How to Choose a Longboard

Borrow and test as many longboards as you can. Some surf shops rent boards, but usually they are fairly low-end, and often not real surfboards at all. If you borrow someone's board, ask what he or she likes and dislikes about it.

Understand that bigger boards are more stable than smaller boards, making them easier to stand on. However, as you progress, a bigger board will hold you back.

Note that smaller boards are easier to turn and maneuver, as well as to paddle out through the surf.

Understand the difference in fin systems on longboards. The fin boxes are built in, so while fins can be left out of boxes, it is difficult to add boxes where there are none. Single fin boards ride looser on the wave, meaning they turn more easily, but also may be harder to control. Tri-fin boards have more control and stability, but take a little more effort to turn.

Decide what type of longboarding you are going to be doing. Bigger boards are better for cruising, while smaller boards carve better.

Go to your local surf shops and look first at the used section. Longboards can get pretty expensive and a used board is often almost as good as a new one.

Talk to people in the shop and tell them what you're looking for. They'll be able to size you up and figure out about what size board you need. Average longboards run from 8 feet long to a bit more than 10 feet long.