How to Pick the Right Skimboard

Imagine running across a sandy beach, dropping a board into the water and skimming across the surface of the water letting your momentum carry you. You make slight adjustments with your body to stay gliding, and the salty wind whips back your hair. This is skimboarding, and it doesn't require a lot of equipment: just a wetsuit and a good skimboard.

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider how much money you would like to spend on your skimboard. The cheaper skimboards are made of wood and cost about $55. If you are able to spend more you can purchase a foam or fiberglass model. These can cost as much as $180.

    • 2

      Determine your skill level when looking to purchase a skimboard. If you are a beginner, you will want to select a longer design because it will offer you more stability. But a more advanced boarder may want to pick a shorter board that will allow for easier maneuverability.

    • 3

      Consider your weight and size when purchasing a board. Manufacturers typically list their size and weight suggestions but skimonline.com offers a general guide:

      Extra Small: Under 50 lbs.

      Small: 50 -- 80 lbs.

      Medium: 80 -- 180 lbs

      Medium/Large: 120 -- 200 lbs.

      Large: 170 -- 240 lbs.

      Extra Large: Over 200 lbs.

    • 4

      Purchase the lightest skimboard that will hold your weight. Heavy boards sink quickly while lighter boards make it easier to stay on top of the water.

    • 5

      Decide what type of skimboarding you want to do. The location that you plan to skimboard can determine what type of board you would like to use. For flat, relatively still waters along the shoreline, a wood or fiberglass board is a good choice. For tricks and waves, consider a hybrid board which is shorter and has a blunted nose.