How to Choose Your First Surfboard
The wide selection of shapes, sizes and compositions can make choosing your first surfboard feel overwhelming. Below we break down a few key specifications to make your decision less complicated. In general, go for something longer with higher volume and a durable construction.
Length
As a beginner surfer, the longer your board, the better. Longboards (anything above 8'0) typically take less paddle strength to get into a wave. Additionally, with more surface area on the water, longer boards increase the stability of your foundation, giving you a better platform for popping up.
Volume
For your first surfboard, we suggest a high volume board. Boards with higher volume give you more stability when paddling and popping up to catch your first waves. Foam boards are a great option for beginner surfers and usually have the most volume. High-volume epoxy boards like those made by the brand Torq are also great for beginner to intermediate surfers.
Material
Foam, epoxy, polyester, or fiberglass? The best boards for beginners are the most durable. Foam boards are great for beginners and kids because they can take a lot of damage without being repaired. Foam boards can also be less intimidating and safer for a younger rider. Gorge Performance carries foam boards from Surftech, Catchsurf and Odysea.
Epoxy boards have a hard exterior. They are more durable and less prone to damage compared to polyester boards. Epoxy brands we carry at Gorge Performance include Torq, Modern and Creative Armies and Firewire. Torq epoxy boards are a shop favorite for beginners and intermediate surfers alike. They are available in a wide array of sizes at entry level prices.
Fins
When it comes to your first surfboard, don't worry too much about the technology and details of fins. Many beginner boards come with fins. Fins can get complicated, but when you are first starting there is nothing wrong with beginning with some less expensive, plastic fins.
There are many different setups you can have. For longer boards, you can ride one larger single fin (usually longer than 6.5 inches). A thruster fin setup includes three fins and rides pretty playful, but still produces drive. A 2+1 fin setup allows for you to have the best of both worlds and ride one larger fin with two smaller sidebites. Another option is a quad setup, which has four fins and produces more forward drive. Your height and weight are a good tool to guide your choice of the right size of thruster or quad fins.
Price
Surfing can be an expensive sport, but think of it as an investment! A well cared for board, will last for years.
As an easy entry point, foam boards start at only $350 . Epoxy boards range from $400-$800. Custom, hand-shaped polyester boards can cost more than $1000.
A used surfboard can be a great way to try out a size or shape without breaking the bank. Our consignment surf department typically has over 100 used boards available and is constantly being updated. We assure all consignment boards are fully repaired, water tight and ready to be surfed.
Do you have a question about your first board? Are you having a hard time making a decision? The crew at Gorge Performance is eager to help match you up with the right board for you.
