Torsten BJORD, Author at Surf Hungry

Top 8 Best Skimboards for 2026: Ultimate Guide for All Skill Levels

December 19, 2025by Torsten BJORD

Picture this: the sun is shining, the waves are rolling in, and you’re gliding effortlessly across the water’s edge, feeling the thrill of speed and control beneath your feet. That’s the magic of skimboarding—part adrenaline, part art, and entirely unforgettable. In 2026, the sport has reached new heights of popularity, driven by a global push toward sustainable outdoor activities and the rise of “urban skimming” in inland water parks. Skimboarding started around 1920, in California. At the time, skimboards were just made-up rounded disks from redwood by then Laguna Beach lifeguards. These disks were used to slide across the water. Skimboards used to have a pizza shape until it came out with a new design in the 1960s. Their designs appeared and mirrored a smaller, wide surfboard. The reason for the change in design is due to the locals in Laguna believing (by experience) that round boards carve off the waves that break right on the shore. Soon after the sport gained popularity in the surfing world, it rose to two disciplines: wave skimboarding and flatland skimboarding. Wave riding skimboard is the most popular and recognized sport in skimboarding – wave riding. The majority of wave riding skimboards are made of closed-cell foam, which is a high-density foam material that restricts water absorption and dings. The second type of skimboard is the flatland or inland skimboards. They are generally made of wood and can be found at most local surf or skate shops. Flatland skimboards are perfect for beginners because they are simple to make and use and are not expensive. Whether you’re a beginner just dipping your toes into the sport or an experienced rider chasing bigger challenges, choosing the perfect skimboard is key to unlocking your potential. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best skimboards for 2026, breaking down everything you need to know to make the right choice. From budget-friendly options to high-performance favourites, get ready to find your ideal match and take your skimboarding game to the next level. New for 2026: Trends to Watch Before diving into the gear, keep these three major 2026 trends in mind: The “Hybrid” Revolution: Boards are no longer strictly “flatland” or “wave.” New shapes allow riders to slide across the sand and still have enough “pop” to catch a 2-foot shore break. Eco-Conscious Materials: Leading brands like BPS and Zap are phasing out toxic glues in favor of plant-based resins and recycled EPS foam cores. What to Look for in a Skimboard in 2026 Skimboarding is as much about technique as it is about having the right gear. Whether you’re carving waves or gliding effortlessly across the shore, the right skimboard can make all the difference. Here’s what you need to consider before making your choice. 1. Material The material of your skimboard significantly affects its durability, weight, and performance. 2. Size Your skimboard’s size should match your height and weight. 3. Shape and Rocker 4. Riding Conditions For those riding waves, fiberglass options such as the Driftsun Fiberglass Skimboard provide the speed and control needed for tricks. Top 8 Best Skimboards for 2026 You’ve seen it on the beach. A guy holding a skimboard, running fast to the shore, as if he is so excited to meet it. He throws the board ahead of him and runs even faster to catch up and ride the board. Then catches a wave, surfs it for a bit, and rides it back to the shore. Interesting, right? Looking at it, you’d think it’s easy and you can do it. Well, you can. With the right board, you’ll be skimming the waves away and ride like a pro in no time. Selecting the perfect skimboard can be overwhelming with so many options. To simplify your search, here’s a curated list of the best skimboards of 2026. Each one offers unique features to suit different skill levels and riding conditions. #1. BPS New Zealand ‘Gator’ Skimboard with Colored EVA Grip Pad Why It Stands Out: Affordable yet high-performing, this board is perfect for first-timers who want durability and comfort. #2. BINDY Australia Skimboard for Beach Kids with Storage Travel Bag Specifications Why It Stands Out: This board is designed specifically for kids, combining safety and performance. #3. Driftsun Fiberglass Performance Skimboard Why It Stands Out: Built for those looking to elevate their skimboarding skills, this board handles waves like a pro. #4. BPS New Zealand ‘Gator PRO’ High Performance Fiberglass Skimboard Specifications Why It Stands Out: A professional-grade board designed for wave riders aiming for top-notch performance. #5. Zap Core C-Series Skimboard for Beginner to Intermediate Riders Why It Stands Out: Combines accessibility for beginners with features that allow skill advancement. #6. DB Skimboards Plank Proto Large – Maple/Poplar Skimboard Why It Stands Out: Its high-quality construction and large surface area make it perfect for flatland riders seeking to push their boundaries in tricks and maneuvers. #7. BPS ‘Shaka’ 35″ Skim Board – Epoxy Coated Wood Skimboard with Traction Pad – No Wax Needed Best For: Beginners and casual riders. Features: Why It Stands Out: Affordable, beginner-friendly, and ready-to-use without additional waxing, this board simplifies the entry into skimboarding. #8. BPS ‘Shaka’ 40 Inch No Wax Needed Skim Board – Epoxy Coated Wood Skimboard with EVA Pads Best For: Beginner to intermediate riders. Features: Why It Stands Out: A versatile choice for riders looking for an all-around skimboard to refine their skills while maintaining comfort and grip. Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Skimboard How to Choose the Right Skimboard for You Finding the perfect skimboard isn’t just about picking the coolest design—it’s about matching your board to your experience level, riding style, and goals. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide: 1. Skill Level 2. Riding Style 3. Weight and Height Your skimboard should complement your body size for better balance and speed. 4. Budget Considerations It’s important to balance quality and affordability: 5. Additional Features Maintenance Tips … Read more

Top 7 Best Paddleboard Electric Pumps

January 4, 2023by Torsten BJORD

Bringing paddleboards with you is already a daunting task. To get it set fast is a different story. Do you want to minimize the weight of having to carry a manual pump? Do you want to hit the waters as soon as possible? Do you want energy and a time-efficient way to get your board ready? You can have both if you invest in a paddleboard electric pump! Inflatable paddleboards are quite the work with much effort if you use a manual pump. You can choose to use an electric pump if you want that ease of preparing your water sports equipment. Having electric pumps can help you finish deflating your SUP easily! Here are seven paddleboard electric pumps to guide you in choosing the best one that would get you going right away and finishing the day! Top 7 Best Paddleboard Electric Pumps Reviewed Seamax SUP20D by Seamax Marine – Best Overall The Shark by OutdoorMaster – Best Value SLPUMP30 by SereneLife – Editor’s Choice SLPUMP50 by SereneLife BTP Mano Two Stage Electric Turbo Pump by SeaEagle 20PSI SUP Electric High Air Pump by Furein NIXY Elite Inflatable Paddle Board Electric Pump by NIXY #1. Seamax SUP20D by Seamax Marine – Best Overall Specifications: Pump Support Rate: 0.5-20 PSI (0.034-1.378 Bar) Digital Sensor Accuracy: 0.01 PSI Max Pumping Speed: 350L/min at 1st Stage, 70L/min at 2nd stage Max Energy Consumption: 10A, 120W (12V) Product Net Weight: 3.6 lbs. Boat launching wheels, boat covers, and boat bags are not the only products Seamax Marine offers. It is also a provider of quality electric air pumps. It is also a developer and distributor of inflatable boats and accessories. Its Seamax SUP20D has a built-in sand filter for air intake as well as a cooling system. Not only that, but it also has a chamber for noise reduction, a one-way diaphragm valve to protect the inflator, and a firmware that to maximize speed. It is designed for inflatable boat, SUP, and paddleboards! You are guaranteed only to exert about 10 minutes of your time to inflate a 12ft SUP or a 9ft inflatable boat – fast and easy. It is a pump that is ready to use! Using a manual pump will eventually make you so tired that it diminishes the enjoyment of using your board. With this thing in your hands, you are free to run your gear to do launch and setup as the pumping will take less than 10 minutes. You will also find it very useful in deflating. It is a breeze to use this item. #2. The Shark by OutdoorMaster – Best Value Specifications: Pump Support Rate: 0.5-20 PSI (0.034-1.378 Bar) Digital Sensor Accuracy: 0.01 PSI Max Pumping Speed: 350L/min at 1st stage, 70L/min at 2nd stage Max Energy Consumption: 10A, 120W (12V) Product Net Weight: 3.6 lbs. If you have two or more paddleboards, The Shark inflatable pump is your friend. It is sleek and lightweight. Having multiple boards will be manageable when hanging out with friends, for this product is fast and easy inflation. It is small and thin enough to be carried. The Shark electric pump will do the quick work for you. It will only take you about 8 minutes before you get going. You can set its pressure, which will automatically shut off when it gets there. No need to worry about overinflating your board! A big plus from this unit is its cigarette plug if you do not intend to wire it to a battery. It also comes with a digital display for informative settings. It will take three people to inflate by hand for over half an hour, but with The Shark you can do it independently. Most importantly, this product has gone through rigorous testing to prove its durable quality, which gained it a CA65 and CE certification. You do not have to worry about its material too if you are an environmentalist, for it is eco-friendly. #3. SLPUMP30 by SereneLife – Editor’s Choice Specifications: Pump Support Rate: 0-20 PSI (Up to 1.378 Bar) Max Energy Consumption: 110Watt Max Product Net Weight: 4.09 pounds Adjustable PSI Air Pressure Settings Digital LCD Display & Button Controls SereneLife SLPUMP30 is easy to use, plus it is a saver versus a manual pump. When looking for a SUP pump, one of the key features you must look out for is an accessory adapter instead of alligator clips that connect directly to a battery. It is more efficient this way. You should consider this unit when you want something portable and handy. It provides an easy set up for correcting the volume of air to fill your board. It also has a simple plug-in design powered by DC 12 volt or a car power outlet with a cigarette accessory jack. If you are looking for an air compressor that is compact and portable, SLPUMP30 has a long flexible hose that can be easily assembled and disassembled to save space in a vehicle. It also comes with a handle to let you travel easily! #4. SLPUMP50 by SereneLife Specifications: Pump Support Rate: 0-16 PSI (Up to 1. 10 Bar) Max Energy Consumption: 110 Watt Selectable Product Net Weight: 6. 98 lbs. Rechargeable Battery: 12V LI-ION, 6000mAh Charge Time: About 6 Hours It is your best bet if you want something convenient. SLPUMP50 by SereneLife is a rechargeable and portable electric pump. It has a 6000mAh rechargeable battery which can be powered via a car cigarette plug so you can use it anywhere and anytime. You should have this when paddleboarding! It is rechargeable, but if it runs out of battery, you can plug it into your car, which will continue its work. This product comes with different nozzles too. You can make five full inflations if the unit is fully charged. It is also quieter than some regular electric pumps. Worry less with leaving it to do its work because it will automatically switch off once it is done inflating. You can also … Read more

Best Paddleboard Motors and Electric Fins

October 26, 2022by Torsten BJORD

Even though the name suggests it, paddleboarding does not have to be too tedious with you just using a paddle. Nowadays, paddleboards come with some of the best paddleboard motors, motor attachments and electric or motorized fins. Even motor conversion kits are available, so you can easily attach a motor to your ordinary board. Here is what you need to know about electric paddleboards and the most trusted products in the market. Top 8 Best Paddleboard Motors Reviewed Current Drives Electrafin – Best Overall iSUP Electric by Torque – Best Value ePropulsion Vaquita – Editor’s Choice Bixpy PowerShroud Motor SCUBAJET Sipaboards All-Arounder Drive Sipaboards Cruiser Drive Aqua Marina BLUE DRIVE Power Fin 1. Current Drives Electrafin – Best Overall Features: Type: Conversion kit and complete board Weight: 6.6 pounds Speed: 4-5 miles per hour When it comes to reliable electric motor fins, the Electrafin is your friend. It is a silent, zero-emission motor conversion kit perfect for any water sports vehicle you mount it to, whether it be a kayak, a canoe, or a dinghy. It comes with the same mounting system as a standard US fin box, making it easy to attach to any paddleboard type. The kit also includes a Bluetooth remote, control case, battery charger, and an owner’s manual to get you started. Spare remote batteries, and a rubber boot for the switch comes with it, too, ensuring you a complete set. One of its good features is its safety propeller ring, which protects you, fellow paddlers, and underwater debris or marine life from getting snagged. The motor also comes with an emergency stop leash that connects your ankle to the control case. If you fall in the water and get separated from your board, the leash can detach from the case and automatically switch off the motor. The remote makes the fin versatile, as you can control whether you go forwards or backward. You can enjoy its speeds up to 4-5 miles per hour for two hours or have a leisurely cruise and enjoy it for up to six hours. The Samsung Lithium-Ion battery provides a lightweight and long-range power pack, chargeable using any wall outlet or with the Current Drives Solar Panel. If you have not owned any paddleboard yet, Current Drives also offers a fully motorized paddleboard. 2. iSUP Electric by Torque – Best Value Features: Type: Complete board Length: 10 feet Width: 30 inches Thickness: 6.7 inches Total weight: 53 pounds Weight capacity: 352 pounds Dean Jarrett, the founder of Torque Jet Boards, has been traveling the South Pacific and Asia for 15 years, experiencing every beach he can surf. He has visited them all. And as he looked at every person that has shared the beach with him enjoying the waves, he thought of how he can develop an idea from the 1960s and make it affordable and enjoyable for everyone? The result is what his company creates today, completely motorized jet boards every person can enjoy. One of the newest additions in their family of motorized boards is the iSUP Electric. Their board is constructed with their patent aluminum jet system built into the tail of their paddleboard, with its battery pack in the center. Since the motor is completely on the board, you can use it as an ordinary SUP without the motor’s drag. You can control your board in two ways. One using the SmartWatch that is connected on your paddle, or using Torque’s mobile app. It has a range of three speeds—4 miles per hour, 5 miles per hour, and 7 miles per hour—and it can last for up to two hours at top speed and 5 hours at low speed. Upon purchase, you get a battery pack, a paddle, a double-action hand pump, and a heavy-duty backpack to keep all your equipment in. You can also purchase their electric pump and connect it to the board’s battery to inflate your SUP in minutes. The board is made with the standard sturdy materials for any SUP. It is made with a drop-stitch core and high-quality marine-grade PVC, with a slightly thicker layer of PVC lamination for extra durability and buoyancy. 3. ePropulsion Vaquita – Editor’s Choice Features: Type: Conversion kit Weight: 9 pounds Speed: up to 7 miles per hour From the founder’s humble beginnings as a water sports lover, Danny Tao studied engineering and robotics in 2012 and did volunteer work for ocean protection. Creating environment-friendly electric products for water vehicles became his push to build ePropulsion. Hailing from Hong Kong, they created the LAGOON, an electrical conversion kit that can easily attach to any SUPs available in the market. A couple of years after it was released, it was renamed the Vaquita with its countless improvements. The Vaquita can easily attach to any SUP with a standard US fin box or their universal fin adapter. You can also use it in canoes and kayaks. The 300-watt-hour battery can last for 5 hours at half speed. To its full speed, it can last up to more than one hour. It also includes LED indicator lights to let you know its battery life in real-time. Its wireless remote controller features an emergency stop and a slider, so you have smoother control over the speed. It also has an elastic wristband that you can wrap on your wrist or your paddle. The emergency stop is a sensor that detects if you have fallen in the water. This stops the motor automatically. Vaquita has more safety features. The propeller is inside a safety ring preventing anything from getting snagged underneath. It also has a system where the propeller does not continue running unless it is underwater. You do not have to worry about leaving the motor on as it automatically turns off after a few seconds above water. 4. Bixpy PowerShroud Motor Features: Type: Conversion kit Weight: 2 pounds The idea of Bixpy started in 2014 when founder Houman Nikmanesh got stranded 5 miles off the coast of San … Read more

Top 8 Best Dry Boxes Review

August 26, 2022by Torsten BJORD

As a hobbyist, you need a convenient container to store pieces of materials that you utilize in your leisure pursuits. These storage units will help you hold anything, including tools, keys, fishing lures, and the like. Dry boxes are compartments that help you keep essential items dry. Furthermore, these containers offer various levels of security. If you are searching for the best dry box available today, this online discussion is a must-read. You will make your time well-spent as this guide will provide you with some ideas regarding today’s highly-rated compartments. Here are eight of them: Top 8 Best Dry Boxes Reviewed Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam (Desert Tan) MTM Survivor Dry Box with O-Ring Seal GSI Outdoors Lexan Gear Box Plano 131252 Dry Storage Emergency Marine Box Otterbox Drybox 3250 Series ENGEL Cooler/Dry Box 30 Qt – White NRS Boulder Camping Dry Box Wise Outdoors Small Utility Dry Box 1. Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam (Desert Tan) – Best Overall Dry Box Specifications: Product Dimensions: 8.1 x 3.6 x 6.6 inches Weight: 1.75 pounds Material: Polypropylene and Copolymer Designed for: Protection of personal items, such as wallets, house, and car keys Other features: Available in various colors, including Desert Tan, Black, Blue, Orange, Silver, Olive Green, and Yellow; Has interior foam; Includes stainless steel padlock protectors and the Automatic Pressure Equalization valve; Has a single folding front handle The Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam will make you want to purchase it because of its impressive nature. Are you aware that in Tanzania, SUVs have rolled over this perfectly watertight and indestructible dry box? In Norway, the Pelican brand’s storage units have floated through frigid fjords and gotten thrown out of helicopters in Iraq. Thus, you may want to try the Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam since it is a trusted brand. Its makers are, indeed, deserving of your trust. After all, it is a reputable company that has created highly secure and the toughest compartments in the world for more than three decades! The Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam allows you to safeguard your gear and keep it intact and functional from one place to another. This dry box is also capable of maintaining its contents unscathed despite possible scratching or dropping that can take place. The Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam is durable and secure. Thanks to the pressure equalization valve, polymer O-Ring, and tongue and groove fit because you can feel assured your valuables remain dry even if you get caught at sea or in the rain. Theft and cutting are also kept at bay since the dry box features stainless steel, reinforced padlock protectors. Thus, you get additional security and strength. The Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam is shatterproof, too, thanks to the stainless steel hardware and durable copolymer and polypropylene-made shell. These favorable attributes, along with the solid wall and open cell core construction, make the dry box lighter and more robust than its rivals. Furthermore, you will appreciate the sturdy handles and hinges of this dry box made of stainless steel pins. Besides, the Double-Throw latches make this compartment smarter and much easier to open. The stainless steel latch with the classic C-shaped clamp design provides you with so much leverage to open the dry box with a light pulling action. With the Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam, you can also personalize the fit. You can configure this dry box’s interior just how you want it and fit what you desire. When you are on the road, the crushproof compartment’s padded Pick N’Pluck foam protects your belongings from bumps and shocks. These advantages you can get by purchasing the Pelican 1120 Protector Case with Foam are genuinely worth it because professionals all over the world trust the brand. They include fire safety personnel, military, and law enforcement professionals who admire Pelican’s engineering, versatility, and innovativeness when it comes to its storage products. 2. MTM Survivor Dry Box with O-Ring Seal Specifications: Weight: 12 ounces (small) Material: Rugged, tongue and groove construction Designed for: All outdoor enthusiasts’ belongings; Functions well as an ammunition travel case; personal and safety items Other features: Available in small and large sizes; Available in forest green and orange hues; Features shoulder strap and lanyard; With built-in compass and signaling mirror; Lockable If you are an outdoor enthusiast who loves to go on an adventure in the mountains or the jungles, you need a survival kit. The MTM Survivor Dry Box is a dependable choice. It is sturdy and can hold all your safety and personal belongings. Plus, these items can include maps, medicines, ammo, rain gear, and first aid kits. Besides, this weather and water-resistant dry box can carry your wallet, flashlight, snacks, flares, and much more securely. As an outdoor aficionado, you can consider the MTM Survivor Dry Box as your perfect geocaching container. This excellent dry box features an O-Ring Seal, and it is ideal for gear bags and lightweight backpacks. Plus, the MTM Survivor Dry Box can help you withstand extreme weather conditions, thanks to its rugged and tongue-and-groove construction. You can get your personal belongings secure as you travel to your intended destination via the MTM Survivor Dry Box’s help. The shoulder strap and lanyard features make carrying this handy container more effortless. The MTM Survivor Dry Box follows the US Transportation Security Administration’s guidelines for a lockable ammunition travel container. You can also tie this dry box down for all-terrain vehicles or ATVs and rafting excursions via its lanyard-attaching advantages. This storage unit’s beneficial properties make it the perfect compartment for your hiking GPS as you trek a trail. Aside from the O-Ring seal that facilitates water resistance, you get a signaling mirror. This benefit on the dry box’s bottom has a similar size to the item that US Armed Forces members get in their survivor packages. You can secure the MTM Survivor Dry Box quickly, too, thanks to the double padlock tabs and the triple … Read more

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