Used Surfboard: The Complete Guide

1. Why Choose a Used Surfboard?

Financial Savings 💸: Buying a used surfboard allows you to save significantly compared to new models, while still providing access to quality equipment. It's an ideal option for getting good value for money without a large investment.

Access to Quality Brands and Models: By choosing a used surfboard, you can gain access to renowned brands and models that you might have found out of your budget in a new one. This means you can enjoy the performance and durability of the best brands in the industry without spending a fortune.

Exploration and Diversification: Buying a used surfboard gives you the opportunity to explore different types of boards and surfing styles without committing financially to a new board. It's a great opportunity to test out different shapes , sizes , and fin configurations to discover what works best for your surfing style.

Less Risk for Beginners: For beginner surfers , investing in a new board can be risky. Beginners are often in the process of learning and improving their skills, which can lead to scratches or dents on the board. Opting for a used board allows beginners to practice and progress without worrying about damaging an expensive board.

2. Where to Find Used Surfboards?

Now that we've laid the foundation, it's time to go hunting for the perfect surfboard.

Local Surf Shops: Your local surfing hotspots can be a goldmine for used finds. These wave haunts often offer a carefully vetted selection of used boards that have earned the expert seal of approval.

Online Classifieds Sites: Online platforms like Leboncoin . You'll find a multitude of ads for used surfboards, allowing you to explore a variety of models and brands.

Surf Communities: Surfers congregate not only in the water, but also online. Facebook groups and surf forums are places where enthusiasts share not only their adventures, but also their used board finds. Joining these communities can open doors to unique opportunities.

Also, keep in mind that opportunities to find a used surfboard aren't limited to specialty stores and online platforms. Local surf schools and surf camps are also excellent resources for unearthing hidden gems. The enthusiasts who frequent these places often have boards to sell or trade, and these deals can sometimes yield some nice surprises.

Our advice: If you buy your used board online, make sure that the board is well packaged and carefully, use a specialized surfboard transport service like Colisport . Take the time to carefully check the condition of the package when your board is delivered.

3. What are the key points to examine on a used board?

When considering a used surfboard, it's crucial to carefully consider a few key points to ensure you make a wise choice. Here are some things to look out for:

Bottom Condition: Inspect the bottom of the board for cracks , dents , or repairs . A damaged bottom can compromise the board's performance and affect your surfing experience. Also look for delaminations , which are separations in the board's layered lamination.

Nose and Tail Condition: Carefully check the condition of the nose (front part) and tail (back part) of the board. Make sure they are in good condition and have not suffered any significant damage, such as deep dents or cracks. Damage to the nose or tail can affect the overall behavior of the board in the water.

Rails and Deck: The rails (side edges) and deck (top) of the board should also be inspected. Look for any warping, dents, or structural damage. Warped rails or a dented deck can affect the stability and performance of the board. Make sure the rails are free of breaks or chips.

Fin Boxes: Check the condition of the fin boxes . They should be intact and securely attached to the board. If the board uses removable boxes, make sure the fixing screws are in good condition and not rusted. Damaged boxes can make the board unstable in the water.

Leash Plug: The leash plug , which is the attachment for the leash, must be in good condition. Make sure it is securely attached to the board and that there are no cracks around its location. A damaged leash plug can cause the board to be lost in the water.

Our pro tip: take the time to carefully inspect the equipment and ask why the seller wants to part with their board.

4. What Size Used Surfboard Should You Choose?

Choosing the right size for your used surfboard depends on several factors, including your skill level , your weight , and the type of waves you plan to ride. Here are some tips to guide your decision:

Surfing Level: If you're a beginner , opt for a generously sized board, such as a longboard . These boards offer more stability and are more forgiving of placement errors. If you're an experienced surfer , you may want to consider shorter, more responsive boards.

Weight: Your weight influences the board's buoyancy . Lighter surfers can opt for boards with less volume, while heavier surfers can benefit from the more buoyancy offered by larger boards.

Wave Type: If you're aiming for smaller, softer waves, a longer board may be better. For more powerful, hollow waves , a shorter, more maneuverable board might be better suited.

5. What Type of Used Surfboard Is Right for Your Skill Level?

Choosing the right type of used surfboard depends largely on your skill level and surfing style. Here are some general recommendations:

Beginners: If you're new to surfing, opt for more stable and easy-to-paddle boards, such as longboards and mini Malibu boards . These boards provide a stable platform for learning the basics with confidence.

Experienced Surfers: If you have more experience, you might want to consider higher-performance options, such as shortboards . These boards are more responsive and are suitable for surfers who can handle more challenging waves.

6. How to Evaluate the General Condition of a Used Surfboard?

Feel for Damaged Areas: Run your hands over the board to feel for imperfections .

Look at the Repairs: Check if the repairs are well done and solid .

7. How to Negotiate the Price of a Used Surfboard?

Do Your Research: Know the approximate value of the board.

Inspect Carefully: Defects can be used to negotiate a lower price.

Note that some brands have a better value on the used market? This is the case of Firewire , DHD , Channel Islands , Slater Design , and Pyzel surfboards. These brands are more popular in the surf market.

Certain types of shapes are also very popular, such as mini Malibu , fish , and longboards . Remember to ask questions about the construction of the boards, such as whether they are made of foam , epoxy resin, or polyester .

8. What are the pitfalls to avoid when buying a used board?

Too Damaged Board: If the repairs are extensive, this can affect performance .

No-Trial Purchase: Ask if it is possible to try your future board before buying it.

9. How to Maintain a Used Surfboard?

Rinse After Use: Rinse the board with fresh water to remove salt.

Quick Repairs: Address small problems quickly to prevent them from becoming bigger.

Congratulations, you now have the tools and knowledge you need to start looking for your perfect used surfboard.

Remember, every used board tells its own story, marked by past rides and adventures. It's this story that gives it a unique soul and a special connection with its next owner.

Whether you opt for a vintage board with an authentic aura or a more modern option, the key is to stay curious, patient, and willing to dive into the world of used surfboards.

If you're ready to start this exciting adventure, consider checking out our carefully curated collection of used surfboards on our online store . Who knows, your perfect board might be just a few clicks away. So, put on your wetsuit, grab your board, and get ready to create your own epic stories on the waves! 🌊🏄‍♀️

10. Where to sell and buy used surfing equipment in 2025?

• The Good Corner
• SurfingGo (marketplace launched in 2023)
• Seconde Glisse (marketplace launched in 2024)
• Alltroc in Hossegor (The reference in France)
• The Planchon

Akewatu: A break in the surf e-commerce adventure

The surfing market has recently been shaken up by the liquidation of Akewatu on February 22, 2023. This marketplace, created at the end of 2016 by three passionate entrepreneurs from Cap-Ferret, is now on hiatus.

Despite raising several million euros from various investors, Akewatu never achieved the expected profitability. The latest fundraising campaign from individuals in the fall of 2022 was also not enough to save the model.

For now, the platform is awaiting the closure of the liquidation procedure, leaving the future of this project, which had managed to unite a passionate community around surfing, in suspense.

While awaiting a possible revival, this enforced hiatus marks the end of a chapter for Akewatu, but perhaps not the end of history.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I spend on a used surfboard?

The price of used surfboards varies depending on several factors such as brand , age , condition and model .

Generally, beginners can find good options between €150 and €250 , while more advanced boards can cost between €300 and €800 . Set a realistic budget based on your needs and surfing level.