A Guide to Choosing the Right Surfboard
Throughout every season, one aspect of Hawaii stays the same—surfing is always popular. That means it’s always a good time to go to a surf shop to get a board that works for you. Whether you’re a beginner or a veteran, use these tips to choose an ideal surfboard so you get the most out of every wave.
4 Tips for Picking the Perfect Surfboard
1. Start With Experience
The first question to ask yourself is how you’d describe your skill level. Beginners learn better with boards that float well and offer ample stability, so long, thick, wide, and soft surfboards are good choices. Intermediate and seasoned surfers may enjoy shorter boards, which are more challenging to use but have greater maneuverability and speed on the waves.
2. Measure Physical Factors
You need a surfboard that can accommodate your weight and height. Taller and heavier people usually need bigger boards, and vice versa for shorter and lighter people. Since you have to consider your skill level as well, appropriate board sizes are relative; a large board for a beginner might be small for an advanced yet tall and heavy surfer. A surf shop worker can help match a board to your weight, height, and experience.
3. Consider Fitness Level
Surfing requires balance, strength, and endurance. People who aren’t physically fit may need extra help with paddling, so look for a surf shop that sells thick boards with narrow ends, as they float easier. If you’re in good shape, you have your pick of boards that fit your level of advancement. You can even have a custom surfboard made to suit your body.
4. Prepare for Waves
You can surf anytime in Hawaii, but the waves are different with every season. In summer, the swells are small and better handled with short and wide boards. Wintertime is when you’ll see big waves, offering opportunities to ride high and fast above the ocean and through stunning barrels. For that, consider a step-up surfboard, which gives better speed.
For help selecting a suitable board, head to Surfboard Factory Hawaii in Kapolei. With their unparalleled expertise in surfboards, they’re prepared to guide you in choosing or creating the perfect one for you. They also have accessories, rash guards, and neoprene suits to optimize your enjoyment and ship across the country. Get details by calling (808) 543-2145 or messaging them online.