Surfboard shapes: A Simple Guide for Different Skill Levels

We often get enquiries about surfboard shapes and their suitability for different skill levels. While factors like board rocker, nose shape, and fin setups play crucial roles, this guide focuses on basic surfboard shapes, their characteristics, and recommended uses.

Foamie or soft top

Ideal for: Absolute beginners

Key features: Very stable and buoyant • Made with lightweight, soft foam • Softer fins that bend easily

Benefits: Easier to paddle and float • Safer during wipeouts • Reduced risk of injury

Longboard

Size range: 9ft - 12ft

Suitable for: Beginners progressing from foamies, experienced longboarders

Key features: Great floatation and stability • Performs well in small swells

Benefits: Easier to pop up and balance • Increases wave count for beginners

Note: Experienced longboarding (logging) is a distinct style focusing on graceful turns and noseriding

Mini Mal

Size range: 7ft - 8'6ft

Suitable for: Intermediate surfers transitioning to smaller boards

Key features: Wide, round nose shape • High volume for stability and buoyancy

Benefits: Easier to turn than longboards • Good transition board before shortboards

Fish

Identifiable by: Short, wide, curved shape with fish-like tail

Suitable for: Intermediate surfers

Key features: Wide outline and flat rocker • More volume and buoyancy

Benefits: Good paddle power and speed generation • Versatile in small to medium waves and punchier conditions

Shortboard

Size: Usually under 6ft

Suitable for: Experienced and advanced surfers

Key features: Shorter length for increased maneuverability • Designed for speed and performance

Benefits: Ideal for riding barrels and performing aerial tricks • Excellent in big, clean, powerful waves

Drawbacks: Not suitable for small, messy conditions • Challenging for beginners to paddle and catch waves

Note: Beginners should be cautious about transitioning to shortboards too quickly, as it may hinder progression

Gun

Size: 9ft and above

Suitable for: Advanced big wave surfers only

Key features: Long, narrow shape • Pointed nose and tail

Benefits: Excellent for paddling and generating speed in big surf • Cuts through large waves • Holds well in steep drops and large barrels

For more advice on surfboard shapes and bespoke boards check out Escape Surfboards in Polzeath, North Cornwall or Ocean Sports in Brighton.