Surfboard Size Calculator

Here’s a general guide to surfboard sizes across various types, including fish, shortboards, longboards, and funboards. Please note that these are just recommendations and the ideal size can vary depending on factors such as your weight, surfing ability, and the specific conditions you’ll be surfing in.

Surfboard Type	Recommended Size (Height)	Recommended Size (Width)	Recommended Size (Thickness)
Shortboard	5’6″ – 6’4″	18″ – 20″	2″ – 2.5″
Fish	5’2″ – 6’4″	20″ – 22″	2.25″ – 2.75″
Funboard	6’6″ – 8’0″	20″ – 22″	2.5″ – 3″
Longboard	8’0″ – 10’0″	22″ – 24″	2.75″ – 3.5″

Remember, these are just starting points. It’s essential to consider factors such as your skill level, weight, wave conditions, and personal preferences when selecting a surfboard size. Additionally, getting advice from experienced surfers or professionals at your local surf shop can also be helpful in finding the right size for you.

FAQs

How do I know what size surfboard to get?

• The size of a surfboard depends on factors like your weight, height, skill level, and the type of waves you’ll be surfing. Generally, longer and wider boards offer more stability, while shorter boards provide better maneuverability.

How do you calculate surfboard size?

• Surfboard size is typically calculated based on a combination of factors, including weight, height, skill level, and wave conditions. A common formula involves dividing weight (in pounds) by height (in inches) and adding or subtracting based on other factors.

How tall should my surfboard be if I’m 5 8?

• For someone who is 5’8″ (approximately 173 cm) tall, a surfboard length around 6’4″ to 7’0″ (approximately 193-213 cm) could be suitable for a beginner or intermediate surfer.

How many liters surfboard should I ride?

• The number of liters for a surfboard depends on your weight, skill level, and the type of waves you’ll be surfing. As a general guideline, beginners typically ride boards with higher volume (e.g., 2-2.5 liters per kilogram of body weight) for better stability.

Should your surfboard be the same height as you?

• Not necessarily. The ideal surfboard size varies based on factors like weight, skill level, and wave conditions. It’s common for surfboards to be slightly taller or shorter than the rider’s height.

Should my surfboard be taller than me?

• Surfboard height is not necessarily directly related to your height. Instead, it’s more about finding the right length, width, and volume based on your weight, skill level, and surfing preferences.

What is an intermediate surfer?

• An intermediate surfer is someone who has mastered the basics of surfing, such as paddling, catching waves, and standing up consistently. They may be working on improving their technique, mastering more advanced maneuvers, and surfing in a variety of conditions.

Does the length of a surfboard affect its stability?

• Yes, generally, longer surfboards offer more stability, especially for beginners, as they have a larger surface area and greater buoyancy. Shorter boards tend to be more maneuverable but may require more balance and skill to ride.

Can I learn to surf on a funboard?

• Yes, funboards, which are typically longer and wider than shortboards but shorter and narrower than longboards, can be suitable for beginners to learn on. They offer a good balance of stability and maneuverability.

Is my surfboard too small for me?

• If you find it difficult to catch waves, maintain balance, or perform maneuvers on your surfboard, it may be too small for you. Consider trying a larger board with more volume for better stability.

Are shorter surfboards harder to ride?

• Shorter surfboards can be more challenging to ride for beginners due to their reduced stability and buoyancy. They require more skill and balance to control, especially in smaller or weaker waves.

Can I ride a surfboard shorter than me?

• Yes, you can ride a surfboard shorter than you, but it depends on factors like your weight, skill level, and wave conditions. Shorter boards typically require more skill and experience to ride effectively.

What happens if your surfboard is too big?

• A surfboard that is too big may feel sluggish and difficult to maneuver. It may also be challenging to paddle and catch waves efficiently. However, it can provide more stability for beginners in small or weak waves.

Can a beginner ride a 7-foot surfboard?

• Beginners can ride a 7-foot surfboard, but it may be more challenging due to its shorter length and lower volume. Longer boards (e.g., 8-9 feet) are generally recommended for beginners for better stability and ease of paddling.

What volume surfboard for 80 kg?

• For someone weighing 80 kg, a surfboard with a volume between 60 to 70 liters could be suitable for beginners, providing adequate stability without feeling too bulky.

Is it easier to ride a long or short surfboard?

• Longer surfboards (e.g., longboards) are generally easier to ride for beginners due to their greater stability and buoyancy. Shorter boards (e.g., shortboards) offer more maneuverability but require more skill and balance.

Can a surfboard be too long?

• A surfboard can be too long for certain conditions or preferences, but it depends on factors like your weight, skill level, and surfing style. Longer boards may feel cumbersome and less maneuverable in larger waves or for more advanced maneuvers.

Is it better to store surfboards vertical or horizontal?

• Surfboards are typically stored horizontally to prevent warping and damage to the shape. Storing them vertically can put unnecessary pressure on specific areas and lead to deformation over time.

Can you learn on a 6ft surfboard?

• Learning to surf on a 6-foot surfboard can be challenging, especially for beginners. Shorter boards require more skill and balance to control, and they’re typically better suited for more experienced surfers in larger or more powerful waves.

Is volume more important than length for a surfboard?

• Both volume and length are important factors when choosing a surfboard. Volume affects buoyancy and stability, while length influences maneuverability and wave-catching ability. It’s essential to find the right balance based on your weight, skill level, and surfing goals.

Does surfboard leash length matter?

• Yes, surfboard leash length matters as it affects how close the board stays to you when you fall off. The leash should be roughly the same length as your surfboard or slightly shorter to prevent it from getting tangled or causing accidents in the water.

What is a female surfer called?

• A female surfer is simply called a surfer. Gender-specific terms like “surfer girl” or “surfer chick” are also used colloquially.

What is a beginner surfer called?

• A beginner surfer is often called a novice or beginner, regardless of gender.

What is the surfer rule?

• The surfer rule refers to the unwritten rules and etiquette that govern surfers’ behavior in the lineup, including right of way, sharing waves, and respecting other surfers.

Is it OK to store a surfboard standing up?

• It’s generally not recommended to store a surfboard standing up for long periods as it can lead to warping and damage to the shape. Horizontal storage is preferable to maintain the board’s integrity.

Why does my surfboard sink when I stand on it?

• If your surfboard sinks when you stand on it, it could be due to insufficient buoyancy or volume for your weight. Consider trying a board with more volume or buoyancy to prevent sinking.

Why does my surfboard feel slow?

• A surfboard may feel slow due to factors like excess weight, drag, or a lack of buoyancy. Ensure the board is clean, properly waxed, and the fins are in good condition for optimal performance.