Shortboard or Longboard Surfboard

Which one would be best for you to buy, a short-board or long-board surfboard? It's difficult to just tell someone what type of surfboard that they should buy, there are many things to take into account. They told me for years to buy a long-board for surfing Florida. I think they thought because of my age that I should be riding a longer surfboard, but that just isn't my style. I did buy a long-board and I surfed plenty of waves with it. In fact even though I am traditionally a short-board surfer I consistently did better in ESA with a long-board.

That being said, it really depends on your style of surfing. Granted many long-boarders can rip, but I still prefer a shorter surfboard. I could never get used to dragging a huge log out into the surf. I have always enjoyed hitting the lip and pumping the wave for more speed.

Longboarding is some what more relaxed and you will see many of them hanging 5 or 10 and rocking the nose just like in the 50s and 60s. Longboards have more floatation and more surface area so they can be easier to catch and ride waves with. They are more stable that short boards, so the chances of you actually riding a wave if you are just learning should be greater.

Shortboarding can be more frustrating at times because in general it takes more skill to catch a wave and ride it with a shortboard. It can take a little more timing at times also. This is not to say that longboarders are unskilled, on the contrary, longboarding is an art in itself. If you are a mellow type of person and you enjoy cruising on a surfboard and getting longer rides and possibly catching smaller waves get a longboard.

You can always surf on a shorter surfboard after you learn to catch waves. We all get discouraged when trying to surf, just keep trying and if you are having a rough time that day go sit on the beach and relax for a while. One of the best ways to improve your surfing is to watch other surfers surfing. Then go out and try to imitate them but putting your own flair into it. Be patient and keep trying to improve your style. Even after surfing for over 30 years I am still constantly trying to improve every aspect of my surfing. There is always room for improvement. Never give up no matter what, if you get frustrated with your surfing, as we all do at times, take a break and come back to it in a few weeks. you may be surprised that all you really need is a break.