With all the equipment, etiquette, and technique that surfing requires, getting started can be confusing. First and foremost, you need to have a good idea about what wetsuit you should wear and what surfboard you should use.
In this article, we will be focusing on beginner surfboards. We will explore what foam surfboards are good for and their benefits for those just starting on the waves.
Is it Worth Buying a Beginner Surfboard?
If you're serious about surfing, it is well worth your time investing in a beginner surfboard. We wouldn't recommend jumping the gun and purchasing a more advanced board, as you'll still be working on your position and balance; a more advanced board will hinder your progress and prevent you from perfecting your technique as quickly.
Are Foam Surfboards Good for Surfing?
Foam surfboards are one of the best types of board for beginners. Foam boards provide added buoyancy, making paddling into and catching waves easier. They're also the safest you can use in a lineup; accidents happen, and you won't want to be hitting anyone in the head with a hardboard.
What Surfboard Should I Buy as a Beginner?
As a beginner, you should be looking into purchasing a foam surfboard. However, even foam surfboards come in a range of shapes and sizes.
An ideal option is a foam longboard surfboard; they're the perfect entry-level board for many reasons, including:
- Good stability
- User-friendly
- Easier to paddle out
- Good for catching waves
- Easier to get to standing
What are the Benefits of Using a Foam Board?
There are many benefits to using a foam board; here, we list a few of their many advantages!
Optimal Safety
Foam boards provide a good sense of security. If you wipe out (which is likely in the beginning), the chance of you or someone else getting hurt is lower compared to with a harder board.
Easy to Ride
Foam boards make it much easier to catch waves thanks to their shape, buoyancy and increased volume. More stable waves will help you get in more good practice and perfect your manoeuvres from the start.
Resistant and Economical
A foam board is also more resistant than a shortboard and often requires less maintenance and care. Thanks to a foamie's material, it's more durable and is less likely to break during falls and wipeouts.
If you're currently surfing the market for a board, you'll notice that foam boards are much cheaper, making them more accessible for new riders. It means that you don't need to spend a lot of money if you're looking to trial some surfing out and see how you get on.
For more information on foam boards, check out our surfing blog or contact a member of our team. Here at Wetsuit Centre, we're always happy to help!