How to choose the right surfboard

Finding the surfboard to progress quickly is no easy task when you are new to surfing.

Between surf jargon, different shapes , volumes , board materials, the multitude of references on the surf market can quickly become intimidating.

👉🏻 Try the Zeus quiz and find your board 😃

In this complete guide, you will discover our advice for choosing your first surfboard.

• The ideal volume and size according to your body shape.
• The different types of shapes and their advantages.
• Quality criteria to watch out for on a foam board.
• Our recommendations by level and by size.

With these key tips for buying a surfboard for beginners , you will be able to enjoy your very first sessions!

So trust us and quickly discover our selection of boards to progress more quickly.

Foam surfboards , also called softrop, have been gaining popularity in the surfing world for a few years now. They were originally designed for surf schools in Australia and the USA. The idea was to have boards that were more accessible than traditional resin surfboards. Today, they can be found in surf schools and surfcamps around the world.

They are affordable and safe for learning to surf thanks to their deck entirely covered in EVA foam . Foam or soft top surfboards allow you to learn to surf smoothly and guarantee good durability, subject to quality construction. If this is not the case, you will end up with a board in two after a few sessions.

The softop boards are generally a little wider and thicker than the other boards. They also have more volume than a traditional hard surfboard of equal size, which allows the greatest number of easily take the slightest wave or ripple present.

As with other surfboards, there is a wide range of boards available in all types of shapes. fish At mini malibu without forgetting the longboard .

This diversity of shapes allows riders of all levels and sizes to discover the sensations of surfing .

What size surfboard should I choose according to my profile?

As with a classic surfboard , foam surfboards are chosen based on several criteria , consider your level of practice . This will help you get the most suitable size and shape.

For a beginner surfer , we recommend a foam board of size similar to that used in class, usually 7 to 9' . Traditionally, we opt for the same shape, of the type funboard Or longboard.

The only problem with foam boards is that they all look the same. It’s difficult to find your way around the real jungle of the market.

They are available at all prices, and for a beginner, it is complicated to sort between them. Brand claims and marketing of the latter. Unless you cut your board in half and look at what's inside, it's tricky to see the differences between the boards.

If you can try it, it's even better. If the surf school works with a brand, it might be the right one, because surf schools have ultra-intensive use of equipment.

The quality of EPS bread (core) says about the durability of your foam surfboard. Depending on the density and its assembly, you can have a board that lasts for years or only does one session.

Without going into detail, to make a good board, you need good ingredients, from the core to the foam including the fiber: nothing should be left to chance, otherwise your board will end up in the landfill in less than a week. Because Yes, foam surfboards are not recyclable. So if you are tempted to buy one, you should choose a quality board.

Investing in a cheap surfboard is the equivalent of paying for it twice. Foam surfboards are very difficult to repair unlike other types of hard surfing. You can also turn to boards designed for beginners made in France or find a good second-hand board in a surf shop.

Depending on your level:

When choosing a foam board, it is It is important to analyze your surfing level and experience . Foam boards are usually designed for specific surfing levels, and choosing a board that suits your level will help you to progress faster and have more fun on the water.

For beginner riders:

• If you are a beginner, you should opt for a longer and wider foam board . This will give you more balance and stability, which is essential when learning to surf.
• Thicker foam boards are also a good option for beginners, as they are less susceptible to technique errors.

Five Popular Surfboards to Get You Started Quickly

• Zeus Progress , a complete range from 5'6 to 8'0 for small budgets
• Zeus Burger , the XXL board for adults weighing 100 kilos and more
• Zeus Fuego 7'0, the 7-foot board that goes everywhere for adults
• Zeus Rosa 7'6, our best seller in the evolutionary category
• Zeus Temper 8'0 with its 72L eelle

For intermediate surfers:

• If you have already had a few surf sessions under your belt and are starting to feel comfortable. You may want to consider purchasing a foam board with a little less volume . This will allow you to maneuver more easily and surf faster waves .
• It's also important to consider the shape and volume of the foam board when moving up to an intermediate level. Foam boards with a more pronounced rocker and a thinner tail will help you maneuver faster and surf more technical waves.

Our selection for intermediate riders

• Dolce 7'0 - The perfect board for progressing - Expect to pay 450 euros
• Mamba 6'6 - Our bestseller in the intermediate category - Expect to pay 450 euros

👉🏻 Our guide to choosing an intermediate surfboard

For advanced surfers:

If you are an experienced surfer, you should look for shorter, thinner foam boards with more performance shapes. A foam board is a good option for days when the spot is crowded.

Points to watch out for for a first board

• Opt for a board reinforced with fiberglass and/or stringers. These wooden or fiber slats will stiffen your foam board and prevent certain breakages.
• Look at the details like the fin boxes, the leash plug, the carrying handle . Foam boards must have a shape, that is to say they cannot be totally flat like your ironing board, otherwise it will be impossible to surf with them.
• Under 200 euros , ask yourself questions. If you need help, contact a surf shop and one of our experts for advice.
• In summary, a foam surfboard/softboard is a good choice to start surfing. Foam boards are affordable and sturdy, and offer the benefits of a soft top construction and good value for money.

Consider your level and your size to find the size and shape that suits you. 

Choose a board with good construction and quality materials.

Softboard surfboards have many benefits:

Softboards also have some disadvantages:

• The wide selection of models available can make the selection difficult, especially for beginners.
• They are not recyclable, as they are made of different composite materials.
• Foam boards are difficult to repair . It is complicated to change a fin or repair a ding.