Buying a suitable surfboard is a critical decision. Far too many newer surfers end up buying small boards that make it nearly impossible for them to learn on. Length, width, thickness and volume are important dimensions to consider when choosing your first board. Other factors to consider are your own height, weight, fitness level and the type of waves that you want to surf.

 

Boards that are 8’0” and longer are generally called “longboards”. Boards between 6’8” and 8’0” in length with rounded noses are generally called “funboards”. Boards with pointy noses and measuring under 6’8” are typically called “shortboards”.

 

Shortboards are very difficult to learn on. They require a larger, steeper wave and a rider with a high level of surfing fitness.

 

Don’t think of longboards as something that you will outgrow as you progress as a surfer. Most lifetime surfers own a longboard, as they’re prefect for small wave days. On small days, riding a shortboard isn’t possible. It is wise for your first board to be a longboard. If you progress, you can consider a smaller board later on. You’ll always have a need for a longboard. During the summer, the waves are often small and a longboard is the most common board in Nova Scotia.

 

The length of your longboard depends on a few factors such as your height, weight, age, gender and overall fitness level. As a point of reference, most smaller women buy 7’6” – 8’0” boards. The typical man will ride anything from 8’0” to 9’0”.

 

There are two general types of longboards: soft tops and hard tops. Soft tops are used by most surf schools. A soft top is a foam covered surfboard. They’re softer if they hit you and they are even easier to use than hard tops because they float higher on the water. Although some new surfers buy soft tops as their first board, most people buy hard top surfboards.

 

In addition to a surfboard, you’ll need fins, a leash, and some surfing wax for grip on the deck of your surfboard. Usually, the fins are included when you purchase a board. Most boards have removable fins for transportation and travel purposes. Some boards include a leash, while others don’t. A leash will cost roughly $35. A bar of wax is $3. You’ll need 1-2 bars of wax when you wax a new board for the first time, and then a bar of wax will last for 6-8 separate applications going forward.

 

A second hand longboard in good condition will often range from $450-$650. A new longboard will often range from $700-$1000. Longboards are usually easy to resell as they’re highly sought after.

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