Used Surfboards: Zeus 2025 Buying Guide

Dreaming of getting into surfing without emptying your bank account? Welcome to the club.

The problem with used boards is that it's a bit of a jungle out there. Leboncoin, Facebook groups, local marketplaces... everyone has a good deal until you discover that shipping costs 70 bucks. Or worse, that the board has a duct tape repair under the deck.

The result: you pay almost the price of a new one for something whose real condition no one can guarantee.

That's exactly why specialized platforms like Akewatu closed down. Shipping a board in France is expensive. Between 50 and 70 euros depending on the zone. It's hard to build a profitable model when the margin melts away like snow in the sun.

But there's another way. One that resembles refurbished tech, except here we're talking about foam, not smartphones.

At Zeus, we've solved the equation: used boards tested, repaired if necessary, delivered with fins included. And most importantly, 40% cheaper than new.

No bad surprises. No hidden costs. Just a board ready to ride.

And to get started even faster, try our online tool that guides you to the ideal board according to your profile (new or used): Find my perfect board

Ready to ride the wave of good deals? Let's go.

Why buy used from Zeus rather than Leboncoin?

Leboncoin is a bit like Russian roulette for surf gear. Sometimes you find a gem. Often you end up with a board that's lived three lives and weighs an extra two kilos due to approximate repairs.

The real problem? No one checks anything. You and the seller are left to your own devices. And when it comes to organizing transport, that's where it gets funny: "Hey, can you pick up the board 300 km away?" No thanks.

At Zeus, it's different. Every used board passes through our hands before being put online. We inspect, repair if necessary, and rate the condition with a grading system (A, B, or C). Like Back Market, but for surfing.

Where do these boards come from? Everywhere. From partner schools that renew their fleet. From commercial tours where we test new boards. From transport damage that we recondition. Even from our shop in Perros-Guirec in Brittany.

Result: between 400 and 500 boards per year. The catch? They sell out in a week max. We put the boards online in batches of 50, taking the time to take photos and check everything. When they're in stock, you have to be quick.

Guide by budget: what used board for what price?

Let's keep it simple. Here's how to navigate our used boards based on what you want to spend.

Under €200: the smart entry-level option

This is the perfect range if you're starting out or want to try surfing without pressure. At this price, you'll mainly find mini-malibus and longboards in grade B or C.

What does Grade C mean? Clearly visible signs of use, a few clean repairs, but a 100% functional board that will make you stoked in the water.

Is this your first board? Honestly, start here. Dings and shocks happen to everyone. Better to absorb them on a used board than on brand new equipment.

The big advantage of foam is that even if it's dinged up, a Zeus remains solid. No delam spreading, no structural breakage. Just well-earned battle scars.

€200-350: the quality-price sweet spot

Welcome to the comfort zone. Here, you're looking at grade A or B, with boards that have seen very little use.

The mini-malibus in this range are often boards from our commercial tours or schools renewing their equipment after a season. They've been surfed, yes. But they're far from trashed.

Are you progressing quickly? Now's the time to get a board a little shorter than a longboard, without breaking the bank. At this price, a used Zeus costs less than a low-end new resin board. And it will last much longer.

Because yes, a foam board ages better. No stress if you hit it against a rock or if it gets a ding in the trunk.

€350 and up: premium boards at a reduced price

Now we're getting serious. Grade A boards, almost new, often from our demo stock or reconditioned transport damage.

At this price point, you can afford to explore different shapes. Fish, hybrid, lively small longboards... the kind of boards you would have paid €600 for new.

This is also the ideal range if you're looking for a second board to vary the fun depending on the conditions. Small, mushy waves in the morning? You pull out the mini-malibu. Swell picking up in the afternoon? You switch to a shorter shape.

The cool thing about used boards at Zeus is that you can build a quiver without selling a kidney. And since everything is delivered with fins, you're ready to go immediately.

Concrete examples: new vs. used

To make it even clearer, here are our three bestsellers in new and used versions.

Zeus Progress 7'0: the board to start without breaking the bank

Why it works: The Progress is THE board for surf schools. In a used Grade B version, you get a board that has done the job for a season, but still has years ahead of it. For beginners, it's the best value for money on the market.

Zeus Burger 8'0: the versatile mid-length

Zeus Dolce 7'0 Minimal: the mid-length designed by Johnny Cabianca

Why it works: The Dolce is a premium board shaped by Johnny Cabianca. New, it costs €499. In a used Grade A version, you can grab it for €299. Same shape, same performance, €200 less. It's direct access to high-end boards without blowing your budget.

Understanding Grades A, B, C (without the headache)

Alright, let's clarify this grading system once and for all.

Grade A: like new, barely ridden

The board has been surfed a few sessions, but it's in perfect condition. Zero repairs, zero dings, zero visible signs of wear. It's simple: you receive it, and you wonder if it's really used.

Often, these boards come from our commercial demos or from schools that have used certain models very little. If you're the type to want almost new gear without paying full price, this is your grade.

Grade B: normal signs of use, nothing serious

Here, the board has been used. It has small marks, maybe one or two clean repairs, but nothing that impacts performance.

This is our most common grade. A Zeus in grade B is a board that has done its job in school or rental, has been well maintained, and still has years ahead of it.

For an intermediate surfer or a beginner who wants something solid without breaking the bank, this is the best value for money.

Grade C: well-ridden, but sturdy

Let's be honest: a Grade C board clearly shows it's been worked. Signs of use everywhere, multiple repairs, a somewhat tired overall appearance.

But. And this is a big but. It still functions 100%. No structural weakness, no delamination, no buoyancy issues.

If your budget is tight or you just want a backup board for sessions where you know you're going to treat it roughly, Grade C does the job.

Recap: what budget for what board?

What points to check on a used board?

• Bottom: check for cracks, dings, and repairs. Watch out for delamination.
• Nose and tail: inspect the ends, often fragile.
• Rails and deck: look for indentations and potential structural weaknesses.
• Fin boxes: they must be solid and without cracks.
• Leash plug: well-attached and without cracks.
• Pro tip: always ask why the seller is getting rid of their board.

What size to choose for a used board?

• Skill level: beginners choose longboards or mini-malibus. The more you progress, the more you can reduce the size.
• Weight: a lighter person can surf with less volume. Heavier surfers need more generous boards.
• Wave type: small, mushy waves = long board. Hollow waves = short and maneuverable board.

How to negotiate the price?

• Research the price of the equivalent model new and used.
• Highlight any defects found to justify a discount.
• Note: some brands like Firewire, DHD, Channel Islands, Slater Design, or Pyzel retain a strong resale value.
• The most sought-after shapes remain mini-malibus, fish, and longboards.

What pitfalls to avoid?

Board too damaged: major repairs reduce performance.

Not testing: if possible, try the board before buying.

How to maintain a used surfboard?

• Rinse with fresh water after each session.
• Repair quickly: a small chip can become a large crack if neglected.
• Every used board has a story. It's up to you to write the next chapter with your own sessions.

Where to buy and sell used surf equipment in 2025?

• Leboncoin
• SurfingGo (launched in 2023)
• Seconde Glisse (launched in 2024)
• Alltroc Hossegor
• Le Planchon

Akewatu: an abrupt halt

On February 22, 2023, the marketplace Akewatu was placed in judicial liquidation. Despite several fundraising rounds, the model did not find profitability. The site remains awaiting a possible relaunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do boards sell so quickly?

Because we offer something rare: verified gear, delivered, with fins, at a fair price. Between 400 and 500 boards per year, put online in batches of 50. When a batch arrives, you have to be quick.

Where do these boards really come from?

From several sources. Partner surf schools renewing their fleet. Commercial tours where new models are tested. Reconditioned transport damage. Our shop in Perros-Guirec which sometimes serves as a hub. In short, gear with a history, but with many good sessions ahead of it.

Is it guaranteed?

Each board is inspected before being put online. We rate the actual condition with the grading system. What you see in the photos is what you get. No surprises when you open the box.

Can I choose my specific board?

Yes and no. When we put a batch online, each board has its photos. You see exactly what you're buying. But since they sell quickly, you have to be reactive.

Why is it better than Leboncoin?

Leboncoin is you + a seller + total unknown about the actual condition + the hassle of transport. At Zeus, it's verified gear, clear grades. You save time, avoid hassle, and pay less than new. Simple.

How much does a used surfboard cost?

The price varies depending on the brand, age, condition, and model. At Zeus, expect between €150 and €250 for a good beginner board in grade B or C, and from €250 to €400 for intermediate or advanced models in grade A.

Used boards are not second-rate equipment. They're just gear that's already surfed and is waiting for one thing: to get back in the water.

At Zeus, we've simply removed the bullshit so you can focus on what's essential: grabbing a board, going for a ride, improving.

Discover our selection of used surfboards available in our shop.