Choosing the right surfboard is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a surfer. The size of your board affects everything from how easily you catch waves to how much control you have once you're riding. Here's everything you need to know about finding your perfect board size.
What Are Surfboards Made Out Of?
Before we dive into sizing, let's talk construction. Modern surfboards are typically made from a foam core (called a blank) wrapped in fiberglass and resin. This construction provides the perfect balance of strength, flexibility, and buoyancy that makes wave riding possible.
At Mañana, we use premium foam blanks and hand-lay our fiberglass for maximum durability. The quality of materials directly affects how your board performs and how long it will last.
The Fundamentals of Board Volume
Board volume, measured in liters, is the most important factor in choosing the right size. Volume determines how much you'll float, which affects paddle power, wave-catching ability, and overall stability.
As a general rule, beginners need more volume for stability and easier wave catching, while advanced surfers can handle less volume for increased maneuverability. Your weight, skill level, and the type of waves you'll be surfing all factor into the equation.
Our Board Lineup
The Terry (4'6" - 4'10") - Our high-performance shortboard designed for advanced surfers who want maximum maneuverability. Lower volume means this board is all about performance in quality waves.
The Terry
The Leslie
The Diablo
The Leslie (5'6") - The perfect mid-length for surfers who want versatility. Great for small to medium waves, offering both stability and performance. This is often the sweet spot for intermediate surfers.
The Diablo (5'6" - 6'2") - Our surf-performance board built for bigger waves and more radical surfing. The extra length provides stability in powerful conditions while maintaining maneuverability.
Sizing Guidelines
Here's a rough guide to get you started:
Beginner (0-2 years): Look for boards with 40-50% more volume than your body weight in pounds. Prioritize stability and easy wave catching.
Intermediate (2-5 years): Reduce volume to 30-40% of your body weight. You can start experimenting with more performance-oriented shapes.
Advanced (5+ years): 20-30% of your body weight in volume. Focus on boards that match your surfing style and local wave conditions.
Consider Your Local Waves
The waves you'll be surfing regularly should heavily influence your board choice. Small, mushy waves call for more volume and paddle power. Clean, powerful waves allow for less volume and more performance-oriented shapes.
Texas Gulf Coast surfers, for example, often benefit from boards with a bit more volume to handle the smaller, mushier waves that are common in the region.
Making the Long-Term Investment
A quality surfboard is an investment that should last you years. Don't just think about where you are now as a surfer – consider where you want to be in two years. A slightly more challenging board can help accelerate your progression.
At Mañana, we're always happy to discuss your specific needs and help you find the perfect board for your surfing journey. Every board we make is designed to be a long-term companion that grows with you as a surfer.
Remember, the best surfboard is the one that gets you excited to paddle out. When you find that perfect match, you'll know it instantly.
