness provides greater buoyancy when the surf isn’t quite as big as you’d like and the quad fin setup delivers superior stability when hitting swells in the 7’ foot range.

Intermediate beginners with some decent surfing experience will find this board perfectly suitable for learning how to turn on small waves. True beginners without any experience should look for something longer.

View at Amazon

NSP Elements Fish

Specs

• Length: Short (5 ft 6 in)
• Thickness: 2.5”
• Weight Capacity: 205 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Epoxy Finish Is More Durable
• Unique Design Is Great For Waves Up To 3’ Tall
• 3-Fin Thruster Set Up Helps Beginners Make Their Transition To A Shorter Board Easier

BEST FOR: TRANSITIONING DOWN FROM LONGBOARDS

So there’s a rule in surfing that we’ve covered both in this article and elsewhere that the longer, wider, and thicker a board is, the better it is for beginners. And that’s still true 99% of the time. However, as always, there is an exception. 

The NSP Elements Fish Shortboard is our exception in that it has managed to make this board a much easier shortboard for intermediate to advanced beginners to handle. There’s a sweet spot that gives the beginner more control with less board. If that isn’t exceptional then I don’t know what is!

There’s a lot of technical design features that they’ve pulled off to make this happen, but trust us on this one – if you want to side skirt the system and progress your skills quicker, this is your board.

View at Backcountry

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING SURFBOARDS

CONSTRUCTION / FINISH

Surfboards are made of two different types of finishes, or construction, and each have their advantages. While soft tops, or “foamies”, are generally better suited for beginners, take the time to compare the benefits of each and determine which will be best for you. For example, if you’re accustomed to board sports such as skateboarding or snowboarding, you may want to consider skipping the soft top as you will progress faster than the average beginner.

SOFT TOP ADVANTAGES:

• True beginners, who are prone to wiping out, will be much safer on a foamie
• Soft tops can easily be re-sold once outgrown
• Foamies are better equipped to handle the wear and tear that can occur when first learning the sport

HARD TOP ADVANTAGES:

• Turns easier in small waves due to lighter construction
• Small wave wipeouts can damage boards just as much as big waves – hard tops can be repaired when this happens whereas soft tops end up in the trash if broken
• Tougher materials and superior shaping means hard tops are long lasting

FIN SETUP

Small waves pose their own unique challenges and deciding which fin setup is best for you will be determined by what kind of beginner you are and what style of surfing you’re looking to master.

TRUE BEGINNERS

• Single Fin: If you’re a true beginner with no experience, chances are you’ve chosen a longboard from this list. Good on you. Most longboards utilize one very large center fin to keep you “grounded” in the wave. This is a great choice as it will limit your speed and increase stability.

INTERMEDIATE BEGINNERS

• Twin Fin: Small wave enjoyment can be thoroughly maximized when using a Twin Fin setup. Most popular on “Fish” boards, the lack of a center fin allows your board to skate or glide across the top of smaller waves and help you turn quicker.
• Quad: Similar to the Twin Fin design, a Quad Fin setup utilizes two fins on each side while forgoing the center fin. This translates to more speed and stability than a traditional Twin Fin, but sacrifices some maneuverability to achieve those results.

ALL BEGINNERS

• Thruster: By far the most popular fin setup, the Thruster arrangement will scale up as a beginner progresses in skill. Used by professionals and total newbies alike, the Thruster utilizes a single center fin (although much smaller than the traditional Single Fin setup) to provide stability while also relying on two flanking offset fins to maximize maneuverability and speed. It is the most balanced in terms of capabilities.

Many surfboards offer a “5-fin box” that lets you choose just what type of fin setup you want. Make the most of these boards by purchasing an additional set of fins and experimenting with which works best for you.

LENGTH

When choosing a surfboard to take on small waves, the length of your board can be a determining factor in how well you handle those waves. The equation is a combination of your experience level and what type of surfing you’d like to succeed at. Check out our breakdown below.

LONG

• Length: 8 ft or longer
• Type Of Surfing: Traditional longboarding
• Who It’s Best For: Beginners with no experience and intermediate beginners who want to master the basics

MEDIUM

• Length: 6 ft – 8 ft
• Type Of Surfing: Funboarding
• Who It’s Best For: Intermediate beginners looking to add some “spice” to their surf game

SHORT

• Length: Anything shorter than 6 ft
• Type Of Surfing: Shortboarding and Fishboarding
• Who It’s Best For: Intermediate and advanced beginners who have a solid foundation of basic skills and are wanting to explore new ways of surfing

WIDTH AND THICKNESS

Width and thickness are especially important specs to look at when surfing small waves. Due to the way small waves behave, thicker boards (3+ inches) are going to be more helpful to true beginners as they will float better. Intermediate and advanced beginners can get away with boards of average thickness (2 – 2 ½ inches).

Beginners without experience will benefit from using a longboard, which tends to be wider, thus providing better stability overall. Intermediate beginners may want to rock a fishboard in small surf as the increased width will make up for the shorter length.

WEIGHT CAPACITY

The weight capacity of a surfboard is generally a guideline and is useful in determining if a specific surfboard will accommodate your skill level.

• Beginners without experience will want to stay under a board’s maximum weight limit which makes you more buoyant and thus able to catch more waves.
• Intermediate beginners can comfortably reach a board’s weight limit without adversely affecting their performance.
• Advanced beginners are able to exceed a board’s weight limit, within reason. Their skills give them the ability to deftly manipulate the board into doing what they want.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

DECK

The top side of the surfboard where the surfer stands. Surfers sometimes use a traction pad here for extra grip. 

FIN

A fin is mounted on the tail of the surfboard to provide for directional control and stability.

FIN MOUNT

The groove in the board where fins can be inserted. 

RAILS

The edges of the surfboard that run from the tail to the nose. Different rail shapes determine the type of surfboard performance. 

ANKLE LEASH

The cord that attaches from the tail of the surfboard to the ankle of the surfer, typically with a Velcro strap. 

ANKLE LEASH PLUG

The connection point in the rear of the surfboard for the ankle leash. 

BUOYANT DESIGN

The more buoyant the surfboard, the easier it will be to surf small waves. A more buoyant surfboard will float with less effort.  

EPOXY FINISH

Epoxy is a resin used to coat the top of a hard top surfboard. An epoxy finish makes a board more durable. 

TAIL

The back of the surfboard. Tail shapes differ from board to board and include squashtail, thumbtail, and pintail shapes. 

FISH TAIL

A fish tail shape features two points that provide for extra hold and traction, adding surface area which is especially useful while paddling. 

The post Best Surfboards for Small Waves of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Also known as a “foamie”, soft tops offer a host of advantages, especially for beginners. They’re much safer than traditional hard tops: if you bail or wipe out, a blow to the head from your board will be less dangerous. Foamies are also extremely durable, meaning you can beat up these boards as you learn the basics without fear of totally trashing an expensive hard top.

Lastly, soft tops tend to be a bit thicker than hard tops, lending themselves to greater buoyancy and making your task of learning the sport that much easier. You also don’t need to wax a soft top! Simpler is better, right?

For more of our top surfing gear recommendations, check out the Best Surfboards.

Reviews - The Best Soft Top Boards for Surfing

Almond Surfboards Secret Menu

Specs

• Length: Short (5’4” ft)
• Thickness: 2.75"
• Weight Capacity: 180 lbs
• Fins Included?: No
• Fin Setup: 4-fin (Not Included)

Features

• No-Wax-Necessary Deck Pad
• Quad Fin Box For Picking Up Speed
• 100% Recyclable

BEST FOR: SURFER LOOKING FOR A HIGH-END FOAM BOARD

At 5’4 long and 36L, the R-Series Secret Menu is designed for the optimal blend of easy paddling and rip-ability. It’s a board that is best for 2ft – 4ft waves but can also keep up with a big barrel under the most capable feet. It’s wide tail is great for picking up speed even in smaller surf.  Almond Surfboards created the Secret Menu with a deep awareness of the role we play when it comes to protecting the natural world. It’s foam injected core is 100% recyclable through Almond’s Recycling Loyalty Program.

View at Evo

Wavestorm Classic Pinline

Specs

• Length: Long
• Thickness: 3.25"
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fin Setup: Thruster (3-fin)

Features

• Textured Traction Pad (to help you stand up and stay on)
• Includes Removable Ankle Leash
• Extra “Grippy” Soft Top

BEST FOR: LONG LASTING QUALITY

If you’re the kind of person that scrutinizes quality because you value where your dollar goes, then this is the board for you. Considered one of the most recognized brands in surfing, Wavestorm is known for crafting quality boards at an affordable price.

This may be one of the most durable foamies we’ve come across. It sports 3 stringers whereas most other boards have only 1 or 2. A stringer is a thin strip of wood that runs the entire length of the board to add stiffness and rigidity while maintaining flexibility. More stringers = more stability and durability. The extra durable construction of this board also lends itself to providing a superior platform for beginner surfers.

View at Amazon

South Bay Board Co. – Heritage

Specs

• Length: Long
• Thickness: 3”
• Weight Capacity: 260 lbs
• Fin Setup: Thruster (3-fin)

Features

• Action Camera Mount
• Wax-Free Textured Soft Top
• Ankle Leash And Fins Included
• Heat Release Valve Prevents Delamination and Bubbling

BEST FOR: LARGER FRAMED BEGINNERS

It’s no secret that South Bay Board Company is by far one of our favorite manufacturers. That’s because they make some of the best surfboards for beginners, crafting premium quality soft boards that are both safer and easier to ride than traditional hard boards.

The Heritage boasts a wide chest area making this board a solid choice for larger framed surfers that require a bit more stability. It’s almost 9 foot length and 3 inch thickness also give the extra buoyancy needed to keep you gliding atop waves, even on your first time out.

View at Amazon

Rock It SHORTBUS

Specs

• Length: Medium
• Thickness: 3”
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fin Setup: Thruster (3-fin)

Features

• Comes In 8 Different Colors
• Flexible Fins Are More Durable
• Environmentally Friendly Construction Made From Recycled Materials

BEST FOR: EASY RIDING

The Rock It SHORTBUS is truly a unique board thanks to some smart styling choices. At 7’ in length, this board offers a performance “funboard” shape in a slightly longer version. This will give beginners of all backgrounds the opportunity to experiment with something other than a longboard without sacrificing stability or floatability.

If you’re looking for something that’s truly easy to ride and able to catch waves without giving you a hard time, then look no further! The SHORTBUS is an appealing board and should be considered by anyone looking to have some fun on the water.

View at Amazon

Catch Surf Skipper Quad

Specs

• Length: Medium
• Thickness: 3.125"
• Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
• Fin Setup: Quad (4-fin)

Features

• Includes Fins
• Island Inspired Graphics
• 3 Maple Stringers For Maximum Durability

BEST FOR: MANEUVERABILITY

Catch Surf teamed up with Pro Surfer Jamie O’Brien to collaborate on a whole collection of products, including this super shredder of a board. This board is the premo soft top, offering a great quality ride for intermediate to advanced beginners with the ability to scale up as you progress your surf game.

The high volume fish shape gives the Skipper Quad the ability to make quick work of smaller surf, while the quad fin setup establishes stability, speed, power, and maximum turnability in medium sized swells. We also really appreciate the quad fin setup on the fish board shape as a one-two punch when making big, sweeping turns and powering through medium sized waves!

View at Amazon

View at Evo

Wave Bandit Performer Tri

Specs

• Length: Medium
• Thickness: 3.125"
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fin Setup: Thruster (3-fin)

Features

• Requires Wax
• Extra Thick Design Increases Buoyancy
• High-Pressure Construction For Maximum Stiffness

BEST FOR: SMALL WAVES

Sometimes small waves just aren’t what you had in mind when hitting the beach on a warm summer day, but fear not! We’ve found the best soft top to combat the “Oh no’s” and keep you having fun no matter the wave size.

The Wave Bandit Performer Tri is a sweet little hybrid board that offers a fish shape for maximum floatability in smaller surf while sporting a 3-fin thruster setup to keep you stable while shredding. Most fish boards have either a twin or quad fin setup, but this distinctive combo will also keep you high flying on medium sized waves as well.

They don’t call it the Performer for nothin’! This board is perfect for literally any level of beginner, making it a solid choice whether it’s your first board or a back up in your quiver for the smaller days.

View at Amazon

Boardworks Froth!

Specs

• Length: Short
• Thickness: 2.5"
• Weight Capacity: 190 lbs
• Fin Setup: Thruster (3-fin)

Features

• Requires Wax
• High-Quality Fin Boxes And Fins
• Long-Lasting Construction Overturns Traditional Soft Top “Cons”

BEST FOR: CHEATING THE SYSTEM

Made with the skeleton of a hard top surfboard and wrapped in soft, foamie goodness, the Boardworks Froth! is the Michelin Man of surfboards. The construction starts as if it were being made into a more traditional epoxy hard top board, but then sneakily adds high-density foam to the top, thus cheating the system.

Throw the Pros and Cons out! Revolution is afoot!

The result is a board that is both light and long-lasting (hard top pros) but also safe for beginners and less expensive (soft top pros). The Froth! also features high-quality fin boxes that allows you to swap out your fins when you need to change up your game. In all, this board aims to please intermediate and advanced beginners due to it’s shorter length.

View at Amazon

Softech Flash

Specs

• Length: Medium
• Thickness: 2.66"
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes
• Fin Setup: Thruster (3-fin)

Features

• Includes 3 Fins
• Ankle Leash Plug Included
• Wax-Free Soft Top

BEST FOR: ALL DAY, EVERY DAY SURFING

The Softech Flash is a great all-rounder offering shortboard performance, and a perfect option for anyone wanting to hone their turning skills. This hybrid shape has a wider nose and plenty of volume for easy paddling. The Flash is built with a slick soft deck and bottom that glides over the water, making it a super quick board that catches everything

With the FCS II system, you don’t need any screws or tools to secure the fins. You can easily insert and remove the fins based on the wave conditions or the riders skill level.

View at Backcountry

Odysea Catch Surf Log

Specs

• Length: Long
• Thickness: 3.33"
• Weight Capacity: 230 lbs
• Fin Setup: Thruster (3-fin)

Features

• Cool Retro Graphics
• Extra Thick Board Floats Better
• High-Performance Fins Are Removable

BEST FOR: PROGRESSIVE LONGBOARDING

Odysea’s Catch Surf Log is an outstanding “long” board measuring in at 8’ feet long. This large board offers a perfect entry into surfing for any beginner. Intermediate to advanced beginners looking to expand their skill set while riding will love the Log for its wide and stable base.

You’ll find no better choice when it comes to “logging”, a traditional surfing style that focuses on performing maneuvers with one’s body to earn style points (think perching noserides or hanging heels before retreating back to the tail of the board).

View at Backcountry

Catch Surf Original 54

Specs

• Length: Short
• Thickness: 2.5"
• Weight Capacity: 175 lbs
• Fin Setup: Twin Fin (2-fin)

Features

• Requires Surf Wax
• Pop Through Ankle Leash Plug
• Highly Durable, Impact-Resistant Deck

BEST FOR: DURABILITY

This shortie is by far the most durable board on the list, allowing advanced beginners the ability to try new things without fear of breaking their board. Known in the Catch Surf brand as a “beater board”, the Original 54 Pro is impact resistant, lightweight, and opposes waterlogging that would otherwise slow it down.

Its short shape paired with a twin fin setup makes the Original 54 Pro a great board for catching all different types of waves, especially those in the small to medium range. If you’ve nailed down your longboard basics, this makes for a great addition to your quiver to mix things up!

View at Evo

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING SURFBOARDS

COST

One of the huge benefits to buying a soft top surfboard is that they tend to be less expensive than their hard top counterparts. If you’re new to surfing, soft tops offer a variety of advantages over hard tops and are a good choice until your skills have progressed.

The other upside to “foamies” being less expensive is that you may be able to buy multiple soft tops for the price of a single hard top, meaning you can outfit the whole family for your next family vacation without breaking the bank!

CONSTRUCTION

Soft top surfboards, also known as “foamies”, are a great choice for beginners of all skill levels. Although initially regarded as surfboards for “noobs” or “kooks”, the soft top revolution has flipped the script. Nowadays, you can find all levels of surfers, even professional surfers, using them in certain conditions.

SOFT TOP PROS

• As a newbie, falling off your board is inevitable, but a visit to the ER doesn’t have to be
• Foamies are much safer for your noggin and others who may be nearby
• Great bang for your buck! Let’s you hit the water at a reasonable price
• Foamies provide more stability for beginners due to their heavy weight

SOFT TOP CONS

• A heavier board means a more difficult walk to the water
• Warm water surfing on a foamie can lead to board rash. Check out the best rash guards to prevent this from happening
• Shorter lifespan than hard tops

FIN SETUP

Soft top surfboards benefit just as much from specification of fin type as hard tops. Depending on your needs and intended surf style, certain fin setups will lend themselves better than others. Below we explain what type of surfing styles benefit the best from certain fin setups.

LONGBOARDING

• Single Fin: Most commonly found on longboards, the Single Fin setup is a great choice for beginners without experience but also scales up as you become a better surfer. Characterized by a single, long fin in the center of the board, this setup provides ample stability and tracking.
• Thruster: Increasingly found on longboards in recent years, the Thruster setup is a nice modern variant for the world’s oldest and most traditional surfing style. The Thruster setup is characterized by 3 fins: 1 in the center towards the rear of the board with 2 flanking fins positioned further forward. A longboard with a Thruster setup will be more nimble and better at turning, especially in smaller waves.

FUNBOARDING

• Thruster: Most commonly found on medium length “Funboards”, the Thruster’s purpose here is to provide speed and maneuverability. The flanking fins provide more agility and lend stability to fast turns. This setup on medium length boards is aimed more at intermediate and advanced beginners.

FISHBOARDING

• Twin Fin: With just 2 fins on either side, the Twin Fin setup is designed to create speed and maximum maneuverability. Typically mated to a “Fishboard”, the purpose here is to make turning a breeze. Intended more for intermediate to advanced beginners, this setup sacrifices stability for maneuverability.
• Quad: The Quad setup leverages 4 fins, 2 on either side of the board, to achieve similar results as a Twin Fin but with more power and stability. The extra set of fins provide better tracking without sacrificing speed. Intermediate and advanced beginners will both appreciate how this setup performs on Fishboards.

LENGTH

Skill level is usually the first determining factor when deciding on what length of surfboard to buy. Checkout the breakdown below.

TRUE BEGINNERS

• Long
  • 8 ft or longer
• Type Of Surfing
  • Longboarding
• Why It’s A Great Choice
  • Boards above 8 ft are going to provide a larger footprint for beginners without any surfing experience. The longer the board, the wider and thicker it will be, thereby shortening your learning curve.

INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED BEGINNERS

• Medium
  • 6 ft – 8 ft
• Type Of Surfing
  • Funboarding
• Why It’s A Great Choice
  • This intermediate length is a step down in size from longboards and provides more maneuverability and agility. Intermediate and advanced beginners will appreciate this size as it gives them more control over their board.

ADVANCED BEGINNERS

• Short
  • Anything shorter than 6 ft
• Type Of Surfing
  • Funboarding and Fishboarding
• Why It’s A Great Choice
  • Advanced beginners who have mastered all of the basic surfing skills will find shortboards and fishboards opening a whole new world of possibilities. Their short length and sometimes unique shape (in the case of fishboards), provide new ways of seeing the world of surfing.

THICKNESS

Soft top surfboards tend to be more beginner friendly by adding extra thickness to increase buoyancy in the water and increase performance under certain conditions. 3’’ in thickness is the sweet spot. Anything thicker lends itself to beginners with no experience while thinner boards will be manageable for intermediate to advanced beginners.

WEIGHT CAPACITY

When choosing the best soft top surfboard, you want a weight capacity that is higher than your bodyweight. The weight capacities listed are for true beginners and intermediate beginners. Advanced beginners will be able to cheat higher than the listed weight capacity as their skill will allow them to handle a smaller sized board.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

DECK

The area of the board where the paddler stands.

FIN MOUNT

A slot in the surfboard where a fin can be inserted.

BUOYANT DESIGN

A surfboard with a buoyant design will float better and with less effort. This is a good feature to keep an eye on if you’re a beginner with no experience or when surfing small waves.

ANKLE LEASH PLUG

A small knob with a hook in the rear of a surfboard where an ankle leash can be easily attached.

EPOXY FINISH

A very durable final coating over hard top surfboards. Most hard tops are finished with epoxy as opposed to the older and heavier fiberglass finish.

FISH SHAPE

A style of surfboard that looks like a fish! They are typically short (less than 6 ft), very wide, and really thick (more than 3 inches). They are best suited to small waves when beginning your foray into surfing.

FIN BOX

The area underneath the tail of the board that offers options to add or remove additional fins in order to customize a particular fin setup.

The post Best Soft Top Surfboards of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

Experienced surfers know that they need to make a different board selection depending on the conditions. Having a variety of boards to choose from will maximize your chances of actually enjoying your time in the ocean. It will also give you the ability to enjoy more days out as conditions change. In this article, we’ll review ten of the best surfboards and explain some of the important features of these boards.

For more of our top surfing gear recommendations, check out these popular articles:

Surfboards for Beginners | Surfboards for Small Waves

Soft Top Surfboards | Surfboards for Kids | Foam Surfboards

Reviews - Best Surfboards

Catch Surf Beater

Specs

• Type: Shortboard (Soft Top)
• Length: 4’6”
• Fins Included?: Yes
• Experience Level: Beginner to Expert
• Nose Shape: Rounded
• Tail Shape: Crescent

Features

• Durable Design
• Soft-Top Finish
• Removable Fins
• Easy Storage

BEST FOR: BEGINNERS, SKIMBOARDERS, BODYBOARDERS

The 54-inch Beater from Catch Surf is a great starter board for anyone learning how to ride a shorter setup. It’s a soft-top board that can take a beating and can also perform while skimboarding or bodyboarding if you don’t feel like paddling out on any particular day. Its size makes it easy to store out of the way when not in use and also makes it a great board for kids learning how to ride a smaller board. This board does require additional surf wax for better grip, but it’s a fun board for riders of all skill levels!

View at Backcountry

Modern Surfboards Falcon

Specs

• Type: Shortboard
• Length: 7’6”
• Fins Included?: Yes
• Experience Level: Beginner to Expert
• Nose Shape: Round Pointed
• Tail Shape: Tapered

Features

• Includes 3 Fins
• Super floaty
• Durable Construction

BEST FOR: JACK-OF-ALL-TRADES BOARD

The Falcon is a stable and buoyant board that helps beginners progress quickly. Pop up with confidence and turn with ease in smaller waves. 

The rocker helps the board paddle quickly into waves and maintain speed once you’re up. This is the perfect board for beginners wanting a board that gets better as your skills improve. Also great for experienced surfers who want a board that is fun to play around with even on weak waves.

View at Backcountry

Lib Tech X Lost Freak Flag Bean Bag

Specs

• Type: Shortboard
• Length: 5’10”
• Fins Included?: No
• Experience Level: Intermediate to Expert
• Nose Shape: Rounded
• Tail Shape: Rounded

Features

• Quad Fin Design For Speed
• Built For Speed
• Eco-Friendly Construction

BEST FOR: FUN IN WEAK CONDITIONS

The Lib Tech x Lost Freak Flag Bean Bag is a radical small wave board created with maximum surface area for lift, stability and unbridled speed in tiny surf. A winged outline allows surfers to make tight turns. The Vee Shape bottom makes for easy paddling and catching waves. Lib Tech raises the bar when it comes to building with the toughest and most eco-friendly materials. Quad fin box design helps to generate more speed making this the perfect board for surfers who want to have fun even in weak conditions.

View at Evo

Salt Gypsy Mid Tide

Specs

• Type: Shortboard
• Length: 6’4”
• Fins Included?: Yes
• Experience Level: Beginners to Expert
• Nose Shape: Pointed
• Tail Shape: Round

Features

• Dimensions Are Chosen With Female Surfers In Mind For Ideal Feel
• Single Fin Design Offers Exceptional Pivoting Control
• Hybrid Design Gives Stability & Responsiveness

BEST FOR: LADY SURFERS

The Salty Gypsy Mid Tide was carefully crafted with just the right dimensions and volume allocations to help female surfers make the most out of each wave. It’s a general all arounder that can take on a wide variety of wave sizes and conditions. The Mid Tide is a hybrid board in that it doesn’t have the cumbersomeness of a longboard and it still has enough responsiveness like a short board.

View at Backcountry

Creative Army Huevo

Specs

• Type: Longboard
• Length: 8’1”
• Fins Included?: Yes
• Experience Level: Advanced Beginners to Expert
• Nose Shape: Semi-Pointed
• Tail Shape: Round

Features

• Hybrid Surfboard That Finds Balance Between A Short And A Long
• Low-to-mid Rocker Paddles Out Easily And Drives Hard Through Turns
• 2+1 Fin Setup Helps You Turn Sharply

BEST FOR: LONGBOARD SURFERS LOOKING TO LEVEL UP 

The Creative Army Huevo is a high performance longboard that can handle anything from waist high to double overhead waves. A round nose and a fuller tail gives this board more float which makes for easier paddling. The hybrid design means it’s on the shorter end of longboards but it has more paddle power. The fin box allows for one big fin for flow and glide, and two smaller ones for stability and extra power. The Huevo is the perfect board for surfers looking to transition from a foam board who are looking for a faster and more exciting ride.

View at Backcountry

Almond Surfboards Secret Menu

Specs

• Type: Short
• Length: 5’4”
• Fins Included?: No
• Experience Level: Advanced Beginners to Expert
• Nose Shape: Rounded
• Tail Shape: Squash

Features

• No-Wax-Necessary Deck Pad
• Quad Fin Box For Picking Up Speed
• 100% Recyclable

BEST FOR: SURFER LOOKING FOR A HIGH-END FOAM BOARD

At 5’4 long and 36L, the R-Series Secret Menu is designed for the optimal blend of easy paddling and rip-ability. It’s a board that is best for 2ft – 4ft waves but can also keep up with a big barrel under the most capable feet. It’s wide tail is great for picking up speed even in smaller surf. Almond Surfboards created the Secret Menu with a deep awareness of the role we play when it comes to protecting the natural world. It’s foam injected core is 100% recyclable through Almond’s Recycling Loyalty Program.

View at Evo

7S Super Fish 4 IM

Specs

• Type: Short
• Length: 6’6”
• Fins Included?: Yes
• Experience Level: Advanced Beginners to Expert
• Nose Shape: Wide
• Tail Shape: Tapered

Features

• Well-balanced 3-stage Rocker Prevents Nose-diving In Steep Waves
• For Surfers Of All Skill Levels, Beginners To Experts
• Ample Paddle Power

BEST FOR: PROGRESSING SURFERS

Catch more waves and progress to the next level with the 7S Super Fish IM. The balanced rocker has just the right lift in the nose to prevent nose dives on steeper waves. The modern fish shape is great for waves from 1ft – 6ft. This board offers the perfect balance of stability and turning response making it a great choice for surfers who are ready to make some serious progress.

View at Backcountry

Solid Surf Co Throwback

Specs

• Type: Shortboard
• Length: 6’2”
• Fins Included?: No
• Experience Level: Advanced Beginners to Expert
• Nose Shape: Pointed
• Tail Shape: Fish/ Swallow

Features

• Versatility (For Everyone)
• Hard Rails (Turbo Boosts Speed & Power)
• Eco-Friendly Organic Hemp Construction

BEST FOR: SURFERS STEPPING DOWN FROM LONG BOARDS

This retro designed board offers killer performance, making it one of Solid Surf Co’s most popular creations. It was built for small to medium surf in the 2ft – 6ft range with the possibility of tackling bigger waves if the conditions are just right. It’s overall width and volume makes for a stable ride which means it’s perfect for surfers who are stepping down from a mid length or long board. Avid surfers love the Throwback because it flies down the line, generates speed easily and is great for more fluid and creative surfing.

View at Evo

Softech Flash

Specs

• Type: Shortboard
• Length: 6’6”
• Fins Included?: Yes
• Experience Level: Beginner to Expert
• Nose Shape: Rounded
• Tail Shape: Squash

Features

• Includes 3 Fins
• Ankle Leash Plug Included
• Wax-Free Soft Top

BEST FOR: ALL DAY, EVERY DAY SURFING

The Softech Flash is a great all-rounder offering shortboard performance, and a perfect option for anyone wanting to hone their turning skills. This hybrid shape has a wider nose and plenty of volume for easy paddling. The Flash is built with a slick soft deck and bottom that glides over the water, making it a super quick board that catches everything

With the FCS II system, you don’t need any screws or tools to secure the fins. You can easily insert and remove the fins based on the wave conditions or the riders skill level.

View at Backcountry

Haydenshapes Holy Grail

Specs

• Type: Short
• Length: 6’3”
• Fins Included?: No
• Experience Level: Advanced Intermediates to Expert
• Nose Shape: Pointed
• Tail Shape: Rounded Square

Features

• Flatter Rocker Profile For Continuous Speed And Fast Feel
• Extremely Versatile Shape That Works Great In Lots Of Different Conditions
• Fast, Flowing Ride That Satisfies Intermediate Through To Elite Surfers Levels Of Surfer

BEST FOR: HIGH PERFORMANCE SURFERS

The Holy Grail is the high performance model of the Haydenshapes line. It’s designed to play in small surf all the way up to big ocean waves. Substantial volume up on the front end gives this board stability and paddelabilty. While it’s shorter, wider and more voluminous than traditional performance shortboard designs, the Holy Grail doesn’t sacrifice responsiveness. If you want to take your surfing to the next level, this board is for you.

View at Backcountry

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A SURFBOARD

BOARD TYPES

Choosing the right board type is critical to your surfing success. There are a wide variety of board types out there, but in this article we’ll briefly explain five types: shortboards, fishes, fun boards, longboards and soft tops. Each type has a more specific purpose and are easier or more difficult to handle depending on your experience. Here’s a quick description of each:

• Shortboards – This type of board is generally used by the most experienced surfers on the largest waves. They are the most easily maneuverable of the board types mentioned here. They’re capable of quick turns and are generally considered a “high performance” board.
• Fish Boards – These boards are generally thicker and wider than shortboards. They are best used on days when the waves require extra paddle strength because they float better and are easier to match wave speed with. In general, their design helps you generate more speed, but this can also mean sacrificing maneuverability.
• Funshape Boards – Also known as “fun boards,” this type of board helps to ease the transition for those trying to convert from riding longboards to feeling more comfortable with a shorter setup. Fun boards are typically anywhere from 7’2” to 8′ 6” in length and offer the best of both worlds in terms of paddling ability and maneuverability.
• Longboards – Longboards are generally used for smaller waves, but can also be excellent all-around boards. It’s generally easier for beginners to paddle and stand up on a longboard, but many experts also love them because of their versatility and the possibility to “hang 10!”
• Soft Top Surfboards – Soft tops are generally used by any guide company teaching first-time surfers. The top of these boards are covered with soft foam, which makes it easier for folks to stay on the board as they learn proper paddling and standing technique. The foam design makes these boards more forgiving if beginners are hit accidentally as they learn. Soft top boards are also typically more resistant to dents and dings.

BOARD CONSTRUCTION

ROCKER

A surfboard can have more or less rocker in both the nose and the tail. Rocker plays a big role in the speed and maneuverability of a surfboard. Less nose rocker gives the rider greater ability to gain a faster take off speed and maintain speed through sections, but comes with a limited pocket turning radius. A board with more nose rocker will be more maneuverable and more versatile for a variety of wave conditions. The trade-off on boards with more nose rocker is less ability to generate a higher top speed.

Boards with more tail rocker are generally able to maneuver more easily, but (just like with nose rocker) they aren’t able to generate speed through turns as well. Boards with more tail rocker turn more easily and are great for average or fast-breaking waves. On the other hand, boards with less tail rocker are better for generating a higher top speed, but don’t turn or maneuver as well.

RAIL DESIGN

Rail design is typically broken down into three categories. There are boards with full rails, hard rails, or soft rails. Boards with full rails have a flatter deck and, therefore, tend to float better. However, the extra foam that these boards have on the most sensitive parts of the rails limits their turning ability. Boards with full rails are a great choice for larger riders.

Boards with hard rails offer greater drive for riders that rely heavily on their back foot. These boards generally offer less mobility because of the hard edge that runs the entire length of the board. And finally, boards with soft rails don’t offer nearly the drive that hard rails offer, but they’re generally more responsive when it comes to turning. This is why boards with soft rails are considered to be more user-friendly.

TAIL DESIGN

Board shapers have gotten more and more creative with tail design over the years, but there are six main types of surfboard tails we’re going to mention in this article. They are squashtail, roundtail, thumbtail, swallowtail, diamondtail, and pintail.

SQUASHTAIL

This design is best for all-around boards that you’ll use on a daily basis, regardless of wave conditions. It has a wide exit area that gives it the most release in the pocket of the wave. It offers the most ease in both turning on the face of the wave and driving off the bottom.

ROUNDTAIL

This design is best for riders that want the smoothest turning ability. The riders out there that are executing those smooth, flowy turns you’ve been fantasizing about are most likely riding a board with this type of tail. Although roundtail boards won’t release in the pocket like a squashtail board, they’re still rideable on an everyday basis.

THUMBTAIL

The thumbtail is essentially just a wider version of the roundtail. The wider tail design makes these boards release better in the pocket than a standard roundtail, but they don’t offer as much drive at the bottom of the wave.

SWALLOWTAIL

Boards with a swallowtail will generally offer the tightest turning arc of all the tail design types. These boards will pivot easily and change directions quickly. They are best used on clean waves and with either a quad fin or twin fin setup.

DIAMONDTAIL

The diamondtail design allows boards to turn like they are an inch or so shorter than their actual length. However, these boards still retain the drive of a taller board. Boards with a diamondtail offer lots of release in the pocket, but stay tight on a rail.

PINTAIL

Pintail boards are all about maximizing drive. They don’t offer nearly as much mobility as any of the other designs, but it’s a great design for boards that are designed for straight-line surfing on exceptionally large waves.

FIN DESIGN

The most important thing to know about fins is that the right size for you will depend on your size. In general, larger riders want larger fins and smaller riders will prefer smaller fins. However, fins can also offer more or less rake and can be narrower or wider at the tip. Both of these factors impact the overall performance of the board.

MORE OR LESS RAKE

The term “rake” refers to the arc of the fin, or how much it tilts or sweeps backwards. As the rake of a fin increases, the turns you’ll be making on the board will be more drawn out. Fins with more rake allow the board to turn more easily. Fins with less rake and a wider base tend to make boards offer more drive.

NARROW VS. WIDE TIP

Fins with a narrower tip offer more release. Fins with a wider tip tend to hold better during turns.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

ROCKER

Rocker is arguably the most important feature of a board’s design. Rocker is the curve of the surfboard from its tail to its nose. It’s most visible when viewing the board from its side. In general, more rocker means a slower board. Plain and flat rocker designs tend to offer faster wave performance. And flat rocker works best on boards most often used on smaller waves.

NOSE

The nose is basically the first third of the board. Boards with a wider nose are easier to paddle and gain speed on, because the nose will float better. On the other end of the spectrum, boards with a skinnier nose tend to perform better on larger waves and reduce the likelihood of nose diving when coming out of a bottom turn.

TAIL

The tail of a surfboard plays a big part in how fast and how easily maneuverable the board will be in a variety of wave conditions. There are specific tail designs that work better in bigger waves, mushier waves, smaller waves, and steeper sets. Your choice will largely depend on the conditions you’re most comfortable riding in.

FINS

The fins of a surfboard play a large role in determining the board’s maneuverability. Common fin setups include single fins, twin fins, and quad fins. In general, more fins make your board more responsive to the rider. As we mentioned earlier, larger riders will want larger fins, and vice versa for smaller riders, in general.

DECK

The deck is the top of the surfboard. They will vary in width and can also vary in finish, with the most obvious difference being between boards with a soft (foam) or hard (epoxy) deck.

The post Best Surfboards of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

The last 50 years have seen traditional logging (longboarding) give way to the short board revolution of the 1970’s, then to the neon-clad performance surfing of the 1980’s, to the professional world of the 1990’s. Even into the early 2000’s, surfing has continued to evolve with advancements in board design and lightweight technologies.

With such a broad selection of boards to choose from, varying in length and style for particular wave applications and rider styles, it can seem overwhelming when trying to pick the right board. But fear not my surf-enthused friend – The Adventure Junkies took the time to curate the gnarliest list of the best surfboards for beginners. Read on and ride out, surf’s up dude!

For more of our top surfing gear recommendations, check out the Best Surfboards. 

Reviews - Best Surfboards for Beginners

Modern Surfboards Falcon

Specs

• Length: Medium (7’6 ft)
• Thickness: 2.875"
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Includes 3 Fins
• Super Floaty
• Durable Construction

BEST FOR: JACK-OF-ALL-TRADES BOARD

The Falcon is a stable and buoyant board that helps beginners progress quickly. Pop up with confidence and turn with ease in smaller waves. 

The rocker helps the board paddle quickly into waves and maintain speed once you’re up. This is the perfect board for beginners wanting a board that gets better as your skills improve.

View at Backcountry

BIC Sports G-Board EVO

Specs

• Length: Long (8 ft)
• Thickness: 3.5"
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Includes 3 Fins
• Flat, Stable Deck
• Wax-Free Soft Top

BEST FOR: SHARING WITH THE FAMILY

I know what you’re thinking. It was my first thought too: “BIC? Don’t they make pens, lighters, and razors?” The answer is yes – but they also have a sister company that’s been producing high quality surfboards since 2002. You’re welcome for the random fact, btw.

The G-Board EVO is an excellent choice for any beginner and is perfect for sharing with the whole family. At 8’ feet in length, it provides stability for a wide range of ages. It’s high-volume design also lends itself for a parent teaching a child to surf while riding on the same board. The soft-top construction also makes the G-Board EVO a safe choice, especially when kids are riding.

The thruster fin setup on this board is a solid choice for beginners learning the complexities of surfing and provides maximum stability and maneuverability. Although wax isn’t needed for the soft-top construction, you will need to snag an ankle leash.

View at Amazon

South Bay Board Co. Verve

Specs

• Length: Long (8 ft)
• Thickness: 3”
• Weight Capacity: 230 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Action Camera Mount
• Wax-Free Textured Soft Top
• Ankle Leash And Fins Included

BEST FOR: FAST LONGBOARDING

Let’s be real, sometimes you just wanna go fast! The Verve is the perfect longboard for channeling your inner Ricky Bobby while maintaining stability at high speeds. At 8’ feet in length, this “mini-log” is a sweet cruiser that will step up your mph while stepping down in size from a more traditional longboard.

The Verve has a smartly styled egg-shape that lends itself to a balanced and proportional ride. This design choice makes it a fantastic choice for true beginners as well as intermediate beginners. With the ability to boogie in surf up to 5’ feet tall, this torpedo will be a staple in your quiver even long after you’ve graduated to more advanced boards!

View at Amazon

Wave Bandit Ben Gravy

Specs

• Length: Medium (6.5 ft)
• Weight: 210 lbs
• Thickness: 3.125"
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Lightweight Design
• High-Density, Hard Bottom
• Easy Attach Leash Plug Included

BEST FOR: SMALL, CHOPPY SURF

All aboard the gravy train! Endorsed and ridden by Pro Surfer Ben “Gravy” Graeff, this fish board is a must have in your quiver. This board will keep the good times rolling when the swells don’t pan out the way you want, leaving you with just a bit of whitewash. A whopping 3 ⅛” thickness, the Ben Gravy board offers up greater buoyancy to make quick work of small waves.

Measuring in at 6 ½’ feet in length and sporting a thruster fin setup, this board also has the size and aggressive features to unleash fury on swells up to 7’ feet tall. Although it falls into the smaller end of the “Medium length” category, the added thickness and shape of the Ben Gravy make this board ideal for true beginners who desire a hard top board and for intermediate beginners who need a more nimble board to practice their turning.

Be forewarned though, this is a hardboard that requires waxing before use and you’ll need to purchase an ankle leash separately.

View at Amazon

South Bay Board Co. Ruccus

Specs

• Length: Medium (7 ft)
• Thickness: 2.85”
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Easy Connect Screw-In Fins
• Rubber Bumper Protects Board During Vertical Storage
• Heat Release Valve Prevents Delamination and Bubbling (to keep the board looking and feeling great)

BEST FOR: LEARNING HOW TO TURN QUICKLY

Ah… sweet, buttery carving – no, not the Thanksgiving kind. But we can certainly give thanks at all times of the year for the Ruccus! At 7’ feet in length, this beginner friendly board gets our juices flowing just thinking about all the gnar we can shred.

The Ruccus is right in the sweet spot when it comes to length and has all the trappings of a traditionally styled funboard: narrow front and rear sections that increase maneuverability and a wide midsection that lends itself to greater stability.

These traits translate into smooth turns and polished gliding at a reasonable speed. Pair that with South Bay’s soft top style and you have a board that is undeniably forgiving when you inevitably wipe out. Seriously, for an intermediate beginner looking to add some soul and style to your surf game, this is the board you’ll want as you perfect your transitions.

View at Amazon

South Bay Board Co. Razzo

Specs

• Length: Medium (6 ft)
• Thickness: 2.85”
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Slightly Wider Midsection For Increased Stability
• Real Bamboo Underside Increases Board Strength
• Universal Detachable Fins Can Be Swapped For Bigger/Smaller Sizes

BEST FOR: PURE SPEED

If speed is your need, we’ve got a board that will do the deed! Literally translated from Italian as “Rocket”, this speed demon of a board will be sure to excite. The Razzo screams performance with it’s aggressive styling as you cross into the realm of shortboards. At just 6’ feet in length and sporting a sharply pointed front section, the Razzo is able to make quick work of waves in the 3’ to 7’ foot range.

While the shortboard is typically considered more of an advanced board, South Bay couples this classic shape with their signature soft top design, providing maximum floatability, and making it accessible to first timers. The Razzo does a stellar job at shortening the learning curve for beginners while introducing them to a whole new style of play.

View at Amazon

NSP Funboard

Specs

• Length: Medium (7 ft)
• Thickness: 3.75"
• Weight Capacity: 230 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Includes 3 Universal Fins
• Epoxy Finish Is Extremely Durable
• 3 Fin Thruster Setup Is Great For Beginners

BEST FOR: ALL SKILL LEVELS

Whether you’re just beginning your foray into surfing or have taken your skill set to the next level, NSP delivers top-quality in it’s Funboard. At just over 7 feet in length, the Funboard is long enough to keep a new surfer feeling stable but short enough to play in waves up to 6 feet tall.

The shape of this board lends itself to giving all beginners a helping hand. The rounded front and rear make turning the board a breeze and the classic design will last you for years to come.

The best thing about the Funboard is that as you develop your skills and buy other boards for specific uses, this classic will always be in your quiver as your trusty “Go-To” board. Have fun with it!

View at Amazon

South Bay Board Co. Big Betsy

Specs

• Length: Short (5 ft)
• Thickness: 2”
• Weight Capacity: 170 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Small Size Is Perfect For Children
• Extra-Rigid Design Increases Durability
• Blunted Front End Increases Speed In Small Waves

BEST FOR: WAKESURFING / CHILD’S FIRST SURFBOARD

Not everyone can get to the coast to snag some waves at a moments notice, which is why we’ve included the Big Betsy as a solid choice for wakesurfing! At just 5’ feet in length, this board is short enough to hone your surfing skills on weekend trips to the lake. The twin fin setup provides better maneuverability and performance and is ideal for waves between 3’ and 5’ feet.

If you do live near a beach, this board is also a great choice as a child’s first surfboard. The limited weight capacity and length ensure that it won’t be too much board to handle and will allow them to grow into shortboards as their skills progress.

View at Amazon

Catch Surf Odysea Log

Specs

• Length: Medium (6 ft)
• Thickness: 3.125”
• Weight Capacity: 180 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes

Features

• Includes 3 Fins
• Tons of Float For Easy Wave Catching
• Wax-Free Soft Top

BEST FOR: SHORE BREAKS (NEWBIE TERRITORY)

The Catch Surf Odysea Log makes catching waves so easy it almost feels like you’re cheating. The thin midsection and sharp cutoff tail give you plenty of control. The log is easy to paddle, light and nearly indestructible.

At only 6ft, this board gives you the feel for paddling and riding a shorter board, but you still have the mega float performance of a longer board. Keep it in your arsenal even as you progress because it’s perfect for days when the waves are weak.

View at Evo

Softech Flash

Specs

• Length: Medium
• Thickness: 2.66"
• Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
• Fins Included?: Yes
• Fin Setup: Thruster (3-fin)

Features

• Includes 3 Fins
• Ankle Leash Plug Included
• Wax-Free Soft Top

BEST FOR: ALL DAY, EVERY DAY SURFING

The Softech Flash is a great all-rounder offering shortboard performance, and a perfect option for anyone wanting to hone their turning skills. This hybrid shape has a wider nose and plenty of volume for easy paddling. The Flash is built with a slick soft deck and bottom that glides over the water, making it a super quick board that catches everything

With the FCS II system, you don’t need any screws or tools to secure the fins. You can easily insert and remove the fins based on the wave conditions or the riders skill level.

View at Backcountry

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING YOUR FIRST SURFBOARD

COST

When you’re just breaking into surfing, you might not want to throw all your money at a top-of-the-line board until you’re better acquainted with brands, performance type, and other factors that might impact your buying decision. It’s great to have reliable budget options that you can test the waters in before you go all-in. The selection we’ve curated is both budget friendly and crafted from quality materials. Even as you advance in skill, these boards will advance with you and provide years of shredding.

CONSTRUCTION

When it comes to construction, there are 2 types of boards: soft top and traditional hard top. Each have their pro’s and con’s alike, but generally speaking a soft top board is going to be best for a beginner. But don’t let that sway you away from soft tops; even pro surfers use them in certain wave conditions.

SOFT TOP

HARD TOP

FIN SETUP

There are four basic types of fin setups that surfboards utilize and it depends on each individual as to what you may prefer. If your board allows the option to customize via a “5-fin box”, then we recommend buying some extra fins and playing with each setup to determine which feels best to you.

• Single Fin – Good For Beginners: This classic style was the first available set up in the early days of surfing and only found on longboards. The giant center fin has enough drag to keep you stable and secure.
• Twin Fin – Good For Intermediate Beginners: The Twin Fin setup is much faster than the original Single Fin design and provides more maneuverability in small to medium-sized waves. However, because there is no fin in the center of the board, this setup is more prone to “spinning out” and losing traction if taking a tight bottom turn in a bigger wave.
• Thruster – Best For Beginners: Splashing onto the scene in the early 80’s, the Thruster setup utilizes one large fin in the middle with two smaller fins flanking the sides in an offset shape (like a triangle). It’s basically a Single/Twin combo, providing the best elements of each. This is by far the most popular setup in all of surfing due to its well rounded and balanced nature.
• Quad – Best For Intermediate Beginners: Hitting the scene more recently, the Quad setup is for those whose surfing style isn’t characterized by crazy moves. Instead, it focuses more on speed and power by doubling down on the Twin Fin design – two fins on either side of the board. It still maneuvers really well and is a great choice for larger framed surfers.

LENGTH

Surfboards come in a variety of sizes and it all depends on what your goals are. Typically the longer, wider, and thicker a board is, the easier it is for a beginner to surf as it provides more stability. We’ve broken down the multitude of lengths into three easy categories: long, medium, and short.

Long

Anything longer than 8 feet we’ve deemed to be a “long” board. These are long enough to provide the stability necessary for beginners without experience to feel comfortable on the water.

Medium

Boards in the 6 – 8 foot range we consider to be a “medium” length. They’re aimed at intermediate beginners who’ve had a few lessons and don’t need a full longboard to achieve their goals.

Short

Anything shorter than 6 feet we consider to be a “short” board. These are best left to the advanced beginners who have a solid skill set and are looking to take their surf game to the next level.

WIDTH AND THICKNESS

Generally speaking, the wider and thicker the board, the more stable the paddler will feel.

The average board thickness is between 2” and 2 ½” inches. Some beginner friendly surf boards will add some extra thickness to increase buoyancy in the water and other boards add thickness to increase performance under certain conditions.

VOLUME AND WEIGHT CAPACITY

Surfboard volume (measured in liters) points towards the overall weight capacity (measured in pounds) of the board. The higher the volume of the board, the more weight it can carry. Volume is an important metric because it points to the overall size of the board. Length, width, and thickness don’t always tell the whole story – 3 boards can have the exact same dimensions but have very different designs causing them to be better suited for different applications. Thus, volume helps us understand how buoyant our board is.

When choosing the best surfboard, you want a weight capacity that is higher than your bodyweight but with no more than a 60 lb difference. The weight capacity given is a maximum and shouldn’t be exceeded or performance will suffer. On the flipside, too big of a board will be difficult to maneuver on waves.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

DECK

The area of the board where the paddler stands.

EPS

Stands for extruded polystyrene, which is a lightweight, buoyant, and waterproof material.

EPOXY FINISH

This relatively new style of finish provides a lot of benefits over traditional fiberglass boards including: weighing less, floating better, less prone to dinging, and longer lasting. Overall, this finish is better suited for beginners.

FIN BOX

The area underneath the tail of the board that offers options to add or remove additional fins in order to customize a particular fin setup.

STRINGER

A thin strip of wood that runs the entire length of the board to add stiffness and rigidity while maintaining an ability to flex.

The post Best Surfboards for Beginners of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.