Transitioning from Long board to shorter board--advice?

Hi all
Great site and knowledge sharing.
I am looking to get some advice on the best dimensions of a short board style board for me- considering the following:
I surf mainly Orange County California spots
I am 6-1, 185llbs
currently ride an 8 footer and an 8'6 long board. Both are 22 wide and the 8'6 is pretty thin at 2 5/8
I want to move down to a short board style board. I dont think I am ready to go below 7', so I have been looking at 7'2 to 7'8 sized boards.
Standing up , basic manuvering, and paddling is not an issue on the boards I mentioned earlier.
Any help would appreciated.
Thanks
Great site and knowledge sharing.
I am looking to get some advice on the best dimensions of a short board style board for me- considering the following:
I surf mainly Orange County California spots
I am 6-1, 185llbs
currently ride an 8 footer and an 8'6 long board. Both are 22 wide and the 8'6 is pretty thin at 2 5/8
I want to move down to a short board style board. I dont think I am ready to go below 7', so I have been looking at 7'2 to 7'8 sized boards.
Standing up , basic manuvering, and paddling is not an issue on the boards I mentioned earlier.
Any help would appreciated.
Thanks