There's a lot to factor into finding the best surfboard, especially as they can vary massively in size and shape to accommodate different kinds of waves.
To guide you through each style of board, we've put together this list based on features, price, and reviews, highlighting some of the small differences to help you find the perfect bit of kit for you.
From beginners boards, like this Osprey Foam Surfboard, to something for more advanced surfers, like this Catch Surf Odysea Plank, we've got you covered right here.
Best Surfboard
- Rock It 8' Big Softy
- Osprey Foam Surfboard
- Catch Surf Wave Bandit Shred Sled
- Wavestorm Classic Longboard
- Catch Surf Odysea Plank
Best All-Round Surfboard - Rock It 8' Big Softy
Brand: Rock It | Size: 72" x 19.7" x 2.75"
For beginners or experienced surfers, this Rock It 8' Big Softy should be ideal for catching some waves.
Rock It boasts its board is suitable for adults and kids thanks to its 81l capacity that should be able to hold anyone's weight.
Moreover, it comes with 3 safety fins that will likely give the board plenty of drive down the line and throughout your turns to help you tackle the challenging sea.
On the whole, with its simple yet effective design, this Rock It 8' Big Softy could be a great option to consider, regardless of the size of the waves.
Best Surfboard For Beginners - Osprey Foam Surfboard
Brand: Osprey | Size: 7.2ft
Soft-top boards, like this Osprey Foam Surfboard, are more suitable for beginners as they're designed to reduce the likelihood of causing injury as you learn to surf and are uncomplicated to maintain.
The Osprey Surfboard comes with a large volume but shorter length which, Osprey boasts, makes it more stable for learning and easy to maneuver in the sea.
To improve the durability, Osprey integrates wooden stringers to give it more integral strength which is ideal if you're looking for a board for the long term.
Like the Rock It 8' Big Softy, it also comes with 3 fins designed to give you excellent drive down the line which should, in turn, help you stand on the board as a beginner.
Best Surfboard For Style - Catch Surf Wave Bandit Shred Sled
Brand: Catch Surf | Size: Unspecified
Shorter surfboards, like this Wave Bandit Shred Sled, are better for changing direction quickly because they create less water resistance when going from side to side.
As a result, they're typically better for style and performing tricks that you can capture on your top GoPro. So, if you're an experienced surfer, this board may be for you.
The Wave Bandit Shred Sled's core is made from Polystyrene which means it should be lightweight and easy to maneuver in the water.
Ultimately, if you know how to surf and want to add a bit more flair to your riders, then this Wave Bandit Shred Sled may be your answer.
Best Surfboard For Smaller Waves - Wavestorm Classic Longboard
Brand: Wavestorm | Size: 8ft x 22.5" x 3.25"
From a shortboard to a longboard, this Wavestorm Classic should be the ideal bit of kit for tackling smaller waves.
The reason why longboards are better suited to smaller waves is because of their extra volume, longer length, and low rocker which make them quicker across the water and, therefore, better at catching small ripples.
The Wavestorm Classic, in particular, features an 86l volume but weighs just 11.4lbs making it light enough to help you succeed in calmer seas.
All in all, if you're looking to surf more frequently, then adding a longboard, like this Wavestorm Classic, to your arsenal is a must.
Best Surfboard For Intermediates - Catch Surf Odysea Plank
Brand: Catch Surf | Size: 7ft
This board has been designed to be incredibly sturdy and powerful, strong enough even that you should be able to stand at the front of it and showboat.
At 7ft long, it is definitely more akin to a longboard which means it will likely be most beneficial on smaller waves, but could also be just as good on bigger surfs.
The Odysea Plank also features a curved nose and a blunt tail behind its fin, engineered to give you the stable ride you're looking for with a longboard.
With a single fin, the board should be more predictable making it easier to control regardless of how far forward you move it.
It is also worth noting that the Odysea Plank is supported by the Maui-raised surfer Sierra Lerback so should definitely be one to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snowboards
People tend to have a lot of questions regarding surfboards, especially as there are loads of variations out there.
Don't worry though because we're here to clear up some of the more typical queries you may have.
What Types Of Surfboards Are There?
As previously mentioned, there are a whole variety of surfboard styles available.
For example, you can get a shortboard which is typically better for mobility and aggressive riding of experienced surfers, especially on fast and steep waves.
By contrast, a longboard is probably a better choice for beginners as it tends to be easier to catch waves with, in addition to letting you perfect your paddling technique and turning basics.
Other types of surfboards include foamies or softboards, suitable primarily for beginners, fish boards, which are designed to go faster on slower waves, and gun boards which are better for caching big, fast waves.
What Size Surfboard Do You Need?
This will depend on your weight and height, but you can normally find a handy size guide to help you decide.
Generally speaking, an adult will most likely require at least a 7ft board, whereas children will be better suited to smaller boards around the 5-6ft mark.
What Accessories Do You Need For Surfing?
While there are a number of useful accessories for surfing, one of the most crucial bits of kit is a surfboard leash which teachers you to your board and is particularly handy if you're a beginner.
Another key bit of equipment is your surfboard's fins as they are necessary for going in a straight line and help you turn on the waves.
Although not absolutely essential, it may be worth looking into getting a bag for your board as it is important for protection and can be used for storing other beach-related items.
Read More: Best Snowboards Available Right Now