The-Best-Surfboards

As one of the most popular water sports, surfing offers a combination of thrill and workout that is hard to match. You can have an awesome time regardless of your skill level, with only a single requirement – a good board. However, the best surf board for a beginner won’t be right for an advanced rider and vice versa.

When choosing, three aspects are essential to consider – body size, skill level, and conditions on the water. To help you make the right choice, this article will take a look at the best surfboards in several different categories and explain how various features can improve your performance when catching waves.

1

OUR TOP PICK

Paragon Surfboards Mini Log

Paragon Surfboards Mini Log


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Summary

The Paragon Mini Log surfboard takes the best features from long and shortboards to give you a ride that is fast, stable, and incredibly exciting. Owing to its double bottom concave that provides impressive stability, the Mini Log might be the best beginner surfboard around. At the same time, the swiftness and maneuverability will attract more experienced riders too.

Design

In addition to the double concave bottom that we’ve mentioned, another feature worth pointing out is the central fin that comes with the board. At 8 inches long, the fin significantly improves the tracking when you’re on the wave. On the other hand, you can easily remove it when it’s time to pack.

Construction

The ParaLite epoxy used to make this board is very strong but at the same time incredibly lightweight and buoyant. On top of this, the board comes with a 6-ounce top and bottom glass layer and a gloss finish that makes it look fantastic. As for the size, the version we’re reviewing is 7ft 6in long and has a very good volume for its length (54.4 liters).

Performance

One of the best things about this model is that you can always use it as a fun board, regardless of your skill level. Considering that it’s a mid-sized model, you’ll be able to ride it in both small and large waves.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • ParaLite Epoxy construction makes it strong but lightweight
  • Double bottom concave improves the overall stability
  • More maneuverable than a longboard with the same ease of paddling
  • High weight capacity (250lbs) supports even larger riders
  • Excellent board for practicing and improving skills
  • Perfect for experienced surfers
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: All-Around Surfing
Volume: 54.4 liters
Length: 7 feet 6 inches
Width: 21.75 inches
Thickness: 2.875 inches
Fin(s): One (Removable)
Material(s): ParaLite Epoxy
Weight: 22 pounds
Capacity: 250 pounds
Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate

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2

EDITORS CHOICE

Giantex Foamie Beginner

Giantex Foamie Beginner


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Summary

The soft foam deck and extra-wide body make the Giantex Foamie the best shortboard for children and learners. The ride is incredibly forgiving, so you’ll be able to practice standing up and balancing without falling immediately. On the other hand, the triple-fin system allows the board to build up speed so it doesn’t feel sluggish.

Design

Simple but incredibly functional, the design of this board makes it very versatile on the water. In addition to surfing, you can also use it for other activities like yoga, fishing, and even sunbathing. On top of this, the board also comes with useful features like an ankle leash plug and a traction pad in the back.

Construction

Due to its EPS foam core, the Foamie surfboard stays buoyant regardless of the wave conditions. The deck is made from EPE to ensure strength and stability, while the PP hard-slick bottom resists impact and temperature changes really well. These top rated surfboards come in 6-foot versions only and provide a weight capacity of around 200 pounds.

Performance

Since it primarily focuses on beginners, the performance of this foam surfboard probably won’t be good enough for more advanced riders. This being said, the comfort and reliability that the Giantex Foamie gives you is hard to beat, which is why we picked it as our favorite.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Soft top makes it great for learning and practicing
  • Removable triple-fin system for easier transportation
  • PP bottom provides excellent resistance to heat and cold
  • Ankle leash included for additional safety when riding
  • Stable enough for activities like yoga, sunbathing, and fishing
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Children and Learners
Length: 6 feet
Width: 20 inches
Thickness: 3.5 inches
Fin(s): Three (Removable)
Material(s): EPE Deck, EPS core, PP Bottom
Weight: 5 pounds
Capacity: 200 pounds
Skill Level: Beginner

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3

BEST VALUE

Wavestorm Sunburst Graphic

Wavestorm Sunburst Graphic


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Summary

For those of you who are on a tighter budget and want good value for your money, the Wavestorm Sunburst Graphic is the best surfing board to get. At 8 feet long and with a volume of 86 liters, it’s among the largest boards on our list. Because of this, it’s a very good option for tackling larger waves.

Design

The great-looking Sunburst graphic of this board will catch your attention immediately. However, this model offers much more than just good looks. Its triple-fin configuration improves tracking and makes turns more precise, while the grip pad in the back ensures you don’t lose your footing.

Construction

The core of this board is made from EPS (expanded polystyrene) that weighs next to nothing and provides excellent buoyancy. Around the core, the board is wrapped in HDPE (high-density polyethylene) for structural strength and durability. Lastly, the deck is covered with WBS-IXL water barrier skin that improves the grip.

Performance

All things considered, the Wavestorm Sunburst is a very decent performer. It balances between stability and speed well, so both beginners and intermediate surfers can enjoy it. Because of this, it’s hands-down the best cheap surfboard to get.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Great-looking sunburst print on the board deck
  • Three fins with a bolt-through design for extra security
  • HDPE bottom increases durability and abrasion-resistance
  • Triple stringer core system for additional strength
  • Built-in leash plug with an included ankle leash
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Comfort while Riding
Volume: 86 liters
Length: 8 feet
Width: 22.5 inches
Thickness: 3.25 inches
Fin(s): Three (Removable)
Material(s): HDPE Bottom, EPS Core, Foam Top
Weight: 11.5 pounds
Capacity: 200 pounds
Skill Level: Beginner

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4

Wavestorm EPS Core Classic

Wavestorm EPS Core Classic


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Summary

A great thing about the Wavestorm 8 Classic surfboard is that it comes with a board sock included in the package, which makes transportation and storage much safer and easier. As for the board itself, it’s 8 feet long and features a classic tri-fin system to provide optimal performance in different conditions on the water.

Design

The volume of the Wavestorm Classic is excellent for an 8-foot board (86 liters), so you can count on great buoyancy and stability while riding. On top of this, the fins we’ve mentioned are easily removable, allowing you to customize their number and position while riding or remove them completely when packing.

Construction

The core of the Wavestorm 8 is made from strong EPS foam with 3 additional stringers as reinforcement. The bottom is coated with HDPE to withstand harsher use, while the WBS-IXL top cover feels great under the feet and provides a solid grip.

Performance

The main quality of this board is that it’s well-balanced, meaning that it can do a good job no matter where you take it. While it may not satisfy the taste of advanced surfers, it’s a fantastic beginner surfing board for people who want to try something new.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Board sock included for protection in transportation
  • Strong HDPE bottom resists impact and abrasion
  • Well-balanced design provides great stability on the water
  • Soft webs-IXL barrier skin covers the entire deck surface
  • Excellent surfing beginner board for learning
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Buoyancy and Balance
Volume: 86 liters
Length: 8 feet
Width: 22.5 inches
Thickness: 3.25 inches
Fin(s): Three (Removable)
Material(s): HDPE Bottom, EPS Core, Foam Deck
Weight: 11.5 pounds
Capacity: 200 pounds
Skill Level: Beginner

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5

South Bay Board Co. Premium Beginner

South Bay Board Co. Premium Beginner


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Summary

If you’re after a stable and forgiving model that will help you boost your skills, check out the South Bay Board Co. Premium surfboard. Thanks to its custom shape, beginners will have a much easier time standing up on the board and controlling it on the wave.

Design

One of the most important design elements is the full-length double concave bottom that makes the board a lot more stable. At the same time, the rails are tapered to allow easier transition from one side to the other. As a bonus, it comes with three FCS-compatible fins that you can adjust, customize, or completely remove.

Construction

At 7 feet long, you can say that this board falls into the mid-range category. It has a total volume of 49 liters, which will be enough to support adults weighing up to 180 pounds. The EPS foam core features a triple stringer system for additional firmness, while the wax-free fingerprint IPSE foam deck prevents your feet from slipping.

Performance

The performance of this board is among the best that a beginner surfer can ask for. As we’ve pointed out, it feels very stable on the wave and allows you to maintain balance even if your technique isn’t ideal yet.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Three thruster fins for an increased speed
  • Double concave bottom design boosts stability
  • Triple stringer system (2 wood + 1 fiberglass)
  • Release valves prevent heat damage and bubbling
  • 7-inch kink-free leash included in the package
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Board Durability
Volume: 49 liters
Length: 7 feet
Width: 22 inches
Thickness: 2.85 inches
Fin(s): Three (FCS Compatible Fin Box)
Material(s): HDPE Bottom, EPS Core, IPSE Foam Deck
Capacity: 180 pounds
Skill Level: Beginner

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6

7S Hook Twin Fin Shortboard

7S Hook Twin Fin Shortboard


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Summary

The unique hybrid twin design of the 7S Hook Twin Fin surfboard makes it one of the most powerful boards that you’ll come across. Its moderately low rocker allows you to surf close to the pocket, while the swallow tail and twin-fin configuration provide exceptional maneuverability and control.

Design

An interesting thing about this performance shortboard is that it has full volume at the front and then gradually narrows down toward the tail. Because of this, it has excellent buoyancy and stability, while remaining very agile when you make turns. To further improve buoyancy, the Hook Twin Fin also features step-deck contours.

Construction

The main materials used to make this board are fiberglass and carbon fiber. This combination provides excellent structural strength while simultaneously keeping the overall weight low. As for the size, the Hook Twin Fin is available in six different lengths ranging from 5ft 6in to 6ft 4in.

Performance

Compared to most other surfer boards, the two fins on this model are pushed toward the tail to improve the overall control. Additionally, the board shape and the rail design allows easy rail to rail switching so you can perform quick maneuvers when you need to.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Hybrid Twin design balances between power and control
  • Low rocker allows you to surf close to the pocket
  • Swallow tail shape for improved maneuverability
  • Pushed back fin design increases the responsiveness
  • Versatile enough for waves of all types and sizes
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Power and Control
Volume: 35.6 liters (6-foot version)
Length: 5 feet 6 inches to 6 feet 4 inches (6 sizes available)
Width: 20.875 inches
Thickness: 2.5625 inches
Fin(s): Two
Material(s): Fiberglass, Carbon
Capacity: 187 pounds
Skill Level: Intermediate/Expert

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7

Lib Technologies Funnelator Shortboard

Lib Technologies Funnelator Shortboard


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Summary

The thing that separates the Lib Technologies Funnelator surfboard from the rest is its unusual shape. A mix of shortboard and groveler, this board provides incredible performance in smaller and softer waves. Surfers agree that it’s incredibly poppy and has a very good response, so you can easily perform tricks and more demanding maneuvers.

Design

When you look at the profile, you’ll notice that this board has a slight rocker and a pointed nose. Thanks to this, you’ll be able to steer easily without the fear of the nose sinking too low. When talking about the length, the Funnelator falls into the category of shortboards and you can get it in sizes that range from 5ft 4in to 6ft 2in.

Construction

Wrapped in Hexzylon fiber foam skin, this surfboard is both comfortable and incredibly durable. The magnesium fibers inside greatly improve memory and rebound, while the woven basalt fibers increase the damping potential and resistance to impacts.

Performance

The bottom of this board is V-shaped, allowing you to easily build up speed in small waves. In addition, the straight rail lines cut through the water really well, so you’ll be able to make smooth and precise turns too.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Perfect option for smaller and softer waves
  • Magnesium fibers provide rebound and memory
  • Basalt fibers provide damping and damage-resistance
  • Pointed nose (rocker profile) makes turning easier
  • Bio-Matrix resing significantly improves the lifespan
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Small and Soft Waves
Volume: 40.4 liters
Length: 5 feet 4 inches to 6 feet 2 inches
Width: 21.5 inches (6-foot version)
Thickness: 2.65 inches
Fin(s): Five
Material(s): Magnesium, Basalt, Carbon
Skill Level: Expert

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8

Solid Surf Co Diamond Jig

Solid Surf Co Diamond Jig


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Summary

The Diamond Jig surfboard from Solid Surf Co is a fantastic choice for intermediate riders who wish to take their surfing game to a higher level. Owing to its tapered profile and 2+1 fin setup, the board is highly maneuverable and able to make sharp and tight turns. On top of this, its stylish retro mint color is bound to make you noticed on the beach.

Design

For providing you with a higher level of maneuverability, this board comes with a diamond-shaped tail. In addition, the triple-fin system we’ve mentioned is pushed all the way back, which significantly increases the drive. On the other hand, the profile is balanced so you’ll be able to easily maintain stability throughout the ride.

Construction

The combination of materials used to make the Diamond Jig surfboard provides both structural strength and playfulness once you get on the wave. As a bonus, the core is made from recycled polyester fibers so the board is eco-friendly too.

Performance

The idea behind this board was to create a versatile performer that can adapt to any conditions on the water. We should also point out that it’s available in four different sizes between 7 and 8 feet, so you can easily find the perfect length.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Two + one fin layout provides both speed and control
  • Diamond tail design for easy turning and maneuverability
  • Eco-friendly construction (organic cotton and recycled polyester)
  • Retro mint color looks awesome on the water
  • Volcanic basalt fibers increase the strength and durability
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Turning and Maneuverability
Volume: 61.6 liters (8-foot version)
Length: 7 to 8 feet (four sizes available)
Width: 22.75 inches
Thickness: 3 inches
Fin(s): Three
Material(s): EPS, Hemp, Organic Cotton, Recycled Polyester
Skill Level: Intermediate

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9

Solid Surf Co Pescador

Solid Surf Co Pescador


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Summary

A great detail about the Solid Surf Co Pescador surfboard is that it comes with rockers on both ends – gradual on the front to make steering easier, and aggressive on the back that allows you to shift the weight and prevent nosedives. In addition, its elongated body provides very good buoyancy regardless of the wave type.

Design

The tail of this surfboard comes with a fish (swallow) tip that makes it excellent when turning as it gives you additional precision. To further boost the performance, the board comes with a quad-fin layout that is pushed towards the tail. This makes it one of the best surfing boards when talking about control on the water.

Construction

Instead of traditional PU foam, the Pescador is made using the unique BIOflex construction. The core is made from plant-based epoxy resin, while the lamination is done with eco-friendly hemp. All of this is then reinforced with organic basalt fibers to give the board the strength it needs to handle hard waves.

Performance

The Pescador surfboard is an excellent all-around performer that you can use on any type of wave. Because of this, it’s a popular choice among surfers who travel a lot in search of new adventures.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Quad fin design provides speed in small waves
  • Core is entirely made of recycled materials
  • Swallow tail improves control and turning ability
  • Gradual elongated rocker makes it maneuverable
  • Excellent buoyancy regardless of the conditions
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Stability and Control
Volume: 46.2 liters (7-foot version)
Length: 7 to 7 feet 6 inches (four sizes)
Width: 21.87 inches
Thickness: 2.82 inches
Fin(s): Four
Material(s): EPS, Hemp, Organic Cotton, Recycled Polyester, Resin
Skill Level: Intermediate

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10

Lib Tech x Lost Freak Flag Bean Bag

Lib Tech x Lost Freak Flag Bean Bag


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Summary

If you’re after speed on the wave rather than anything else, the Lib Tech x Lost Freak Flag Bean Bag surfboard is a great option. While it’s versatile enough for all conditions, this shortboard excels in small waves. The most interesting thing about this model is its 5-fin system (FOC II) that is very easy to adjust.

Design

By design, this is a groveler surfboard that has a very large volume relative to its length. This, in combination with its 5 fins, gives you impressive speed even if the waves are very small. Keep in mind, however, that this type of design has its drawbacks too – the board is less stable and harder to control for inexperienced surfers.

Construction

To ensure durability and impact-resistance, the Lib Tech x Lost Freak Flag Bean Bag surfboard combines several sophisticated materials in its construction (magnesium, basalt, and carbon). This results in a board that is very strong but at the same time flexible, damp, and very lively.

Performance

As we’ve already pointed out, this is not a big wave surfboard. On the other hand, its shorter body and unique fin layout significantly increase the versatility and performance in less-than-ideal conditions.

  • Stand Out Features - Why We Love It
  • Five-fin layout maximizes speed and performance
  • Magnesium Basalt Carbon (MBC) construction
  • FOC II fin system allows easy fin tuning and adjustments
  • Winged outline makes it great for small waves
  • Carbon composite stringer for increased strength
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS

Best For: Responsiveness and Handling
Volume: 34.45 liters (5ft 6in version)
Length: 5 feet 2 inches to 5 feet 10 inches (five sizes available)
Width: 21.5 inches
Thickness: 2.5 inches
Fin(s): Five
Material(s): Carbon Fiber, Composite, Epoxy
Skill Level: Intermediate/Expert

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