Surfboard Prices: How Much Do They Cost?
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It’s a hard thing to accept after you’ve experienced the stoke of your first surf session. We’ve all been there. You’re beyond happy you caught a wave and are now ready to get a board of your own. But, when you see the price of a surfboard, your heart drops. It doesn’t have to be like this.
Though the cost of a surfboard may seem high, you can keep the sport economical by keeping a few things in mind. So, follow along and see how you can get the most out of your budget.
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How Much Do Surfboards Cost?
The short answer is that it depends and can be anywhere from around $100 - $1200. The good news though is that there are very few justifiable reasons for you to put over a grand down on a surfboard.
The long answer is that it depends on what kind of board you are looking at. We’ll look at a few of the main factors that will determine what your surfboard costs. Then, you’ll be able to figure out what you need and what you’re just paying extra for.
There’s a lot of craftsmanship that goes into making a surfboard. Each board, especially traditional fiberglass boards, is a work of art in its own way. High-end craftsmanship requires high-end pricing.
Size
If you’re just getting started, you’re going to want a longer, wider board.
More length will help you paddle into waves more easily.
More width will provide a stable platform to help you when you pop up. Unfortunately, all this board material means that your board will cost more.
Shortboards are typically cheaper than comparable longboards.
But, be advised, most shortboards are not suitable for learning. They are designed for radical surfing and advanced maneuvers.
Check out our surfboard volume calculator for extra info on how to choose the right sized surfboard.
Foam vs Fiberglass
Foam surfboards, or soft tops or just foamies, are boards made from an EPS foam core and then wrapped in a soft outer skin. These boards are typically much cheaper than hard, fiberglass boards since they are more easily produced. And, they make excellent beginner boards because they have more buoyancy for their size than any other construction. Soft top surfboards are also better for learning because they are more durable and safer for you if you fall on it.
Fiberglass boards are typically much more expensive than a soft top board. However, there is a much larger range for board design since these boards are often shaped by an expert shaper. These boards feel much more responsive on the wave face and are more maneuverable. But, fiberglass boards can be harder to paddle and are much more difficult to pop up on.
Used vs New
Scoring a used board for cheap is the goal for many surfers. If you’re eyeing a used board, there are few things to watch out for such as making sure the board is watertight or if it is a fiberglass board that it is not too yellowed. Any board that has cracks, dings, or holes in it loses its integrity and will be difficult to surf on. An overly yellowed board is the result of a board being too old and a sign that it was left out too much. It’s just a warning sign that the board might not be all you hope.
Scoring a new board is the easiest way to make sure that you are getting a quality board. And don’t feel like you can’t get an economic board because it’s new. Sometimes, new boards aren’t much more than a good used board.
With these features in mind, let’s take a look at some of our favorite boards that help you get the most for your price range.
Our 3 Favorites
#1 Verve 8'
When it comes to beginner boards, South Bay Board Company’s Verve 8’ board can’t be beat.
The durable soft top has texture making ready to ride without wax.
The wide base and extra buoyancy from the EPS core makes this board easy for any beginner to stand up on and start riding.
At 8’ long, the Verve is the ideal length for any beginner. If you’re looking for the right length for easy paddling, 8’ has you covered.
The most important part of getting better is catching a lot of waves and with eht Verve, you’ll be able to paddle into a lot of waves.
And, as you progress, you’ll find that 8’ is short enough to maneuver on the wave face.
#2 Ruccus 7'
Though not as suitable for beginning surfers as the Verve, the Ruccus 7’ still has plenty going for it that makes it an excellent choice in this price range.
The shorter length makes this the ideal board for surfers who are transitioning from a longboard to a shortboard.
The Ruccus also has a triple stringer system running its length.
The stringers provide added durability for this board so you can keep ripping on it for years.
Similarly, with the foam soft top, the Ruccus has durability in mind for you.
You won’t have to worry about dinging your board or bruising yourself while you learn how to ride shorter surfboards. All of this means you don’t have to spend much on boards in the long term.
#3 Guppy 6'
The Guppy 6’ is a much smaller board than the other options on this list that works as a performance foamie.
The small size may make this board more difficult to paddle, but definitely makes up for the inconvenience by allowing you to do more on the wave.
The short length will let you better fit into the pocket of whatever waves you’re riding.
If you’re even feeling up to it, the shorter length will help you tuck into the barrel.
The Guppy is suited for the punchy wave conditions you will find at in the shore break or at almost any beach break.
Other Expenses
Wetsuits
If you want a good wetsuit that won’t restrict your movement but still keep you warm, it’s probably going to set you back about $100. The good news is that if you are surfing waves in warm water, you can forego a wetsuit.
Surf Lessons
Everyone had to learn surfing from someone. If you’re just getting started, we highly recommend getting lessons. It may seem like an extra cost, but the added help will help your wave count and get you on your surfing journey hassle-free.
Surf Gear
If you are in warm water you may be stoked because you realize you won’t need a wetsuit. But, you’ll definitely want some good sunscreen.
Some other gear any surfer needs are towels and a good backpack to store any other items like wax, hats, food, water, or a finkey in.
