Learning a new skill is always exciting. Buying all the right equipment to get you started is all well and good if you know what you are looking for. However the trouble with learning something new is that you usually haven’t done it before therefore do not necessarily know the most suitable equipment to buy to match your ability. Learning to surf is no exception. Different abilities require different types of surfboards therefore, it is worth giving a little consideration to the type you chose, to help you out on the waves.
The first thing to consider is price. When you are learning to surf, hopefully it’s your board that will take the brunt of most of your falls, so it’s best not to spend too much on your first surfboard. Once you learn the skills and find yourself gaining more confidence on the waves, perhaps then is the best time to invest your money in something more suitable to your personal surfing style. Until you know what that is however, a simple soft-board is perfectly adequate.
For the absolute beginner, you want to look for something with maximum float and stability, for quick learning and progression. Soft-boards are perfect for all ages and abilities, with their soft deck and foam core with a soft, safe, flexible, rubber fin system helps prevent injuries while you learn your craft.
When it comes to surfing, size does matters. You may think that you need to get the coolest gear, the smallest, most narrow surfboard, to maintain the same look as the more experience riders. This is not the case however and the only look you’ll be creating is one of embarrassment if you try to progress too quickly.
Surfing is a skilled sport and takes time and patience to master the art. When you are starting out, it’s best to stick to a slightly longer board that will give better floatation and allow for easy paddling. An average size board for a beginning surfer would be around 7 feet long and 19-21 inches wide and at least 2-3 inches thick. Of course it does depend on your height and size but the important thing to remember is that your surfboard stands at least a foot taller than you.
In terms of the shape of the board when you are learning, you don’t need to give too much thought to the tail shape or how many fins there are on your surfboard. It’s only once you become more experienced that you’ll need to consider these qualities.
Whether you decide to hire a board or buy your first from a friend or surf shop, make sure your key priority is practicality. All you need to get started is a big, cheap surfboard to help you get used to the basic skills and grow your confidence. Only once you have this confidence, should you really start to consider investing money in something more tailored to meet your surfing needs.
Dominic Donaldson is an expert in the Sports Industry.
Find out more about surfboards at http://www.transsurf.co.uk
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