Surfboard size/volume for beginner surfboard

[miberico]

Hi all,

I've been surfing pretty constantly (at least 3 times per week) for about 6 months now, and I thought of purchasing a surfboard for myself since I've been having a lot of fun but til this point I've been using my roomate's Wavestorm. I'm 5'10", 165 lbs and feel pretty comfortable catching waves and cruising down on the Wavestorm, but wanted something smaller and more maneuverable that its still a good paddler and overall solid for days when the surf its not quite as good. Based on some of the research that I've done, a 7'-7'2" midlength board with about 50 liters of volumes seems like a good option. My question is, should I go for a 7'2" and enjoy more volume or go for a 7' which would be a bit easier to turn. For reference, I was looking at this board in particular (Rusty's Moby Fish), but I guess any board with similar dimensions will do (if you guys have any suggestions). Thanks!

https://www.rustysurfboards.com/moby-fish/.

[dtc]

The two inch difference will make hardly any difference in terms of being able to turn the board. I personally suggest the longer board as you are coming from a wavestorm, which is wide and thick and more like a 9ft hardboard than an 8ft board.

Even a 7’6 might be better, although you are surfing quite frequently and are young, so a slightly shorter board should be ok

The board you linked looked pretty good; reminder than beginners always wreck the points on a fish tail so be extra careful (or get a non fish tail - thumb/squash).

[waikikikichan]

Hi all,Based on some of the research that I've done, a 7'-7'2" midlength board with about 50 liters of volumes seems like a good option. My question is, should I go for a 7'2" and enjoy more volume or go for a 7' which would be a bit easier to turn.

If you're currently not doing turns on your Wavestorm, I would not recommend going any shorter. A 7'2" will depend more paddle power, quicker reflexes, and a take off point further in and steeper.

Also a Wavestorm is fun because it's FORGIVING. A hard board with it's stiffer construction and harder edges ( good for more experienced riders ) won't be as forgiving. The FLEX of the Wavestorm's sponge construction actually helps a beginner stay on the wave longer. ( but a advance rider may not like it's delayed response ).

[Ace864]

Wavestorm boards are not bad, but try not to get shorter than 7'2"