Mia Yoursurfwave
So you’ve finally decided to catch your first wave in 2025—awesome! But before you charge into the surf like a pro, you’ll need the right board under your feet. Choosing from the best surfboards for beginners can make or break your early experiences. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about beginner surfboards and reveal our top 10 picks for 2025!
Why Choosing the Right Beginner Surfboard Matters
Your First Board Shapes Your Surfing Journey
Think of your first surfboard as training wheels for the ocean. A solid beginner board helps you balance, paddle with confidence, and pop up with fewer wipeouts. Choose wrong, and surfing might feel like a never-ending tumble cycle.
The Learning Curve Gets Easier With the Right Gear
Trust us: nothing kills motivation faster than a board that’s too small or too advanced. The right board boosts your learning curve and keeps you stoked from day one.
What to Look for in a Beginner Surfboard
Size and Volume
For beginners, bigger is usually better. More volume means better flotation, stability, and easier wave catching.
- Look for boards between 7’ to 9’ depending on your weight.
- Volume in liters is your best friend—aim for 60-100L.
Construction Type
Go for soft tops when starting out. They’re forgiving and less likely to cause injuries.
- Foam boards = safe and buoyant
- Epoxy boards = durable and great for transition
Board Shape
Rounded noses and wider tails add extra balance and paddle power—perfect for newbies.
Fin Setup
Start with a thruster (3-fin) setup. It gives control and stability, ideal for learning.
Focus Keyword: Surfboards for Beginners
In this guide, we’ll focus on the best surfboards for beginners in 2025. You’ll find options for all sizes, budgets, and surf ambitions—because every surfer starts somewhere!
Top 10 Surfboards for Beginners in 2025
1. Wavestorm 8’ Classic Surfboard
Why It’s Great for Beginners
The Wavestorm is practically the golden child of beginner surfboards. It’s lightweight, ultra-buoyant, and incredibly stable. Plus, it’s been battle-tested by millions of new surfers over the years.
✅ Perfect For: New surfers under 200 lbs
📍 Check Beginner Tips: yoursurfwave.com/beginner-tips
2. South Bay Board Co. 8’ Verve
Stability and Durability Combined
With triple-stringer construction and a wide chest area, the Verve helps beginners find their feet quickly. It’s a little pricier, but you’ll be stoked on how well it performs.
✅ Bonus: It includes a leash and fins!
🌊 Explore More Gear: yoursurfwave.com/surf-gear
3. Catch Surf Odysea Log 8’0”
A Soft Top That Rips
Catch Surf made this board for fun, and it shows. The Odysea Log is soft, floaty, and surprisingly agile for a beginner board. It’s also stylish enough to turn heads in the lineup.
🔥 Fun fact: It’s loved by pros and groms alike.
💪 Learn Surf Fitness: yoursurfwave.com/surf-fitness
4. StormBlade 9’ Surfboard
Ideal for Larger Beginners
If you’re a bigger human, this is your board. The extra volume and soft foam design make it forgiving and fun.
🔗 Read More: yoursurfwave.com/tag/beginner-surfboard
5. Liquid Shredder FSE 7’ Soft Surfboard
Versatile and Lightweight
This board is perfect if you’re looking for something between a longboard and a shortboard. It’s nimble but still beginner-friendly.
🎯 Good for: Quick learners
🧠 Check Surf Basics: yoursurfwave.com/tag/surf-basics
6. Boardworks Froth 7’6”
Easy to Maneuver
A transitional board that still has enough volume to keep you upright. The Froth is perfect for beginners looking to sharpen turns and cutbacks.
⚡ Check Out: yoursurfwave.com/tag/learn-to-surf
7. CBC 7’ Classic Surfboard
Affordable and Fun
Budget-conscious? CBC offers a great balance between quality and price. It comes with everything you need to get in the water immediately.
💡 Bonus Tips: yoursurfwave.com/tag/beginner-surfing
8. Rock-It 8’ Big Softy
Beginner-Friendly and Eco-Friendly
Rock-It makes boards with recycled foam and nontoxic materials. The Big Softy is ideal for families or green-minded surfers.
🌱 Related: yoursurfwave.com/tag/surf-lifestyle
9. Softech Roller 7’6”
Trusted Brand with Quality
Softech is known for surfboard innovation, and the Roller is one of the best intermediate-to-beginner crossovers out there.
🏄 Discover More Boards: yoursurfwave.com/tag/surfboard-review
10. NSP Elements HDT Funboard
Transition-Friendly Shape
Ready to go from soft-top to hardboard? This epoxy funboard offers incredible control and is forgiving enough for first-timers.
🌍 Plan Surf Travel: yoursurfwave.com/tag/surf-travel
Where to Buy the Best Beginner Surfboards
Online Surf Shops to Explore
Some solid options include:
- yoursurfwave.com
- Real Watersports
- Boardcave
Local Retailers and Surf Schools
Don’t skip your local surf shops. They often offer beginner packages and real-time advice.
Getting Started: Your Beginner Surf Essentials
Don’t Skip the Wax and Leash
Even if your board comes with a leash, make sure it’s the right size. And don’t forget wax—it adds traction to your board.
Invest in the Right Surf Gear
Beginner surfers also need rash guards, wetsuits (depending on location), and maybe even earplugs.
Explore:
👉 Surf Gear Essentials
Leveling Up: Beginner Surf Tips
Check Out These Must-Know Surfing Basics
Knowing how to pop up, paddle, and read waves is half the battle.
👉 Beginner Surfing Tips
Train Your Body with Surf Fitness Routines
Stay surf-ready year-round with surf fitness routines you can do at home.
Best Surf Locations for Beginners in 2025
Where You Can Practice Without Intimidation
Check out mellow spots tagged on surf destinations and surf spots pages. Look for sandy bottoms, slow-breaking waves, and friendly crowds.
Final Thoughts
Choosing one of the best surfboards for beginners in 2025 sets the tone for your surfing lifestyle. Whether you’re taking your first paddle out or riding your first green wave, the right board will get you there faster and with a smile on your face.
And remember—surfing isn’t just a sport, it’s a way of life.
Dive into the surf lifestyle, stay stoked, and keep the good vibes rolling!
FAQs
1. What size surfboard is best for beginners in 2025?
Go with an 8’ or 9’ board with at least 60 liters of volume. More volume = more stability.
2. Are foam surfboards good for beginners?
Absolutely! Foam boards are safe, buoyant, and beginner-friendly.
3. How much should I spend on my first surfboard?
Anywhere between $200–$450 is reasonable for a solid beginner board.
4. Can I learn to surf at home?
You can train with indoor surf exercises and home workouts until you hit the beach.
5. What other gear do I need besides a surfboard?
A leash, wax, rash guard, wetsuit, and a surfboard bag are essential.
6. How long does it take to learn to surf?
Everyone’s different, but expect to spend a few weeks to months getting the basics.
7. Can surfing improve mental health?
Yes! Surfing is a natural stress-buster. Learn more about surfing therapy and the mental benefits.