It is a question that’s commonly asked by surfers of different abilities. What’s the best surfboard that I should get to have more fun and progress faster?
While at it, it’s worth keeping in mind the fact that when it comes to these boards, it’s the little things that count.
- The right size for you
- The ideal shape of the surf
- Your level of experience
If you have been having any questions regarding any one of those three, this review article is for you. We’ll not only review some of the top surfboards but also educate you on how to pick the best based on your unique needs.
Popular Surfboards for the Money: Comparison List
Before we get deeper into the reviews, the following are the most popular surfboards available out there. We’ve compiled them into a list so you can have an easy time reading them.
| Ranking | Name | Color | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thurso Surf Lancer Soft Top Board 5’10” | Gray | 12 pounds |
| 2 | South Bay Board Co. Soft Top Surfboard | Aqua – 7′ | 22.7 pounds |
| 3 | Giantex 6′ Surfboard Surfing Surf Beach Ocean Body Foamie Board | Yellow & Blue | 4.8 pounds |
| 4 | Giantex 6 Surfboard | Aqua – 7′ | 22.7 pounds |
| 5 | California Board Company Assorted CFC Surfboard | – | 7.2 pounds |
| 6 | Soft Bay Board Top Surfboard | Brown/Wood | 11 pounds |
| 7 | Liquid Shredder Sift Surf EPS/PE/FSE surfboard | Yellow | 12 pounds |
| 8 | Rock-it Chub 4’ 11 “Surfboard | – | 9.4 pounds |
| 9 | Wavestorm Brushed Graphic 8’ Surfboard | – | 22 pounds |
| 10 | BIC Sport G-Board EVO Soft Surfboard | – | 26 pounds |
1. Thurso Surf Lancer Soft Top Board 5’10”
First on our list is the Thurso Surf Fish soft Lancer Top Surfboard. It is designed to give you optimum surfing fun. Its fishtail design provides you with a broader surface for better traction and hold. It also enables the rider to plan lift and speed.
Features and Benefits
The deck is heat laminated for minimizing lamination for a durable, glamorous look. In addition, it features an EPS core, which is popular for being stiff and lightweight, which makes the surfboard very buoyant. Also, it has two wood stringers for longitudinal strength and additional stiffness.
This board is made to be stable and to give you maximum satisfaction as you ride. The fin box is easily adjustable and makes sure that the board is easy to move around. More importantly, it is well cushioned and sealed to avoid delamination.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Relatively fast
- Easy to control
Cons
- Not suitable for beginners
2. South Bay Board Co. Soft Top Surfboard
If you are a surfing enthusiast, then you probably have the desire to test and chase down different types of waves. This Soft Bay Board Top Surfboard is designed to tackle consistent and smaller streams. It is suitable for all age levels.
Features and Benefits
This board can hold riders with a maximum weight of 230 pounds. It is quite a small size board, which makes it easy to carry and store. The surface is anti-slip, which means there’ no need for purchasing surf waxes. It is strong, so it cannot be destroyed by slamming waves.
Pros
- Suitable for all levels
- maximum weight of 230 pounds
- Attractive color
Cons
- Not so versatile
Also read: 10 Best Towable Tubes [Buying Guide] Reviews & The 10 Best SUP Paddles – [Reviews & Buying Guide]
3. California Board Company (7 feet)
If you are searching for an outstanding and stylish board that also performs excellently in the water, then the California Board Company (7 feet) might be what you need. It has a new and improved design that makes it easy to handle and balance.
Features and Benefits
This board not only comes at an affordable price but also great for beginners. The material is waterproof, which makes it easy to maintain and no need to worry about the board getting damaged by the water.It also has a laminated heat construction.
The waterproof EPS and Slick HPDE bottom are heat laminated. The neat wood graphic is also heated laminated. This means you get to enjoy this stable board for a long time. This board is recommended for beginners since it is quite buoyant and provides traction compared to a slippery surfboard.
Pros
- traction pad
- Attractive look
- Great measurement
- Durable
Cons
- Too rigid
4. Giantex 6 Surfboard
If you are on a budget, the Giantex 6 Surfboard is a great option since it’s pocket-friendly and does not compromise on quality. This board has an attractive white and blue design and also has an artistic pattern. It is also ideal for those who want to learn how to surf.
Features and Benefits
To begin with, this Surfboard from Giantex is designed with a free leash and transaction pad for convenience. The comfort offered by the board will make you look forward to the next practice session. The traction, removable fins, and hold enable you the shortest time to learn surfing.
On top of that, this board is built with a fast, sleek bottom and durable top foam, which gives you more time to learn without breaking. Also, it has removable fins and is lightweight and rigid which makes it easy to transport
Pros
- Great aesthetics
- Easy to assemble
- Increased traction
- Easy to carry
- Customizable paddles
Cons
- May sink
5. California Board Company Assorted CFC Surfboard
If you look at the California Board Company Assorted CFC Surfboard from a distance, you can easily mistake it for a real longboard. This board has a wood deck graphic design that comes out super clean and incredibly sharp.
Features and Benefits
This well-made board is relatively heavy as it weighs 16 pounds. As a result, it has a maximum holding capacity of 275 pounds. This makes it a great choice for heavier riders who want to catch some waves. The material is waterproof, which makes it easy to maintain and no need to worry about the board getting damaged by the water.
It also has a laminated heat construction. The waterproof EPS and Slick HPDE bottom are heat laminated. The neat wood graphic is also heated laminated. In short, this board is virtually indestructible. However, this may backfire in the water. Since this CFC is so rigid, it can be maneuverability a bit difficult.
Pros
- Affordable
- Waterproof
- Stable for beginners
- Laminated construction
Cons
- A bit difficult to maneuver
6. Soft Bay Board Top Surfboard
Another model by soft Bay is this Soft Bay Board Top Surfboard. This board is designed to be beginner-friendly. It is not only performance-focused but incredibly durable as well. It is suitable for making the most of crumbly and small waves.
Features and Benefits
This product is ideal for adults and kids who are interested in learning how to surf. On top of that, this board is constructed with a fast, sleek bottom and durable top foam, which gives the surfer more time to learn without breaking.
It can support riders with a maximum weight of 230 pounds, which makes it suitable for large adult beginners.
Pros
- Great for small waves
- Beginner-friendly
- Wax free
Cons
- A bit pricy
7. Liquid Shredder Sift Surf EPS/PE/FSE surfboard
Next on our list is the Liquid Shredder Sift Surf EPS/PE/FSE surfboard. The classic and well-designed board has been on the market for quite some time and for a good reason. It is 20 inches wide and 6 feet long and weighs about 9 pounds. It can carry riders with a limit weight of 120 pounds.
Features and Benefits
This blue colored surfboard is made of polyethylene deck, polystyrene core and polypropylene bottom. This makes it rigid and strong to withstand even the roughest waters. It also features two wooden stringers that offer the rigidity required for maximum riding experience.
Moreover, the stringers are water grade wood ply, and the middle stringer ate the middle is rigid fiberglass. No need to worry about the board being destroyed in slamming waves. The surface is anti-slip so need for surf wax. Not to mention it comes with a 90-day use warranty.
Pros
- 90-day warranty
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Strong
Cons
- Has no leash
8. Rock-it Chub 4’ 11 “Surfboard
The Rock-it Chub 4’ 11 “Surfboard is ideal for kids who want to learn how to ride on the waves. This green colored board can carry surfers with a maximum weight of 150 pounds. The bottom is grey and has a zebra print design which makes it stand out.
Features and Benefits
To start with, its EPS core is popular for being stiff and lightweight, which makes the surfboard very buoyant. Also, it has two wood stringers for longitudinal strength and additional stiffness. On top of that, this board has a fiberglass cloth at the bottom, which makes it durable and enhances its density.
The rider weight can be a bit disappointing but is quite attractive for surfers of all levels. Besides that, it comes at an affordable price.
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Attractive color
- Durable
- Easy to use
Cons
- Limiting weight capacity
9. Wavestorm Brushed Graphic 8’ Surfboard
One of the most important things a surf beginner requires when learning how to surf is a longboard because they are easier to operate. The Wavestorm Brushed Graphic 8’ Surfboard comes at an average price and has an attractive color and design
Features and Benefits
This Wavestorm model comes with to fins and an ankle leash to make your riding experience much easier. The board has a carrying weight capacity of 200 pounds. Its curvature and shape focuses on making riding easy and offering stability, which prevents you from falling off.
The fin box is easily adjustable, which makes the board more portable compared to similar brands in this price range. The white and blue design is a nice and attractive style. In addition, it has a laminate deck which keeps it in good condition for a long time.
Besides that, it has a system that prevents water from getting in the top deck so no need to worry about water interrupting your ride. You will get a woven board sock for safe storage of the board.
Pros
- Great for gliding
- Easy to ride
- Safe for beginners
Cons
- Bulky
You may love to read: 10 Best Touring Kayaks – Reviewed For the Choosy Buyer
10. BIC G-Board Sport EVO Soft Surfboard
What we love about this BIC G-Board Sport EVO Soft Surfboard is that it is easy to fun to ride on and super easy to learn with. This board provides you with more maneuverability compared to other standard longboards.
Features and Benefits
The board has internal double reinforced stringers that make it is stiff, durable and increases its performance. Additionally, this surfboard has a wide nose that makes it easy to paddle, and the extra volume enables you to pop up without any problem.
The small size is ideal as it balances out the longboard features by giving better control in direction.
Pros
- Wax-free deck
- Easy to paddle
- Fins provide a better control
Cons
- Too short, difficult to catch waves with
Factors to Consider When Buying Surfboards
Choosing the right surfing board is something that gets everyone a little confused. And, therefore, it’s really a good thing that you decided to come here to explore this buying guide. In our view, the best surfboard for the money is one that can last a long time.
The longer it lasts, the greater the chances of you using it to perfect your surfing skills. You really don’t want to end up with a huge hole in your pockets when buying these board either. So, it always makes sense to opt for a budget-friendly surfboard but also one that provides you with good value for money.
Epoxy vs Polyester (PU) Boards
The biggest decision you’ll probably need to make in regards to surfboards is whether to go for an Epoxy or PU one. In general, Epoxy is a good alternative if you’re looking for something that’s really strong and capable of lasting long.
On a tight budget? PU surfboards would be a good alternative to settle for. If anything, they have the reputation of being beginner-friendly as well.
On the flipside, though PU boards get destroyed easily than Epoxy ones. So, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of those two alternatives careful so you can make an informed bet.
Budget
Just how much are you intending to spend on your next board? Are you just looking for a cheap surfboard for fun with friends? Then you really don’t need to break the bank for it.
However, you should be realistic with what to expect. The cheaper it is, the higher the chances that it will not last long. Remember, you always get what you pay for.
If a surfboard is too cheap to be true, it probably is. Likewise, you don’t have to spend heavily all in the name of a high-quality tool. Insane pricing doesn’t necessarily reflect the kind of quality offered by a surfboard.
Size
Yup, size matters as far as these boards are concerned. Normally, the longer the surfboard, the easier it is to use. Short surfboards such as 6’6 ones are best preferred for advanced users.
As a beginner, your best bet in terms of size is a board that falls between 7’2 and 7’6 sizes. That’s just enough size to provide you with the stability you need as you build your confidence.
The rule of the thumb as far as size goes is that the bigger, the better. But even then, you have to keep in mind that if it’s too big, it might also provide difficult to control. Too small? It’ll be tricky to find your balance on it and also difficult to catch waves with it.
Shape
There’s more to shape than just looks. If you’re a hobbyist, we’d recommend going for a surfboard whose nose is rounder as it also tends to provide you with a generally large surface. Also, a rounder nose is great for catching waves.
And remember, the more the waves you catch, the better you’re likely to become as a surfer. But just to ensure you’re on the safe side, be sure to get something with a width of 19 to 22 inches on the widest part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Having some burning queries regarding the use of surfboard? Wonder no more as our FAQs section is available right here for your perusal. Here we do:
Can I use a 6’6 surfboard if I am a beginner?
We wouldn’t recommend using such a short surfboard if you’re completely new to surfing. It is better to start with a much bigger and wider board. This will give you a more stable platform to learn the basics from before you advance to a 6’6 surfboard.
How good are soft top surfboards?
These types of surfboards are ideal for surfers at different levels of experience. They are good for beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers alike.
What are some of the best surfboard brands?
There are many good surfboard brands out there but the top ones we’d like to single out are Jason Stevenson, Channel Islands, Rusty Surfboards, O Neill and Rip Curl.
Best Surfboard: Our Pick
There’s nothing like a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing surfboards. So, we’d like to make our recommendations based on different levels of surfing skills.
If you’re an advanced surfer, we’d recommend the Thurso Surf Lancer Soft Top Board. It’s a 5’10 that has got all the bells and whistles you need to enjoy your outdoor activities.
For beginners, we’d go for the South Bay Board Co. Soft Top Surfboard. It is quite stable plus we really like its nose.
Final Thoughts
Surfing is one of the best ways to spend your free time. And if you’re thinking of making it a full-time career, it’s definitely a good field to be in. But for you to get the most out of this hobby you want to ensure that you enjoy it using a well-made surfboard.