What To Know When Buying Your First Board

Here’s another spicy one. What should you get as your first surfboard?
First of all, you need it to float you, so err on the side of too big rather than too small.
Second, if you can get a high end soft top (see video on soft tops), like Mick Fanning, Surf Tech, or Crime Surfboards, then I think it’s a good idea. These boards have shape to them and should be treated like a “real” surfboard. But they are harder to ding and they will hurt less when they hit you or someone else. I do not recommend disposable soft tops like Wavestorm or Liquid Shredder.
Or you can use Craigslist or another used board source. Just find something big. It’s ok if it’s beat up and has dings. You’re just going to ding it more. But be careful of rip off artists either charging too much or selling extra shitty boards.
What about a custom shape? This isn’t a terrible idea. A shaper can teach you a lot about board design. Don’t think about whether you “deserve” this or not. There was a time when we all had to get a custom board from a shaper even if we weren’t quite good enough yet. The shaper can teach you so much about surfing and boards and you’re supporting a person who is dedicated to surfing. Make sure they know how bad you suck. They’ll build a board that will help you get to where you want to go.
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