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.
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Table of Contents
- Who Should Buy a Surfboard?
- What Is the Best Surfboard in the World?
- Comparison of Top 19 Best Surfboards 2020
- Reviews of the Best Surfboards
- Wavestorm 8' Classic Pinline Surfboard
- Liquid Shredder Soft Surf Board
- Thurso Surf Lancer Fish Soft Top Surfboard
- Giantex 6' Foamie Surfboard
- Wavestorm 8' Brushed Graphic Surfboard
- BIC Sport Paint Foam Surfboard
- SBBC Soft Top Foam Surfboard
- Rock-It Albert Foam Surfboard
- Boardworks Soft Top Surfboard
- Rock-It CHUB Surfboard
- California Board Company Assorted Surfboard
- California Board Company 7' Surfboard
- BIC Sport G-Board EVO Soft Surfboard
- SBBC 6’ Beginner Foam Surfboard
- Wavestorm 9' Classic Pinline Surfboard
- SBBC Hybrid Foam Surfboard
- Thurso Surf Aero Soft Top Surfboard
- North Gear Surfing Thruster Surfboard
- SBBC Performance Focused Soft Top Surfboard
- How to Choose the Best Surfboard?
- How Do Surfboards Work?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- WindSurfingMag Overview
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.
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What Is the Best Surfboard in the World?
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 Surfboard
"Bolt-thru components, wooden stringers, removable ankle leash." - Best Budget: Liquid Shredder Soft Surf Board
"Slippage resistant, speed enhance, custom-made design." - Best for Intermediate Surfers: Thurso Surf Lancer Fish Soft Top Surfboard
"A fishtail below, steel swivels, carries a maximum of 200 lbs." - Best for Beginners: Giantex 6' Foamie Surfboard
"Vibrant patterns, easy to assemble, suits variable wave riders." - Best for Older Surfers: Wavestorm 8' Brushed Graphic Surfboard
"A bolt-thru fin set, UV fade-resistant, provides great stability." - Best Performance Surfboard: BIC Sport Paint Foam Surfboard
"Good for small waves, variable board models, molded-in stringers." - Best Mid Length Surfboard: SBBC Soft Top Foam Surfboard
"Wax-free parts, satisfaction guaranteed, limited water entry." - Best for Kids: Rock-It Albert Foam Surfboard
"A nice starter board, handles up to 175 lbs, recycled foam core." - Best Longboard Surfboard: Boardworks Soft Top Surfboard
"Versatile length options, EVA tail block, single fin set."
Comparison of Top 19 Best Surfboards 2020
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.
Reviews of the Best Surfboards
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.
Wavestorm 8' Classic Pinline Surfboard
(Best Overall - Editor's Choice)
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.
Pros
- It has an EPS foam core.
- There are 3 stringers.
- Its traction pad is effective.
- It has a firm bottom skin.
- The fins are removable.
- The ankle leash is optional.
Cons
- No defections recorded so far.
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Liquid Shredder Soft Surf Board
(Best Budget)
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 3 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.
Pros
- It is hand-shaped.
- It suits people under 95 lbs.
- It has 3 color choices.
- It has a product warranty.
- It is slippage resistant.
- The bottom deck is slick.
Cons
- The length is limited.
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Thurso Surf Lancer Fish Soft Top Surfboard
(Best for Intermediate Surfers)
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.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- It has great buoyancy.
- It resists delamination.
- It is balanced on waves.
- Its fishtail is beneficial.
- The fins are in a box.
- Its ankle leash is plastic.
Cons
- It tends to arrive damaged.
See Also: 15 Best Surfboards for Intermediate Surfers
Giantex 6' Foamie Surfboard
(Best for Beginners)
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.
Pros
- It has an inflammable deck.
- It is used by multiple users.
- It is great for newbies.
- A convenient transaction pad.
- It is sustainable.
- The patterns are tempting.
Cons
- It cannot endure intense sunlight.
See Also: 15 Best Surfboards for Beginners
Wavestorm 8' Brushed Graphic Surfboard
(Best for Older Surfers)
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.
Pros
- Its leash plug is installed.
- It has an EPS core.
- Its traction pad is stable.
- It can hold 200 lbs.
- The brushed graphic is cool.
- The bottom skin is smooth.
Cons
- The lack of a rocket head.
See Also: 15 Best Foam Surfboards
BIC Sport Paint Foam Surfboard
(Best Performance Surfboard)
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.
Pros
- A fiberglass core coverage.
- It enhances performance.
- It is ideal for all-level surfers.
- It has 6 length options.
- The stringers are molded-in.
- Its price is affordable.
Cons
- Its top is quite slippery.
SBBC Soft Top Foam Surfboard
(Best Mid Length Surfboard)
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 3 board lengths available from 7' to 8’8", 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.
Pros
- It has a fingerprint texture.
- The texture is anti-abrasive.
- Its fin holes prevent water.
- It has 3 length selections.
- The skin is wax-free.
- It includes resin layers.
Cons
- It may bend over.
Rock-It Albert Foam Surfboard
(Best for Kids)
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.
Pros
- It has vacuum seal layers.
- The foam core is recycled.
- Its length suits children.
- It has wooden stringers.
- Its fishtail is useful.
- The fins improve buoyancy.
Cons
- It is prone to bubble up.
Boardworks Soft Top Surfboard
(Best Longboard Surfboard)
The strong foam core of this surfboard 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.
Pros
- It has a resin coat.
- The stringer is from maple.
- Its volumes are generous.
- It has premium fins.
- It does not require wax.
- The nose and tail are safe.
Cons
- The lack of an ankle leash.
Rock-It CHUB Surfboard
(Best for Tiny Talents)
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.
Pros
- Its length is ideal for kids.
- The patterns are eye-catching.
- It has brilliant twin fins.
- The dual stringers are nice.
- Its price is awesome.
- It holds up to 150 lbs.
Cons
- Not good for wake surfers.
California Board Company Assorted Surfboard
(Best Graphic Pattern)
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.
Pros
- It is great for small surfers.
- It has a tempting graphic.
- The core is dense.
- Its traction pad is anti-slip.
- Its price is reasonable.
- It has 3 rubber fins.
- It has an ankle leash.
Cons
- The fins may break down.
California Board Company 7' Surfboard
(Best for Board Protection)
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.
Pros
- It has a wood graphic.
- The graphic covers all of it.
- Its stringers are molded.
- It has a tri-fin system.
- It generates speed.
- It has a PU ankle leash.
- A tail cap is available.
Cons
- Not ideal for small waves.
BIC Sport G-Board EVO Soft Surfboard
(Best for Family Use)
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.
Pros
- It can be used by families.
- It has different lengths.
- The core is a closed-cell.
- It is simple to control.
- Its flat deck is stable.
- It is knock-resistant.
Cons
- No traction pad included.
SBBC 6’ Beginner Foam Surfboard
(Best for Casual Carriage)
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.
Pros
- It is ideal for performances.
- It is laminated with heat.
- It has a carrying handle.
- It is good to start with.
- The fin holes are water-proof.
- It comes with a warranty.
Cons
- It can be scratched easily.
Wavestorm 9' Classic Pinline Surfboard
(Best Heavyweight Surfboard)
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.
Pros
- It is a large surfboard.
- Its volume is amazing.
- It has an ankle leash.
- The fin set is removable.
- Its bottom adds stiffness.
- It has a traction pad.
Cons
- Its stringers are not full-length.
SBBC Hybrid Foam Surfboard
(Best for Filming Videos)
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.
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Pros
- It is a hybrid surfboard.
- It worths the price.
- It has a product warranty.
- The ankle leash is advanced.
- It has a camera plug.
- It is perfect for performances.
Cons
- Its buoyancy rate is low.
Thurso Surf Aero Soft Top Surfboard
(Best for Delamination)
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.
Pros
- It prevents delamination.
- It has a 3-stringer system.
- It holds up to 210 lbs.
- The foam core is buoyant.
- It is highly stable.
- It has an adjustable fin box.
Cons
- It needs wax to grip.
North Gear Surfing Thruster Surfboard
(Best for Quick Assemble)
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.
Pros
- It can enhance speed.
- It has a leash plug.
- The traction pad is helpful.
- Its construction is durable.
- It has 3 removable fins.
- The pattern is lovely.
Cons
- It smells of chemicals.
SBBC Performance Focused Soft Top Surfboard
(Best for Complete Package)
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.
Pros
- It has a modern design.
- The valve is beneficial.
- Its fingerprint skin is wax-free.
- It has a tail cap.
- The fin holes are water-proof.
Cons
- It is not buoyant enough.
How to Choose the Best 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
