How Do You Know if Your Surfboard Is Too Small?

August 16, 2022 3 min read

Size doesn't matter - it's not a badge of honour. Although smaller boards are easier to turn, they can force bad technique. A small board may weigh more than 10 liters and bog down turns. Besides, a small surfboard can look bad! Read on to find out how to know if your surfboard is too small for you!

Volume

How to tell if your surfboard is to large or too small depends on your height and weight. The right height depends on your surfing experience and fitness level. Generally, a smaller board is more stable and easier to turn, but it may also force you to adopt a bad technique. Choosing a small surfboard can also hinder your progress in surfing, as a small surfboard will slow you down and force you to catch waves late, which will make you look terrible.

Length

The length of your surfboard is only one of several factors to consider when choosing a board. There are other factors to consider, such as width, thickness, outline, and rocker. Ultimately, the length of the board will depend on how you plan to use it. For beginner surfers, it's important to think about how much "floatation" you need, as not enough floatation will make you paddle slower, catch fewer waves, and feel less stable.

Shape

The shape of a small surfboard will determine how quickly you turn and control the board while surfing. Different shapes are ideal for different conditions, so try to find a board that matches the swell and the waves you'll be surfing. Most surfers stick with square or round tails at first, but as you gain more experience, you can explore the wide variety of modern designs. Here's a look at the best small surfboard shapes.

Weight

The right size of surfboard depends on your experience and fitness level. If you are just starting to surf, you should opt for a bigger board. As you gain strength, you can go down a size. Beginners should pick a board that is three to four inches bigger than their body weight. The optimal size for beginners is around a seven to eight foot board. However, if you have a bigger body, a seven to ten foot board will be a more suitable choice.

Fitness Level

Surfing is a physically demanding sport, and elite competitors are trained in the fundamentals of fitness. As part of their training, elite competitors undergo regular fitness tests to determine their physical strengths and monitor their progress throughout training. Fitness tests should assess balance, coordination, muscular endurance, strength, power, and flexibility, as these will determine the level of performance. To test yourself for surfing fitness, try a few of the exercises listed below.

Experience

If you are just starting out surfing, you may be better off with a small surfboard. It is more manageable and will not weigh as much as a larger board. But you should still consider your own ability when choosing the board. Purchasing a board based on looks alone is not a good idea. Instead, ask a local surf shop employee for advice on what board would suit your level. Then, you can choose a board that will fit you best.

Choosing a Surfboard

Choosing a Surfboard with an incorrect size will not only make you frustrated but can also hinder your progress in surfing. The board's volume should be suited to your weight, surfing style and skill level. If it is too small or too big, you will find few waves and your surfing skills will not develop properly. The ideal size of a surfboard depends on the surfer's weight, fitness level and skill level.



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