How to Pick a Soft Surfboard

Soft surfboards are made with a foam-like surface, which makes them softer to the touch than boards that use hard epoxy resins. This makes the soft surfboard ideal for young people and beginning surfers because the soft surface gives the rider added "grip" and makes unintended contact with the board (like a bump on the head) more forgiving. Soft-top surfboards come in short board and long board forms, giving a variety of options for new and young surfers. There are three major considerations for choosing a soft surfboard: age, height and weight.

Instructions

    • 1

      Weigh yourself. Knowing how much you weigh when shopping for a soft surfboard helps determine the thickness of the board. The heavier you are, the wider your board must be to support your weight on the water.

    • 2

      Pick surfboards based on your height. Ideally, beginning surfers need a board that is one foot taller than you are. For example, if you are 5 feet tall, you need a 6-foot-tall soft surfboard.

    • 3

      Evaluate the age of the surfer relative to his or her height and weight. Kids have slightly different considerations because they often weigh less and are shorter. If the board is for a kid or young adult, pick a board that is shorter (5 to 6 feet) and thinner (less foam is needed). This makes the board lighter to carry and maneuver on the water, while still adequate to support a young person's weight.

    • 4

      Talk to professionals as you shop for your surfboard. These people have training and experience that is useful if your height and weight profile falls outside the averages.