Home - Top 5 tips when buying your first board

Top 5 tips when buying your first board

Posted on May 31, 2019, updated on June 27, 2022 by TTR

---

Top 5 tips when buying your first board

 

Buying your first board is an exciting experience, you’ve caught the surfing bug and want to get out there, but there are a couple of things you need to consider first.

 

 

1. Have a couple of lessons first

If you haven’t already have done so, have some lessons first. Not only will you be using an appropriate board but the instructors on hand will give you all the tips and tricks you need to know. Alternatively if you have had lessons before, you can try a step down board and learn more progressive skills, getting you ready to go it alone.

 

2. Try before you buy

Get down to your local surf school or rental, not only will they be able to give you great advice but you can also rent a large range of boards to find what suits your ability. You don’t want to buy a new board and find out that it isn’t right for you, so have a go on different sized boards first.

 

3. Bigger is better

You may want to be running down the beach on a tiny shortboard like they do in the films, but don’t rush it. You’ll see so much more progression on a bigger board, you’ll catch more waves and have way more fun. You don’t have to buy a foamie (although no matter your skill set, on small days a foamie is king). Check out longboards or mini mals to maximise improvement.

 

4. Secondhand gems

There are so many boards out there looking for new homes, it’s a great opportunity to save some money. As people progress they’re looking for step down boards, leaving their old progression board unused, which could be perfect for you. Try Secondhand Surfboards on Facebook, Gum Tree or ask around surf shops and rentals, they’re occasionally looking to sell used stock. Always check out the boards before buying though so you know exactly what you’re buying.

 

5. Accessories

Time to dress up your new board.

Leash: The rule of thumb is that your leash should be the same size as your board. 8ft board = 8ft leash, simple.

Fins: For a beginner it’s easiest to stick to a thruster fin set up (3 fins) as this will provide you with stability but also allow you to turn easily. As a beginner, plastic fins work well and will save you even more cash instead of buying fibreglass.

Wax: A necessity for a hardboard and helpful on a soft board. 

Boardbag/sock: Treat your board nicely and you could have it forever. If you have a foamie you won’t need any protection, these bad boys are virtually indestructible.  

 

Check out Tickettoridesurfschool, give us a call or pop down to the surf school in Perranporth to book yourself a lesson, try our range of rentals or get some advice! 

---