What Size of Surfboard Should I Get?

So one of the most common questions we get here is, "what size of surfboard should I get?" I wish that there was a simple answer to that but unfortunately there really isn't. The answer lies in several questions I need to ask you... "What's your skill level, height, weight, goal, type of wave...?" I think you get the idea.

So even though there's a whole slew of options, and obviously a few variables, I will do my best to give you some general rules of thumb.

Beginners

If you're a beginner, I always recommend going with a longboard. Now, I know longboards may not be cool and sexy but I need you to put your ego aside for a moment. Let me ask you a question. What's "cooler": sitting, falling, and barely paddling a "cool" shortboard OR surfing, turning, and easily paddling a longboard? I hope you answered surfing over falling. If you didn't say surfing... take up a different sport. :) Now, what size of longboard should you get? We'll look at this from a height stand point, and we'll assume that you're of an average weight. Rule of thumb is to get a longboard 3ft longer than your height. So for me, I'm 6' 180lbs and I ride a 9'0". There can always be exceptions to this if you're on the heavier side or lighter side. 

If you want to start out safe we have an amazing no wax hybrid soft top surfboard line that is ideal for the new and progressing surfer.  These boards have a similar ride feel to our regular Epoxy or Poly boards but you eliminate the use of wax which is something our customers love.

Intermediates

You guys are little more tricky because your board selection can be anything from a longboard to a funboard to a fish or shortboard. And they all have different rules. So let's see if I can make this simpler. Longboard- Same rules above, 3ft taller than yourself. Funboard- These boards can be anywhere from 6'6" to 8'6" or so and is more dependent on your weight and what you are trying to accomplish. A good place to start is going to be 12"-24" taller than yourself but will vary by the shape and style of surfboard. Fish- Proper fish size is typically 2-4" shorter than your shortboard. Shortboard- I usually recommend going 2-6" taller than yourself. But this depends on the size of waves you'll be surfing it in.

Advanced

You guys don't need my help. You now exactly what you want and probably wouldn't take my opinion anyways. :) Well hopefully that helps a little. If this wasn't specific enough for you send us an email or leave us a comment below and we'll give you a personal recommendation. If you're not ready to contact us (afraid we're going to try and sell you something huh?) you can always check our Progression Guide that will give you some more detailed information on this subject.

If you have any other questions, please email us at surf@degree33.com or call (800) 920-2363 to discuss your next board.