Advice on board size for beginner

[Fogg5055]

Hello -

I would appreciate any input as I decide which size board to buy. I am a beginner who has rented from LS and am looking to buy. I anticipate going 1-3 times per month and the waves will be, roughly, 2-6 feet. I am 41, 6'2" and 200 lbs and in good shape. My goal is to just have fun and catch waves, but also improve. Torn between a 9 foot and 8 foot board. The 9 foot is 22 3/4 wide and 3 1/8 thick and the 8 foot is 22 inches wide and 3 inches thick.

I want to be able to catch waves, but also have room to grow without being frustrated by not being able to catch waves. In terms of ability, I am a total beginner (have surfed 4 times total), but have been able to stand up and ride in. I am leaning towards the 9 foot, but certainly would appreciate input from more experienced people. Thanks! -

[drowningbitbybit]

At your size/age/weight, and only going a couple of times a month, it's all about being able to catch waves and get up on the board straight away, and not having to re-learn skills each time you go, so I'd say go for the 9ft.

To get to a point of doing turns etc, there wouldn't be a huge advantage to the 8ft board. As you've got the size and fitness to cope with a 9ft, go big

[Fogg5055]

Thanks for the response - makes sense and I appreciate it!

[CARBr6]

Completely agree with DBBB.
Definitely go for the 9ft board.