To truly enjoy bodyboarding, you should use the basic gear that works for your measurements and experience. While this can be hard in the beginning, the more you immerse in the sport, the easier it would be to know what works for you.
What Do I Need to Start Bodyboarding?
Even though bodyboarding seems like a daunting sport, you don’t need much to get started on it. Once you have the basic equipment—a bodyboard, a leash, bodyboarding fins, and the proper apparel—you would be good to go.
But more than the bodyboarding equipment, a bodyboarding newbie should get a certified instructor. It’s essential to learn the ropes from someone who knows the sport well. It would also be good at least to have a basic knowledge of tides and sea safety.
What Four Things Are Necessary for Bodyboarding Basics?
So, you want to get started on bodyboarding but you don’t know what to get? Here are the four most basic pieces of equipment that you should buy to get started in the sport:
Bodyboard: Of course, the most important equipment in bodyboarding is the bodyboard. This is the equipment that you ride to catch and ride the waves.
You would think that it is easy to choose a bodyboard since there are a lot of them on the market. But you would be wrong. To succeed in the sport, you have to choose the board that is perfect for your height, weight, and even the condition of the water.
Leash: You wouldn’t want to lose your board in the water so getting a leash is very important. You can choose from a wrist leash or a leg rope. Among the two, wrist leashes are preferred by bodyboarders because they do not hinder their finning ability. These are made from different materials so you can choose what’s best for you.
Bodyboarding fins: Bodyboarders use different fins compared to swimmers or freedivers. Bodyboarding fins are a lot smaller and stiffer to allow for rapid kicking, which is essential in the sport. When buying fins, make sure to get one that you are comfortable in. It is also recommended to get a pair that has an open heel.
Rash guard: Rash guards are a staple, especially if you like water activities. While you can wear board shorts or swimsuits while bodyboarding, using a good rash guard pair can make a big difference. They can keep you warm, especially if you are bodyboarding in colder weather.
They are made of different materials and thicknesses, so be sure to get one that is best for your physique and location of choice.
What Are the Types of Bodyboards?
There are four types of bodyboards in the market. Bodyboards differ in the materials they are made with. These materials are polystyrene, EVA foam, polyethylene foam, and combined foam.
Polystyrene Bodyboard: If you want to get started in the sport or have a kid who wants to try bodyboarding, then these boards are for you. These boards are considered to be the lightest compared to the others. They are often the cheapest but can also be expensive, especially advanced polystyrene boards covered in vinyl. But this type is not the most durable and will crack if put under extreme pressure.
EVA Foam Bodyboard: EVA foam bodyboards are great for beginners. They are also considerably more durable than polystyrene bodyboards. These boards are great if you want to go bodyboarding in locations with large waves.
There are many different models of EVA foam bodyboards. Getting a board with a smooth underside is recommended if you want to increase your speed and improve your performance.
Polyethylene Foam Bodyboard: If you want a board that is both lightweight and durable, then get a polyethylene foam bodyboard. These boards are great for more advanced bodyboarders because they can take on significantly larger waves. They are also highly durable.
These boards will improve your flexibility as you ride the waves. Depending on your riding style, you can also customize the stiffness of this board.
Combined Foam Bodyboard: As the name suggests, these bodyboards are made from various materials. Combined foam bodyboards are made with EVA foam or polystyrene or EVA foam and polyethylene. Depending on your skills or riding style, you can customize the materials on your board. Be warned, though, that these boards, especially custom-made ones, can be very expensive.
What Type of Bodyboard Should I Get?
There is no one-size-fits-all kind of bodyboard. If you want to succeed in the sport, you should get one that would serve you best. Your board should be appropriate for your skills, riding style, and the water condition in your location of choice.
It should also fit your height, weight, and overall physique. It should also be reasonably priced, especially if you are only starting in the sport.
What Is a Good Bodyboard?
A “good” bodyboard can be highly subjective. Ultimately you should choose a board that suits your skills and riding style. You should also consider the kind of waves in your location of choice.
An expensive board is not necessarily a good bodyboard. You should remember that if a board does not fit your riding style or is not suitable for the kind of waves that you want to ride, it is not the board for you.
Does a Good Bodyboard Make a Difference?
Owning and using a good bodyboard does make all the difference. You can feel it in the way you maneuver, catch, and ride the waves. You would be able to move in the water better and surely enjoy your time more.
Getting a good bodyboard is not easy, especially if you are just beginning. But once you get a bodyboard that suits you, you will immensely excel in the sport.
How Much Does a Bodyboard Cost?
The cost of a bodyboard varies depending on the materials used, the overall quality of the board, and sometimes, even the brand. Bodyboards can go from as low as 40 USD to as high as 400 USD.
If you are a beginner, prepare to shell out around 40 USD for a brand-new board. Depending on the material used, the cost can go as high as 100 USD. Meanwhile, brand-new intermediate boards often cost around 150 to 200 USD. Premium bodyboards are usually priced around 250 to 400 USD.
How Long Should a Bodyboard Last?
There is no sure way to tell how long a bodyboard lasts. While most bodyboards are made with the intention to last you for years, the materials used also make a difference. The way you use your bodyboard also highly affects its lifespan.
The cost of your board doesn’t also ensure that it would last you for a lifetime. But ultimately, if you use and store your board with care, it may last you considerably longer than abused ones.
What Are Bodyboards Made of?
Bodyboards are made of different types of foam. The core of a bodyboard is usually made of polystyrene, polyethylene, ARCEL, or EVA foam. The material used in the core of a bodyboard will give you an idea of how durable a board is.
The deck (top of the bodyboard) and the rails (side of the bodyboard) are both made with softer foams. Meanwhile, the underside of the bodyboard is made with Bixby, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or Surlyn.
What Is a Good Bodyboard Made of?
A good bodyboard is made with a core that perfectly suits your skills, riding style, wave size, and body proportions. There are various types of bodyboard cores. Unfortunately, the most expensive one isn’t necessarily the best one for you.
The material alone is insufficient to judge whether you own an excellent bodyboard. There are other factors to consider, like the construction and the size of the waves that you are riding.
What Is the Best Core for a Bodyboard?
The jury is still out on the best core for a bodyboard. This can be very subjective because the best bodyboard for you may not be the best bodyboard for your friend.
Some would argue that the best core is polypropylene, aka PP. That’s because it is considered the most lightweight out of all the other cores. It is also the densest and has the best memory and recoil.
Others are big fans of polyethylene or PE. This is because bodyboards made of PE are great for larger waves. They are also great for advanced bodyboarding.
Are Inflatable Bodyboards Any Good?
Some bodyboarders do find inflatable bodyboards to be good. They are fairly new to the market, and there are reasons why people buy them. Inflatable bodyboards are extremely buoyant, and they are very portable.
Inflatable bodyboards are made in different lengths as well. They cater to bodyboarders of all sizes, ages, and skill levels.
Do Bodyboards Have Fins?
While most bodyboards don’t come with fins, you can install them on your board. Often called skegs, these fins work like a rudder for your bodyboard.
Installing fins on your bodyboard is purely up to your discretion. Some love the performance of their board with fins, while others advise against it.
Where Are Bodyboards Made?
Bodyboards are made all over the world. There are manufacturers in Australia, New Zealand, California, and Indonesia.
While bodyboards are produced in many countries in the world, it seems that most of its raw materials are products of either China or Taiwan.
What Makes a Bodyboard Fast?
There are many factors that affect a bodyboard’s speed. The shape, rails, and overall makeup of a bodyboard can tell you if it will be fast or otherwise.
For instance, a wider tail on your bodyboard makes it more stable and way faster. Meanwhile, the rail angle, or angles made by the edges of your bodyboard, can also affect the speed as well. For example, your board would be faster when your bodyboard has a shallower rail angle.
Lastly, your board’s rocker or upward curvature can also contribute to its speed. If your board has less rocker, it would be faster. But you would have a hard time maneuvering it.
What Is the Fastest Bodyboard?
While a bodyboard’s make-up contributes a lot to its speed, another big factor is the one riding it. Although it’s hard to name an absolute fastest bodyboard, some of the fastest ones on the market today include Hardy Shapes Modern Kinetic PP, Science Bodyboards Tanner LTD Quad Channels PP, and Pride Answer PP.
It is truly hard to zero in on one specific bodyboard that would surely be lightning fast to everyone who uses it. This is because no two people have the same skills, riding style, and body proportions down to the last centimeter.
What Should I Look for When Buying a Bodyboard?
Bodyboards are not created equal, and you would go through a lot of boards before you land on the perfect one. To make it easier, here are some of the factors that you should consider before purchasing one:
Size and Dimensions: When choosing a new bodyboard, size is key. Your physical size and weight will affect your performance. Even a half-inch might impact your capacity to catch waves and perform maneuvers in the wrong direction. When held out in front of you, your perfect bodyboard should extend from your knees to your chin.
It is suggested that heavier riders select a board with more width for added flotation and buoyancy.
Cores: The core is the most important part of a bodyboard. Although you can’t see it, it’s responsible for providing stability and support. If you choose the wrong core type, there’s a strong possibility that you will have a hard time being comfortable with your board.
There is a significant difference in the types of foam used in each of the boards’ cores, which affects the bodyboard’s performance in the water. Before choosing a core, you must first consider the water temperature, wave sizes, wave types, and your own dimensions.
Tail Shape: A bodyboard’s tail is a major factor in its performance. This is equally important as the core because it affects the way the board moves and releases energy.
There are two main types of tails. These are crescent-shaped and bat-shaped. A narrow tail allows you to release movements more easily because it is less buoyant. On the other hand, a wider tail provides more stability.
Deck: The surface on a bodyboard that you lay on is called the deck. Decks are commonly made with polyethylene (PE) because they are soft and flexible. But one concern is that they lose their form over time. Wrinkles and indentations would usually quickly develop in some regions of the board.
There is an alternative to the PE deck called crosslink. It absorbs less water while still being stronger but tends to be stiffer. Boards with crosslinks would need more wax for traction.
Slicks: Also called “skin,” slick is the material underneath the bodyboard that directly touches the water. Surlyn and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) are the two materials most frequently utilized for slicks.
The most typical material used is Surlyn, especially for mid- to high-quality boards. It makes the board faster and more responsive.
On the other hand, HDPE is the less expensive option that can be found on most beginner boards.
How Do I Pick the Right Bodyboard?
Who would’ve thought that picking the right bodyboard could be technical? There are a lot of factors to consider. Ultimately, choosing the right bodyboard would mean it is suitable for your weight, height, skills, and wave condition.
Always remember that your friend’s board may not be perfect for you, no matter how great and perfect it is for him. Choosing the right board would take time, but your bodyboarding experience will be amazing once you do.
What Are the Best Bodyboard Brands?
Choosing the best bodyboard brand is a dilemma. Even pro bodyboarders have their own choices and biases. While it’s hard to rank them, some of the best and biggest bodyboard brands include Morey, Catch Surf, BZ, Manta, and Hubboards.
These are big brands that have been in the industry for years. But that doesn’t mean they would automatically be perfect for you. If you want to know more about these brands, then keep reading.
Are Manta Bodyboards Good?
Manta bodyboards are good, especially if you want a lightweight bodyboard suitable for all kinds of bodyboarders. This Australian board brand has been in the market since 1985 and continues to innovate with its boards.
Some of their best boards include TFX Bodyboard, Hurricane, and Pro XT. Manta also expanded its products and is now manufacturing leashes, wetsuits, fins, and board bags.
Are Nomad Bodyboards Good?
Nomad is another good Australian bodyboard brand. It is the go-to brand of some of the top bodyboarders, including Matt Lacky, Alex Halsey, and Chris James.
Bodyboard Nomad Lackey Supreme PP and Bodyboard Nomad Cramsie PP are two of their most popular boards. Nomad is also a one-stop shop for all your bodyboarding needs.
Are Wavestorm Bodyboards Good?
Wavestorm is not only a good brand but also the most recognized brand for water sports equipment in the US. This is because you can easily buy it from your neighborhood general merchandise store.
The ease of getting a Wavestorm bodyboard adds to its appeal. But more than being easily accessible, these boards are also made with high-quality materials.
Are Stealth Bodyboards Any Good?
Another good and proudly Australian brand, Stealth bodyboards are made with high-quality materials. They are known for their functionality, and their designs are truly eye-catching. Stealth was founded by four bodyboard-loving mates, Dan Webster, Tom Davies, Jake Herbert, and Jono Joyce.
They manufacture all kinds of bodyboards, from entry-level to midrange to pro boards. Some of their boards include Nalu Stubby 38″, Speed Dealer 5.0, and Slasher SS. Their brand also carries bodyboarding accessories, including fins, leashes, bags, and even clothing.
Are Osprey Bodyboards Good?
Osprey originally started as a manufacturer of wetsuits and surf equipment, but they are also known for their good bodyboards. Made with premium materials, Osprey bodyboards are also known for their innovative design. This includes EPS cores and the XPE textured deck.
Some of their most well-loved bodyboards include the 33″ XPE Stickers, 37″ Yellow Spiral, and the 44″ STX blue bodyboard. Every Osprey bodyboard also comes with a free leash, so that’s one expense off your list.
Are Morey Bodyboards Good?
You can expect bodyboards made by Tom Morey not only to be good but rather exceptional. He is the developer of the very first boogie board, after all. While Wham-O now owns Morey (the company), the bodyboards being manufactured are still of premium quality.
Whether you are a beginner or a pro bodyboarder, you will surely find a Morey bodyboard for you. To this day, Morey Mach 7 remains one of the world’s most recognized and impressive bodyboards.
Are Pride Bodyboards Any Good?
Pride bodyboards are known worldwide to be great, which is why it has grown to be one of the top producers of bodyboards in the world. And not just any bodyboard. This European brand prides itself on its incredible selection of handcrafted bodyboards.
One of Pride’s bestselling bodyboards is the Guru PP. It is so popular that it is now considered to be a rare item on the market.
Are Body Glove Bodyboards Any Good?
Body Glove started as a wetsuit manufacturer, but it has since expanded to produce great boards, including bodyboards. Body Glove bodyboards are made with high-quality materials and cater to riders of all skill levels.
Some other their best bodyboards include the Phantom Bodyboard with its EPS core and HDPE slick and the 45″ Big Tuna for taller bodyboarders.
Are NMD Bodyboards Good?
Bodyboards made by this New Zealand brand are considered exceptional. And some of the most recognized bodyboarders in the world would agree. NMD started with the goal of designing high-performing bodyboards. To this day, it continues to create world-class, innovative bodyboards.
Many top bodyboarders have recognized NMD. The brand continues to work with these personalities to create top-notch boards. One of their most well-loved bodyboards is the Chris Wonton Taloa PP which was designed with the help of Chris Wonton himself. This is a big deal considering Wonton is considered to be one of the best stand-up bodyboarders in the game.
Are VS Bodyboards Good?
Also known as the “Versus Project,” VS bodyboards are considered one of the best boards in the market today. This is because these boards are made by some of the best shapers in the world in collaboration with the best bodyboarders ever. VS bodyboards are innovative and are made for the most extreme tricks and maneuvers.
Some of the best VS bodyboards include the Winchester WIFLY, Dave Winchester PP LTD, IKON PE Bodyboard, and the Craig Whetter PP. If you are an advanced bodyboarder, the VS boards are something you should highly consider getting.
Are BZ Bodyboards Good?
Owned by Bobby Szabad, BZ bodyboards are known to be some of the most advanced boards out in the market. Szabad, who used to be a Morey employee, aimed to create high-performing bodyboards. He made that happen, and he was successful in this venture.
Today, BZ bodyboards are the go-to of many bodyboarders for their innovative designs. Their boards are also known for their exceptional construction and top-notch performance. Some of the best BZ bodyboards include the T-10, the Fundamental, and the Advantage bodyboards.
What Is the Best Bodyboard Brand in the World?
With the number of bodyboard brands in the market today, it would be hard to choose the best one. Even the best bodyboarders would have a hard time choosing. Some would say it’s Morey, while others would argue that it’s NMD, BZ, or VS. At the end of the day, it is a matter of preference.
The good news is that this means that there are a lot of bodyboards that you can choose from. Now that you know what to look for, it would be easier for you to decide on a board regardless of brand.
What Is the Best Bodyboard on the Market?
The “best” bodyboard is a matter of preference. It would be hard to choose the single, best bodyboard out now in the current market. But some of the best bodyboard models being sold now include the all-time favorite Morey Boogie Mach 7 and the Hubboards Hubb Edition PP Pro CT.
The best bodyboard on the market is one that is well-suited to your body dimensions, skills, and wave conditions, regardless of the brand.
What Bodyboards Do the Pros Use?
There is no single brand that pro bodyboarders use. Aside from sponsorships, they also have their own preferences. Some of them even worked with particular brands to produce their signature boards, like Chris Wonton.
Partnerships like this are not new. In fact, many pro bodyboarders prefer this because this would ensure that they would come up with a bodyboard that is perfect for their skills.
Where Can I Buy a Bodyboard?
These days, getting your hand on a particular bodyboard is easy. You can buy them from general merchandise stores like Costco or Walmart. But if you want a more curated selection, you can also visit sports stores specializing in bodyboarding or water sports.
But if you find going out of the house and driving to a store particularly taxing, then you can just buy your bodyboard online. Many brands have their own websites where you can browse through their models. Amazon and eBay also sell wide selections of boards.
Does Target Sell Bodyboards?
Target does sell bodyboards. But there are only a few models to choose from. In addition, most boards are for beginners and are not as high-quality as some of the boards that are being sold in sports shops.
It will be okay to buy a board from target for you or your child if you are just beginning to learn bodyboarding. The boards here can be cheap so that they wouldn’t be as hard on the wallet.
What Are the Best Bodyboards for Beginners?
There are a lot of beginner bodyboards around, and it would be hard to choose the best one for you on your first try. While choosing is difficult, it is still advisable to pick one that would best suit your weight, height, and skills so that you can enjoy the sport better.
Here are some of the best beginner boards in the market today:
Morey Big Kahuna 44″: The Morey Big Kahuna is the largest beginner bodyboard out in the current market. This board is made with EPS foam and reinforced with a Power Rod Stringer, which makes it highly durable.
Its wide dimensions will surely be great for first-timers because it helps you find your balance and offers more control. The Morey Big Kahuna is selling for around 150 USD.
BPS Storm Bodyboard: If you think that the Morey Big Kahuna is a little too expensive, then opt for the BPS Storm Bodyboard, priced at just around 75 USD. You’ll also get a swim fin tether and a high-quality coiled leash when you purchase one!
But more than the price, BPS Storm is a good choice because its construction is top-notch. It is made with an EPS core. It has a slick bottom which offers the board more speed. It is also designed with a crescent tail which helps beginners maneuver the board better.
Morey Mach 11: If you want a smooth ride on your first try, then the Morey Mach 11 is for you. This board is not only lightweight but it is also very stable and durable.
It has an EPS foam core, and it is also designed with the IXPE deck and pro slick bottom combination, which makes it glide smoothly on the water. It is also made with a crescent tail which makes it very flexible. Another plus is that it is not as expensive as Morey Big Kahuna!
Rai Ying Bodyboard: The Rai Ying Bodyboard boasts an IXPE nonslip foam front and a PP firm bottom plate, making it a favorite among bodyboarders. Because of the PP and IXPE foam combination, this board is strong, tough, lightweight, and durable.
Priced at around 80 USD, this board is great for both kids and adults who want to get started in the sport.
Custom X Titan Bodyboard: This is a beginner-friendly bodyboard that you should not sleep on! The Custom X Titan provides a lot of grip, allows for better maneuvering, and they are overall easier to control than other bodyboards.
Its construction is also top-notch. It has a combination of Tight Celldeck with Wavecore PE foam inner core, which makes it suitable for different riding styles.
How Do I Choose a Bodyboard for My Child?
The first thing to check when buying a bodyboard for your child is the board size. Getting the perfect size would ensure that your child will be safe in the water and enjoy the board and get maximum performance.
To get the right size, lay the bottom of the board on a flat surface. Be sure that your child’s navel should only be 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the bodyboard. If your child is a teen, there should be at least 2 inches (5.08 cm) above the navel. There are sizing charts in many sports stores, so getting an estimate for your kid’s size shouldn’t be that much of a problem.
What Is the Best Bodyboard for Kids?
If your kid wants to get started in the sport, getting them the right board is the first step. Here are some of the kid-friendly bodyboards out on the market today:
Bo-Toys Bodyboard: Lightweight and impact resistant, Bo-Toys Bodyboard is a great beginner board for your kid. It comes in two sizes, 33″ and 41″, and has a weight limit of 40 to 180 lbs (18.14 to 81.65 kg).
In addition, it has a crescent tail shape which makes the board easier to control. Bo-Toys bodyboard also has a super slick bottom with channels which makes gliding across the water very easy.
GoPlus Super: The GoPlus Super is resistant to weather, water, and shock, which extends the lifespan of the board no matter how your kid uses it.
This crescent-tailed bodyboard is manufactured in three sizes, 33″, 37″, and 41″, which means that it can cater to a lot more body dimensions. It can carry kids that are 4 ft to 5 ft and 11 inches (1.2 to 1.8 m) and has a weight limit of 89 to 189 lbs (40.37 to 85.73 kg).
Every purchase of a GoPlus Super comes with a free leash and wristband.
GYMAX: The GYMAX is known for its durability. It is also very lightweight and has a slick bottom, making gliding across the water a breeze.
This bodyboard only comes in one size, 41″, and has a crescent tail. It can carry a maximum weight limit of 145 lbs (66 kg). It also comes with a free leash to ensure that your kid won’t lose the board.
Morey Bodyboards Mini Boogie: From the legendary brand Morey, this mini bodyboard is 21″ in length and designed to have a crescent tail. It is shock-absorbent which means that your kid is safe from injury.
Like the big Morey bodyboard models, this mini bodyboard is made with a foam core which offers more buoyancy.
WOOWAVE Bodyboard: This bodyboard is lightweight and durable. But that’s not all! It also comes in many eye-catching colors that your kids would absolutely love!
WOOWAVE bodyboard comes in 3 sizes namely, 33″, 33″, and 41″. It is great for kids ages five and up.
How Much Does a Bodyboard Weigh?
Bodyboards come in many different heights, which means that the weight varies from board to board as well. The type of material used for the body of the board also adds to the reason why bodyboards come in varying weights.
Often the weight of the board is not published along with its height. To be sure, you can send a message to the brand of your chosen bodyboard.
How Wide Is a Bodyboard?
Because bodyboards come in many sizes, they are mostly just similar in their heights and thickness. However, the width of bodyboards or the widest point often varies.
If you want to be sure that a bodyboard is suitable for your body type, you can directly send a message to the brand of your board.
How Tall Is a Bodyboard?
The standard length of a bodyboard is 38 and 46 inches (97 to 117 cm). Take note that that is the length for most adult bodyboards. Other boards, especially those for kids, are designed to be smaller, like the Morey Mini Boogie, which is 21 inches (53 cm).
Don’t worry if you happen to be on the taller side and you can’t find a bodyboard that fits your body dimensions. There are a lot of shapers and manufacturers that custom-make bodyboards. So you will surely have a board that is perfect for you.
Does Bodyboard Size Matter?
When it comes to choosing your bodyboard, size truly does matter. You should get the size that is perfect for your height and weight, otherwise, you would have a hard time controlling and riding your board.
A smaller board would offer more control and agility. However, if you are an adult, you would still have a hard time controlling a board that is too small for you. It follows that although a longer board offers more buoyancy and stability, a child would have a hard time riding a bodyboard that is too big for him.
Can a Bodyboard Be Too Big?
Yes, there are instances when a bodyboard can be too big for a rider. For instance, a child uses an adult-sized bodyboard. But even adults sometimes mistakenly use bodyboards that are too big for them.
If you’re still a beginner in the sport, you can ask your instructor to choose a bodyboard that would suit your body type.
What Happens if My Bodyboard Is Too Big?
Bodyboarding using a board that is evidently bigger than you is not a good idea. But if you’re not sure if your bodyboard is too big for you, then here are some signs:
- You have a hard time controlling your board.
- It’s difficult to paddle out effectively.
- Your knees would often hit the tail of your board when you try to move your fins faster.
How Big of a Bodyboard Do I Need?
The size of the bodyboard that you should use is purely preferential. It has to be the perfect size for your height and weight. Bodyboards are also made to cater to specific body weights and heights.
Surely, an adult shouldn’t use a kid’s bodyboard. You also shouldn’t buy the same board just because it is perfect for your friend as you might have a very different body type.
Should I Get a Bigger or Smaller Bodyboard?
If you want to get serious with bodyboarding, you might have to purchase bodyboards of different sizes. But you have to make sure that it is still perfect for your body proportions.
The waves that you intend to ride also affect the size of the bodyboard that you should use. If you like to take on big waves, a smaller or shorter board is better because it offers more control and agility. Meanwhile, if you prefer small waves, then a longer board is better as it offers more buoyancy and stability.
How Do You Know What Size Bodyboard to Get?
There are many factors to consider when choosing a size of a bodyboard. These include your body proportions, the type of wave that you would be riding, and your experience. Your perfect bodyboard should match all of these.
If you are having a hard time finding the right size, you can always consult an experienced bodyboarding instructor. It’s also good to consult a bodyboard salesperson.
How Do I Choose the Right Size Bodyboard?
In choosing the right size bodyboard, you should always look at the length of the board. The rule is the board should be the same height as your belly button when it’s standing on the ground. Another rule is that the bodyboard should extend from your knees to your chin when it is held out in front of you.
But that’s not all—you should also consider the size of the waves that you will be riding. You will need a bigger board if you like to ride small or small-breaking waves. On the other hand, a smaller board is recommended if you intend to catch big, powerful, and fast waves.
What Size Bodyboard Should I Buy?
Here’s a size guide to see the length of a bodyboard that is perfect for your size and weight:
| Length of Bodyboard | Rider’s Weight | Rider’s Height | |||
| In feet (ft) | In meter (m) | In pounds (lbs.) | In kilo (kg) | In feet (ft) | In meter (m) |
| 33 to 35 | 10.1 to 10.7 | Less than 65 | Less than 29.5 | Less than 4 ft. | 1.2 |
| 36 to 38 | 11 to 11.6 | 65 to 85 | 29.5 to 38.6 | 4 to 5 ft. | 1.5 |
| 39 | 11.9 | 85 to 115 | 38.6 to 52.2 | 4 ft. 6 in. to 5 ft. 2 in. | 1.4 to 1.6 |
| 40 | 12.2 | 115 to 130 | 52.2 to 59 | 5 ft.3 in. to 5 ft. 6 in. | 1.6 to 1.7 |
| 41 to 42 | 12.5 to 12.8 | 125 to 170 | 56.7 to 77.1 | 5 ft. 7 in. to 5 ft. 9 in | 1.7 to 1.8 |
| 42 | 12.8 | 145 to 180 | 65.8 to 81.6 | 5 ft. 9 in to 6 ft. | 1.8 to 1.8 |
| 42 to 43 | 12.8 to 13.1 | 169 to 190 | 76.7 to 86.1 | 5 ft. 10 in to 6 ft. 2 in. | 1.8 to 1.9 |
| 43 | 13.1 | 170 to 210 | 77.1 to 95.3 | 6 ft. 1 in. to 6 ft. 3 in. | 1.9 to 1.9 |
| 44 | 13.4 | 180 to 270 | 81.6 to 122.5 | 6 ft. 2 in. to 6 ft. to 4 in. | 1.9 to 1.9 |
| 45 | 13.7 | 195 to 255 | 88.5 to 115.7 | 6 ft. 3 in. to 6 ft 6 in. | 1.9 to 1.9 |
| 46 | 14 | More than 200 | 91 | More than 6 ft 4 in. | More than 1.9 |
What Size Bodyboard Does My Child Need?
When choosing a bodyboard for your child, make sure that it reaches an inch above your child’s belly button when placed on the ground. If your child is in their teens, choose a board that is two inches above the belly button so it has more allowance for when they grow bigger.
A method that others use is that they subtract 2 from the age of their child and add the resulting number to a constant length of the board, which is 30 inches. However, take this with a grain of salt, as this may not always be accurate.
When buying a bodyboard for your kid, their weight and height are the primary considerations more than their age. This is because, in some cases, a child may either be bigger or small for their age, so body proportions are considered to be more accurate.
What Size Bodyboard for 3-Year-Old?
Following the method stated above, a 3-year-old would benefit from using a 31-inch (79 cm) bodyboard. If you’re unsure, you can always bring your child to have him size up a board.
If your child is too big for their age, you can choose to size up as a certified instructor recommends.
What Size Bodyboard for 7-Year-Old?
A 7-year-old child can use a 35-inch (89 cm) bodyboard. If they are new to the sport, it is always recommended to have a certified instructor supervise your child.
You can always choose to have a smaller or bigger board depending on the wave that your child is catching.
What Size Bodyboard for 8-Year-Old?
An 8-year-old can try to use a 36-inch (91 cm) bodyboard. Make sure your kid is not alone while in the water when bodyboarding.
While they might be big enough to control a bodyboard this size, a wave can still wipe them out.
What Size Bodyboard for 9-Year-Old?
For a 9-year-old kid, a 37-inch (94 cm) bodyboard should be good. To know if the size is right for them, the bodyboard should be an inch above their navel.
It is important to make sure that your kid is using the right size of bodyboard, especially if they are just starting out on the sport.
What Size Bodyboard for 10-Year-Old?
A 38-inch (96 cm) board would be appropriate for a 10-year-old kid. But before letting them ride, ensure they are comfortable with the board.
You should make sure that they can ride and maneuver the board easily before they start catching waves.
What Size Bodyboard for 12-Year-Old?
A 12-year-old kid can use a 40-inch (102 cm) bodyboard. However, if he is a fast-growing kid, make sure that the bodyboard is at least 2 inches above their navel.
Even if your kid has been bodyboarding for a long time, make sure that they are still being supervised. You should especially be on the lookout in areas where the waves can get pretty big.
What Bodyboard Should I Get?
The bodyboard that you should get must match your weight, height, riding style, experience, and waves that you intend to ride. There is no one-size-fits-all type of bodyboard.
The most important thing in choosing a bodyboard is that it should be perfect for you and you alone. Choosing a bodyboard is a very personal thing. Therefore, you should give ample time in making sure that the board fits your criteria for you to enjoy the sport totally.
What Is a Stringer on a Bodyboard?
A carbon fiber or glass-fiber tube or rod found in the middle of the board is called a stringer. This is inserted into your bodyboard to give it extra strength.
You can set up a single and central stringer, a two-side stringer, or a three-stringer depending on the shape of your bodyboard. You can easily insert and remove a stringer using a special key.
What Is a Single Stringer Bodyboard?
When a bodyboard has a single stringer, it means that only one carbon fiber or glass-fiber tube or rod is inserted into the core of the bodyboard. It is often placed parallel to the rails of your bodyboard.
It is added to strengthen and reduce the deformation of the board. It also adds stiffness and allows for faster bottom turns and wave transitions.
Do I Need a Leash on My Bodyboard?
A leash is a very important part of your bodyboard, and you should never go out into the water without it. It will keep you within arm’s reach of the board if you lose the board in difficult conditions.
When you set out into the water with big waves, the event of a wipeout is imminent. Without a leash, you will have to swim back towards the beach to retrieve the bodyboard every time. Doing this would consume both your time and your strength.
How Long Should a Bodyboard Leash Be?
Different riders often have varied preferences on how long their bodyboard leashes are. Bodyboard leashes come in three lengths or types, and this is based on where you wear them. These are wrist leash, ankle leash, and bicep leash.
Ankle lease is the shortest, and they never go beyond 5 feet (1.52 meters). Wrist leashes are often 5 feet or more. Lastly, bicep leashes are often 6 feet (1.82 meters) or longer.
Where Do You Place a Leash on a Bodyboard?
There is really no strict rule on where to put your leash on your bodyboard because it often comes down to preference, experience, and riding style. For beginners, however, it is recommended to set the plug of your leash at the top of the board. Then, you can choose either to put it in the center or on the side that feels most comfortable to you.
Bodyboarders using ankle leashes often position their leash plug close to the bottom of their board. Meanwhile, the more experience bodyboarders often experiment with a few positions to find which suits them the most.
How Do You Wear a Leash on a Bodyboard?
Depending on your riding style and experience, you may wear your bodyboard leash on your wrist, bicep, or ankle. If you don’t know what to choose between the three, then read on to know their difference:
Wrist leash: Most beginners who are still starting with bodyboarding frequently use a wrist leash. This is because it makes it simple to retrieve your board after wiping out.
Pro drop-knee bodyboarders prefer this length as well. However, most professional and competitive riders do not prefer wrist leashes. Dragging the strap and the coil with you every time you paddle can be bothersome.
Bicep leash: This is the type and length that most professional riders prefer because the straps do not get in the way when you paddle or ride a wave. It should be placed just above the crease of your elbow, and the coil should come off the side of your arm closest to your thumb.
Ankle leash: While not as popular as the first two, you can choose to buy an ankle leash. Like the writs leash, this is also better preferred by drop-knee riders.
What Are the Best Bodyboard Leashes?
If you are on the lookout for a new bodyboard leash but you’re having a hard time choosing, here’s a list of the top leashes in the market today:
BPS “Storm” Pro Boogie Board Leash: Easily to install, well-engineered, and impeccably made. No wonder the BPS Pro is a crowd favorite. While it is made as a wrist leash, it is adjustable enough that you can also use it as a bicep leash because of the Velcro strap.
XM Bodyboard Leash by XM Surf More: XM Surf More is one of the premier leash manufacturers in the world, and the XM Bodyboard leash won’t disappoint you. This leash is very comfortable with a soft and secure cuff. It is also made with neoprene material, which means it lessens chafing and irritation.
Own the Wave Premium: This wrist leash is very versatile, and you can also comfortably use it as a bicep leash. It is also made with neoprene material that will protect your skin from chafing. It is also a breeze to attach and detach on your board.
What Is the Best GoPro Mount for Bodyboarding?
Of course, you would want to film your bodyboarding adventures. And what better way to do that than to capture it using a GoPro. But to be able to capture your best moments, you need a good quality GoPro mount. Here are some of the best ones in the market:
Vcufflinks BodyBoard Mount Kit: If you are looking for a flexible mount that provides lots of usage, then Vcufflinks is for you. It includes a number of accessories and an easy-to-install system so that you can start filming right away. You can mount it on a bodyboard, soft top, or foam SUP, and it is compatible with thick boards.
Hooshion GoPro Mount Kit: If you want a GoPro mount that is a breeze to install, then Hooshion is for you. It’s so easy that you only need to use a screwdriver, and voila! You now have a GoPro mount on your board. It is compatible with different kinds of boards. It is also very durable, and once installed, the mount is very secure.
Vodafor Bodyboard GoPro Hero/Max Mount Kit: Vodafor is known for being budget-friendly. But more than that, it is also known for excellent design and diverse compatibility. You can mount it on different types and thicknesses of boards. It is extremely durable that you can choose to ride on big waves, and this mount won’t even shake.
Where Do You Mount GoPro on Bodyboard?
The general consensus is that the nose of the bodyboard is the best spot for your GoPro mount. Most bodyboarders install the mount on the top center of the board so that they can capture the left and their right hand in one frame.
But there is no rule on where you should put your GoPro mount. Ultimately, you decide where on your board is the best spot for the things that you want to capture.
Where Can I Buy a Bodyboard Bag?
You don’t need to go far to buy yourself a bodyboard bag. They are often available in sporting goods and general merchandise stores that have a section for water sports. Bodyboard bags are also available online.
You can also go directly to the website or physical store of the brand of your board. This way, you would be sure that the bodyboard bag would fit your board.
What to Wear When Bodyboarding
You must wear proper attire if you want to take bodyboarding more seriously. For your bodyboarding attire of choice, you can choose between a wetsuit or a rash guard.
If your goal is to excel in bodyboarding and you practice often, a wetsuit would be more appropriate for you. A wetsuit has more coverage and would protect you better in the water.
If bodyboarding is more recreational for you, then a simple rash guard would suffice. It can also give your body enough protection from chafing and rashes.
Do You Need a Wetsuit to Bodyboard?
If you are truly serious about the sport and you see yourself bodyboarding often, then wearing a wetsuit is a must. It offers protection from the harsh UV rays and would protect you from chafing and rashes.
Depending on the thickness of your wetsuit, it can also thoroughly protect you in cold water. Wetsuits also come in different thicknesses, which makes it easier to choose what to use for different weather.
Can You Bodyboard Without Wetsuit?
While it is always advisable to head out in the water in your wetsuit, you are allowed to go bodyboarding without a wetsuit. You may choose to wear a rash guard instead.
You can even bodyboard wearing just swimsuits but only for short periods. This is because they do not have enough coverage to protect you from either the sun or the water.
What Wetsuit Is Best for Bodyboarding?
Wetsuits come in different sizes, thicknesses, zip systems, and even types. If you don’t know what the best wetsuit is or simply what to buy, then here are some of the best wetsuits out in the market today:
Hubboards Air Hubb Wetsuit: This 2/3mm wetsuit is designed for avid and high-performing bodyboarders. This long sleeve full suit uses 3mm Limestone neoprene in the chest, back, and leg regions for more comfort, cushion, and warmth. Meanwhile, the knee, arm, and shoulder pads are made with 2mm Limestone neoprene for added flexibility.
This wetsuit retails at just around 200 USD.
Gyroll Shield 4/3 Zipperless Steamer S21: This wetsuit is perfect for bodyboarding in cold weather. It is designed to have an extra thermal layer for maximum heat retention. In addition, it is made with eco-friendly Limestone neoprene for added comfort and flexibility. Gyroll Shield comes in a variety of sizes that fits many different body types.
This wetsuit retails at around 300 USD.
Pride Nymph Steamer 4/3mm: This wetsuit is marketed as the most eco-friendly and high-end bodyboarding wetsuit. The Pride Nymph Steamer is made with Yulex 2021 natural rubber. This material adds more warmth, stretch, and flexibility. This wetsuit is also perfect for cold water between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
What Is the Best Rash Guard for Bodyboarding?
If you want to go bodyboarding for recreation, then wearing a rash guard would suffice. Here are some of the best rash guards that you can buy in the market today:
O’Neill Men’s Premium Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard: This rash guard was regarded by many diving websites as the best overall rash guard. Having Premium Skins UPF 50+ is a big plus since it would effectively protect you from the harmful rays of the sun. But this rash guard is more than its UV protection. It is known to provide exceptional comfort due to its quick-dry and stretchable material.
Roxy Women’s Wholehearted Long Sleeve UPF 50 Rash Guard: Aside from its UPF 50 sun protection, this rash guard is made with 92% polyester and 8% elastane. The material makes it soft and stretch-resistant. It is also very snug, which helps if you wear it in cold waters. In addition, this rash guard comes in many sizes, which means you would surely get the perfect fit for you.
Quicksilver All Time Long Sleeve Rash Guard Swim Shirt UPF 50+: This Quicksilver rash guard offers exceptional UV protection. It is also considered to be the most lightweight in 2022. It is made with 92% polyester and 8% elastane which makes it soft and durable. This rash guard is good gear to have whether you are bodyboarding somewhere hot or cold.
