Checklist: How to choose your first surfboard
Are you ready to buy your first surfboard, but you don't know where to start? Don't panic, we have prepared a simple and effective checklist to help you make the right choice. Follow the guide, and you're ready to tame the waves with confidence! 🏄♂️✨
1. Assess your surfing level
- Beginner : You are just starting out or have only surfed a few times.
- Intermediate : You know how to catch waves and make basic turns.
- Confirmed : You master maneuvers and surf different types of waves.
➡️ Zeus's tip : If this is your first board, focus on stability and safety . Forget shortboards for now!
2. Choose the right material
- Softboard : Easy to maneuver, stable, safe and shock-tolerant. Perfect for beginners.
- Composite board (resin) : More efficient, but less stable. Reserved for experienced surfers.
➡️ Zeus' Tip : To start, a foam board is the best choice . Less stress, more fun!
3. Adjust the size and volume to your size
- Length : For beginners, opt for a board that is at least 7'0 feet .
- Volume : Choose a volume that is appropriate for your weight. For example, 75L for an 80kg surfer.
- Wave conditions : More volume for soft waves, less for hollow waves.
➡️ Zeus Tip : Don't try to imitate the pros with a board that's too small. A slightly larger board means more comfort and progression !
4. Select the correct shape
- Longboard : Maximum stability, ideal for learning the basics.
- Funboard/Mini-Malibu : Compromise between stability and maneuverability, perfect for progressing.
- Shortboard : For experienced surfers, but not suitable for beginners.
➡️ Zeus's tip : A longboard or a mini-malibu is the winning combo for your first sessions!
5. Avoid common mistakes
- Don't choose a board that is too short (shortboard).
- Don't neglect volume and stability .
- Don't start with a resin board if you are just starting out.
➡️ Zeus Tip : Take your time and test different boards if possible. Your first board is a bit like a first love: you never forget it! 💘
6. Take advantage of our recommendations at Zeus
- For beginners:
- Longboards : Zeus Dolce 9'0, Zeus Dolce 9'4.
- Funboards/Mini-Malibus : Fuego 7'0, Rosa 7'6, Temper 8'0.
- For children: Zeus Progress 5'6 and 6'0
➡️ Zeus Tip : Check out ouronline quiz to help you choose the perfect board in less than 5 minutes!
Checklist summary:
- ✅ Beginner? Foam board, min. length 7'0, suitable volume.
- ✅ Longboard or mini-malibu for stability and maneuverability.
- ✅ Avoid shortboards and boards that are too small.
- ✅ Consider your size and local conditions.
- ✅ Test before you buy if possible.
With these tips, you are ready to choose the surfboard that will give you your best sessions. And if you still have doubts, our Zeus team is here to guide you.
So, ready to take the next wave? 🌊😊
👉 Little bonus : Check out our useful resources for beginners (board maintenance, mistakes to avoid, etc.) on our site.
