When to buy a board?

[BodhiRocks!]

Hey!

I tried surfing for the first time last year, I did a 3 hour session. after that, I could vaguely stand up but I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!! It was incredible, but I have not been able to go since coz I live in the middle of the UK and I can't get to the sea coz I can't drive yet :( (5 months to go...!)

BUT, I'm really serious about getting good at it and I've got 2 trips planned this summer to tey and get a little better, but I was wondering: should I think about getting a board yet? Coz I really do wanna keep this up for the rest of my life (maybe a little dramatic there, but I couldn't think of a better way to put it!) or should I wait and see if I turn out really crap and can't do it?!! I hope that won't happen though...!

Would be really helpful if you could let me know what you guys think - should I get one or wait...? I'm about 5 foot 7and about 8 stone if you decide I should and wanna help me out with what type!

Hopefully you'll all be able to help me out! xx

[kieran]

its difficult to say, the foamy hire boards are crap and once youve been on them once you dont really want be going on one again.
As in all sports there are some people who are naturally rubbish, but i think those people tend to be not very good across the board. Many people get disheartened by surfing because it is very difficult, you may think you not very good cos progress is slow

Are you going on the trips with a few mates, if so id say borrow a board for the trips. Surfboards do hold there value very well, if kept in good nick. Consider getting a second hand mini mal for starters, easy paddle, easy to pop and easy to balance on.

PS where are you going surfing, although surfing is potraid as a summer sport it is very much a winter one. Most places are likely to be flat during the summer.

[sinistapenguin]

My advice would be to rent a custom mini-mal or a bic next time you go.

This will give you more of a feel for a proper board and help you to decide if you're ready.

Foam boards are great for your first time, but you should try to move on quickly from them because they are slow and not a true representation of surfing.

Give a solid board a go, then go with how you feel. If you feel you are ready and really want your own board. Go for it!!

Cheers

Sinista

[BodhiRocks!]

Thankyou! :) That all makes a lot of sense...I am going to Cornwall - around Sennen as it is my favourite place! And yes, I am going with my friend but she doesn't have a board either so that's the borrowing plan out the window! Oh well, I'll figure it out somehow - whatever I do, I think I'm gonna end up buying one soon anyway coz I'm not giving up! Thanks again x x x