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10 Best Beginner Surfboards 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Wavestorm - Classic Soft Top Foam 8ft Surfboard (Tri Color Solid

The Wavestorm Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard is an excellent choice for beginners looking to hit the waves. At 8 feet long, 22 1/2 inches wide, and 3 1/4 inches thick, its dimensions provide stability and ease of use, which are ideal for those who are just starting. The soft foam construction offers safety, reducing the risk of injury during falls, while the strong EPS core with a 3-stringer system ensures durability. Additionally, the high-density polyethylene slick bottom allows for smooth gliding on the water.

One of its standout features is the soft WBS-IXL Water Barrier Skin, which helps protect the board from water damage and adds to its longevity. The removable fins and ankle leash included with the surfboard offer convenience for users, ensuring a customizable experience depending on skill level and preference.

This surfboard shines as a beginner-friendly option with its forgiving design and ease of handling, making it perfect for teens and kids eager to learn. However, those planning to progress quickly in their surfing skills might eventually outgrow it. The Wavestorm Classic Soft Top Surfboard represents a solid investment for novices wanting to build their confidence in the water.

#2

Wavestorm - Classic Soft Top Foam 7ft Surfboard Surfboard for Beginners and All Surfing Levels Complete Set Includes Leash and Multiple Fins Heat Laminated, Blue Pinline (AZ22-WSSF700-PIN)

Rating
10.0
Length
Material

Most important from
145 reviews

Length
Perfect size for a 10-year-old beginner and also works well for a 6ft, 180lbs adult.
Material
Foam material ensures safe bails, though the fin connectors can sometimes scrape the knee.

The Wavestorm Classic Soft Top Foam 7ft Surfboard is tailored for beginners and various skill levels, making it a highly versatile choice in the world of surfing. With dimensions of 7 feet in length, 22 inches in width, and 3 inches in thickness, this board offers ample stability and buoyancy. It boasts a volume of 70 liters, ensuring that even heavier users can enjoy a steady ride. Weighing only 10.2 pounds, it's relatively easy to carry to and from the beach.

The foam material used in this surfboard is lightweight and enhances durability while the triple stringer system provides added strength and integrity to the board's core. The high-density slick bottom and patented UV inhibiting soft graphic deck add to the board's rigidity and longevity, making it suitable for long-term use. The included tail pad improves back foot traction, while the three-fin setup allows for better maneuverability in the water.

Despite being lightweight and beginner-friendly, the Wavestorm surfboard might not offer the same performance level as higher-end, more expensive boards made from advanced materials. Additionally, the foam material, while safe and durable, may not provide the same speed and responsiveness as fiberglass or epoxy boards. This surfboard set includes a leash and multiple fins, ensuring you have everything you need to start surfing right away. More experienced surfers might find it limiting in terms of performance and speed.

Rating
10.0
Length
Material

Most important from
145 reviews

Length
Perfect size for a 10-year-old beginner and also works well for a 6ft, 180lbs adult.
Material
Foam material ensures safe bails, though the fin connectors can sometimes scrape the knee.
#3

6’ FLOWBOARD Surfboard Softboard Foam - Include (3) Fins 6’ Foot Leash and (2) Wood Stringers Inside Board - Kids and Adults Beginner Intermediate 6 Foot and Comes with High Performance Traction Pad

Rating
9.8
Volume

Most important from
33 reviews

Volume
The board floats well even for a 165-pound person, ensuring stability and ease of use.

The 6’ FLOWBOARD Surfboard by EASYGO PRODUCTS is designed for beginners and intermediate surfers, both kids and adults. With dimensions of 72 inches in length and 20.5 inches in width, this board offers a stable platform for learning and improving surf skills. The board's thickness isn't specified, but the volume and shape seem to accommodate novice surfers by providing buoyancy and ease of paddling.

Made from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), it ensures durability and resistance against wear and tear, which is great for frequent use and rough handling typical with beginner boards. The inclusion of three fins and a 6-foot leash adds value, enhancing control and safety while surfing. Additionally, the two wood stringers inside the board offer extra rigidity, helping maintain its shape and performance in the water. The high-performance traction pad further aids in grip, preventing slips and falls.

This surfboard is particularly suitable for those starting out in surfing, looking for a durable and stable board with added features that can grow with their skill level. It comes with a 30-day limited warranty, which provides some peace of mind but might be considered short by some users.

Rating
9.8
Volume

Most important from
33 reviews

Volume
The board floats well even for a 165-pound person, ensuring stability and ease of use.

Buying Guide for the Best Beginner Surfboards

Choosing the right beginner surfboard is crucial for your learning experience and overall enjoyment of the sport. As a beginner, you want a board that is stable, easy to paddle, and forgiving. The right surfboard will help you catch waves more easily and improve your skills faster. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a beginner surfboard and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
LengthThe length of a surfboard is measured from the nose to the tail. For beginners, longer boards are generally better because they provide more stability and are easier to paddle. Surfboards for beginners typically range from 7 to 9 feet. If you are a smaller person or a child, you might opt for a board on the shorter end of this range. If you are taller or heavier, a longer board will provide better buoyancy and stability.
WidthThe width of a surfboard is measured at its widest point. Wider boards offer more stability, which is essential for beginners. A width of around 20 to 22 inches is ideal for most beginners. If you find yourself struggling with balance, a wider board can help you stay upright more easily. Conversely, if you feel comfortable with your balance, you might opt for a slightly narrower board to start practicing more advanced maneuvers.
ThicknessThickness refers to how thick the surfboard is from top to bottom. Thicker boards provide more buoyancy, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. For beginners, a thickness of around 2.5 to 3 inches is recommended. If you are heavier, you might need a thicker board to ensure it floats well. If you are lighter, a slightly thinner board can still provide enough buoyancy while being easier to handle.
VolumeVolume is a combination of length, width, and thickness, and it determines how much flotation the board provides. It is measured in liters. For beginners, higher volume boards are better because they are more stable and easier to paddle. A volume of 60 to 80 liters is generally suitable for most beginners. If you are heavier, aim for the higher end of this range. If you are lighter, you can go for a lower volume within this range.
MaterialSurfboards can be made from different materials, including foam, fiberglass, and epoxy. Foam boards are great for beginners because they are soft, making them safer and more forgiving if you fall. Fiberglass boards are more durable and offer better performance but can be more challenging for beginners. Epoxy boards are a good middle ground, offering durability and performance while still being relatively easy to handle. As a beginner, starting with a foam or epoxy board is usually the best choice.
ShapeThe shape of the surfboard affects how it performs in the water. For beginners, a board with a rounded nose and a wide, stable shape is ideal. These shapes are often referred to as 'funboards' or 'mini-mals.' They provide the stability and ease of paddling that beginners need. Avoid boards with pointed noses or narrow tails, as these are designed for more advanced surfers and can be difficult to control.

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