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10 Best Surfboard For Beginners 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

WAVESTORM Classic Soft Top Foam 8ft Surfboard Surfboard for Beginners and All Surfing Levels Complete Board Set Including Accessories Leash and Fins,Burst,8 Feet x 22.5 Inch x 3.25 Inch

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,408
Material
Design

Most important from
90 reviews

Material
The colors are very nice and the board seems to be sturdy.
Design
The colors are very nice and the board seems to be sturdy.

The WAVESTORM Classic Soft Top Foam 8ft Surfboard is an excellent choice for beginners and surfers of all levels. Its soft foam construction makes it forgiving and safe, reducing the risk of injury when falling. The strong EPS core and multi-stringer system provide durability, which is a significant advantage for beginners as they learn to navigate the waves. With dimensions of 8 feet long, 22.5 inches wide, and 3.25 inches thick, it offers a stable platform that enhances balance, making it easier for newcomers to get up on the board.

The board’s design includes a water barrier skin that protects against wear, while the high-density polyethylene slick bottom allows for smooth gliding on the water. Additionally, the included accessories, like the removable fins, ankle leash, and traction pad, provide everything a beginner needs to get started right away. With a volume of 86 liters, this board is buoyant enough to support riders up to 200 pounds, accommodating a wide range of users.

Despite its many strengths, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Its foam material, while safe, may not perform as well as traditional fiberglass boards in terms of speed and responsiveness, which could matter as one progresses in surfing skills. Also, at 21 pounds, it might be a bit cumbersome for some beginners to carry around, especially after a long day in the water. The 30-day warranty is relatively short, which might leave some buyers concerned about long-term durability.

This surfboard is a solid option for anyone just starting out in surfing, providing a good balance of safety and stability. Its construction and included features make it user-friendly, although those looking to advance in the sport might find it lacking in performance compared to more advanced surfboards.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,408
Material
Design

Most important from
90 reviews

Material
The colors are very nice and the board seems to be sturdy.
Design
The colors are very nice and the board seems to be sturdy.
#2

Wave Storm - Classic Soft Top Foam 9ft Surfboard for Beginners and All Surfing Levels Complete Set Includes Leash and Multiple Fins Heat Laminated, Blue Pinline

The Wave Storm Classic Soft Top Foam 9ft Surfboard is designed with beginners in mind, making it an excellent choice for those new to surfing. Its 9-foot size provides ample stability, which is crucial for learning balance and control on the waves. The soft top foam material is forgiving, reducing the risk of injury for novice surfers.

The high-density polyethylene bottom skin ensures durability and smooth rides, while the water barrier skin top deck adds extra resilience against wear and tear. The included removable fins, ankle leash, and traction pad enhance the board’s functionality and ease of use, providing everything a beginner needs to get started.

On the downside, the larger size might be cumbersome for smaller riders or those needing more maneuverability. Additionally, while it’s great for beginners, more advanced surfers might find the board less responsive compared to hard-top boards. The design is fairly straightforward with a simple blue pinline pattern, which might not appeal to those looking for more vibrant or unique aesthetics. Despite these minor drawbacks, the board’s user-friendly features make it a reliable choice for anyone starting their surfing journey.

#3

Rock-It 6' Baby Jesús Surfboard Soft Top Surfboard, Kids Surfboard with Innovative Design Easy to Paddle and Maneuverable, Small Surfboard, Surfboards for Kids (Blue)

Rating
9.4
Size
Material
Volume

Most important from
40 reviews

Size
The perfect size and style for petite surfers, making it easy to navigate through waves.
Material
Ideal for beginners with its soft top providing lots of grip without the need for wax.
Volume
The board is well constructed and has a lot of volume, even floating someone who is 200 pounds.
Fin Setup
Comes with fins and a fin key, ready for a leash, making it a convenient and complete package.

The Rock-It 6' Baby Jesús Surfboard is a solid choice for beginners and kids. Its 6-foot length and rounded tail make it stable and easy to maneuver, which is great for those just starting out. The board features a soft top layer, meaning it’s gentle if you fall and doesn’t require waxing. Plus, it comes with a three-fin setup that helps with better control and performance in the water.

The board can support surfers up to 175 lbs, making it versatile for kids and lighter adults. The blue design with black and white sea camo on the bottom adds a fun touch to the look. Durability is a strong point, thanks to the dual marine wooden stringers and epoxy nano-coating, and the construction is environmentally friendly, which is an added bonus.

However, at around 5.88 kg, it might be a bit heavy for smaller children to carry on their own. Some users may also find the 19.7-inch width a bit narrow if they prefer more surface area. The board is backed by a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects, which provides some peace of mind. It’s a well-rounded surfboard suitable for beginners looking to catch their first waves.

Rating
9.4
Size
Material
Volume

Most important from
40 reviews

Size
The perfect size and style for petite surfers, making it easy to navigate through waves.
Material
Ideal for beginners with its soft top providing lots of grip without the need for wax.
Volume
The board is well constructed and has a lot of volume, even floating someone who is 200 pounds.
Fin Setup
Comes with fins and a fin key, ready for a leash, making it a convenient and complete package.

Buying Guide for the Best Surfboard For Beginners

Choosing the right surfboard as a beginner is crucial to ensure you have a fun and safe experience while learning to surf. The right board will help you catch waves more easily, maintain balance, and progress your skills faster. When selecting a surfboard, consider factors such as size, shape, material, and design. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
SizeThe size of a surfboard is one of the most important factors for beginners. It includes the length, width, and thickness of the board. A longer, wider, and thicker board provides more stability and buoyancy, making it easier to catch waves and maintain balance. For beginners, a board between 7 to 9 feet in length is ideal. As you gain experience and confidence, you can gradually move to shorter boards.
ShapeThe shape of the surfboard affects how it performs in the water. For beginners, a board with a rounded nose and a wide, thick tail is recommended. This shape provides more stability and makes it easier to paddle and catch waves. Avoid boards with pointed noses and narrow tails, as they are designed for more advanced maneuvers and can be challenging for beginners to control.
MaterialSurfboards are made from various materials, each with its own advantages. Foam boards (soft tops) are highly recommended for beginners because they are more forgiving, safer, and provide better buoyancy. They are also less likely to cause injury if you fall on them. As you progress, you might consider transitioning to fiberglass or epoxy boards, which offer better performance but require more skill to handle.
VolumeVolume is the amount of space inside the surfboard, measured in liters. It combines the length, width, and thickness to determine the board's buoyancy. Higher volume boards float better and are easier to paddle, making them ideal for beginners. Look for a board with a volume between 60 to 80 liters, depending on your weight and height. A higher volume board will help you catch waves more easily and provide a stable platform to practice on.
Fin SetupThe fin setup on a surfboard affects its stability and maneuverability. For beginners, a single fin or a thruster (three-fin) setup is recommended. A single fin provides more stability and is easier to control, while a thruster setup offers a good balance between stability and maneuverability. Avoid more complex fin setups like quad or twin fins until you have more experience and can handle the increased speed and responsiveness they provide.
DesignWhile the design of the surfboard might seem like a minor detail, it can impact your overall experience. Brightly colored boards are easier to spot in the water, which can be helpful for safety. Additionally, some designs include features like textured decks for better grip or reinforced rails for added durability. Choose a design that appeals to you and offers practical benefits for your learning process.

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