how to pick a surfboard for beginners.

How to Pick a Surfboard for Beginners

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If you’re just getting into surfing, one of the first big questions you’ll face is how to pick a surfboard for beginners.

And honestly, this decision can make or break your early surfing experience.

After years of shaping boards and watching beginners struggle (and succeed), I can tell you this — the right board will help you catch more waves, stand up faster, and actually enjoy the process.

Let’s keep it simple.

Why Choosing the Right Beginner Surfboard Matters

When you’re starting out, surfing isn’t just about standing up — it’s about catching waves consistently.

And that comes down to your board.

The right beginner surfboard should:

  • paddle easily
  • catch waves early
  • feel stable under your feet
  • forgive your mistakes

If you pick the wrong board, you’ll spend most of your time paddling and falling.

Start With a Bigger Board

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is choosing a board that looks cool instead of one that works.

Shortboards might look amazing, but they’re not designed for learning.

If you’re wondering how to pick a surfboard for beginners, start here:

👉 Go bigger than you think.

A board between 7 to 9 feet is ideal for most beginners because it offers:

  • better paddling
  • easier wave catching
  • more stability

Think of it like learning to ride a bike — you don’t start with a racing bike.

Understanding Surfboard Volume

Volume is one of the most important factors when learning how to pick a surfboard for beginners.

Measured in liters, volume tells you how much flotation the board has.

More volume means:

  • easier paddling
  • better wave catching
  • more stability

For beginners, higher volume is almost always better.

Best Types of Surfboards for Beginners

Not all surfboards are beginner-friendly. Here are the best options:

Soft Top Surfboards

Perfect for first-timers.

  • safer
  • more forgiving
  • very stable

Longboards

Typically 9 feet or longer, longboards are ideal for beginners.

They glide easily, catch waves early, and make learning much smoother.

Funboards / Mini Malibus

Usually 7–8 feet, these boards are a great middle ground.

They offer enough volume while allowing a bit more maneuverability.

Consider the Waves You’ll Surf

Where you surf matters just as much as what you ride.

For example, in places like Bali, you’ll find a mix of small beach breaks and more powerful reef waves.

For softer, smaller waves:
👉 choose more volume and length

More volume = more waves = faster progression.

Common Beginner Mistakes

Choosing a Board That’s Too Small

This is the number one mistake.

Beginners often copy advanced surfers, but those boards require strong paddling and experience.

Ignoring Volume

Two boards can look similar but feel completely different.

Volume is what really determines how easy the board is to ride.

Focusing on Style Instead of Progress

A “cool” board won’t help if you can’t catch waves.

The best board is the one that gets you into waves consistently.

Should You Buy a Used or Custom Surfboard?

If you’re just starting out, a used board is often a smart choice.

You’ll save money, and many boards are still in great condition.

Check for:

  • cracks or dings
  • water damage
  • soft spots

If you’re ready to invest more, a custom board can be shaped to match your weight, skill level, and local waves.

At Salted Surfboard, we help beginners find the right board — whether it’s secondhand or custom.

Final Thoughts

So, how to pick a surfboard for beginners?

Keep it simple:

👉 go bigger
👉 choose more volume
👉 focus on stability

The right board won’t just make surfing easier — it will make it fun.

And that’s what keeps you coming back to the ocean.

If you’re looking for beginner-friendly boards, check out our collection at Salted Surfboard. We’re always happy to help you find the right board for your first waves.

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