Choosing the right surfboard size can make a big difference, especially when you're learning to surf.
The right board gives you the stability and flotation that make learning easier, while still being manageable enough to control. Choose one that's too small and learning gets harder. Go too large and the board becomes difficult to handle, particularly for a smaller rider.
So how do you find the balance?
The short version
- A board with enough length and volume is more stable, so you catch more waves while learning.
- Use your weight as well as your height. Two people the same height can need different boards.
- Not sure? The BPS Board Size Calculator narrows it down in about 30 seconds.
The right size makes learning easier
Learning to surf takes time. There's plenty to work on, from paddling and positioning yourself on the board to getting to your feet and staying balanced as the wave comes through.
A board with enough stability and flotation gives you a more forgiving platform while you're learning these basics. Longer, higher-volume boards are commonly recommended for beginners because they make paddling and catching waves easier.
When you feel comfortable on the board, you can focus on your technique instead of constantly fighting to stay balanced.
Where your board should sit
Too small
Not enough flotation. Paddling, balancing and catching waves all get harder.
Your range
Stable enough to be forgiving, small enough that you can still handle it.
Too big
Plenty of float, but tough to manoeuvre. Most noticeable for smaller riders.
Too small, or too big?
If your board is too small
A smaller board is more responsive once you've built your skills. But for a beginner there's a trade-off: too little flotation makes paddling, balancing and catching waves harder work.
If your board is too big
Bigger isn't automatically better. A board that's too large for the rider becomes difficult to handle and manoeuvre, which is particularly noticeable for smaller riders.
The goal isn't the biggest board you can find. It's the size that's stable enough to help, and small enough that you can still control it.
Your height and weight both matter
When choosing a surfboard, it's easy to focus on height. But your weight is an important part of the equation too.
Two people can be the same height and very different weights, so the same board won't give them the same flotation or feel. Current sizing guidance commonly uses weight alongside height and ability.
Not sure what that means for you?
Pop in your height, weight and experience. The calculator points you to the closest fit from our range.
Find Your BPS Board Size
How you plan to surf matters too
Your size isn't the only thing to consider. Someone learning to surf for the first time will usually have different needs from someone who has already built up their skills.
The type of waves you're planning to surf, and what you want to get out of the board, both influence the choice. For beginners, stability, flotation and ease of use are what count. As your skills develop, you may start looking for something more responsive.
The right choice is about finding a board that suits where you're at now.
Our BPS soft-top surfboards
We've kept our soft-tops beginner-friendly and easy to enjoy. There are two options in the range, so you can pick based on the size and fit you're after.
Whether you're just starting out or looking for a board to help build your confidence, choosing the right size is a good place to start. You can see both in our surfboard collection.