19 Best Surfboards in 2021 – Conquer Sea Waves With Ease

Surfing is one of the most popular activities in the sea, where people stand on boards and coordinate their movements to ride massive and stunning waves. It promotes a wonderful feeling of a human having nature in the palm of his hand.

Without a doubt, a surfing board determines the final outcome of an entire surfing session. A surfboard is one essential aqua equipment to help surfers succeed in making it as simple as walking on land.

When it comes to places with great potential of danger like the ocean, surfers will require the best surfboards along with their luck, skills and experience. I have collected an instructive review list of them and important factors to consider here.

Who Should Buy a Surfboard?

Surfing enthusiasts, professional performers, new beginners – everyone is qualified to have a nice surfboard if they are passionate about this aqua sport. It is one of the most favorite surfing gears so I do not see any reasons why someone should not give it a shot.

Most surfers tend to treat a surfboard as a close friend because it is technically the only item being attached to them out in the sea. Should you share the same interest, there is a lot that you need to know about the astonishing world of surfboards as a newbie.

You May Like: Windsurfing Boards

My Top Picks

Surfboards have been innovated through different generations to reach their peak optimal model and function for surfers of all levels to make use of. It is hard to figure out the best ones at the moment when there are constant updates.

• Best Overall: Wavestorm 8′ Classic Pinline
  “Bolt-thru components, wooden stringers, removable ankle leash.”
• Best Budget: Liquid Shredder
  “Slippage resistant, speed enhance, custom-made design.”
• Best for Intermediate Surfers: Thurso Surf Lancer Fish
  “A fishtail below, steel swivels, carries a maximum of 200 lbs.”
• Best for Beginners: Giantex 6′ Foamie
  “Vibrant patterns, easy to assemble, suits variable wave riders.”
• Best for Older Surfers: Wavestorm 8′ Brushed Graphic
  “A bolt-thru fin set, UV fade-resistant, provides great stability.”
• Best Performance Surfboard: BIC Sport Paint
  “Good for small waves, variable board models, molded-in stringers.”
• Best Mid Length Surfboard: SBBC Soft Top
  “Wax-free parts, satisfaction guaranteed, limited water entry.”
• Best for Kids: Rock-It Albert
  “A nice starter board, handles up to 175 lbs, recycled foam core.”
• Best Longboard Surfboard: Boardworks Soft Top
  “Versatile length options, EVA tail block, single fin set.”

Comparison Table

Comparing surfboards of various types has never been a simple task for anyone to do. You are fortunate as I would like to offer you a tailor-made comparison table of premium surfboards available. These criteria are common and must-have for them.

The 19 Best Surfboards Reviews

As being said earlier, our journey to discover the top 19 most excellent surfboards at the present still awaits with tons of fascinating information about them. Eventually, in order to purchase the best ones, it is obligatory to do research on their detailed reviews.

1. Wavestorm 8′ Classic Pinline

(Best Overall – Editor’s Choice)

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It goes without saying that it is always a safe choice to select a classic surfboard model such as this one from Wavestorm. It is 8-feet long with a strong core of EPS foam and 3 marine-ply wooden stringers to adjust your flexibility.

On top, the surfboard contains a modern traction pad to provide a high grip rate on water. Underneath this board is a slick and dense bottom skin made out of premium polyethylene, it is stiff enough to remain the original form of the surfboard.

This surfboard also has removable fins so surfers may decide whether they need to equip them along. You can have an ankle leash attached to the board for extra safety if you are new to this aqua sport.

Key Features:

• EPS foam core
• Longboard design
• WBS-IXL soft crosslink
• Polyethylene slick bottom
• Traction pad
• Three stringers

Product Specifications:

See Also:

• Stand Up Paddle Boards
• Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Boards

Watch this video review of the Wavestorm 8′ Classic Pinline Surfboard and get more information on its amazing features and functionality.

2. Liquid Shredder

(Best Budget)

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The Liquid Shredder surfboard is well hand-shaped since it is made from soft EPE foam, which is simple to adjust but hard to deform later. This board is highly recommended for surfers under 95 lbs.

There is a total of 2 colors of the surfboard for you to choose from. It comes with a warranty within 90 days from the brand for non-commercial uses. Moreover, this gear helps to enable a perfect streamlined performance on sea waves.

An anti-slip texture is provided for the surfboard whenever it gets wet, therefore new surfers are not nervous to hop on. Its smooth bottom deck from hard polypropylene can improve the rigor and general strength for this Liquid Shredder surfing board.

Key Features:

• Colorful EPE foam deck
• Two-way wooden stringers
• Rigid white PP slick bottom
• High-performance surfboard
• Hand-shaped
• A slick bottom deck

Product Specifications:

You May Like: Board Shorts for Surfing

Here is a video review of the Liquid Shredder Soft Surf Board. Watch it and see for yourself how to set up fins on the model.

3. Thurso Surf Lancer Fish

(Best for Intermediate Surfers)

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The EPS core is a highlight feature that makes this entire surfboard becomes much more buoyant and lightweight for intermediate surfers to control. Being excellently heat laminated helps the board deck to be cushioned at a fine rate and free from delamination through time.

It is well balanced to promote easier wave riding. The extra fishtail at the end of it is good for traction and strengthens board lifting performances. This detail would be ideal to use in nitro small wave areas in the ocean.

There is a compact box to store two removable fins while you transport the Thurso Surf surfboard. An ankle leash made out of recycled plastic is available in its package, it is a wonderful way to take advantage of sea waste and turn them into surfing accessories.

Key Features:

• EPS foam core
• Two detachable fins
• 6’ twins stainless steel swivels
• Strong HDPE slick bottom
• Two wood stringers
• Fishtail
• Plastic ankle leash

Product Specifications:

See Also: Surfboards for Intermediate Surfers

4. Giantex 6′ Foamie

(Best for Beginners)

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The best case scenario for every surfer is to have a surfboard with an inflammable and waterproof top deck like this Giantex product, in order to avoid risky situations. It works well with a wide range of users from young to old, amateurs to professionals.

Nevertheless, the board is preferably ideal for beginners thanks to its short 6-feet length as they need to acquire paddling skills beforehand. There is a comfortable transaction pad equipped on this surfboard, that is both easy and convenient to use while riding waves.

The surfboard from Giantex is hard and durable through extended uses. It is not a surprise that its colorful summer vibe patterns encourage people to pick this board up and start surfing.

Key Features:

• PP hard-slick bottom
• Free traction pad
• Safety leash
• Three removable fins
• Ergonomic design
• Three available colors
• A convenient transaction pad
• An inflammable deck

Product Specifications:

See Also: Surfboards for Beginners

5. Wavestorm 8′ Brushed Graphic

(Best for Older Surfers)

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There is a leash plug, which has already been installed on this Wavestorm surfboard, but it depends on your choice to use the ankle leash or not. Its durable core of EPS foam is one important factor to maintain the hard board.

The traction pad on its top deck is effective in helping surfers place their feet in the most stable way. Thanks to its weight of 11.5 lbs, this board can handle professional users up to 200 lbs without any worries of sudden accidents.

Its eye-catching brushed graphic is a bonus for aesthetics. It is the HDPE bottom skin that is slick enough for an amazing wave riding session, however, it does not make this surfboard from Wavestorm too slippery underwater.

Key Features:

• Three marine-ply stringers
• Stiff slick bottom
• Strong bolt-thru components
• Detachable ankle leash
• All-level surfboard
• An EPS core
• Pre-installed leash plug

Product Specifications:

6. BIC Sport Paint

(Best Performance Surfboard)

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You may never think of this but the brand BIC has covered this board core with an additional layer of epoxy resin and fiberglass. This action is meant to strengthen its integrity in structure, consequently improve your overall surfing performance.

Both newbies and advanced surfers can take advantage of the BIC surfboard when they meet small waves and desire to conquer them like skating on land. There is a variety of 6 different board lengths for you to select, from 4’11″ to 8″ super magnum ones.

It is possible to add wax onto this board for users to have extra grip. Either the stringers are wooden or composite, which are already molded inside the hard board for surfing from BIC. The price is acceptable for a durable surfboard like this.

Key Features:

• EPS core
• Full layer bottom
• A cushy foam deck
• Be designed to perform
• Soft fins
• A fiberglass core coverage
• Molded-in stringers

Product Specifications:

See Also: GoPro for Surfing

7. SBBC Soft Top

(Best Mid Length Surfboard)

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Its special custom-made fingerprint texture is more recommended since the SBBC soft surfboard can provide surfers with a natural grip on the board deck. It is also less abrasive to the skin than other popular surfboard models.

The fin holes are lined with high-quality PVC material, which do not allow any water entry to damage the inner of this surfboard. There are 2 board lengths available from 7′ to 8’, each of them suits different groups of users so you can have great versatility.

This board skin is wax-free from the start but still not easy for wave riders to slip while surfing. Its brand SBBC intends to add two layers of 6-ounce epoxy resin for additional rigidity and strength to the surfboard.

Key Features:

• The double concave bottom deck
• The entry-level rocker
• Carry handle
• HDPE plastic netting
• Anti-bubble heat-release valve and bamboo layers
• A wax-free fingerprint skin
• Triple-stringer system

Product Specifications:

See Also: Balance Boards for Surfing

Check out this video review of the SBBC Soft Top Foam Surfboard and see if you’ll settle for comfort over everything.

8. Rock-It Albert

(Best for Kids)

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One highlight feature of this Rock-It small surfboard is the vacuum seal multiple layers of various materials combined inside its core. The recycled foam is as durable as completely new ones but friendlier to our environment.

5’8″ is a length far from average surfboards, which explains why parents should get it for your little ones to learn surfing at first. Its two wooden stringers are already engineered in this board from Rock-It.

The fishtail design at the end of it is a helpful assistant for speed improvement and easier wave drifting. Its twin fins support this board to have better buoyancy on the water, ensuring no surfers get caught in sinkage accidents out there in the sea.

Key Features:

• Detachable fins
• Two nano-coated stringers
• UV resistance material
• Vacuum seal layers
• Made from recycling foam core

Product Specifications:

9. Boardworks Soft Top

(Best Longboard Surfboard)

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The strong foam core of this longboard is wrapped with a hot epoxy resin coat on the outside to create rigidity and durability. It even has a stringer made out of real maple, being constructed in the middle of the board and runs through its entire length.

Its volume is variable throughout different lengths and the numbers are generous. You might think the single fin set is a disadvantage compared to others, but being authentic Future fins will support your surfing practices much better than those cheap rubber ones.

There is no need to apply any wax onto the Boardworks surfboard as its integrated capabilities to help increase gripping for surfers are enough. In terms of user safety, you can rely on its EVA nose and tail block while surfing.

Key Features:

• User-friendly design
• Soft EVA exterior
• A fully glassed EPS foam core
• The stringer is made from maple

Product Specifications:

This video review below will help you decide whether you should spend money on the Boardworks Soft Top Surfboard.

10. Rock-It CHUB

(Best for Tiny Talents)

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This surfboard is another specialized product for small children from the brand Rock-It. It is an excellent beginner board for little ones, who are passionate to become surfers from a young age. The 4’10” length cannot be more suitable for kids.

There are vibrant colorways and patterns of zebra stripes on the bottom for the board. It has an effective twin-fin system and dual stringers to enhance speed and strength inside this surfboard.

It is considered a good price for parents to invest in as this Rock-It kids surfboard is sustainable without quick delamination, therefore your children can use it for a long time. The soft board is capable of handling young surfers up to 150 lbs.

Key Features:

• Black and White striped bottom
• Two-way stringers
• Shortboard design
• Fins included

Product Specifications:

See Also: Wakesurf Boards

11. California Board Company Assorted

(Best Graphic Pattern)

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Since the surfboard has a short length of 5’8″, it would be the most ideal item for small kids and newbies to learn to paddle with waves in the first place. The neon green and blue ombre graphic is a nice detail to spot your board out instantly from crowded beaches.

Its EPS core has a high level of density to maintain the original foam structure through extended uses. If you are concern about slippage, the screwed-in traction pad on this California Board Company surfboard can do a lot to help provide a strong grip.

The board price is fairly reasonable, considering that it goes with a brand new tri-fin system for making waves drifting less complicated. There is a removable ankle leash for you to use in moments of need.

Key Features:

• EPS foam core
• Anti-slip traction pad
• Three rubber fins
• Fish-board design
• A tempting graphic
• An ankle leash

Product Specifications:

12. California Board Company 7′

(Best for Board Protection)

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The surfboard looks like a low-quality wooden surfboard but it is actually the excellent woodgrain graphic, which makes the board look like its material is wood and improves aesthetics. It wraps this whole board from the top deck to bottom.

There is a total set of 3 molded-in wooden stringers together with 3 fins attached to this board. Thanks to these components, its structure is intensified from the inside and the speed is considerably increased.

Its ankle leash is made from dense PU and a pre-installed leash plug for your convenience to avoid falling off. A durable tail cap is available to shield the board against dings in case it got bumped into tough surfaces during carriages.

Key Features:

• HDPE slick bottom
• EPS foam deck
• Traction pad
• Three molded wooden stringers
• A wood graphic
• A tri-fin system
• A PU ankle leash
• A tail cap

Product Specifications:

Watch this video review of the awesome California Board Company 7′ Surfboard and see if it can become an ideal supporting gear for your next windsurfing.

13. BIC Sport G-Board EVO

(Best for Family Use)

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This surfboard is indeed a money-saving investment because almost all members of a family can make use of it. There are 4 length choices available, but I suggest you pick the 8-feet one for a maximum level of flexibility in usage.

It contains a closed-cell foam core, which is 3mm thick from a high-quality material of polyethylene. The EVA deck is suitable to perform multiple sequence actions to surf, from paddling to standing up to control the board and catching sea waves.

Moreover, the flat top deck without wax on this sport surfboard from BIC can ensure that you can stand on a stable platform while surfing. It offers a great amount of resistance to knocking to protect this board as well.

Key Features:

• Beginner/Intermediate surfboard
• Internal dual strengthened composite stringers
• A Thruster Tri-fin setup on 7’-9’ sizes
• A twin fin on a 5’6” model
• A closed-cell core
• Stable flat deck

Product Specifications:

14. SBBC 6’ Beginner

(Best for Casual Carriage)

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You can certainly have a stunning surfing performance with the BBC surfboard, thanks to its specially designed board nose and tail to improve this aspect. As its deck is heat laminated, the board appears to be much softer.

One bonus point I find in this surfboard is a handle to support carrying it around, especially for little kids who cannot grab the whole board. The complete fin kit and ankle leash in this board package are great to start learning how to surf.

Luckily, its fin holes are all lined and water-proof to prevent inner water entry. The beginner surfboard from SBBC is protected by a 100% satisfaction guarantee from its brand for both direct and online customers.

Key Features:

• A closed-cell core design
• Buoyant surfboard
• Laminated with heat
• A carrying handle

Product Specifications:

Watch the following video of the SBBC 6’ Beginner Foam Surfboard and learn the way to improve your windsurfing performance.

15. Wavestorm 9′ Classic Pinline

(Best Heavyweight Surfboard)

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One of the largest surfboards presented on this list has got to be this 9-feet classic board from Wavestorm. It has a volume of 98 liters, which is incredibly hard for kids and amateur wave riders to both carry and control the board out there in the sea.

As usual, this brand never forgets to include a removable ankle leash for surfers in all of their surfboard packages. You can also eliminate the bolt-thru fin set and their screws from the board if you do not require to use them.

Although its top deck is made from soft foam, the HDPE smooth bottom deck is useful in adding extra stiffness to this surfboard form. In case you often rely on a traction pad for grip on surfboards, the Wavestorm pinline one can live up to your expectations.

Key Features:

• WBS-IXL soft crosslink
• Longboard design
• An ankle leash
• Removable fin set
• A traction pad

Product Specifications:

16. SBBC Hybrid

(Best for Filming Videos)

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This is a hybrid surfboard, it has a soft foam deck on the top combined with a unique fiberglass bottom deck of sustainable bamboo. It is not too popular on the market for the expensive pricing, but the value you get in return is unimaginable.

There is a 100% satisfaction guarantee in 30 days available for this board. Its ankle leash is a 5-feet Pro-Series model to provide you with more length to stand nearer to the board nose and enjoy the ride even more.

It has a plug on the top deck for surfers to install their GoPro Action Camera Mount and record their surfing sessions. This surfboard is highly recommended for performance wave riders or simply storing fun memories from participating in this aqua sport.

Key Features:

• EPS closed cell foam core
• Fiberglass bottom deck
• Comes with a shortboard, funboard, longboard design
• Heat-resistant valve system
• 4-fin quad system
• A hybrid surfboard
• A camera plug

Product Specifications:

17. Thurso Surf Aero Soft Top

(Best for Delamination)

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The surfboard from Thurso Surf has an IXPE deck that has been heat laminated to ensure a fine cushion and seal rate, as a consequence minimize the threat of delamination. 3 wooden stringers are extremely helpful in helping surfers to control their flex.

In spite of being shorter than average, this surfboard is still able to manage grownup surfers weigh up to 210 lbs. The premium EPS foam core adds extra buoyancy to the Thurso Surf surfboard.

The brand chooses to focus on its stability throughout wave rides so users can trust this board to be effective in surfing. Its fin storage box is adjustable makes things easier for transportation.

Key Features:

• Durable recycled plastic ankle leash
• EPS foam core
• IXPE deck
• Stiff slick bottom
• Adjustable fin box
• A 3-stringer system

Product Specifications:

18. North Gear Surfing Thruster

(Best for Quick Assemble)

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The PP bottom deck of this North Gear surfboard increases speed for impressive stunt performances with sea waves. There is a ready-to-work installed leash plug with a removable ankle leash to your advantage.

Its traction pad is commented to be great in offering more grip and stability for fresh wave riders, who are still a bit afraid to stand on the board. The overall construction of the board is sustainable due to its high-quality EPS foam core.

The tri-fin system can be removed and screwed back in at ease when needed. This surfboard has delicate flower patterns that bring a Hawaiian vibe to whatever beach you arrive with it.

Key Features:

• EPS core
• EPE soft deck
• PP hard-slick bottom
• Shortboard design
• Traction pad
• A leash plug
• Three removable fins

Product Specifications:

19. SBBC Performance Focused

(Best for Complete Package)

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Similar to other surfboards from SBBC, this one includes a wide range of length options but the most suitable choice for multi-level users should be 8 feet. At first, the board may look like a traditional beginner item but it is also equipped with modern features.

A heat release valve is available to exclude redundant heat from damaging this surfboard in the short run. Its optimal fingerprint texture on the top deck is completely free from wax.

There is a bumper tail cap that enables surfers to safely store the SBBC board in a vertical direction. Plus, the integrated fin holes on this surfboard is lined of PVC material and are capable of preventing the entry of water inside it.

Key Features:

• Heat release valve
• Anti-slip logo
• Three bottom fins
• Screw and leash plug
• Beginner-friendly design
• Wax-free fingerprint skin
• A tail cap
• Waterproof fin holes

Product Specifications:

Watch this video review of the awesome SBBC Performance Focused Soft Top Surfboard and see how stylish and efficient it is.

How to Choose the Right Surfboard?

It is literally sink or swim for surfers when they are on their own dealing with huge dangerous sea waves. Some are even terrified to imagine themselves in that situation, though they are eager to learn wave riding.

One advice I would like to give is to always go for a surfboard, which suits your condition and makes you comfortable at the same time to completely take pleasure in dominating this aqua sport with pure joy.

1. Board Length

Choosing the appropriate board length is essential for surfers of different levels. Short surfboards for beginners who are learning how to paddle on them first, whereas longer ones are for professional adults of standard height and weight.

If an experienced user rides on a 6-feet surfboard, it will likely limit their skills and abilities to take the session to the next stage. On the other hand, a long and heavy surfboard cannot be a good option for fresh faces and children since it is difficult to manage.

As far as I am concerned, the average surfboard length on a global scale is 8 feet. Several of them are compatible with multi-level wave riders, therefore you can save a bunch of money using those boards from the start and improve to higher surfing levels later on.

2. Ankle Leash

As a relevant part of the surfing tool collection, most surfboard brands will include an ankle leash in the package in case their customers need to use it for surfing practices. It is a safety measure to help newbies standstill on surfboards while continuously catching waves.

Usually, there will be a leash plug being pre-installed on the top deck and the ankle leash itself is removable. Only a few of them are permanently attached. It is alright either way because you can decide whether to use it for surfing or not.

My recommendation would definitely go for the surfboard packages which contain an ankle leash. Surfboard brands that make their customers spend extra to get the leash elsewhere are quite a disappointment to me.

3. Extra Fins

The two most common types of surfboard fins are tri or twin fins. Fins enable the board to be like a fish and allow surfers to drift smoothly when they catch sea waves. It is even better if the surfboard has a fishtail design at the end.

Furthermore, this entire fish-like set is incredibly effective in creating better speed and supports surfers to have an impressive performance. Some fins are screwed-in but most of them can be removed at ease, following by a storage box for convenient transportation.

4. UV and Water Endurance

Last but not least, this is the feature that most surfers forget to give a check beforehand. I know most people assume all surfboards are built to withstand intense sunlight and saltwater, but it is only correct in certain cases.

If it is incapable of doing so, the surfboard stands a high chance to bubble up on some areas. This problem is partly due to poorly-constructed foam. A board core should be covered in fiberglass or epoxy resin for better resistance against natural impacts.

Plus, extended use underwater without proper cleaning until dry may lead to quick delamination for your surfboards. It is impossible to avoid facing the board to the sun and seawater on a frequent basis, however, we should minimize the risk by providing it with proper storage.

How Do Surfboards Work?

Have you ever wonder how can surfboards float and catch sea waves like that? It depends on the buoyancy of surfboards to keep them afloat. Surfboards are actually less dense compared to the seawater beneath them, thus they do not sink like other heavy objects.

I cannot forget to mention gravity, which plays a major role in pulling surfboards and surfers towards the waves in front of them. As wave riders paddle, it is also gravity that provides them with the strength to ride ahead on such surroundings full of liquid.

To explain why surfboards are capable of gripping waves when some water moves up, the wave face is likely to hit bottom decks of surfboards and it will flow around their inner rails. This is how surfboards can hold waves, not because of their fins.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about surfboards.

What Are Surfboards Made Of?

The most common formula to manufacture surfboards contains either soft or hard EPS core foam, along with an EPE top deck and a PP slick bottom deck. Most surfboards include stringers, traction pads, fins and ankle leashes in their package.

These materials are combined to create surfboards that are balanced, durable, fast and simple to use, without any concerns about safety and performance for all-level wave riders

Why Do Surfboards Have Fins?

The fin systems in surfboards are meant to enhance rigidity and add speed to the board themselves. They can be a single, twin or tri-fin type. Fins allow smooth drifts when surfers catch waves. They also improve stability for the entire board structure.

Should I Apply Wax on Their Top Decks?

Absolutely, if you want to have a better grip on them without casual slippage on the water because of the slick bottom decks. However, later removals of wax from soft foam surfboards are difficult so you should take this into account as well.

See Also: How to Wax a Surfboard Perfectly

Can I Use Surfboards Like Floats?

In spite of being floatable on the water for a long period of time, surfboards do not count as safe life-saving devices. They only provide a temporary grip when you are already near the shore, consequently, it is not advised to treat surfboards as regular floats.

WindSurfingMag Overview

Surfboards are special parts of all surfing sessions that seriously cannot be left out of your once-in-life bucket list to give a try. Choosing the most premium and suitable surfboard from my suggested shopping methods will ensure an unforgettable surfing experience.

It is almost impossible to deny that the best overall surfboard goes to the Wavestorm 8’ Classic Pinline Surfboard. For the most attractive graphics, California Board Company products of a trendy ombre or vintage woodgrain pattern are certainly hard to resist.

Small kids and surfers at their beginning level should purchase 6-feet surfboards like Giantex 6’ Foamie Surfboard or the Rock-It CHUB Surfboard. On the contrary, other experienced wave riders can have better sessions with longer boards from a minimum of 8 to 9 feet.

You can have all the free decisions at will to buy any surfboards because it is not compulsory for anyone to follow exactly what I write in this article about the best surfboards. But I know that the buying guide and other usage tips here are really helpful.

I am pretty certain that fellow surfers would be extremely thankful for this article when you choose to share it publicly through Facebook and Twitter by clicking on the buttons underneath. By the way, do not forget to leave constructive personal comments below as well! Have fun with surfboards and thank you for reading!