Surfboard Buyers Guide
13 commentsThinking of buying a surfboard? First you need to decide what type of surfboard you need. This can easily be accomplished by reading our comprehensive beginners surfboard guides. If you are not new to surfing, then you can probably skip these guides and read on. We'll now assume that you know what board you wish to buy, so where to go from here? One of the main considerations is whether you are going to buy a new board or a second-hand board. Let's take a look
Buying a New Surfboard
To be honest, you do not really need a guide for this. If you're 100% sure of the board that you want, you can get it from anywhere - the local surf shop, by mail order, or over the Internet. The surf shop is the best place to buy a surfboard because you can really have a good look at what you're buying.
- Check for any surface imperfections or small dings that may have manifested during storage. New surfboards should be in absolutely mint condition - accept nothing less!
- Take the opportunity to chat with the surf shop staff about the boards to get any extra information.
- Consider going for a cash deal. Many privately-owned surf shops will give you some sort of discount for cash if you're lucky.
- Again, try getting reduced rates on surfing accessories such as a leash, traction pad or board bag. It is a tight surf shop that does not throw in a couple of bars of surf wax with a new board!
Purchasing through mail order or over the Internet is slightly different. There will not be anyone to talk to about the board you want to purchase face-to-face, a problem if you're not quite sure if the board is the one you want. You also won't be able to give the board the once over like you could in the shop.
However, if you don't have a local surf shop and you know the type and dimensions of the board you want, then it's a great way to buy. Do check the board dimensions when buying to make sure that you are getting exactly what you want. Also check on shipping times and hidden costs for shipping - international shipping could cost a pretty penny! Try and buy from a store that will let you return the board if it's not exactly what you're looking for, make sure you have a good look through the stores returns policy before you buy.
Ready to buy? See the boards at our surf shop!
Another option for buying a new board is to get one that has been custom-shaped for you. If you're lucky enough to have a local shaper in your area, it's well worth getting into contact with them and seeing what they can do. This is usually, but not always, a little more expensive than getting one off the rack but it does mean that the board is shaped to your ideal specifications. A knowledgeable shaper will help you get the most out of your board shape and tailor it to your needs. Getting a custom-shaped board from your local shaper is really the best option we could recommend.
Buying a new surfboard means that you're going to pay top dollar prices. Perhaps buying a second hand board is more suited to your budget?Let's take a look at our second-hand surfboard buying guide!
You Might Also Like
- Your Guide to the Surf Shop and Surfing Accessories.
- Information on the Surfboard - What's What?
- The Different Types and Shapes of Surfboards
- Surfboard Shop
- Surfboards For Beginners - What's best?
- More on the Beginner Surfboard
- The Surfing Waves Guide the Surf Board Bag
- Surfing Waves Wetsuit Buying Guide
Comments
 | chris on Sep 21, 2011 | How about 'tips on buying a second hand board' - ive seen a couple of customs i like but they each have atleast 5 sunken grooves on top. Will that mattet if the bottom is ok?!? :) |
 | surf patrol on Sep 21, 2011 | You missed the link above (/second-hand-surfboards.htm) The info's all there. A thinly glassed second hand board will have a pockmarked deck, it's not necessarily something to be concerned about. Check the buying guide, and always check a second hand board thoroughly. |
| Sara on Dec 21, 2011 | could anyone advise me on what type of board I should buy for my son who is 16 and is probably beginner/intermediate. He bought a short board which was really too short. I'm thinking of a mini mal but don't know what makes are good, ? would Bic be suitable. Thank you. |
| Guest on Jan 27, 2012 | are larger boards for larger people I am six foot one 14 stone so a 7" 3 board would be advisable i am a beginner/ intermediate surfer or what advise would you have on size and shape of the surfer thanks |
| Guest on Jun 7, 2012 | Wat a load of crap. Not even going top read past first hint with a comment like 'should be absolutely mint accept nothing less'. The kook will most likely ding it first surf or even before when stressing out rushing to get it into their bedroom to try jumping up on it in secret haha. Seriously though you need to think about the person running the shop mate they shouldn't loose a sale over something that's going to happen soon enough anyway. Tell me Mr/Ms Fussy potts do you not go surfing cause you might get some sand in your bum-crack? |
| Guest on Jul 18, 2012 | ha! nice |
| Guest on Jul 26, 2012 | Hey I'm 5'4" and weigh 100 lbs and I surf in huntington beach I was wondering which one I should buy, a dumpster diver, robber, the rookie, neck beard, or the fred rubble.I normally surf 2-6 foot waves. |
| Guest on Aug 13, 2012 | Hello Im 6ft 200lbs haven't surfed in many year but I used to surf a high intermediate level back then on a short board West Coast California. Im older and heavier and now live in Florida East Coast. I want to get back to an old passion of mine. What would be the ideal size board for me these days. Not really looking to long board but also not looking to be pulling any air either. What do you suggest? Thanx Paul... |
| Guest on Aug 16, 2012 | hey i think if you are paying the big bucks for a brand new board, it SHOULD be in mint condition...you missed that part. otherwise a discount is in order! |
| Guest on Aug 23, 2012 | this is my first board that im buying and ive been surfing for a year i dont know what exactly to buy but im think a mini fun board but i havent used one yet only really soft boards and fun boards....so i cant tell if ill like it yet? Any tips?? |
| guest on Sep 14, 2012 | i am a 13 year old boy my hight is 166cm and i was wounder what what be a good board and size for a beginner |
| lee on Dec 8, 2012 | I have a good FIN I can give anyone provide, my mailbox bljsdm@gmail.com welcome you to contact me |
| Charlie on Dec 17, 2012 | Hey, I have had a few surfing lesson and know the basics, I'm 5 foot 2 and have never owned board before im trying to decide between a mini mal and a fish, what do u think would be more suitable? thanks |