Best Bodyboards for Beginners 2026
Published June 26, 2026SurfSpotGuide Editorial
Bodyboarding is the fastest way to start riding waves — most people catch their first wave within minutes. The right board is the right size for your body and uses a decent core material. This guide covers exactly what to look for and the best picks at every budget.
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The short answer
Get the right size first (knees to chin when stood vertically next to you), then pick a board with an EPS or PE core in the $50–$120 range for regular use. The Morey Mach 10 TR and Bodyglove Method are the most consistent recommendations in this range. Under $50 is fine for a beach holiday; over $120 is only necessary once you are riding seriously.
Our Top Bodyboard Picks
EPS and PE core boards sized right for beginners — budget, mid-range, and step-up options.
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.
Morey Mach 7 Bodyboard
Morey · AmazonThe classic beginner-to-intermediate board — proven core and slick bottom for real speed.
BZ Advantage Bodyboard
BZ · AmazonDurable PE-core board that handles cooler water without going stiff.
WHAM-O Boogie Board
Wham-O · AmazonThe cheapest way to see if bodyboarding is for you — fine for whitewater and small days.
Bodyboard Size Chart
| Rider weight | Height | Board size | Typical rider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 45kg (under 100 lbs) | Under 5'2" | 33–37 inches | Young children |
| 45–65kg (100–145 lbs) | 5'2"–5'8" | 37–40 inches | Teens and light adults |
| 65–80kg (145–175 lbs) | 5'7"–6'0" | 40–42 inches | Average adults |
| 80–90kg (175–200 lbs) | 5'11"–6'2" | 42–43 inches | Larger adults |
| Over 90kg (over 200 lbs) | 6'1"+ | 43–45 inches | Big and tall riders |
When in doubt, go slightly longer — more float is more forgiving for beginners.
Core Types Explained
Lightweight, affordable, adequate for small-medium waves. Softens in warm water over time. The standard for beginners and casual riders.
More flexible than EPS, better for cold water. Retains shape longer. A step up for riders who bodyboard regularly.
Stiffest core material. Excellent response in powerful waves. Not necessary for beginners — the stiffness requires technique to use effectively.
Picks by Budget
Under $50 — Beach rental / casual use
Kids & casual useThe most recognized bodyboard brand. EPS core, adequate for small beach break waves. A good first board for children or occasional riders.
Widely available at surf shops. EPS core, basic construction. Fine for casual use but will not last years of regular use.
Good enough for a holiday or occasional beach trip. Replace when you find yourself going more than 5 times a year.
$50–$120 — Regular use
Best for most beginnersEPS/PE composite core, better slick bottom, more durable than entry-level Morey boards. A genuine step up in performance and longevity.
Good all-round beginner board. EPS core, HDPE slick, comfortable deck. Well-reviewed for value.
Designed for younger/lighter riders progressing past beginner stages. Good stiffness for the price.
The right range if you plan to bodyboard more than a few times a year. Better construction means more responsive rides and a board that lasts seasons rather than trips.
$120–$200 — Intermediate
For regular bodyboardersPE or PP core options available. Well-shaped for intermediate riding. Popular with surfers who bodyboard as a secondary activity.
Australian brand with strong reputation for quality PE and PP boards. Good choice for riders progressing to bigger, more powerful waves.
Only worth it once you are riding waves consistently and want more performance. The core stiffness and better slick bottom make a real difference at this level.
What to Look For
The standard beginner tail shape. Wide arc at the back provides stability and control. Bat tails and other shapes are for advanced riders performing specific maneuvers.
The slick is the hard plastic underside of the board. HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is faster and more durable than cheap PE slicks. Check that it covers the full underside.
The deck is what your chest and stomach lie on. A textured or foam deck grip keeps you from sliding. Bare foam decks are slippery when wet.
Stringers are rods running through the core that prevent the board from flexing too much. Beginner boards often have one stringer. More stringers = stiffer = better in bigger waves.
A wrist leash is essential — lose your board in a wipeout and it becomes a hazard to other water users. Check that the board has a leash plug installed.
Should you bodyboard or surf?
Bodyboarding is easier to learn but surfing has a higher ceiling and a bigger community. Many people start on a bodyboard to get comfortable in the surf before transitioning. Others bodyboard for life and never want to stand up. Both are valid.
Read: Surfing vs Bodyboarding →Frequently Asked Questions
What size bodyboard do I need?
Hold the board vertically — it should reach from your knees to your chin. Rough guide: under 45kg use 33–37 inches; 45–70kg use 37–41 inches; 70–90kg use 41–43 inches; over 90kg use 43+ inches.
What is the difference between an EPS and PP core bodyboard?
EPS is lightweight, affordable, and adequate for beginners. PP is stiffer and more responsive — for intermediate and advanced riders. Beginners should start with EPS.
Do I need swim fins for bodyboarding?
Not strictly, but fins make it significantly more effective. Churchill and Viper are the most popular beginner fin brands. Most serious bodyboarders use fins.
Is bodyboarding easier than surfing?
Yes. Most people can catch and ride waves on their first session. The prone position is more stable than standing, and the board is more buoyant relative to body weight.
Prefer to Stand Up?
Find surf schools near you — most include a board and wetsuit and get beginners riding waves on day one.
More Surf Guides
// Free Gear Checklist
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