Best Surfboards for Beginners
Starting your surf journey is all about having the right board under your feet. At Surftech, we’ve spent decades working with some of the most legendary shapers in the industry to create boards that make learning to surf easier, more fun, and way less frustrating.
What Makes a Good Beginner Surfboard?
Before we dive into our top picks, here’s what to look for in a beginner board:
- Stability – Wide outlines and extra volume help you stay balanced while learning.
- Buoyancy – More float = easier paddling and wave catching.
- Durability – Beginner boards should be able to take a few bumps along the way.
- Ease of Use – A soft, forgiving design lets you focus on technique without getting punished for every little mistake.
Our Top Beginner Surfboards
The Super Soft
If you're just starting out, the Super Soft is hard to beat. This board comes in (7) unique sizes, and includes our Learn2Surf positioning technology to make sure you're in the right spot every time you catch a wave. The Super Soft soft boards are the “go-to” boards for surf schools, self-educated, rental, and the surfer that wants a safe reliable board for their favorite break.
P2 Softops
Designed similarly to the Super Soft series, the P2 Softops are built with a soft EVA top and a durable epoxy core. These boards are super stable, safe, and forgiving, perfect for learning the basics and building confidence in the whitewash.
Takayama In the Pink
Designed by legendary Donald Takayama, this is one of the most versatile longboards on the market. While it's often praised by advanced surfers, its length, stability, and paddle power make it an excellent step-up board once you've mastered the basics. Also available as a Softop!
Walden Magic Model
The Magic Model is a favorite for surfers of all levels. For beginners, it offers unmatched stability and ease of paddling, while more experienced riders appreciate its maneuverability. The best part? We make it in a range of different technologies, from Softops to our ultra-durable Tuflite. If you're a beginner or looking to invest in a board you won’t outgrow too fast, this is a great pick.
NSP Double Up
Need a little more volume and paddle power without going full soft-top? The NSP Double Up is a hidden gem. It’s designed for heavier surfers or anyone looking for a smooth, confidence-boosting ride.
Choosing the Right Size
Here’s a quick cheat sheet for picking the right size:
- <150 lbs – 7’0”–8’0”
- 150–180 lbs – 8’0”–8’6”
- 180+ lbs – 9’0”+
If you’re not sure, it’s always safer to size up when starting out.
Final Tips for Beginner Surfers
- Start in soft, waist-high waves.
- Practice your pop-up on land before paddling out.
- Don’t be afraid to fall—every wipeout is one step closer to your first real ride.
- Most importantly: have fun and enjoy the ride.
