Next surfboard

[Jessicabell]

I am currently riding an 8ft FSE foam board. I’m 5’6 140 ibs and I’m 19. I’m in pretty good shape, not the best but I get around. I live in Charleston, SC and the waves here usually get to 2ft daily so not too big. I’m looking to transfer to a shorter board, and something preferably easier for me to carry and maneuver. I’ve only been surfing for about 2 months so I wouldn’t call myself an intermediate yet. I’d like to get out more but I struggle getting this board out in the wind. Any advice on what a next board should be would be awesome, I don’t mind buying used

[dtc]

You wont find a board that is easier to maneuver by going shorter. I mean, yes it will be slightly easier to turn if you have the skills, but that is because its much less stable (easier to turn = less stable); without the right technique that doesn't really help you and you will be on a board that is harder to ride (and paddle and catch waves etc). Bottom line is that if you can't turn on your current board, you dont have the skills to be able to turn with control on a shorter board

A shorter board might be easier to carry. But an easier carry to the water but a harder board to surf seems like a bad tradeoff. Foam boards can be harder to carry because they are often heavier than hard boards (depends on the foam board however, some are actually lighter)

So really you can stick with your current board, its a good choice. But if you wanted to buy another board (we all do, you will want to try another board anyway and regardless of my advice...) then look for a standard 'hard' board.

Given your size you could possibly get away with something like a 7ft6 fun board if you really wanted. It will be harder to surf than your current board and is probably the shortest i would go at this stage given your skill level and the waves you are surfing.

However, longer would be better eg go for an 8ft longboard (same length as your foam board).

Regardless of the length you choose, Look for something around 21 inches wide (or wider) and around 2 5/8 thick (or thicker). Around 55L volume, give or take a few litres (more is better if you are uncertain)