Learning on a Funboard vs. a Longboard

Learning to surf on a longboard or funboard, both larger and more rounded than traditional short boards, provide a beginner with more stability and forgiveness when learning the basics of wave riding. Generally, boards that are shorter than you and pointed are faster, and require an experienced surfer to maneuver; they are not recommended for beginners.

  1. Longboard

    • Longboards measure 8 to 10 feet in length with a completely rounded nose, straight midsection, and wide tail. They are easy to paddle, catch waves and provide the most stable platform for a beginner surfer. Longboards turn slowly, and are usually heavy. Traditional longboards have only one fin, but newer designs use a tri-fin configuration to increase maneuverability.

    Funboard

    • Funboards are considered hybrids between fast, maneuverable short boards and large, stable longboards. They range from 7 to 8 feet in length, with a rounded nose and tail, and resemble an elongated egg because of their width. They offer the paddling advantages of longboards but are slightly more maneuverable and unstable.

    What's Best?

    • Generally speaking, a longboard will provide you with the best opportunity to catch the most waves and learn to ride waves the fastest. Funboards may be large enough for some smaller, lighter surfers, or children who may be overwhelmed by the sluggishness of a longboard. Initially learning to surf on a longboard is recommended, but a funboard can be an excellent choice for a first board to further develop skills.

    Foam Boards

    • Foam surf boards, also called soft tops, are boards that have a softer surface than boards made of fiberglass or apoxy. They are beneficial for beginners because they minimize potential damage to surfers who may wipe out when learning. Modern softboards have an epoxy core encased with soft material to provide the same riding feel as regular boards.