How Much Do Surfboards Weigh?
Patrick Kirk May 31st, 2022 Posted In: Articles Tags: Surfing
How Much Do Surfboards Weigh?
Curious about the weight of your next surfboard? Like paddleboards, skimboards, and wakeboards, surfers want to be snappy on their feet when riding a wave. Your board of choice ultimately depends on your ride style, body size, and if you’re capable and comfortable carrying the board’s weight down a windy beach. With the number of shortboards and longboards on today’s market, the weight of a surfboard can vary. So, how much do surfboards weigh? Read on to find out!
The Common Weight of a Short Surfboard
Starting with shortboards which commonly measure between 5’ and 7’ feet, surfers can expect these sized boards to range between 5 and 8 lbs. Since the common surfboard is made of foam and fiberglass, this equates to about 1 lb per foot. An added traction pad, fins, and a few ounces of wax will make it slightly heavier, but not by much. FCS fins will usually weigh under a pound altogether.
The weight of a shortboard will also fluctuate by design and thickness. A round-nose, fish-tail board with thick rails could even weigh up to 8 lbs since they are likely to be of a wider shape.
How Much Does a Long Board Surfboard Weigh?
Since longboards are longer, they will double the weight of a shortboard. Still made of fiberglass and foam, the typical longboard can range from 8 to 12 feet in length. With a single fin system, or a triple fin system on a longboard, they can weigh anywhere between 8 and 15 lbs.
And since longboards are wider and thicker than short surfboards, their weight can exceed the 1 lb per foot measurement. They may also be heavier because some designs contain an inner wooden frame and or have a cloth wrap beneath the resin epoxy exterior.
Are Soft Top Surfboards Heavy?
Soft top boards have risen in popularity for beginner surfers. Soft tops lacking the traditional fiberglass shell exterior with just a foam body and plastic-sheet bottom, their weight is essentially cut in half compared to hard-surfaced surfboards. Easier to carry beneath the arm down the beach, they get the job done, but depending on your skill level, they may not operate with the sufficiency of a hard surface board.
Take Surfing to The Next Level with The Right Board For Your Weight
Keep surfboard weight in mind on your next board purchase. Like your wetsuit, you want your board to align with your body weight and capability. If you’re small and want a speedy board, shoot for a lightweight shortboard or shorter-end longboard. For the heavyweights who need more rail thickness and length for the waves, you can’t go wrong with a larger longboard that may weigh an extra few pounds.
The right fitted board shape, and weight makes your time paddling to the waves and carving down the line easier. So, conduct a little bit of research before you run out and buy your next surfboard!
