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How to Choose a Longboard

   October 11th, 2018   Posted In: How-To   Tags:

How to Choose a Longboard

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. How to choose a longboard doesn’t have to be complicated. Read on to learn how to choose the right longboard for you.

What Is a Longboard?

A longboard is a surfboard that’s anywhere between eight feet long to over 12 feet long. However, most are just eight to 10 feet. The best longboard for beginners allows you plenty of room to stand and readjust your weight. They’re great whether you’re paddling on tiny waves, or working your way up to surf bigger ones.

Length

When figuring out how to choose a longboard, think of a car. A short car is (usually) more maneuverable, while a longer one will have a bigger turning radius. However, a longer board may feel more stable to a beginner.

how to choose a longboard

Now that’s a longboard!

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.

Material

Modern longboards are usually made from sturdy, light PVC with a fiberglass coating. Some will have a line of balsa wood down the middle, to give the board a little bend. Traditionalists sometimes choose longboards made entirely of balsa wood. These are light, strong, and eco-friendly. Some swear by epoxy boards, which are cheaper, but light enough that they may be difficult to maneuver.

Thickness and Shape

Thicker boards (3+ inches) are heavier and float better (despite what you might think). These thicker boards are better at catching waves, but may be less responsive in the water.

In general, go for a board that’s built like you. If you’re heftier, get a thicker board. If you’re thinner, go for a thinner one (2.5 inches or so). Also, consider the curve underneath the board. A lot of curve will slow you down, which can be good or bad. However, it will be less forgiving when you adjust your weight.

Width

In general, narrow boards are good at navigating steep, tight waves. Wide boards are good at surfing softer, lower waves. Consider the beach and the season, and choose accordingly.

A longboard is a powerful tool in your surfing arsenal. You can use most any board to ride any wave, but if you choose poorly you’ll be in for a challenge. By choosing a longboard that matches your body type and surfing style, and considering the waves you’ll be riding, you’ll find it that much easier to use.

Chris "Mole" Moleskie is the Founder, President, and CEO of Wetsuit Wearhouse. Mole grew up in the water on the East Coast. After graduating from Salisbury University, on Maryland's Eastern Shore, he headed to San Diego to find the eternal Ocean City. Wetsuit Wearhouse was formed a few years later in 2001. He swims, surfs when he can, SCUBA dives, wakeboards, SUPs, snowboards 15-20 days a season, and recently fell in lust with wakesurfing. Mole spends his summers at the not so secret Wetsuit Wearehouse Testing Facility on the Potomac River.

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