Hello, friends! From Flysurf, we bring you the second part of the 6 keys to choosing your first surfboard, our essential guide!
6 KEYS TO CHOOSING YOUR FIRST SURFBOARD PART 1
To choose your first surfboard, you must consider the following requirements:
4. A good "Pan" How does it affect choosing your first surfboard?
When you hear about a board's "pan," we are simply referring to its thickness. This factor is crucial for the total volume (Length x Width x Thickness).
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Measurements: It is measured in inches and usually ranges between 2″ (thin boards) and 3.5″ (very thick boards).
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The sweet spot: For beginners, a thickness of between 2.75 and 3 inches is what we consider "a good pan."
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Advantages: It gives you the necessary buoyancy to paddle with ease.
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The balance: Excessive thickness will make it difficult to "duck dive" (submerge under the wave to enter the line up), but at first, always prioritize buoyancy to stand up as many times as possible.
5. Flat Rocker: Key to buying your starter kit
The rocker is the curvature of the board when viewed from the side. To choose your first surfboard, steer clear of pronounced curves.
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Beginner rocker: You need a board with a flat rocker. This allows the largest possible surface area to be in contact with the water, facilitating planing.
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The nose: It should lift only slightly and smoothly to prevent the board from burying itself in the water (nose-diving) when going down the wave.
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Avoid excess: Too much rocker (banana shape) is excellent for critical maneuvers, but it will slow down your learning too much.
6. Other points to consider: Final details when selecting your learning board
Once you understand the above, pay attention to these final details that make a difference:
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Weight distribution: The ideal for progression is boards with the weight slightly shifted towards the nose. This gives you that "extra boost" needed to catch the wave.
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The Rails (Edges): They are fundamental for grip. Look for rails with a defined shape (squarer towards the tail and rounded towards the nose). This will allow you to "bury" the board into the face of the wave and steer it, something basic softboards often fail at.
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The Tail: For learning, a Square, Squash, or Round tail is best. Being thinner than the rest of the board, it reduces friction and helps you turn with less effort.
Whew! Long article, right? Well, analyze it, read it, and consider it before choosing and buying your first surfboard! We have the best boards for beginners! Never sell it! It will accompany you for a lifetime, especially during those small summer swells. Learn from your mistakes, think about them, and analyze them. No session is bad, and you can always progress (even on cold, rainy days with bad waves).
If you have any doubts about your particular case, do not hesitate to write to us!!
With perseverance, you will achieve it!
From Wolf, for Flysurf Boards.
