Different types of surf board

Softboard, Foam Surf Boards or Foamies - Constructed from soft foam these boards are very buoyant and usually shaped to be very stable in the water making it easier for the novice to catch waves. The advantage for the beginner is that a soft board will hurt less if it hits you while training.

Moulded Surf Boards - Mass produced surf boards made from thick epoxy fibreglass skin, heavier than softboards and custom boards of the same size the moulded boards are generally steadier in the water.

Custom Surf Boards, Glassed Surf Boards - Custom surf boards are shaped by hand rather than factory produced like moulded surf boards.

Common surf board designs

Shortboard, Thruster - The shortboard is not ideal for beginners – The shortboard is one of the most popular small surf boards. The shortboard has a pointy nose and is smaller in size to other boards. These surf boards are thinned down and create a high performance but less buoyant and harder to paddle board. These surf boards are not suitable for small surf, they are designed to offer performance in good surfing conditions.

Longboard, Malibu - The longboard is generally regarded as the best for beginners. Longboards have a rounded nose and are usually between 9 and 12 feet long. The Longboard has gained the nickname ‘Malibu’ because it is one of the most popular types of surf board used in Malibu.

Fish - The fish was created by Skip Frye in the 1970s, the fish surf boards are usually shorter than a short board and offer a tighter turning arc making it suitable for smaller waves.

Gun - The gun is usually between 7 and 12 feet long, it is similar to a short board in appearance but has the length of a long board. The Gun is popular in areas with big waves and is not suitable for beginners.

Characteristics to bear in mind when looking for a surf board

Length - Shorter boards offer a smaller turning circle, longer boards glide easily but turn slower. Small boards are good for quick aggressive manoeuvres. Longer boards are good for smooth controlled turns.

Width - Wider boards are sturdier on the waves.

Thickness - Thicker boards will be more buoyant and make it easier to paddle and catch waves.