Choosing the right bodyboard size can make a big difference to how your board feels in the water.
A board that's too small may not give you the support and flotation you need, while one that's too large can feel awkward and harder to control. The right size can help give you a good balance of flotation, comfort and control, helping you feel more confident in the water and get more out of your bodyboarding.
So how do you find the balance?
The short version
- A board with the right flotation supports you without becoming harder to steer and control.
- Use your weight as well as your height. Two riders the same height can need different boards.
- Not sure? The BPS Board Size Calculator narrows it down from our range of bodyboards.
The right size helps you feel comfortable on the board
Your bodyboard needs to support you comfortably while still giving you enough freedom to move and control the board. If it's too small, you may feel like you don't have enough board underneath you. If it's too large, positioning yourself and controlling the board can become more difficult.
Getting the size right helps you find a comfortable position on the board, so you can focus on your riding rather than fighting with the board.
Where your board should sit
Too small
May not give you the flotation and support you need to catch and ride waves comfortably.
Your range
Enough support to feel stable, without becoming harder to steer and manoeuvre.
Too big
Plenty of flotation, but can feel harder to manoeuvre. Most noticeable for smaller riders.
Size affects control
If your board is too small
A smaller board may feel easier to move around, but you could give up some of the flotation and stability you need to catch and control the ride.
If your board is too big
Bodyboarding isn't just about floating on the board. You need to be able to steer, change direction and position yourself as you ride, and a board that's too large can feel harder to manoeuvre, particularly for a smaller rider.
The goal isn't the biggest board you can find. It's the size that gives you the flotation you need, and the control to steer and position yourself as you ride.
Bodyboard size depends on more than height
It can be tempting to choose a bodyboard based only on your height, but your weight matters too. Generally, a larger board provides more flotation than a smaller one, which is one reason weight is so important when choosing a bodyboard.
Two riders can be the same height but have very different weights, so the same bodyboard size won't necessarily suit both. Your experience and the conditions you ride in can also influence which size feels best.
Not sure what that means for you?
Pop in your height, weight and experience. The calculator points you to the best fit from our range of bodyboards.
Find Your BPS Board Size
The right size can help when catching waves
Catching a wave involves more than just paddling. You need to position yourself correctly, get the board moving, and control your direction as the wave comes through. Having a board that suits your size can help you feel more comfortable when paddling, positioning yourself and catching waves.
Instead of struggling with a board that feels too large, or not getting enough support from one that's too small, you can focus on your timing, positioning and enjoying the wave. This can be particularly helpful when you're still learning.
Our BPS bodyboards
Whether you're just starting out or already comfortable in the water, choosing the right size is a good place to start. You can see the full range in our bodyboard collection.