Best Surfboards for Beginners and Intermediates
When diving into the world of surfing, selecting the right surfboard is crucial for beginners and intermediates. The best surfboards for these skill levels are designed to enhance stability, buoyancy, and ease of paddling, allowing surfers to focus on improving their technique without the frustration of handling a difficult board. Popular choices often include longboards, soft-tops, and fish boards, which offer a perfect blend of user-friendly features and performance.
Advertisement
For beginners, soft-top surfboards are often recommended due to their forgiving nature and safety features. These boards typically have a foam exterior that cushions falls and minimizes injury, making them ideal for those just starting. As surfers progress to the intermediate level, transitioning to a fish board or a hybrid model can provide the balance of maneuverability and speed desired for more challenging waves. These boards are designed with a wider profile and a shorter length, offering enhanced stability while still enabling turns and tricks. Ultimately, the right surfboard can significantly enhance the surfing experience, fostering confidence and skill development as surfers ride the waves.
Soft Top SurfboardView AllSoft Top Surfboard - Durable, buoyant, forgiving; ideal for beginners and intermediates.
FunboardView AllFunboard - Versatile, stable surfboard ideal for beginners and intermediates.
LongboardView AllLongboard - Stable, versatile, great for cruising and learning waves.
Mini Mal SurfboardView AllMini Mal Surfboard - Short, wide, stable; ideal for beginners and intermediates.
Torq Epoxy SurfboardView AllTorq Epoxy Surfboard - Durable, versatile epoxy board ideal for beginners and intermediates.
NSP Elements Soft TopView AllNSP Elements Soft Top - Durable, stable soft top; great for beginners and intermediates.
Catch Surf BeaterView AllCatch Surf Beater - Catch Surf Beater: Fun, soft-top board for beginners.
BIC Sport ShortboardView AllBIC Sport Shortboard - Durable, versatile shortboard ideal for beginners and intermediates.
Wavestorm Classic Paddle BoardView AllWavestorm Classic Paddle Board - Versatile, durable, and user-friendly paddle board for all levels.
Surftech Universal LongboardView AllSurftech Universal Longboard - Versatile, stable, easy-to-ride longboard for all skill levels.
Best Surfboards for Beginners and Intermediates
1.
Soft Top Surfboard
Soft top surfboards are an excellent choice for beginners and intermediates looking to enhance their surfing skills while ensuring safety and stability. These boards feature a soft, foam exterior that minimizes the risk of injury during falls, making them ideal for those just starting out. With a wider shape and increased buoyancy, soft tops provide better balance and easier paddling, allowing riders to catch waves with confidence. Lightweight and durable, they are perfect for recreational use in various conditions, making them a popular option for surfers of all ages.
Pros
Stability in the water- Soft and forgiving on falls
- Lightweight for easy transport
- Durable against dings and damage
- Safe for beginners.
Cons
Less durable than hard tops- Limited performance in advanced conditions
- Heavier and bulkier to carry
- More prone to dings
- Limited customization options.
2.
Funboard
Funboards are versatile surfboards designed for beginners and intermediate surfers, striking a perfect balance between stability and performance. Typically ranging from 7 to 8 feet in length, they feature a wider nose and a rounded tail, which enhance paddling ease and wave catching ability. Funboards are ideal for those looking to progress their skills, offering enough maneuverability for more advanced techniques while still being forgiving for newcomers. Their buoyant design allows for a smooth ride in various wave conditions, making them a popular choice for surfers eager to build confidence and experience in the water.
Pros
- Stable design for easy paddling
- Versatile shape for various wave conditions
- Great for improving skills quickly
- Wide nose for better balance
- Lightweight and maneuverable for beginners
Cons
- Less maneuverable than shorter boards
- can be harder to paddle for beginners
- may feel unstable in choppy waters
- not ideal for advanced tricks
- heavier than traditional shortboards.
3.
Longboard
Longboards are an excellent choice for beginners and intermediates looking to enhance their surfing skills. Characterized by their longer length—typically between 8 to 12 feet—these boards provide increased stability and buoyancy, making them ideal for catching waves and maintaining balance. Their wide nose and smooth curves allow for easy paddling and gradual turns, perfect for those still mastering their technique. Longboards excel in small to medium-sized waves, promoting a relaxed riding style. With their timeless design and versatility, they offer a fun and enjoyable experience for surfers of all levels.
Pros
- Stable and forgiving on waves
- Easy to paddle and catch waves
- Great for cruising and carving
- Ideal for beginners' balance
- Versatile for various wave conditions
Cons
- Difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
- prone to damage from rough handling
- heavier than other boards
- limited wave performance
- less portable for travel.
4.
Mini Mal Surfboard
The Mini Mal surfboard, often favored by beginners and intermediates, combines the best features of both shortboards and longboards. Typically ranging from 7 to 8 feet in length, it offers stability and buoyancy, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. Its wider nose and rounded tail provide enhanced maneuverability while still allowing for smooth rides in various conditions. The Mini Mal’s forgiving shape helps build confidence for new surfers, while its versatility appeals to those looking to improve their skills. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for anyone eager to progress in their surfing journey.
Pros
- Stable and easy to balance
- great for catching waves
- versatile for different conditions
- enhances paddling efficiency
- encourages progression in skills.
Cons
- Less maneuverable in small waves
- may require more strength to paddle
- can be harder to duck dive
- less stability in choppy conditions
- not ideal for advanced tricks.
5.
Torq Epoxy Surfboard
The Torq Epoxy Surfboard is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediates seeking a blend of performance and durability. Constructed with a lightweight epoxy material, this board offers enhanced buoyancy and responsiveness, making it easier to catch waves and maintain stability. Its versatile design features a balanced outline, providing a smooth ride in various conditions. The Torq Epoxy comes in multiple sizes and shapes, catering to different skill levels and preferences. With its durable construction and user-friendly design, this surfboard helps riders build confidence and improve their skills on the water.
Pros
- Durable construction
- lightweight design
- stable performance
- user-friendly shape
- affordable price.
Cons
- Limited performance in larger waves
- heavier than some alternatives
- less maneuverability for advanced tricks
- durability issues with prolonged use
- higher price point compared to foam boards.
6.
NSP Elements Soft Top
The NSP Elements Soft Top is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate surfers seeking a stable and forgiving ride. Featuring a soft foam top, this board enhances safety and comfort, making it ideal for those new to the sport. Its durable construction combines an epoxy core with a robust fiberglass shell, ensuring longevity and performance in various conditions. With a wide outline and ample volume, the NSP Elements Soft Top offers great buoyancy and paddling ease, allowing surfers to catch waves with confidence and develop their skills effectively.
Pros
- Stable and forgiving ride
- lightweight and easy to carry
- durable construction for longevity
- soft top for safety
- ideal for learning techniques.
Cons
- Limited performance in larger waves
- heavier than some alternatives
- less durable than hard-top boards
- less maneuverability for advanced tricks
- requires more effort to paddle.
7.
Catch Surf Beater
The Catch Surf Beater is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediates looking to have fun in the water. This soft-top surfboard features a durable, lightweight design that makes it easy to paddle and ride. With its versatile shape and ample volume, the Beater provides stability and buoyancy, allowing riders to catch waves with confidence. Ideal for both surf and skim, its playful nature encourages experimentation and progression. Available in various sizes and colors, the Catch Surf Beater is perfect for those ready to enhance their surfing skills while enjoying every wave.
Pros
- Durable construction
- Easy to paddle
- Great for small waves
- Lightweight design
- Fun and forgiving ride.
Cons
- Limited performance in larger waves
- less durable than traditional boards
- heavier than some alternatives
- not suitable for advanced maneuvers
- may feel bulky for smaller surfers.
8.
BIC Sport Shortboard
The BIC Sport Shortboard is an excellent choice for beginners and intermediates looking to enhance their surfing skills. Constructed with durable, high-density polyethylene, this board offers a perfect balance of buoyancy and maneuverability. Its shorter length and pointed nose design allow for quick turns and responsive handling, making it ideal for catching small to medium waves. The board features a stable width, providing added confidence for new surfers while still offering performance for those progressing in their abilities. With vibrant graphics and a user-friendly design, the BIC Sport Shortboard is a reliable companion for any surf adventure.
Pros
- Stable and easy to balance
- lightweight for easy transport
- durable construction for longevity
- versatile for various conditions
- affordable pricing for beginners.
Cons
- Limited maneuverability for advanced tricks
- heavier weight compared to other boards
- less responsive in small waves
- durability concerns with rough use
- not ideal for experienced surfers.
9.
Wavestorm Classic Paddle Board
The Wavestorm Classic Paddle Board is an ideal choice for beginners and intermediates looking to enhance their surfing skills. This versatile board features a lightweight, durable foam construction that ensures buoyancy and stability, making it easy to paddle and maneuver. Its generous size offers ample surface area for better balance, while the soft top provides added safety during falls. The Wavestorm Classic is perfect for various water conditions, allowing users to confidently ride waves or enjoy leisurely paddling. With its affordability and user-friendly design, it’s a top pick for those entering the world of surfing.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Stable and forgiving for beginners
- Affordable price point
- Durable construction for longevity
- Versatile for various water conditions
Cons
- Limited durability for heavy use
- heavier than other boards
- less responsive in small waves
- basic design lacks advanced features
- may flex under pressure.
10.
Surftech Universal Longboard
The Surftech Universal Longboard is an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate surfers looking to enhance their skills. Crafted with a lightweight and durable construction, this board provides stability and ease of paddling, making it perfect for catching small to medium waves. Its generous width and volume offer a comfortable ride, while the versatile design allows for progression in various surf conditions. The smooth rail contours facilitate effortless turning and maneuverability, ensuring an enjoyable experience as surfers refine their techniques. Overall, the Surftech Universal Longboard combines performance and user-friendliness, making it a top pick for aspiring surfers.
Pros
- Stable and forgiving ride
- Lightweight and durable construction
- Easy to paddle and catch waves
- Versatile for various conditions
- Great for learning balance and technique
Cons
- Heavy construction
- limited maneuverability
- less responsive in small waves
- not as durable as epoxy
- can be pricier than alternatives.