Choosing a shortboard

[Mike Ambrose]

Hi All,
I've been surfing on and off for about 8 years, on a 7'3'' Bic mini mal. I've certainly mastered catching waves, and making cruisy turns, but want a board that's easier to take out the back when it's bigger, and make more radical turns on, so have decided it's time to get a shortboard.

Is there any way to decide on the size of board you need, based on height and weight? I'd describe my ability as intermediate. I'm 5'10", about 160lbs, (11.5st).

I generally ride waves between 2"-5", but would be willing to ride bigger if more confident and getting less pounded on the way out!

Any advice would be appreciated.

Cheers - Mike

[tony g]

I would try to ride, or demo a few different boards before buying one, so you can see what will work best for you.

[IB_Surfer]

Hey Mike, what city are you in? A custom board made just for you are going for about $390 locally here in San Diego, plus since you pay half down and half on delivery a month later it's like financing it. Custom is the way to go when not sure, the shaper can recommend a size based on your ability, weight, etc...

As to size, if you don't want to go shortboard yet, as a transtion board, try a disc or modern fish, the extra width and less rocker make it easier to catch waves, probably better than your bic, but it will be definitely easier than a minimal to duckdive. For a transition size, try a 6'3 x 20 x 2.5, though at 160lbs eventually your disc/fish size will be much smaller, around 5'8