Best beginner surfboards: what to buy first
The best first board is a big foam board. Put in your weight to see the length and volume to shop for, then see what we'd buy.
By SurfSpotGuide EditorialPublished March 27, 2026
Find your first board
Adult beginners. Kids are usually best on a school board sized by the instructor.
Enter your weight to see the length and volume for you.
Beginner size by weight
The same rows as our surfboard size chart. Your row lights up when you enter a weight.
| Weight | Length | Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Under 55 kg (120 lbs) | 7'0–8'0 | 45–55 L |
| 55-70 kg (120-155 lbs) | 7'6–8'6 | 50–65 L |
| 70-85 kg (155-190 lbs) | 8'0–9'0 | 60–75 L |
| 85-95 kg (190-210 lbs) | 8'6–9'6 | 70–85 L |
| Over 95 kg (210+ lbs) | 9'0–10'0 | 80–100 L |
Why bigger is better when you start
A beginner foam board next to a typical shortboard. The extra length and width are what keep you stable while you learn.
What to look for
What to avoid
- Shortboards under 6’6”: not enough volume for beginners
- Fish boards: wide and flat, but short and with less volume than a first board needs
- Fancy performance tech: you cannot use it yet and it costs more
- Boards well under your volume range
- Second-hand boards with serious delamination or large cracks
Boards we'd buy
Three soft boards that suit a first purchase. Match the length to your row above.
We may earn a small commission if you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We only recommend gear we'd ride ourselves.
Wavestorm 8′ Classic Soft-Top
Wavestorm · Amazon
The best-selling beginner foamie — huge float and forgiving, hard to beat for the price.
South Bay Verve 8′8″ Soft-Top
South Bay Board Co · Amazon
A step up in build with a wood stringer and slick bottom that paddles noticeably faster.
Catch Surf Odysea Log 8′
Catch Surf · Amazon
Durable, fun, and holds its value if you sell it on after you progress.
Catch Surf Blank Series 8′0″ Log
Catch Surf · evo
The upgrade soft-top: a sturdier build than the budget foamies, with plenty of float for learning.
$380–$400Check price at evo →
Don't buy the wrong gear.
Our free Beginner's Surf Guide has the exact gear checklist — what to buy first, what to skip, and how to pick a board and wetsuit that won't hold you back. Free, instant.
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Frequently asked questions
What size surfboard should a beginner start on?
Most adult beginners should start on an 8–9 foot foam board. The extra length and volume provide stability and make paddling, catching waves and standing up much easier. Use the finder above for your weight.
Should beginners start on a longboard or shortboard?
A longboard or foam board. Shortboards have very little volume and are hard to learn on. Starting short is the most common beginner mistake.
How much volume does a beginner need?
A good guide is 80–100% of your body weight in kilograms, as litres. A 70 kg surfer would look at about 56–70 L, and the size chart puts that weight at 60–75 L. More is easier when you are learning.
Can I start on a secondhand board?
Yes. A good used foam board is a smart first purchase. Check for delamination (bubbling under the surface), cracked fins and a working leash plug.
Try before you buy
A local surf shop can let you hold a few boards and rent one first.
Find surf shops near youMore Surf Guides
Don't buy the wrong gear.
Our free Beginner's Surf Guide has the exact gear checklist — what to buy first, what to skip, and how to pick a board and wetsuit that won't hold you back. Free, instant.
No spam · Instant delivery · Unsubscribe anytime