Beginner Board

[Lamcd77]

Hey guys, I lived near Cocoa Beach, Fl back in high school and surfed whenever I could find a ride. (Maybe 2-3 times per month) That was 25 years ago. I haven't surfed since. Now I am moving near New Smyrna Beach, FL and I want to start surfing again. I am looking for a fun board initially, but eventually want to have a board that suits any condition in this area. I was looking at this as my first board. What do you guys think? It's 7'3". I'm 5'10" 170lbs.

[Lamcd77]

One more pic. The guy is asking $250 btw.

[waikikikichan]

1) Can you tell what make are the fins/skegs ?

It looks to me like O’fishl not Futures fins.

2) What was the last size/type board you rode before you stopped surfing 25 years ago ?

Are you the same weight as back then ?

[Lamcd77]

The last board I was on was an Ocean Juice shortboard. It was probably 5'10". I couldn't do any tricks but I could go where I wanted. I felt like it was very easy to control.

I'm probably 30lbs heavier now but I'm in much better shape than the average 42 year old.

[Lamcd77]

This is all it says in the ad. I have no idea what kind of fins they are.

[waikikikichan]

Not worth it if the fins are “O’fishl” , it’ll be hard to find replacements in the standard fin and even harder to find in those safety edged Surfco pro-teck fins.
But if you don’t lose them, the outline/ shaped looks “fun”.

[Lamcd77]

I don't remember losing a fin before but I think they were glassed in. Is it common for them to fall out? I really don't remember ever having to mess with them before.

[billie_morini]

Lamcd, not so common for fins to fall out. but, you must check the retaining screws or you will lose them. Also, there's always potential fins will get damaged when surfing and when handling (dropping) when on land.

I know the areas well you mentioned: Cocoa and Smyrna. I used to visit my mother often in O'town and would always sneak away for a surf at Cocoa. One thing i got a kick out of is there are some mean sharks (?tiger, ?bull) in these two areas, especially Smyrna. It's as if they'll bite you just for the hell of it. Anyway, no reason not to surf!

I always suggest a 9 ft long board with side bites for beginners. If they are a teen or petite adult woman, then an 8 ft long board will do. No need for soft top board. Waste of money. BAsed on photos you provided, it does not appear you are looking at these silly soft tops.

Best wishes, keep the stoke, and no age is too late to begin / return to surfing.
billie