Choosing Your First (or Second) Longboard: Volume, Shape, and Style Explained
Chris Moleskie March 25th, 2026 Posted In: How-To Tags: Surfing
You’ve been standing on the beach watching surfers, and now it’s time to try your hand at riding the waves. But first, you need the perfect friend. No, we don’t mean a surfing instructor (although they’re handy, too) — we mean a longboard. It’s one thing to ride a longboard, but do you know how to choose a longboard?
How to choose a longboard surfboard for beginners doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re buying your very first board or upgrading to something more performance-focused, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Key Takeaways: How to Choose a Longboard (Quick Guide)
- Beginners should prioritize stability and volume over performance
- Soft-top longboards are the best choice for first-time surfers
- Volume (in liters) is just as important as length and width
- Wider, thicker boards = easier paddling and wave catching
- Your local wave conditions should influence your board choice
- Look for a US fin box so you can upgrade your fins over time
What Is a Longboard?
A longboard is a surfboard that typically ranges from eight feet to over 10 feet long, though some classic styles go beyond 12 feet. Most beginner-friendly boards fall into the 9’0” to 9’6” range.
The reason longboards are so popular — especially when learning how to choose a longboard surfboard for beginners — is simple: they’re stable, forgiving, and make catching waves much easier.
They give you more room to stand, adjust your balance, and actually enjoy the process of learning.
TL;DR: Which Longboard Should I Buy?
If you just want a quick answer before diving deeper into this longboard surfboard buying guide, here’s a simple starting point:
- Under 150 lbs: ~9’0″ x 22″ x 2.75″
- 150–200 lbs: ~9’4″ x 23″ x 3″
- 200+ lbs: ~9’10″+ x 23.5″ x 3.25″
These are general guidelines, but they’ll point you in the right direction.
Volume: The Most Important Metric (That No One Talks About Enough)
In the past, surfers focused mostly on length and width. Today, volume (measured in liters) is one of the most important factors when learning how to choose a longboard.
Volume determines how much float your board has. And more float means easier paddling and wave catching.
Simple Volume Rule of Thumb
- Beginner: Body weight (kg) × 1.0 = ideal volume (liters)
- Intermediate: Body weight (kg) × 0.7 = ideal volume
So if you weigh 80kg (about 176 lbs), a beginner-friendly board would be around 80 liters.
More volume = more forgiveness. And when you’re starting out, forgiveness is everything.
Length: Stability vs Maneuverability
When figuring out how to choose a longboard, think of it like choosing a car (except it’s not as intense as car shopping luckily). A shorter board is easier to turn and maneuver. A longer board offers more stability and smoother glide.
- 8’–9’ boards: More performance-oriented, easier turning
- 9’–10’+ boards: More stable, better for cross-stepping and nose riding
If you’re brand new, err on the longer side. You’ll catch more waves, and that’s what keeps surfing fun.
As a rule of thumb: shorter “performance boards” (8-10 feet) will allow you to perform more floaters and cutbacks. A longer board (over 10 feet) is great for cross-steps and nose riding.
The Three Types of Longboards (And Which One You Should Choose)
Not all longboards are built the same. This is where many beginners get confused.
1. The Classic Log (Noserider)
- Heavier, thicker, and built for style
- Single fin setup
- Great for cross-stepping and nose riding
Perfect if your goal is smooth, classic surfing and long rides.
2. The Performance Longboard (HPLB)
- Thinner, lighter, more rocker
- Often a 2+1 fin setup
- Designed for sharper turns and faster surfing
Ideal for surfers who want a longboard that feels more like a shortboard.
3. The Soft-Top (Foamie)
- High buoyancy and extremely stable
- Soft construction for safety
- Very beginner-friendly
If you’re just starting out and researching how to choose a longboard surfboard for beginners, this is hands-down the best place to start.
Material: What Your Longboard Is Made Of
Modern longboards are typically made from:
- PU (Polyurethane): Traditional feel, smooth ride
- Epoxy: Lighter, more durable, more buoyant
- Soft-top foam: Beginner-friendly and safe
While traditional balsa wood boards still exist (and look beautiful), they’re less common for beginners.
If you’re just starting out, epoxy or foam boards are your best bet for durability and ease of use.
Thickness, Shape & Width: Finding the Right Feel
These three elements all impact how your board performs in the water.
Thickness
- Thicker boards (3”+) = more float and easier paddling
- Thinner boards = more responsiveness
Width
- Wider boards = more stability (great for beginners)
- Narrower boards = better for steeper, faster waves
Shape (Rocker)
Rocker refers to the curve of the board:
- More rocker = better for steep waves, less speed
- Less rocker = faster paddling, better for small waves
If you’re following a longboard surfboard buying guide, just remember: flatter, wider boards are your friend when starting out.
Local Conditions Matter More Than You Think
Where you surf should absolutely influence your decision.
Small, Mushy Waves (East Coast, Florida, etc.)
- Go wider and flatter
- Prioritize volume and glide
Steeper, Faster Waves (California, point breaks)
- Choose a board with more rocker
- Slightly narrower shapes help with control
Matching your board to your environment makes learning how to choose a longboard much easier.
Fin Setup: Future-Proof Your Board
One of the most overlooked tips in any longboard surfboard buying guide is the fin box. Look for a US fin box (standard center fin system). Why?
Because it allows you to:
- Swap fins as you progress
- Adjust for more stability or maneuverability
- Avoid being stuck with a fixed setup
It’s a small detail that makes a big difference long-term.
The “Paddle Tax” (And Why Your Wetsuit Matters)
Here’s something most guides won’t tell you — bigger boards mean more paddling effort.
If you choose a heavier 9’6” log, your shoulders are going to feel it. That’s where your surfing wetsuit comes in. A high-stretch wetsuit (like performance-focused suits from brands such as O’Neill or Rip Curl) can significantly reduce fatigue and improve mobility.
So yes — your board and wetsuit absolutely work together.
Final Thoughts: How to Choose a Longboard That Actually Works for You
At the end of the day, how to choose a longboard surfboard for beginners comes down to one simple idea: Make it easy on yourself. Choose a board with enough volume, enough width, and enough length to help you succeed early. Because the more waves you catch, the faster you improve and the more fun you’ll have.
A longboard isn’t just a piece of equipment. It’s your entry point into surfing. Choose one that matches your body, your goals, and your local waves, and you’ll set yourself up for a much smoother ride. And remember, no one ever regrets choosing a board that made learning easier.
