The fact that there are so many different types of surfboard shapes and designs can be confusing to some beginners, but they each serve their own purpose. Because of this, it is not uncommon for more advanced surfers to own more than one type of board.
Shortboard
This type of surfboard, also known as a thruster, is most commonly used for shredding and contests because it facilitates a variety of tricks. The shorter style — boards start at 5’6″ — is ideal for speed, but it sacrifices paddling ability. For this reason, these boards aren’t recommended for beginners.
Longboard
Boards that are over 8″ long with a rounded nose are known as longboards. The size offers more stability than smaller surfboards, and they catch waves and help you paddle easily. While tandem surfing and other tricks are possible, surfers can’t make sharp turns or dive like they can with shortboards because the board remains at the surface.
Foamboard
Foamboards are more stable and easier to catch waves. They also cause less damage during an accident because they are lightweight. These softer boards are therefore ideal for a beginning surfer.
Fish
Compared to a shortboard, a fish surfboard has a wider, rounder nose and what’s known as a swallow tail, giving it that distinct fish-like appearance. Fish boards range from 5’2″ to 6’4″, and the design makes it suitable for catching small to medium waves while maintaining a decent speed. Surfers often transition from a longboard to a fish board before choosing a shortboard.
Gun
This type of board is long, thin, and pointy at both ends. With some reaching over 10″ long, this board is fantastic for riding larger waves. The shape allows for easier paddling and control on waves but it is more difficult to turn.
Funboard
Also known as the Malibu, a funboard is a hybrid of the longboard and shortboard. Funboards can be up to 8′ in length and navigate smaller waves. Because of this, both intermediate and casual surfers may enjoy using it.
Paddleboard
Surfers can switch things up with stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), which uses a paddle instead of arms to propel themselves forward. These boards are wider and thicker than a longboard, making it easy to maintain balance. Inflatable versions are also available, and surfers can catch waves from the smallest to largest sizes or take their boards on lakes for a casual paddle.
While the six boards above are the most common, there are several others. Tow-in surfboards are led by jetskis, and foilboards have a hydrofoil that extends below the water to achieve lift. Some even consider this design to be the future of watersports.
Kurt Hansbury 