In skimboarding, you do not have to move far from the shores, just the incoming waves are what you need. However, it can be dangerous if you ride without the best skimboards for you.
Those moments on the beach can be made interesting with a good skimboard. Therefore, choosing the appropriate and best skimboard is important.
It can be really challenging when it comes to decision-making. Are you planning to start skimboarding or in need of a good replacement?
I have prepared a comprehensive buying guide to help you find a good Skimboard and some useful skill-improving tips. More importantly, I have reviewed the 17 best skimboards currently available in the market.
Let’s get started!
See Also:
Table of Contents
- What Is a Skimboard?
- What’s the Best Skimboard?
- Comparison of Top 17 Best Skimboards 2021
- Top 17 Best Skimboards 2021 Reviews
- BPS ‘Gator’ Skimboards
- BPS ‘Shaka’ Skimboards
- Wavestorm 48″ Skimboard
- Zap Fish Skimboard
- DB Standard Streamline Skimboard
- Fedmax Skimboard with High Gloss Coat
- Atom Skimboard
- Zap Wedge Large Skimboard
- Sunspecs Rubber Top Wooden Skimboard
- Zap Lazer Custom Artwork Skimboard
- Banzai Skimboard Surfer
- Wave Rebel Wood Skimboard
- Wave Zone Fishtail Skimboard
- 30″ Slackers Surfin’ Skimboard
- Zap Lazer Skimboard
- BeachMall Deluxe Wood SkimBoard
- Fiberglass Wave Zone Squirt SkimBoard
- How to Find the Best Skimboard?
- How to Skimboard?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- WindSurfingMag Overview
What Is a Skimboard?
Not anything called board can be used for skimboarding! Just like there are paddleboards for paddleboarding, there is also skimboard for skimboarding.
Skimboards have a close resemblance to surfboards but they are smaller and don’t have fins. However, they are almost the same size as bodyboards but a little narrower. The only similarity is in their build materials.
See Also: 15 Best Surf Watches
What’s the Best Skimboard?
There are many skimboards in the market, hence, you have the luxury of choices to make. However, only the best skimboards can help you enjoy skimboarding. Below are some of the best products you should start considering.
- Best Overall: BPS ‘Gator’ Skimboards
“Lightweight, good quality, high performance, offers good value for money.” - Best Budget: Sunspecs Rubber Top Wooden Skimboard
“Budget-friendly, doesn’t require waxing, available in multiple colors and sizes.” - Best for Beginners: BPS ‘Shaka’ Skimboards
“Nice aesthetics, soft high-traction surface, features a nose rocker that allows more maneuverability.” - Best for Wave Riding: Wavestorm 48″ Skimboard
“Sturdy construction, deck cushioning, features a stringer, has a rigid HDPE bottom.” - Best for Adults: Zap Fish Skimboard
“Smooth gliding, lightweight, rugged, made from foam and fiberglass.” - Best for Wakesurfing: DB Standard Streamline Skimboard
“Solid construction, sleek movement, EVA deck, works well for sand-skimming and wakesurfing.” - Best for Heavy Riders: Fedmax Skimboard with High Gloss Coat
“Good quality, durable finish, 90-day guarantee, performs tricks and turns with ease.” - Best for Sand Skimming: Atom Skimboard
“Great performance, lightweight, good value for money, has a control-friendly shape.” - Best Fiberglass Skimboard: Zap Wedge Large Skimboard
“Large surface area, pulled-in nose, features a round tail, good for beginners.”
Comparison of Top 17 Best Skimboards 2021
There are a lot of features to consider when buying a skimboard. Without wasting much time, below are the important attributes of the 17 best skimboards available.
Top 17 Best Skimboards 2021 Reviews
You really do not have to leave the beach to skimboard. Just find a good skimboard, catch incoming waves, and start riding. It is that simple.
All other factors constant, you will only enjoy skimboarding with the best skimboards. Below are the detailed reviews of the 17 best skimboards in the market.
BPS ‘Gator’ Skimboards
(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)
The BPS ‘Gator’ skimboard is for those learning the art of skimboarding. Beginners will enjoy the high performance and the durability it offers at such a low price.
There are three sizes (length) available, 30, 35, and 41 inches, as well as multiple color options to pick from. The weight limits are 80, 150, and 220 pounds respectively, allowing age to enjoy the fun.
Made out of plywood, the board is nicely shaped and features a curved nose that keeps it hydrodynamic. The wood is protected with the high-grade gloss coating that keeps it from sucking water.
The deck of the BPS ‘Gator’ skimboard has an EVA foam layer that improves the rider’s grip on the board. Overall, all the board sizes are lightweight and easy to carry, relative to the rider.
Pros
- Patterned EVA foam layer for adequate grip.
- Lightweight and sleek.
- Multiple color choices.
- Available in three different sizes.
- It can be used by adults and kids.
Cons
- The foam layer may peel under intense use.
See Also: 13 Best Funboard Surfboards
BPS ‘Shaka’ Skimboards
(Best for Beginners)
Kids or adults, experienced or novice, lightweight or heavy riders can all enjoy skimboarding with the BPS ‘Shaka’ Skimboards. Basically, this is because the board is available in three different sizes with different weight limits and six different colors.
Primarily, it is built from wood but it is well coated with gloss to preserve the wood’s quality. The patterned EVA deck ensures better grip even without waxing and the nose rocker allows more maneuverability and catch.
The largest is about 40 inches long and has a weight limit of around 220 pounds. The smallest, 30 inches long, has a limit of 80 pounds and the intermediate (35 inches long) is 150 pounds.
Pros
- Six color options available.
- Sold in three different sizes.
- Features gloss coating.
- It comes with grip pads.
- Easy to maneuver.
Cons
- May deteriorate very easily under poor handling and storage.
See Also: Top 15 Best Balance Boards for Surfing
Wavestorm 48″ Skimboard
(Best for Wave Riding)
The Wavestorm 48” skimboard is another impeccable option for beginners or young skimmers. Just like most products from the reputable Wavestorm brand, there are no short of quality.
The board is one of the longest on my list, measuring about 48 inches. Its width and thickness are 20.5 and 3 inches respectively.
Despite its dimension, it is lightweight and durable since it has an EPS core. Notwithstanding, it is quite rugged as it comes with a stringer for reinforced strength.
The slick (bottom) is made from high-density polyethylene, hence, you should expect more speed. The deck of the Wavestorm 48” skimboard is textured, soft, and grips well than some other boards even without wax.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- It comes with a stringer for reinforced strength.
- Large surface area.
- Textured, soft deck for better grip.
- Sturdy and glossy slick.
Cons
- It requires more care.
- No warranty included.
Zap Fish Skimboard
(Best for Adults)
Here is another decent skimboard for every passionate rider from Zap – the Fish skimboard. Unlike the Wave zone fishtail, it has a smaller fishtail which implies less speed but well above average.
It is lightweight, weighs just 3 pounds, and measures 47 inches by 20.25 inches for its length and width respectively. Made from foam and fiberglass, the board offers smooth gliding and speed. However, it requires proper waxing as it can get very slippery most times.
Asides that, the Zap Fish skimboard can be easily maneuvered and quick turns can be made with relative ease. It is available in different color schemes.
Pros
- Available in different color schemes.
- Lightweight.
- It can be used by all skill levels.
- Fishtail.
- Reputable brand.
Cons
- Very slippery when wet.
DB Standard Streamline Skimboard
(Best for Wakesurfing)
If you want a perfectly versatile skimboard, then you should consider the DB standard streamline skimboard. It can perform excellently when used on light to heavy waves and even sand skimming.
The board is available in only two large, heavy sizes and are best used by adults or intermediate riders. The smaller one measures 40.5” x 18.5” x 0.25” while the large one measures 43.5” x 19.5” x 0.5”.
The surface is layered with patterned EVA foam that allows adequate grip without the use of wax. Due to its shape, it allows you to make perfect turns and tricks.
Pros
- It can make perfect turns and tricks.
- Sturdy construction.
- Great for beginners and intermediates.
- High traction deck.
Cons
- Not built for speed.
- Heavy.
See Also: Top 17 Best Wakesurf Boards
Fedmax Skimboard with High Gloss Coat
(Best for Heavy Riders)
Heavy intermediate riders looking for a suitable option may settle for this Fedmax skimboard. It is a fantastic board made out of poplar wood into a streamlined shape for a smooth, swift experience.
The entire construction is durable owing to the quality wood and the impervious high-quality gloss coat protecting the wood. The gloss also reduces friction, allowing the board to move faster and farther.
A dimension of 41 inches by 20 inches by 0.5 inches allows you to perform tricks and maneuver the board easily. Interestingly, the Fedmax skimboard comes with a guide for useful tricks and tips so you can get better.
The recommended weight range for this board is 120 to a bigger 220 pounds. To assure you of quality, it has a 90-day guarantee.
Pros
- High weight limit.
- 90-day guarantee.
- Resilient construction and design.
- Lightweight and easy to control.
- Includes a guide for useful tricks and tips.
Cons
- Not for advanced users.
Atom Skimboard
(Best for Sand Skimming)
The Atom skimboard is another wooden skimboard perfect for almost all skill levels but ideally for intermediates. It has a maximum weight capacity of 170 pounds.
It is a multi-layered laminated board made from poplar wood and offers great performance. Since it is well-laminated, the wood is free from water and should last long.
The Atom skimboard is curved, allowing you to catch enough waves even in calm and rough waters. Above all, it is easy to perform turning and tricks on this board and it also easy to maneuver.
This board measures 35 inches by 19 inches in length and breadth respectively with a 0.7-inch thickness. If you care about aesthetics, the board doesn’t disappoint.
Pros
- Best for intermediate riders.
- Performs excellently when used for tricks.
- Impressive color design.
- Durable and affordable.
- Easy to maneuver and control.
Cons
- Available in just one size.
- Not for heavy riders.
Zap Wedge Large Skimboard
(Best Fiberglass Skimboard)
Large boards are often more stable and easier to use by beginners. Therefore, the Zap wedge large skimboard is a beginner’s skimboard.
It has a dimension of 49 x 19.75 x 0.8, enough to provide adequate stability and buoyancy for less than 170-pound riders. For smooth sliding, its skin is made from fiberglass and core from foam.
The Zap wedge large skimboard is sold in different color schemes all revolving around blue. It made uniquely to allow beginners to enjoy their skimboarding experience.
Starting for the design, the board has a pulled-in nose that keeps it from digging in waves. It also features a round tail that helps you to maintain high speeds and maneuverability.
Pros
- Large surface area.
- Sold in a variety of color schemes.
- High performance.
- Pulled-in nose.
Cons
- Needs to be waxed properly before use.
- Color may be different from expected.
Sunspecs Rubber Top Wooden Skimboard
(Best Budget)
Any skill level can ride with the Sunspecs skimboard. It is made from wood, which implies better durability and resistance to wear and tear.
It is quite attractive and it is available in multiple color schemes. Since it has a rounded nose and tail, sliding on the water is quite easy without any dipping.
The most fascinating aspect is the rubber-top which allows a better grip on the board. This way, you do not need surf wax.
The Sunspecs skimboard is sold in three different lengths, 30, 36, and 41 inches. They have weight limits of 120, 160, and 220 pounds respectively.
Pros
- It doesn’t need waxing.
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Sturdy and lightweight.
- Can support heavy riders.
Cons
- No warranty.
- Rubber deck may peel over time.
Zap Lazer Custom Artwork Skimboard
(Best for Teenagers)
The Zap Lazer custom artwork skimboard is a fantastic choice for kids and teens especially if they are small-sized and lightweight. Regardless of your skill level, the board is easy to control.
This particular model is about 40 inches in length, 20 inches wide, and has a thickness of 0.6 inches. Its core is made from foam and its shell from fiberglass, making it as lightweight as possible.
Due to its fiberglass shell, riding is pretty smooth and it can go long distances with ease. However, it can get very slippery and you may have to get traction pads or wax it properly.
The weight limit of the Zap Lazer custom artwork skimboard is about 95 pounds. It is also available in various color patterns if you are concerned about aesthetics.
Pros
- Ideal for kids and teens regardless of skill levels.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- It comes in various color patterns.
- Rugged build materials.
Cons
- No traction pad.
- Needs proper waxing.
- Low weight limit.
Banzai Skimboard Surfer
(Best With Traction Pads)
Looking for a nice skimboard for kids, you can try out the Banzai skimboard surfer. It has a unique design and it is available in multiple colors that kids can find attractive.
The board is 30 inches long and 21 inches wide, however, the overall skimming surface is just 26 inches by 6 inches. It features a pointed nose which implies more speed.
It is made from wood and it comes with dual on-deck traction pads that allow increased safety and control. When you buy the Banzai skimboard surfer, you also get a DVD containing some tricks and tips.
Pros
- Made for kids.
- It comes in multiple colors.
- Features two traction pads extra grip.
- Durable wooden build.
- The pointed nose offers speed.
Cons
- Not for heavy waves.
- Small skimming area.
Wave Rebel Wood Skimboard
(Best for Intermediates)
If you have gone past the beginner’s level, you can replace your gear with the Wave rebel skimboard. It measures 45.5 inches in length, 22 inches in width, a thickness of 0.5 inches, and a 13-inch wide tail.
This board is made from hardwood cross laminate and coated with polyethylene for added durability. You need to wax the board to ensure a better grip on your feet.
The Wave rebel skimboard is recommended for riders between 120 to 180 pounds. It also sold in different attractive graphics that you can choose from.
The board weighs 6.8 pounds and its wide surface area gives a perfect balance between weight and size. As a result, you get to enjoy better handling and stability.
Pros
- Ideal for intermediates.
- Attractive and multiple color schemes.
- It has a fairly high weight limit.
- Affordable.
- Reputable brand.
Cons
- May wear and tear easily.
Wave Zone Fishtail Skimboard
(Best for Advanced Riders)
The Zone Fishtail Skimboard is a budget-friendly with great ergonomics and hydrodynamics from the reputable Wave brand. The board is characterized by a fairly pointed nose and blunt shape all geared towards stability and buoyancy.
In terms of construction, the lightweight board features a PVC foam core, wrapped rails, and fiberglass outer shell. Its fish-shaped tail cannot be overlooked as it allows even more speed, more bite, more maneuvers, and easy quick turns.
The Wave Zone Fishtail Skimboard has a maximum weight capacity of 200 pounds and its best for advanced users only. The board has a dimension of 48 inches, 21 inches, and 0.6 inches for its length, width, and thickness respectively.
It offers a fair grip but you should never ride without waxing properly. On purchase, you get a surf wax and a sticker.
Pros
- Increased speed due to fishtail.
- Perfect for advanced riders.
- High weight limit.
- Reputable brand.
- Reliable and lightweight construction.
Cons
- No warranty.
30″ Slackers Surfin’ Skimboard
(Best for Kids)
If you have any child between the ages of 5 and 14, you might want to buy the 30” Slackers Surfin’ Skimboard for them. Just make sure your child is below the board’s weight limit of 70 pounds.
It is somehow small in size measuring 30 inches and 20 inches respectively for its length and breadth. Its strength is as a result of its hardwood construction and it is able to withstand wear and tear.
The deck of the skimboard is coated with the rubber-like EVA for grip and safety. The deck features a waffle-like texture that ensures even more grip. Your child might also love the aesthetics and the one-year warranty may seem appealing to you.
Pros
- Textured, soft deck made from EVA.
- Recommended for kids.
- Nice aesthetics.
- One-year warranty.
Cons
- Low weight limit.
- Not for tall riders.
Zap Lazer Skimboard
(Best for Lightweight Riders)
The Zap Lazer Skimboard is a lightweight, easy-to-carry option for lightweight and small riders, especially kids. This is evident from its small carrying capacity of just 95 pounds.
The board is about 40 inches long, 20 inches wide with a thickness of 0.38 inches. With this wide surface area, it is very stable and will allow riders to catch more waves.
The Zap Lazer Skimboard is made from high-quality materials – fiberglass and a foam core. It has a gloss finish which reduces friction and ensures smooth riding. Further, it comes in colorful multi-color designs.
Pros
- Ideal for lightweight riders.
- Colorful design.
- Strong and lightweight board.
- The skin has reduced friction for smooth gliding.
- Width offers more catch and stability.
Cons
- Small weight limit.
BeachMall Deluxe Wood SkimBoard
(Best for All Skill Levels)
The BeachMall Skimboard is a wooden skimboard that has its entire deck layered with a textured traction pad made from EVA. As a result of this and its tail shape, your grip and control are very effective.
The wood is just one piece instead of the popular laminate layers. To further improve its already high durability and strength, it is also coated with resin.
It is available in different lengths ranging from 30 to 41 inches and a weight limit range of 80 to 200 pounds. The BeachMall Skimboard is also sold in a variety of color options.
Pros
- Features an on-deck grip layer.
- It can be used by beginners and intermediates.
- Different size and color options.
- Heavy-duty wooden construction.
- Hard resin-coated slick.
Cons
- Might still need waxing despite rubber on-deck layer.
Fiberglass Wave Zone Squirt SkimBoard
(Best Value for the Money)
The Fiberglass Wave Zone Squirt skimboard is for those looking for products that offer decent value for money. Everything seems perfect except for the major downside which is the small weight limit of 90 pounds.
With respect to the Wave brand’s reputation, the board is made from quality materials for longevity and performance. It has a foam core for lightweight, a sturdy fiberglass outer shell, and a fine gel coat.
It is hydrodynamically designed to catch moderate to heavy waves with high stability. The Fiberglass Wave Zone Squirt skimboard measures 41” x 19.5” x 0.5” (length x breadth x thickness).
In terms of aesthetics, the product is made available in multiple attractive color options. It offers more value for money as it comes with a carrying case, a surf wax, and some stickers.
Pros
- Works well on medium to heavy waves.
- Includes a carrying bag.
- Lightweight plus nice aesthetics.
- The package includes surf wax and some stickers.
Cons
- Small weight limit.
How to Find the Best Skimboard?
Asides the differences in shape and color, one would think that all skimboards will have the same performance. Well, this is wrong. A lot of things need to be put into consideration before you get a skimboard.
Choosing the best skimboards isn’t as easy as it seems. But my buying guide should give a clearer view of how to go about it. Asides your budget, the major things to consider when buying a skimboard are listed below.
Construction and Build Materials
Most manufacturers tend to use materials such as wood, EVA, foam, carbon fiber, and fiberglass. A single material may be used or a combination of two or more. The core can be made from one material and the outer shell (or wrap) from another.
Of course, each material has its own benefits. Wooden core skimboards are cheap, thinner, and durable, but they heavier and the tendency to sink is higher.
Foam core skimboards core are often very lightweight and faster but they have less weight limit and break easy. Unlike wooden core skimboards, there is a necessity for a durable outer shell.
The outer shell for foam core can be fiberglass, polyethylene, or carbon fiber. However, carbon fiber is tougher and expensive. Wooden boards, on the other hand, may come with EVA deck for more grip.
Size and Shape
The shape and size determine your maneuverability, buoyancy, balance, and speed on the water. The length of most skimboards ranges between 40 inches and 55 inches while the width falls between 17 inches and 23 inches.
You must consider your height and width before picking a skimboard. If you are tall, something long and wide will be ideal. Shorter riders can go for small-sized skimboards. However, longer boards move faster but are less maneuverable than smaller boards.
Boards vary in shape and may have pointed or rounded nose and/or rounded, pointed, or fishtail. Pointed edges offer more speed but they are more susceptible to sinking. Rounded edges allow more tricks and turns.
Skimboards are also curved along their lengths but the intensity differs. Those with smaller curves allow more speed but lesser control and catch.
Weight Limit
Due to obvious reasons such as shape, size, and build materials, boards have different weight limits. They often specified by the manufacturer. Just pick a board that can accommodate your weight whilst also considering your body size.
Location or Wave Size
When picking out a location, always consider the intensity and size of the waves. As a beginner, it is best to start with smaller waves. Wooden boards work well on sand and smaller waves. Foam boards, on the other hand, will perform well in larger waves.
Extra Features
Asides the above-mentioned criteria, you may have some personal preferences especially the aesthetics of the board. Some boards even come with surf wax, stickers, carrying case, and warranty.
How to Skimboard?
Finally, you have gotten the best skimboard, a good location and you are ready to start skimboarding. You should also wear safety gadgets like wet suits, sunscreen, helmet, life jacket, etc. Now the question is how do you skimboard? Below are some simple steps on how to skimboard. You will be able to perfect it with regular practice.
Getting started
To start, bend forward a little whilst holding your board closer and parallel to the ground. Hold the board in such a way that the one hand is on the tail and another on the opposite side rail. Position yourself such that the water is on your right side if you are left-handed and vice versa.
When the sand is wet about 2cm of water, you are good to go. Just throw the board ahead on the wet sand. This will give you ample running time for a good head start. For longer rides, you can throw the board parallel to the shore.
Getting on the board
Run up to the board on one side convenience to you almost at the same speed with the board. You should plant your back foot first.
Your front foot should be in the middle of the board and the other behind it. Running too fast will make you fall. You should not plant your first leg beyond the middle section either.
Staying balanced on your skimboard
Maintain your position at the center of the board with your knees bent slightly. This way you will stay balanced. Also, slightly keep pressure on your second (back) foot to prevent your board from digging. In the case of sand skimming, it should be your front foot instead.
Riding the waves
Approach the incoming wave by skimming towards it. To make turns, you only need to slightly lean to the direction you would like to move to. As soon as you reach the peak of the wave, simply turn your skimboard with your back foot and aim in the direction of the shore so you can ride back.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In case you skipped some cogent points in the article. I’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to help clear your mind.
WindSurfingMag Overview
By now, I believe you should be able to pinpoint the best skimboards to start with as a beginner or a replacement. The buying guide should also come in handy in case you do not find your choice.
Notwithstanding, all the products here are currently the best available as they are made from durable materials. In terms of performance, they do not disappoint.
Among the 17 best skimboards reviewed, the BPS ‘Gator’ Skimboards is the best overall, offering great performance even with any skill level.
If you are looking for a good low-budget skimboard, simply go for the Sunspecs Rubber Top Wooden Skimboard. Heavy riders can go for the heavy-duty Fedmax Skimboard with High Gloss Coat.
Do you have any questions? Have you owned or used any of these skimboards? Please share your experience with other readers in the comments section.
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