Surfboards

Surfing is more than a sport—it's a connection to nature, a journey of personal growth and a lifestyle. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your skills, understanding your surfboard and how it fits into your progression is key. That's where this guide comes in—to help you navigate the waves with confidence.

🏄‍♂️ Surfboard Types: Finding Your Perfect Match

Surfboards come in all shapes and sizes. Each type is designed to perform best in specific conditions and for particular skill levels. Let's break down the main types:

Longboards (9'0" and up)

Longboards are ideal for beginners and anyone who wants that classic surfing experience. They offer high stability and buoyancy, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. That's why they're great for learning the fundamentals and practicing moves like nose riding.

Funboards/Mid-Lengths (7'0"–8'6")

These boards are for surfers transitioning from beginner to intermediate. They combine the stability of longboards with the maneuverability of shortboards. That versatility makes them a great choice for all sorts of conditions.

Fish Boards (5'4"–6'4")

Fish boards are for intermediate surfers who want speed in smaller waves. They're wider and shorter with a distinctive swallowtail, which gives you that extra speed and agility. Not recommended for beginners, though, due to lower stability.

Shortboards (5'6"–6'6")

Shortboards are for advanced surfers who want high-performance maneuvers. They're thin, narrow and highly responsive. That means you can make quick turns and catch some air. But you'll need a lot of experience to handle them.

Guns (7'0" and up)

Guns are for big wave surfers. They're long and narrow, designed for speed and control on massive waves. Not for beginners or small wave conditions.

🌊 Tips for Surfers at Every Level

Beginners

Start with a longboard. Its stability will help you focus on learning the basics. Practice the pop-up on land before you hit the waves. Choose beach breaks with soft, rolling waves. And don't forget to use a leash and some surf wax for grip.

Intermediate Surfers

Experiment with different board types. Try funboards or fish boards to see what suits your style. Refine your technique by focusing on bottom turns and cutbacks. Learn to read waves and position yourself effectively. And stay fit through regular exercise.

Advanced Surfers

Customize your quiver by choosing boards tailored to specific wave conditions. Push your limits by tackling challenging waves and refining advanced maneuvers. Share your knowledge with others and inspire the next generation of surfers. And stay updated on new board technologies and surf trends.

🛒 Explore Our Surfboard Collection

At Seaside Surf Shop, we have a range of surfboards to suit every surfer's needs. From shortboards to longboards, mid-lengths to guns, we stock top brands and local favorites.

We can help you find the perfect board. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, we'll be happy to guide you through our collection.

Choosing a surfboard can be a bit overwhelming. But we're here to help you navigate that. Call us at 503.717.1110 or visit our Contact Us page to get advice tailored just to you.

Learn more about choosing the right surfboard

That's where our video comes in: Choosing the Best Surfboard for You. Watch that for a visual guide on what to look for.

We want you to have the right equipment—and the confidence—to enjoy your surfing journey. We'll be right there with you, every step of the way.

Surf Shop