new board?!

[STEVENSURF12]

Hello, I'm getting a new board. It's either a 7ft-21.25-2.75 or 6'8"-21.75-2.75 but I don't know which size is better. I'm 15 am 5'7" and weigh around 135. I will be riding 3-6' waves mostly. I am beginer/intermediate Also do you think I need a traction pad?

[drowningbitbybit]

What are you currently on? Define "beginner/intermediate".

If you're really edging towards intermediate then the 6'8 will be more than enough (too much?), but if you're a beginner, then go with as much volume as you can get hold of and get the 7'.

[STEVENSURF12]

By that I meant I am entering intermediate as I can trim on my longboard, do bottom turns, and nicely ride a wave

[drowningbitbybit]

In which case, I'd go with the 6'8

[oldgrom22]

Agree, go with the 6'8. At your level and size, that should work out fine. Don't think you necessarily need a traction pad, thinking at 5'7 you're going to probably be shuffling back and forth a little bit when up and riding. However I personally like traction pads, as I can tell right away if my foot is in the correct position and feel its gives a little added padding/protection from my foot when duck diving.

[IB_Surfer]

6'8, when you get better it will be your step up for big waves. At 135lbs you could go smaller, but good that you are going down incrementally