Longboards for Beginners

Surfboards come in two sizes -- shortboards and longboards. Shortboards range between 6 and 7 feet long and require experience to maneuver and control. Beginners are encouraged to take professional surf lessons and start off with longboards. Longboards typically range between 8 and 10 feet long and, due to their larger size, are easier to balance and learn surfing.

  1. Walden Magic Model

    • The Magic Model debuted in 1981 as the original modern longboard. Since then, all other longboard companies have used the Magic Model as their prototype. This longboard is ideal in all types of water conditions. It starts off at 8 feet long and goes up to 12 feet. It features hard rails and a concave nose, which lifts the board and provides stability -- perfect for nose riding. The middle of the board features double concave hulls which helps with speed, stability and maneuverability of the board. The tail-end of the surfboard features a moderate "V" shape.

    SurfTech Softtops

    • To save your knees and legs from cuts and bruises, consider starting off with Surftech Softops. These longboards start off at 8.4 feet long and provide a soft EVA foam deck. As you increase your skill level, Softops conform to your newfound surfing capabilities as well. Sam George, global editor of "Surfer" Magazine, explained that Surftech Softops are big enough to learn on yet short enough to learn other skills such as trimming and turning. The longboard also features no sharp points and soft, progressive rails.

    Maverix

    • This 8-foot surfboard is perfect for the beginner as well as those who are ready to segue into shortboard maneuvers. The generous 3-inch-thick surface provides superior paddling power. It includes a "straight to the waves" kit with a leash, board bag, traction pad and fins. The board features a lift at the nose, a single concave that leads to a slight "V" at the tail, as well as a slight rocker from the nose to the tail. Its green-and-white stripe design also makes it an attractive beginner longboard.

    Bic Sports Malibu Fun Board

    • If you have some surfing experience under your belt, then consider starting off with a slightly smaller longboard. Called a mini-mal, these longboards range between 7 to 9 feet, yet maintain the width and stability of a longboard. The Bic Sports Malibu Fun Board is 7.3 feet long and features a polyethylene shell that is durable and virtually dent-proof. The shape of the longboard promotes easy learning as well as easy progression to the next surfing level.