Now that you have decided to turn your surfing passion or desire into reality every decision you make will contribute to your surfing experience. Learning to surf is no easy task as it requires individuals to learn and understand the different aspects of surfing. However, with the right guide, you will even start surfing within a day or a week.
Whether you are a beginner or you already have surfing experience, without a surfboard you cannot surf. While you are learning about the sport you will also understand the different surfing essentials such as wetsuit, leash, sunscreens, surf wax, and so on. So here are a few things that you need to pack for your next surfing trip.
There are several different types of surfboards in the market that range in design, size, shape, and so on. These aspects are essential as they are designed to be suitable for different surfers’ abilities. Now, most advanced surfers prefer smaller boards as it gives them more freedom to showcase their skills. If you want to know more about the advantages of smaller boards, you can learn it here.
No matter what kind of surfer you are, here are some tips that will help you find the right surfboard:
Surfing Ability
Before you purchase any kind of board you must first understand your surfing ability. As a beginner, it is important to choose a longboard as it offers more volume that is perfect for practicing this sport.
You can also consider foam board, fish board, or even a fun board but the ideal choice for beginners is a longboard. As you become a better surfer you can then switch to the better and more advanced board that will give you the ability to get more flexible while surfing.
Know the Waves
When you are learning how to surf one of the key things that you will learn are the different types of waves that you encounter out there. Each wave breaks with a specific power, height, shape, and even flow that can be fun, thrilling, and even risky.
That’s why it is important to understand there are specific boards for specific waves. So do your research or speak to professionals who have been surfing various waves as they can guide you in choosing the perfect board.
Size Matters
As mentioned before, the volume of your board is a crucial aspect when choosing the right board. The most popular board used by many experienced or intermediate surfers is shortboards as it allows them to do different types of skills when riding their waves.
Now if you are learning to surf, you might be tempted to purchase this board but choosing this may make it more difficult for you to learn because of the low volume. When you find yourself in a place of comfort you can then challenge yourself in riding newer and bigger waves.
Avoid Second-Hand
Surfboards can be quite expensive and getting a new one may be a little difficult but it is absolutely worth it. There are many people who opt for second-hand boards as they may find a good bargain or have a limited budget.
However, it is important to note that a new board is always better mainly because it has no damage, scratches, dents, and even comes with a warranty or guarantee. That’s why it is better that you avoid second-hand boards collect some more money and buy a new board.
Don’t Break the Bank
When you are surfboard shopping as a newbie, you might find it quite overwhelming looking at the different surfboards available. These boards come in all shapes, colors, designs, types, and so on, and choosing the best one may seem like the logical choice.
Keep in mind as a newbie you are still learning to surf which means you will keep falling, bumping your board, or even banging it onto a rock or the ground. It is advised that you choose a cheap and reasonable board when starting out so that you can practice surfing without worrying much about your board.
Remember, you do not need to own just one board per lifetime but you can own how many ever you would want but keep in mind your budget, capacity, and ability.
Get Ready to Surf
Just how you need to have patience and wait for your wave break, similarly, you need to wait to choose the right surfboard for you. It is important that you not only spend your money wisely but also make an informed decision.
Surfing is a very popular sport and several other water sports might get your attention. Standing paddleboard can be a great choice, read this article to know about this exciting sport.