Surfing Waves

tom is a keen beginner (slim, 4' 10") who's currently on a 5'10" bic fish which I'm considering replacing as his twin sister is showing interest. I'm confused though because although I was recommended a 5'10" custom ripper shortboard I also read that this is not a good idea and that I should go for a minimal. We're in UK surf, North Cornwall and since we live in London, not regular. Any advice gratefully received, particularly on size.

can he stand up fine on the fish?
the thing is, a minimal will really float for him because he is so small and lightweight.
If he started out fine on the fish, i would go for another fish or a shortboard

he's getting there, bearing in mind that he only gets a day here and there every few months. sistinct progress though and I expect him to be regularly up quite soon. last october we had a couple of days and I was helping him kick off then whereas recently he spent a couple of hours without any assistance and seemed to be progressing. he'd definitely find a minimal easier but at his height does it matter ?

hay in the winter why not take him more there and some spots near by u do not have too go all the way to conwall too surf.

i would say stick with a fish or shortboard if thats what he has been leaning the mini mal will seem like a long board too him

My son rides either his 5'11'' shortboard or a fish, cheeky bugger is after a surftech. He's also 10, but started surfing when 4.
I'd stick to a shortboard no need for kids to start out on mini-mals, its all about height wait ratio's.