Why Every Surfer Needs a Summer Longboard

Summer waves aren’t known for their power or size—but that’s exactly why longboarding shines this time of year. When the swell slows down and the conditions turn mellow, grabbing a longboard can mean the difference between sitting around waiting for sets and making the most of every session.

Whether you’re newer to surfing or have years of water time under your belt, having a longboard in your quiver for summer is a smart move. This guide breaks down why longboards are a summer essential and highlights two excellent options from Degree 33 Surfboards—the Ultimate Longboard and the Classic Log—each tailored to a different style of surfing.

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Longboards Thrive in Small, Summer Surf

Summer usually brings smaller, less punchy surf to most coasts. While that’s not ideal for shortboards that rely on steeper, more powerful waves, longboards are built for exactly these kinds of conditions.

With their added length, volume, and surface area, longboards let you:

• Catch waves earlier and with less effort

• Maintain speed through slower sections

• Keep the ride going even when the wave loses steam

If you’ve ever paddled out on a thigh-high day and struggled to get into waves on your shortboard, you know the frustration. A longboard changes the game, giving you more opportunities to surf, no matter the forecast.

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Longboarding Builds Better Surfing Habits

Surfing a longboard forces you to focus on different fundamentals—timing, positioning, balance, and control. It rewards clean, efficient movement and reading the wave well rather than relying on quick reactions and aggressive maneuvers.

Because of that, longboarding sharpens your skills in ways that translate to every other board you ride. Surfers who consistently longboard often see improvements in:

• Wave selection

• Foot placement

• Flow and overall technique

It’s not just about cruising. It’s about building better instincts in the water—and that sticks with you, whether you’re back on your shortboard or riding a mid-length.

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More Waves, Less Waiting

Surfing is way more enjoyable when you’re actually catching waves. Longboards give you the edge in crowded lineups and small conditions alike. The paddle power and wave entry make it easy to sit further outside or pick off waves earlier than most other boards.

More waves mean more time actually surfing, which is really the point. Whether you’ve only got a quick session or want to spend hours in the water, a longboard ensures you make the most of your time.

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Longboarding Isn’t Slower—It’s Different

Some people still carry the idea that longboarding is just “lazy surfing.” The truth is, it’s just a different style of riding.

Longboarding emphasizes trim, clean lines, and using the whole board. Instead of quick turns and explosive maneuvers, you’re shifting weight, cross-stepping, and finding the sweet spot to stay in sync with the wave.

That doesn’t mean you can’t be dynamic or technical on a longboard—it just requires a different kind of control and rhythm. And that’s what makes it rewarding.

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Two Solid Picks from Degree 33

If you're looking to add a longboard to your summer setup, Degree 33 Surfboards has two standout models worth considering. Each one brings something different to the table, depending on your goals and style.

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A. The Ultimate Longboard – For High-Performance Surfing

If you want a longboard that still lets you surf with a modern, performance-based approach, the Ultimate Longboard is a great fit.

Why It Works:

• Slightly narrower outline for better responsiveness

• Moderate rocker to handle steeper drops and reduce pearling

• Beveled rails for tighter turns and carving

• 2+1 fin setup offers plenty of versatility

This board is designed for surfers who don’t want to just cruise—they want to move. You can still get into waves early and cruise through soft sections, but when it’s time to turn, the board reacts quickly and precisely.

The Ultimate is especially good if you’re transitioning from a shortboard or want a longboard that doesn’t sacrifice responsiveness.

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B. The Classic Log – For Traditional, Laid-Back Style

If you’re more interested in smooth lines, long glides, and time on the nose, the Classic Noserider is the board to go for.

Why It Stands Out:

• Wide nose and tail for stability and glide

• Flat rocker for easy trimming and noseriding

• Single fin setup for that traditional longboard feel

• Built to hang in the pocket and ride clean lines

The Classic Noserider is made for surfers who want to tap into a more timeless approach. It’s not about speed or sharp turns—it’s about style, control, and staying in sync with the wave.

This board pairs perfectly with mellow point breaks or slow beach breaks, and it rewards clean footwork and smart positioning.

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Cover Your Bases

Having a longboard in your summer quiver opens up your options. Whether you’re road-tripping, surfing a new spot, or just heading to your local break, it gives you a reliable choice when the waves are smaller or less consistent.

With something like the Ultimate Longboard, you can still push your surfing on better days. With the Classic Log, you get a more relaxed, traditional ride that feels great in smaller, glassy surf.

Either way, you're increasing your wave count and stretching your sessions. And that’s never a bad thing.

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Final Thoughts

A summer longboard isn’t just for beginners or old-school purists—it’s one of the most useful, versatile boards you can own. It fits the conditions, improves your skills, and lets you surf more often. 

Whether you lean toward a performance feel like the Degree 33 Ultimate, or prefer the classic flow of the Classic Log, both boards deliver in small summer surf. And the best part? You’ll be spending more time riding waves and less time sitting around waiting for the right one.

Give us a call if you would like assistance finding the right board for you! (800) 920-2363