For beginners venturing into surfing, selecting the right shortboard is crucial for a positive experience. The best options are designed with stability, ease of paddling, and maneuverability in mind, often featuring softer materials and a wider shape. By focusing on these attributes, new surfers can build confidence and enjoy their time in the water.
What are the best shortboards for beginners?
The best shortboards for beginners are designed to offer stability, ease of paddling, and maneuverability. These boards typically feature softer materials and a wider shape, making them ideal for new surfers who are learning the basics.
Surftech Soft Top Shortboard
The Surftech Soft Top Shortboard is an excellent choice for beginners due to its forgiving foam top, which minimizes the risk of injury during falls. Its lightweight construction allows for easy paddling and maneuvering in the water.
This board usually comes in sizes ranging from 6 to 7 feet, providing ample volume for stability. When selecting one, consider your weight and height to ensure the best fit.
Catch Surf Beater Board
The Catch Surf Beater Board is a versatile option that combines the characteristics of a shortboard and a bodyboard. Its soft top and durable construction make it suitable for various conditions, from small waves to larger swells.
Available in sizes around 5 to 6 feet, this board is particularly user-friendly for beginners. Its fun design and buoyancy help new surfers catch waves more easily.
NSP Elements Shortboard
The NSP Elements Shortboard is designed with beginners in mind, featuring a stable outline and a durable epoxy construction. This board offers a good balance between performance and ease of use, making it suitable for learning basic techniques.
Typically available in sizes from 6 to 7 feet, the NSP Elements provides enough volume for stability while still allowing for progression as skills improve. Look for options with a soft top for added safety.
Torq Epoxy Shortboard
The Torq Epoxy Shortboard is known for its lightweight and durable design, making it a great option for beginners. Its epoxy construction offers a good balance of buoyancy and responsiveness, helping new surfers gain confidence in the water.
Sizes generally range from 6 to 7 feet, which is ideal for beginners. When choosing a Torq board, consider the rocker profile, as a flatter rocker can assist with paddling and stability.
Odysea Log Shortboard
The Odysea Log Shortboard is a fun and forgiving option for beginners, featuring a wider outline and a soft top for safety. This board excels in small to medium waves, making it perfect for learning how to ride.
Available in sizes around 7 to 8 feet, the Odysea Log provides ample volume for stability and ease of paddling. It’s a great choice for those looking to have a fun and safe surfing experience while developing their skills.
How to choose a shortboard for beginners?
Choosing a shortboard as a beginner involves considering factors like size, shape, and material to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable surfing experience. Prioritize boards that offer stability and ease of paddling to help build confidence in the water.
Consider size and volume
Size and volume are crucial for beginners, as they directly affect stability and buoyancy. A shortboard typically ranges from 5’6″ to 6’4″ in length, with a volume of around 30 to 40 liters being ideal for novice surfers. Opt for a board that provides enough floatation to help you catch waves easily.
As a general rule, shorter boards are more maneuverable, while longer boards offer better stability. Beginners should lean towards a slightly longer board to facilitate balance and paddling.
Evaluate shape and rocker
The shape and rocker of a shortboard influence how it performs in the water. A board with a flatter rocker will glide better and is easier for beginners to paddle. Look for a board with a wider nose and tail, which enhances stability and helps with wave catching.
Additionally, consider the tail shape; a square tail offers more stability, while a rounded tail can provide smoother turns. Understanding these shapes can help you select a board that matches your learning style.
Assess material and durability
Material and durability are important factors when selecting a shortboard for beginners. Most boards are made from polyurethane (PU) or epoxy, with epoxy being lighter and more durable, making it a great option for novices. PU boards, while heavier, can offer a more traditional feel.
When assessing durability, consider the board’s construction. A more robust board can withstand the inevitable bumps and drops that come with learning. Look for boards with reinforced rails or those designed specifically for beginners to ensure longevity.
What features should beginners look for in a shortboard?
Beginners should prioritize safety, ease of use, and stability when selecting a shortboard. Key features include a soft top for safety, lightweight construction for maneuverability, and sufficient stability and buoyancy to aid in balance and paddling.
Soft top for safety
A soft top shortboard is designed with a foam surface that reduces the risk of injury during falls. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners who may struggle with balance and control. Look for boards with a durable soft top that can withstand impacts while providing a cushioned surface.
Additionally, many soft top boards come with rounded edges, further minimizing the chances of cuts or bruises. This makes them ideal for learning in various conditions, whether in calm waters or small waves.
Lightweight construction
Lightweight shortboards are easier to handle, making them suitable for beginners who are still developing their skills. Boards made from materials like foam or epoxy are typically lighter than traditional fiberglass options, allowing for easier paddling and maneuvering.
When choosing a lightweight board, consider the trade-off between weight and durability. While lighter boards are easier to carry and control, ensure they are still robust enough to withstand the rigors of learning and occasional impacts.
Stability and buoyancy
Stability and buoyancy are crucial for beginners, as they help maintain balance while paddling and riding waves. A wider board with more volume generally provides better stability, making it easier to stand up and stay upright.
Look for boards with a good balance of length and width, as this can enhance buoyancy. A board that is around 7 to 8 feet long and 20 to 22 inches wide is often a suitable choice for novice surfers, providing the necessary support without being overly cumbersome.
Where to buy beginner shortboards in the US?
Beginner shortboards can be purchased from various sources in the US, including local surf shops, online retailers, and specialty surfing websites. Each option has its advantages, such as personalized service, convenience, and a wide selection.
Local surf shops
Local surf shops are excellent places to buy beginner shortboards as they often provide personalized advice and allow you to physically inspect the boards. You can find boards that suit your skill level and style, and staff can help you with fitting and accessories.
Additionally, supporting local businesses fosters community and may lead to discounts on future purchases or local surf lessons. Check for shops that offer demo boards, allowing you to try before you buy.
Online retailers like Amazon
Online retailers like Amazon offer a vast selection of beginner shortboards, often at competitive prices. Shopping online allows you to compare different brands and models quickly, read customer reviews, and find boards that fit your budget.
However, purchasing online means you won’t have the chance to physically inspect the board before buying. Ensure you check return policies in case the board does not meet your expectations upon arrival.
Specialty surfing websites
Specialty surfing websites focus exclusively on surf gear and often carry a wider range of shortboards tailored for beginners. These sites usually provide detailed descriptions, specifications, and expert reviews, which can help you make an informed decision.
Many specialty sites also offer customer support through chat or email, allowing you to ask questions about specific boards. Look for websites that provide free shipping or easy returns to enhance your shopping experience.
What are common mistakes beginners make with shortboards?
Beginners often make several key mistakes when starting with shortboards, which can hinder their progress and enjoyment. These include choosing the wrong board size, neglecting proper paddling techniques, and failing to understand wave selection.
Choosing the wrong board size
Selecting an inappropriate board size is a frequent error for newcomers. A board that is too small can be difficult to balance on, while one that is too large may hinder maneuverability. Beginners should consider starting with a board that offers more stability, typically in the range of 6 to 7 feet, before transitioning to shorter options.
Neglecting proper paddling techniques
Many beginners overlook the importance of effective paddling techniques. Proper paddling not only helps in catching waves but also in maintaining balance on the board. Beginners should focus on keeping their body centered, using long, deep strokes, and practicing their timing to improve their wave-catching ability.
Failing to understand wave selection
Wave selection is crucial for successful surfing, yet many beginners struggle with this concept. Understanding which waves to ride and when to paddle can significantly impact the surfing experience. Beginners should observe the ocean conditions and learn to identify the best waves for their skill level, typically starting with smaller, slower waves to build confidence.
