The 7 Best Beginner Surfboards for 2024
So you’ve decided to learn how to surf and now you’re on the hunt for the perfect beginner surfboard.
Well, look no further because the ultimate guide to the best beginner surfboards for 2024 is HERE!
Choosing the right beginner surfboard can make a world of difference in how quickly you learn to surf and progress to becoming a good surfer.
This guide will help you find the right beginner surfboard for you. I’ll go over the best brands of surfboards out there and also touch a bit on how to choose the ideal beginner surfboard.
You know the saying “For every surfer there is a matching surfboard” but it’s up to you to find it!
With the help of this guide, you’ll find the perfect board to help you kickstart your surfing journey!
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What Are The Best Beginner Surfboards in 2024
Olaian
Olaian 500 Foam Surfboard
Olaian is the surfboard brand from the big sporting goods retailer Decathlon. There boards range for all ages and sizes. As for the writing of this, you get a leash and fins with every surfboard purchased.
Olaian surfboards are a real starting point for any surfer not sure if he’ll be going all in or just want to see whether he likes it or not.
They are built with beginners in mind, lightweight, durable, and affordable.
Its width combined with the rounded nose and tail allows for a better paddling experience and in turn to catch more waves.
The downside of these boards is their overall quality. It’s by no means a high-performance surfboard.
But it’s a great option for complete beginners and kids.
Aquatic Social Scene (AQSS)
Salient Mini Mal
The AQSS Salient stands out as a robust, well-balanced surfboard, ideal for both beginners and seasoned riders. If you want to transition from a foamboard or start with a hard-top surfboard, look no further than the Salient Mini Mal.
Perfect for those seeking a board that offers both style and performance.
With its higher volume design, the Salient maintains maneuverability and responsiveness, making it versatile for various wave conditions.
It’s also valuable to any surfer’s quiver, particularly for tackling bigger waves.
I can’t really think of any downside for this surfboard. When I surfed it I was still a beginner and I felt it helped me catch more waves.
Mainly since it is about 57 liters with a wide round nose and a pinned tail for maximum hold in the wave.
Bugs Softboards
Learn to Surf Bugs Softboards
Bug Bred to Shred Softboards are the perfect first board for beginners, especially kids. The soft rails and extra soft edges ensure maximum safety in every session.
Bugs Softboards are crafted with a soft, foam construction that provides cushioning and safety for beginners.
The soft design minimizes the risk of injury in case of falls or collisions, making them perfect for learning.
These softboards are designed with wide shapes and generous volumes, offering enhanced stability in the water.
No downside was noticed.
Wavestorm
Wavestorm- 7ft Classic Pinline
Wavestorm is a popular soft top surfboard for those who resign in the US and surrounding areas. This board was designed to give beginners a great first impression of surfing. It’s lightweight meaning your paddling will go a long way. It’s durable so you won’t have to worry about it not smashing into things.
Believe me, you’ll hit everything in the house before making your way out for the first couple of times!
And perhaps the best of all, it’s super affordable.
You don’t want to be spending too much on a surfboard at the beginning. But also don’t cheap out and buy a 20$ surfboard that will break after the first wipeout, not saying it happened to me!
The only drawback I can think of when it comes to Wavestorm surfboards is the maneuverability. As you progress your surfing, you’ll find it hard to pivot whilst on the wave.
But hey, you get what you pay for, and in my opinion, is a great value for complete beginners looking to get a taste of surfing.
Catch Surf
ODYSEA- LOG x Jamie O’Brien PRO
Catch Surf is a pioneering surf brand renowned for its innovative foam surfboards that blend performance with fun. With a mission to make surfing accessible to all, Catch Surf’s buoyant boards are perfect for riders of all skill levels.
If you’re looking for a surfboard to hold on to for a while, then this is it! Just look at what Jaime O’Brien can do with these boards.
While most of us won’t be close to these types of waves (speaking for myself for sure!). It’s good to see how these boards perform in the most extreme conditions.
Even the smallest size of this board (6 feet) is an astonishing 57 liters, that’s a lot!
Simply put you’ll have an easier time paddling and catching waves due to the height volume under your chest.
Softech
Roller
Softech is a leading surfboard brand specializing in high-quality foam boards designed for performance and durability. With a focus on innovation and craftsmanship, Softech’s boards offer optimal buoyancy and responsiveness, making them ideal for surfers of all levels.
As a surf instructor, Softech was my go-to surfboard for beginners and kids alike.
And yes I admit that on the lazy days, I couldn’t wait to take one out for a ride. They’re absolutely amazing surfboards.
The Roller is not the only Softech surfboard good for beginners. But I decided to add it to the list due to its wide shape and high volume.
These features make it an incredible surfboard for maximum balance and bounce in the water.
Something every beginner will need!
MF Surfboards
SURF SCHOOL EDITION
MF Surfboards is a premier surf brand founded by professional surfer Mick Fanning, known for its cutting-edge designs and superior performance. This is their classic!
These boards are made for a good time! assuring a pleasant beginner experience.
Made with Epoxy lam EVA these surfboards are designed to be durable and safe for newbies in the sport.
The name says it all, you can’t go wrong with “Surf School Edition”.
I can’t think of any drawback for this surfboard apart from it being suitable only for complete beginners.
But then again this is not a drawback, it is exactly what it was designed for! But don’t worry, MF Surfboards offers a variety of other boards.
Key Features to Look for in a Beginner Surfboard
Choosing the right board is key if you want to progress in surfing. But what you look for? With so many shapes and sizes I can see why you’re confused.
Don’t worry though I’ll give you a quick view of what to look for.
For the more detailed guide check this out…
Size and Shape
First and foremost, what size surfboard should I get? The simple answer is a surfboard that is slightly bigger than you. From experience, most adults will get anywhere between 7-9 feet surfboard.
As for the shape of the board, look for a wide surfboard ideally with a rounded nose and a square tail.
This simply translates to a more buoyant surfboard with the ability to catch waves faster and easier.
Ultimately, the best surfboard for you will depend on your height, weight, skill level, and the types of waves you’ll be surfing.
Volume and Boyunce
Volume plays a significant role in a surfboard’s buoyancy, which is essential for paddling and catching waves.
Prioritize boards with higher volume, providing more flotation and making paddling more manageable.
The thicker and wider the board the more volume it has.
Consider your weight when looking for a surfboard’s volume. The more you weigh the more volume you’ll need.
Soft-Top vs. Hard-Top
So, as for the material of the surfboard, I always recommend beginners to start with a soft-top surfboard.
Simply for the fact that these boards are lightweight, made out of soft material so if and when you wipe out you won’t get hurt and you won’t hurt anybody around you.
But I’ll let you be the judge of that.
A soft-top surfboard is made out of foam core, normally expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS), and covered with a soft material such as EVA.
Don’t let the technicality scare you away, this last paragraph is just a fancy way to say that these boards are made to be light, durable, and safe.
Fiberglass, polyester resin, polyurethane foam, and epoxy resin are usually used to build hard-top surfboards.
If you do choose to go for a hard-top surfboard as a beginner go for a longboard or a funboard. Then further down the road, you can upgrade to a shortboard or more professional longboard.
Essential Accessories for Beginner Surfers
Great now that you have chosen your surfboard, let’s talk about the essential accessories you want to have in every session.
Surfboard Leash
This is a MUST with every surfboard. No matter how beginner or advanced you are, you’ll always have a leash.
In fact, some beginner boards come with a leash attached already. If not purchase one separately.
You want to match the length of the leash to the length of the surfboard. So a 7-foot surfboard will ideally have a 7-foot leash. That being said, having an 8 or 6-foot leash won’t hinder your progress.
The leash is like your raft, while it doesn’t necessarily float you. It’s attached to the only thing keeping you afloat, your surfboard!
Story time-
It was the beginning of winter, and I just bought a brand-new board. it cost me a lot at that time so I decided to cut it short on the leash and other accessories.
A couple of weeks later, the first big swell of the winter arrived. All excited I jumped in but little did I know this would be a challenging session.
After a heavy wipe-out, my leash broke. I found myself in a very dangerous situation with nothing to keep me above the water.
Luckily for me, after a couple of waves smashing on my head, the ocean went almost flat. giving me the chance to swim to shore.
The moral of the story- INVEST IN A GOOD LEASH HAHA!
Surf Wax
Surf wax is simply a wax you put on the deck of your surfboard to prevent a slippery surface.
Consider the water temp of your favorite surfing spot and buy a wax that is suitable for this temp.
Putting cold water wax in the tropics will not be effective and it won’t serve its purpose.
Beginner-Friendly Fins
It’s essential to prioritize beginner-friendly fins for your surfboard. These fins are crafted to enhance stability and control, helping you maintain balance and maneuverability while riding waves.
Most surfboard fins are made out of resin, fiberglass, or a combination of both, ensuring durability and performance.
Beginner-friendly fins on the other hand are made out of plastic. This means if you get hit by accident it won’t hurt as much. And believe me, it hurts!
By opting for beginner-friendly fins, you’ll enjoy a smoother learning curve, building confidence and progressing quickly in your surfing journey.
These fins provide a predictable and consistent feel in the water, making your surfing experience more enjoyable and rewarding right from the start.
Tips for Maintaining Your Beginner Surfboard
Now, to ensure your trusty board stays in top-notch condition and ready for countless waves ahead, here are some essential maintenance tips to keep in mind:
Rinse After Use
After each surf session, make it a habit to thoroughly rinse your surfboard with fresh water.
This simple step helps remove salt, sand, and other debris that can cause corrosion or damage over time.
Pay special attention to the underside and around the fins, where sand and salt tend to accumulate.
A quick rinse can go a long way in preserving the lifespan of your board.
Repairing Minor Damages
Despite your best efforts, accidents happen, and your surfboard may sustain minor damages like dings, scratches, or cracks.
Promptly addressing these issues can prevent them from worsening and compromising the integrity of your board.
Invest in a quality ding repair kit and learn how to patch up minor damages yourself.
For more extensive repairs, consider seeking professional assistance to ensure your board stays in tip-top shape.
Storage and Transportation
Proper storage and transportation are essential for preserving the condition of your surfboard.
When not in use, store your board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid leaning it against hard surfaces or stacking heavy objects on top, as this can cause pressure dings or warping.
When transporting your board, use a well-padded surfboard bag or cover to protect it from dings, scratches, and UV damage during transit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re starting on your surfing journey, selecting the right beginner surfboard is crucial.
This comprehensive guide provides a detailed overview of the top surfboard brands and their unique offerings.
Whether you’re drawn to the stability and affordability of Olaian, the versatility of AQSS’s Salient Mini Mal, or the accessibility of Softech, there’s a surfboard for everyone out there.
Trust me when I say these are the best surfboards you can find as far as beginners are concerned. So which one will you choose? Happy surfing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of choosing the right beginner surfboard?
Choosing the right surfboard is crucial for beginner surfers as it can significantly impact their learning progress and overall surfing experience. These are designed to be stable, buoyant, and easy to paddle, making it easier for novice surfers to catch waves.
How does a longboard differ from other surfboard types?
LA longboard surfboard is typically longer and wider than other types of surfboards, providing greater stability and buoyancy. This makes it easier for beginners to learn how to surf and catch waves, making it a popular choice for novice surfers.
Why are soft-top surfboards recommended for beginners?
Soft surfboards are recommended for beginners due to their soft and forgiving construction, which reduces the risk of injuries. These boards provide good stability and are easier to maneuver, making them ideal for those in the beginner stage of their surfing journey
What should beginners consider when choosing a surfboard for beginners?
When choosing a surfboard for beginners, novice surfers should consider factors such as board size, volume, stability, and ease of paddling. It’s important to select a board that matches your skill level and surfing goals.
