Just like the wide variety of waves to surf, there are numerous types of surfboards to choose from. The right board can affect the surfer’s performance, comfort, and overall surfing experience. Let’s explore several types of surfboards to understand the differences between each one and their respective functionalities.
Longboards
Longboards are the oldest and most traditional of surfboards styles. With their length typically ranging from 8 to 14 feet, they are characterized by their rounded nose and wide, flat build. Perfect for beginners due to their stability and easy paddling, longboards are apt for catching small, slow-moving waves. Their design philosophy focuses on smooth, graceful maneuvers rather than sharp, quick turns.
Shortboards
The antithesis of the longboard, the shortboard, also sometimes referred to as the “thruster,” typically ranging from 5 to 7 feet in length. Shortboards are lightweight, maneuverable, and designed for precise and aggressive surfing. Ideal for medium to large waves, these boards are the go-to choice for professionals due to their speed and sharp turning capabilities.
Fish Surfboards
Fish surfboards, named for their fishlike tail, are shorter, broader, and chunkier than shortboards. Typically reaching between 5 to 7 feet in length, the fish surfboard rides smoother and faster in average to poor wave conditions. Fishes, with their extra volume, provide exciting speed, and their twin fins offer a unique, almost skimming ride.
Funboards
Funboards, as the name suggests, are indeed ‘fun’ to ride. Essentially a hybrid, funboards bring together the elements of both longboards and shortboards. Measuring between 7 and 8 feet long, they balance the maneuverability of shortboards with the paddling ease of longboards. Funboards are a versatile choice suiting surfers of all skill levels.
Gun Surfboards
Gun surfboards are specialty boards designed for big wave surfing. Ranging from 7 to 12 feet, they’re incredibly narrow, allowing surfers to drop in on massive, steep waves without nose-diving into the water. These are not casual ride boards; named ‘guns’ for their speed and aggressiveness, they’re meant for the pros tackling serious swells.
Hybrid Surfboards
The hybrid surfboard combines the features of two or more different surfboard types, such as the fish and the shortboard, to create a versatile ride. These boards are excellent for surfers who wish to ride different kinds of waves without changing surfboards.
Foam Surfboards
Foam surfboards, or “foamies”, are an excellent choice for beginners. Made of buoyant foam, they are soft, providing an added measure of safety during falls. In addition, their exceptional floatability makes wave catching a breeze for novices.
World Surf Store – Best Surfboards and Surf Accessories Online
If you are looking for the best surfboard shop online, look no further than World Surf Shop. They have everything you need to hit the waves in style, including surfboards and accessories for every level of experience. If you are new to surfing or want to upgrade your current equipment, their selection of beginner boards will help you master the sport quickly. For advanced surfers, they carry a wide range of high-performance shortboards and longboards so that you can find the perfect board for any wave condition.
In Conclusion
Understanding the different types of surfboards can help both newbie and experienced surfers elevate their surfing game. Whether you’re tackling monster waves on a gun or enjoying a smooth, relaxed ride on a longboard, choose your surfboard wisely — it can make your surfing experience even more exciting.