Posted by Jeb Brinkley | 03.28.2025 | Uncategorized

Surfboard Matchmaking: Finding the Right Board for You

Choosing the right surfboard can be confusing and often times intimidating. You want one that matches your style, skill level, and the waves you want to ride. Whether you’re a beginner still mastering the pop-up or a seasoned charger looking to fine-tune your quiver, selecting the right board can make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown to help you find your perfect match.

1. Beginner Surfers: Stability is Key

If you’re just starting, your best bet is a board that offers maximum stability and buoyancy. Look for:

• Soft-top longboards (8’-9’0”) – These are forgiving, easy to paddle, and perfect for learning the fundamentals.
• Funboards (7’-8’) – A great transition board for those ready to size down while maintaining stability.

2. Intermediate Surfers: The Fun Zone

As you progress, you’ll want a board that balances maneuverability and paddling power. Consider:

• Fishes (5’4”-6’4”) – Wide, fast, and great for smaller, mushier waves.
• Mid-lengths (6’4”-7’8″) – A versatile option that offers a mix of stability and performance.
• Performance Hybrids – Combining elements of shortboards and fishes, these boards work well in a range of conditions.

3. Advanced Surfers: Performance & Precision

If you’re confident in your skills and looking to push your limits, performance-oriented boards are the way to go:

• Shortboards (5’8”-6’4”) – Designed for steep, fast waves and sharp turns.
• Step-ups (6’4”+) – A must-have for tackling bigger, hollow, more powerful waves.
• Guns (7’0”+) – Reserved for serious big-wave chargers hunting down double-overhead surf and beyond.

4. Specialty Boards: Expanding Your Quiver

Beyond the basics, some boards are designed for specific conditions and styles:

• Twin Fins – Loose, playful, and fun in smaller surf.

  

• Single Fins – Classic, smooth style with a more relaxed ride.
• Asymmetrical Boards – Designed for more tailored control based on frontside vs. backside surfing.

5. Volume Matters: Understanding Liters

A crucial factor in choosing the right board is its volume, measured in liters. Volume determines how much buoyancy a board provides, impacting paddling ease, stability, and overall performance. The right volume depends on your height, weight, and skill level. You can find calculators online that will help you determine the right amount of volume for you.

• Beginners should aim for higher volume (e.g., 40L+ for an average-sized adult) for stability and easier paddling.
• Intermediate surfers can start reducing volume while maintaining enough float for comfort (e.g., 25-35L for a shortboard).
• Advanced surfers fine-tune their volume based on wave type and board shape (e.g., 22-30L for performance shortboards, higher for step-ups).

6. Matching Your Board to the Waves

• Small, weak waves? Opt for a fish, funboard, or longboard.
• Head-high, punchy waves? A shortboard or hybrid will do the trick.
• Hollow barrels? Performance shortboards or step-ups are the call.
• Massive surf? Time to bring out the gun.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Match

There’s no one-size-fits-all surfboard, and part of the fun is experimenting with different shapes and styles. Whether you’re looking for a smooth cruiser or a high-performance ripper, the key is to find a board that suits your ability, the conditions you surf, and the type of ride you’re after.