Surfing Waves

Hi I'm currently taking lessons and need first board advice. I will start off by saying I'm 5'6 117lb male. A friend gave me this epoxy shortboard board he didn't need anymore the dimensions are 6'2 - 18 3/4 - 2 1/4. I was wondering if I could progress on this board. I live right by the beach and can surf at least twice a week. I live in Encinitas so I would say 1-4ft waves usually. If this isn't the case and I should switch to shortboard from a longboard down the road what size longboard would I need.

I was surfing at Encinitas and they have good longboard breaks at Cardiff reef. I didn't see many shortboard surf spots. 6'2 is a bit too small. I'm about the same size as you and I struggle with my 6"3. But if you surf often then you might learn much faster than me.

BrosephJoseph wrote:Hi I'm currently taking lessons and need first board advice.

You should ask advice from the person currently giving you lessons. That person knows you better than us. If you do plan to get a Long(er) board, you need to let us know what size the instructor is giving you lessons on .
If you're not popping up and riding the wave for a distance, then maybe 3 feet over your head is a good starting point ( 8'6" - 9'0" )
If you're already catching waves with little or no assistance from your instructor, than go with a board 2 feet over your head ( 7'6" - 8'0"
If you're already beginning to turn, than maybe go with a 7'2"ish board.
Save up some money for 6'4" Fish / hybrid shapes for your next board. Keep that 6'2" shortboard in the closet for a few seasons.

Thank you both for the replies. I will talk to my instructor.