Choosing a life partner to accompany you through all the highs and lows of your journey is important.
Choosing the right surfboard (for a surfer) is more important... especially if you’re just starting out.
The right board can make all the difference in how quickly you progress, how much fun you have and how safe you feel in the water.
In this guide, your friends at Kala break down everything you need to know, with tips tailored to different skill levels, so you can find the perfect board to match your needs and enjoy every wave.
Surfing is epic.
There's no doubt about it. But knowing your skill level is key to progressing quickly and staying safe out on the water.
Typically, surfing is broken down into three main levels:
Beginner: You’re just starting out, learning the basics like paddling, popping up and catching small whitewater/green waves. You’re mainly focused on balance and control (and not running over your friend on a foamie)
Intermediate: You can confidently paddle into green waves, turn and ride along the face. You’re starting to explore different types of waves and practicing techniques like bottom turns or cutbacks. You're starting to feel like a real surfer!
Advanced: You can ride confidently in challenging conditions, manage bigger waves and execute more technical maneuvers like snaps, floaters and carves. Oh... and you can also get TUBED!
To determine your level, ask yourself the following questions.
When choosing the perfect surfboard, several factors come into play.
Let’s break down the key considerations:
The volume of a surfboard determines its buoyancy, which directly impacts how well it floats and paddles.
Matching the surfboard volume to your weight and surfing ability is an important factor for an enjoyable surfing experience.
These three dimensions define the overall surfboard size and influence how it performs. You'll see them written on most surfboards in the form of length x width x thickness.
The board design affects how it moves in the water.
Surfboards come in various materials, each with its pros and cons.
These boards offer more volume and extra flotation, perfect for when the pop up moment arrives. Great for medium sized waves and mushy waves too.
This stage is about improving control and trying out different fin configurations like a twin fin setup.
Use a surfboard size chart to find a suitable next board based on your fitness level and surfers weight.
Advanced riders should consider smaller boards that can still help generate speed and initiate carves on the wave face. Board selection becomes more personal based on preferred board design and fin configuration.
A flashy board might catch your eye, but it won’t always match your skill level or local conditions. Prioritise function over aesthetics for the best experience.
Jumping straight to high performance boards can slow your progress. Stick to beginner-friendly options until your skills improve.
Your local surf conditions play a big role in board choice. Make sure your board suits the size and type of waves you’ll be riding.
The surfboard volume affects buoyancy and stability. A high volume surfboard is more forgiving, especially for beginner surfers.
Local surf pros know the area best. Tap into their expertise to find the right board for your surfing ability and location.
Trying out different types of surfboards helps you find the perfect single board that works best for you. A stay with a surf camp allows you to trial a range of boards.
Choosing a board based on your actual skill level ensures faster improvement and a more enjoyable surf experience. The more honest you are, the better the recommendations you can get from local surf shops or instructors.
Start by identifying your skill level, then consider your weight, fitness level, local wave conditions and surfing goals. Use a surfboard size chart or below table to find the best match.
When in doubt, go for more volume such as a foam board, for extra stability and easy paddling. Understanding surfboard choosing factors is key to finding the right one for your needs.
The right surfboard size depends on your weight, skill level and the waves you’re riding.
Longer boards are better for beginners and smaller waves with less speed, while shorter boards are more suited to advanced surfers seeking to ride waves faster with quicker performance.
Longer boards are easier to paddle and offer more stability, making them ideal for beginners or mushy waves. Shorter boards allow for quicker response and maneuverability, perfect for advanced riders looking to ride waves faster and tackle tubes and steeper faces.
In smaller waves, you’ll want a board that offers more volume and better floatation.
Funboards, fish surfboards, foam boards and longboards are great choices to maintain momentum and generate speed in slower surf with less speed.
A single fin provides smooth, drawn-out turns and a more traditional surfing style. It’s great for longboards and riders who prefer flow and style over sharp, quick maneuvers.
Board design—including the nose shape, tail, rocker and fin configuration—affects how the board moves through the water.
More rocker helps with steeper drops, while flatter boards work better in smaller, slower waves. Fins control stability and turning ability. Consider these factors when choosing for optimal performance.
If paddling feels manageable, you can catch waves confidently and your surfing is improving, you’re likely on the right surfboard.
It should support your pop-up moment and help you enjoy surfing more with each session. A foam board can be a great option for easy paddling and stability while learning.
Wondering how to choose a surfboard?
Whether you’re a novice surfer choosing your first board or an intermediate rider shopping for your next board, the key factors come down to matching board size, volume and design to your personal needs.
Ultimately, you need to just pull the trigger and get in the waves. The more you surf, the more you will understand your preferences and needs as a surfer!
