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So, you want to buy a surfboard, but the options are endless, and the jargon sounds like a secret language.
What’s a fish? Should you get a longboard or a shortboard? And what the heck is rocker?
Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or intermediate ready to upgrade, this guide will break it all down in plain English (with a bit of surf slang for fun).
All too often, people select a board based on brand and price, whereas shape and size are far more important.
If you’re just starting, a soft top (aka foamie) is your best friend. These boards are ultra-buoyant, forgiving, and won’t leave you bruised if you wipe out (which, let’s be real, is inevitable when learning).
Our Epic surfboards come as a full package—ready to ride with a board, leash, and fins included.
Longboards are the OGs of surfing. At 8-10 feet long, they offer maximum stability, making them perfect for beginners and those who love a smooth, stylish ride. Think gliding gracefully down the line, maybe even throwing in a classic cross-step or a noseride.
Looking for a longboard? Click here to learn more about the Trim.
Noseriding – When a surfer walks to the front of the board and balances near the nose. Bonus points for style.
Not quite a shortboard, not quite a longboard—the Mini Mal (aka mid-length) is the Goldilocks of surfboards. With extra volume for stability but still some manoeuvrability, it’s an ideal step-up board for beginners looking to progress or performance surfers looking for some extra paddle.
Curious about the Evolution Glide? Check out a review here.
No, you’re not actually surfing on a fish. Fish boards are short, wide, and thick, with a swallowtail design that makes them perfect for catching smaller, weaker waves while still keeping a playful, speedy feel.
Interested in the Evolution Fish? Learn more here.
Swallowtail – A tail shape that looks like a fish’s tail, giving the board extra hold and manoeuvrability.
These sleek, pointy-nosed boards are made for high-performance surfing, quick turns, and riding steep waves. However, they have less volume (aka, they don’t float as much), making them tricky for beginners.
Rocker – The curve of the surfboard from nose to tail. More rocker = better for steep waves. Less rocker = faster paddling on small waves.
Still not sure which board suits you best? We’ve got you covered! Contact our Braunton and St Ives stores, where you can take one of our demo boards for a spin and get any questions you may have answered.
Test different shapes and sizes in real conditions before making your final decision, because the best way to choose is to try it yourself!
Still unsure? Ask yourself:
The best surfboard is the one that gets you in the water and stoked to surf. Start with something suited to your level, and don’t be afraid to experiment as you progress.
The key to improving is finding a board that suits your ability and helps you catch plenty of waves. Oh, and before you hit the lineup—do your bit and brush up on surf etiquette. Nobody wants to be that person causing chaos in the water!
Now, time to pick your board and get out there! (And yes, wiping out is part of the process—embrace it.)
If you need expert advice, we're here to help!
This blog is here to help you navigate the world of surfboards with ease. It breaks down different board types—soft tops, longboards, mid lengths, fish, and shortboards—so you can find the perfect match for your skill level and wave conditions. Whether you're a total beginner or looking to step up your game, this guide simplifies the decision-making process, helping you choose a board that gets you in the water and having fun.
