At HawaiiSurf, we know that choosing your first surfboard when you're just starting out isn't always easy. Shortboard or Longboard, what's the difference? We'll describe all the features and dimensions of each board below, so you can quickly understand the specifics of each one. Before we get to the heart of the matter, we'd like to take a look at a small infographic. You'll be able to easily distinguish the different shapes and types of boards we'll be presenting in this article. The illustration also highlights some of the boards we offer on HawaiiSurf: TorqVenon and Mdns Surf.
Let's go back to the visual chronology. The smallest and lightest boards are the most difficult to maneuver. They're therefore best suited to experienced riders, unlike longboards or softboards (which we'll introduce at the end of the article). So we'll start with the most technical boards for experienced surfers, and finish with boards suitable for beginners. And finally, for those who don't like reading too much, we'll end this article with a video explanation... Our colleague Laura will explain in a Youtube video how to choose a board according to your level!
Surfboards for advanced/experts
The Fish Board
The Fish is the ideal board for small waves from 0.5 to 1.5 meters. Its wide shape and flat rocker allow you to surf small waves quickly. Its retro look is a must-have in the collection of an experienced/expert surfer, but is not suitable for beginners as it lacks stability.The Shortboard
As for the shortboard, it's only for surfers with a confirmed/expert profile. It's not suitable for learning this sport, as it also lacks stability and speed when paddling. Its very narrow shape and steep rocker allow surfers to maneuver quickly and generate plenty of speed. What's more, this surfboard is ideal for performing in 1- to 2.5-meter waves with good power.
Surfboards for intermediate riders
The Hybrid
The hybrid board is the very definition of versatility. Its wide shape provides good stability when catching waves, and its sloped rails make it easy to handle. All good points for beginners with occasional surfing experience who want to progress to a shortboard. This board is perfect for small waves from 0.5 to 1.5 meters, as well as medium waves up to 2.5 meters.Funboarding
This type of surfboard combines the maneuverability of a shortboard with the paddling speed of a longboard. However, the funboard doesn't allow you to make tight turns. It's the ideal board for having fun and surfing as many waves as possible. So it's an excellent option for beginners who now have good stability and want to start getting a good feel for the board. The funboard adapts very well to small and medium surfing.
Surfboards for beginners
Longboarding
The longboard is certainly one of the easiest surfboards to maneuver. Its extraordinary length and width ensure perfect stability and excellent paddle speed. As you can see, it's the ideal board for beginners with little or no surfing experience. Once again, this type of surfboard adapts equally well to small and medium surf, i.e. waves from 0.5 to 2 meters.Softboarding
If you want to take a surf lesson at a surf school, you can't avoid the famous softboard! This surfboard is ultra-stable, easy to paddle and, above all, SAFE. Its flexible PE (polyethylene) foam and soft fins reduce the impact of falls. What's more, more and more softboards are improving in performance to satisfy novices and regular surfers alike.
Now that you've familiarized yourself with all the characteristics of the different board shapes and your level, you're ready to choose your first surfboard. For those of you who aren't so keen readers, we've also included a Youtube video. Enjoy it!
In conclusion, a person who has never surfed before will naturally turn to a longboard to start learning. If you've already taken a few lessons and your stability is good, then it's time to turn to a funboard to perfect your technique! Find all our surfboards on HawaiiSurf. com and get ready for next summer!
