Surfboard size

[alexglasson93]

hello, im seeking advice on buying a surfboard. Im around 6ft and 180lbs, i havent surfed for probably 5 years and so my ability is probably very basic. Im looking at a 6"9" custom shortboard. do you think this is a correct choice for my size and ability or should i be looking at something bigger.
thanks

[Surf Hound]

5 years away from surfing is pretty much going to put you back at beginner stage. My advice would to be go bigger, like a 9 foot LB or maybe a good volume Fun shape in the 8 foot range. I was not able to surf for 20 years and when I came back it took me a bit to get going again. I would guess it took me 5-6 good sessions to stand up consistently and maybe a year of regular surfing to say I was back. I started back surfing a long board which was smart on my part. I originally learned to surf as a kid and came back at 40 years old and I was 100 lbs heavier so the long board was logical where the "Fun" shape ranging from 7'4" to 8'6" may be your best bet. Unless you are a grom around 7-10 years old I think starting again on such a small board is going to frustrate you and keep you outta the water. No stoke there.

[olivi2]

It really depends on the person and how advanced they were before. 5 years is quite a long time but not quite 20 years so you may still get away with the smaller board. To be on the safe side though obviously the bigger board will be what you want if you have concerns.