A lot of those who aspire to learn how to surf will usually ask, “What is the best surfboard?” New surfers focus more on getting the “best surfboard” than actually learning how to surf. For some reason, they think that the skills come from the board.
Technically, it can be said like that. But, not in a snap. See, the board that you will learn how to surf on will influence the progress of your learning. Your first stick should be able to teach you how to easily transition from it to other boards.
Funboards match that description. They are what you need when you are just getting into surfing. They live up to their name especially in injecting the fun in learning how to surf. The best funboard surfboard is one that you should start your surfing journey with and keep to your quiver for convenient times.
Our Top Funboard Surfboards
Working well in almost any conditions, from the small and mushy to head high waves, funboard surfboards are not just surfboards for learning but for transitioning and trying out another stick other than what you normally ride.
- 6’8 Casper Hybrid Surfboard by South Bay Board Co.
- 7’ Soft Top Foam Surfboard by A Alpenflow
- 7ft EZ Slider Foamie Soft Surfboard by Liquid Shredder
- 7’ Ruccus by South Bay Board Co.
- 8’ Brushed Graphic by Wavestorm
- 6’ Foamie Board by Giantex
- 7’ Aero Soft Top by Thurso Surf
Best Funboard Surfboards Reviewed
Now that you have an idea of what the best funboard surfboards are made of, its time to go through the list of sticks we’ve reviewed. You will understand why they made it on this roll.
#1. 6’8 Casper Hybrid Surfboard by South Bay Board Co. – Best Overall
Specifications
- I-Beam stringer with bamboo layers
- EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) closed cell foam core
- Capacity: Between 70 to 200 pounds
- Skill Level: Beginner to Experienced
Features
- Performance thruster nose
- Swallowtail
- Fingerprint texture on the top deck
- Comes with FCS Fin Boxes, FCS Thruster Fins & Fin Key, & 7’ Leash.
- Bamboo Fiberglassed bottom deck
The 6’8 Casper Hybrid Surfboard by South Bay Board Co. is all about having fun while riding. Constructed with a thruster-style nose plus swallowtail, they are perfect for shortboard-style performance. It definitely makes them the perfect step down stick from a longboard.
The shape and dimensions, although slightly smaller is more responsive and stable. They are your next surfboard to add on your quiver if you are in need of one for practicing high performance turns with more speed.
Like most South Bay Board Co. surfboards, Casper has hand-tapered rails that let you cut deeper into the face of the wave. Its pulled-in swallowtail is ideal for learning how to turn, carve, and do tricks. Despite its volume, the rounded nose and tail rockers make it more reactive than longboards.
The Casper Funboard features a wax-free top deck that is constructed with a superior level of EPS watertight foam. The bottom is finished with durable and sturdy fiber-glass bamboo. I-Beam wooden stringers guarantee damage resistance and board shape maintenance.
Sold by set, you will get FCS thruster fin setup hardware, leash string, and fin key. Best for learning to trim and turn and catching more waves out in the lineup.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The package comes with fins and leash | Poor packaging, some purchasers reported missing items |
| Comes with 30 days return policy | Difficulty in getting the fins all the way into the board |
| Rigid deck with a slight flex | Less maneuverable than longboards |
| Fun, floaty, and smooth |
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| Wax-free top deck |
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#2. 7’ Soft Top Foam Surfboard by A Alpenflow – Best Funboard for Intermediate to Advanced
Specifications
- Dimensions: 84 x 22 x 3.3 inches, 54.8 liters of volume
- Weight 13 pounds
- Capacity: up to 185 pounds
- Skill level: Beginners to Intermediate
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) reinforced plastic bottom
Features
- Double reinforced treated poplar stringers
- 6 oz fiberglass top and bottom
- High-density IXPE deck
- Double concave bottom
- Comes with leash, thruster fins, and extra 9-inch center fin
Integrating development and production as one, A Alpenflow Sport is one of the most professional and large scale manufacturers of almost any type of outdoor sports equipment. Their main products aside from surfboards include snow sled, snow tubes, and related sporting goods.
Equipped with state-of-the-art manufacturing and testing equipment, they also have a strong team of technical staff that knows a lot about standard quality control procedures. No wonder, their 7’ Soft Top Foam Surfboard came in this list.
Perfect for beginners and intermediate riders, the 7’ Soft Top Foam Surfboard by A Alpenflow is wide, stable, and firm. Beginners will be able to grasp the basics of surfing without worrying about falling into the water every time.
The engineers in A Alpenflow abstracted a basic technique in manufacturing this foam-top funboard. It provides that high-performance feel without the performant quirks. The pointed nose, pintail design, and unique concave bottom all work to make it glide easily as pie.
You are guaranteed a strong and sturdy board without constantly worrying about dings from hard sessions. All thanks to its double-reinforced poplar stringers, HDPE bottom, and IXPE deck. Running at 7 ft and weighing 13 pounds, won’t take too much effort to break your sweat if you take it around.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Double reinforced treated stringers | Not for head high surfing or powerful waves |
| Cheaper than most surfboards | Less maneuverable than most funboards |
| Excellent customer service | Reported cracks after a few sessions |
| Ideal height for a funboard |
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| Unique design |
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#3. 7ft EZ Slider Foamie Soft Surfboard by Liquid Shredder – Best Classic LongBoard Shape
Specifications
- Dimensions: 84 x 21.5 x 3 inches, 65 liters of volume
- Capacity: 150 pounds
- Skill level: Advanced
- Removable Tri-Fin Thruster fin system
- Stringer(s): Dual wooden
Features
- Heat laminated (no glue)
- EZ-Seal rubber fin system
- Advanced fabric webbing leash attachment system
- Comes with 90 Day consumer use warranty
Nothing ever goes wrong with the classic shape for fun riding in any kinds of surfing conditions. Getting the features of both shortboards and longboards makes it even more so.
Whether you are in slow and mushy wave or fast and heavy ones, EZ Slider Foamie Soft Surfboard’s dimensions provide incredible stability. Its rather rounded nose is in fact in between of a pointed and a full-round nose.
The nose fullness aids in catching waves easily and keeping the ride balanced. It may be a little hard to maneuver unless you are pressing way back on the tail, hence the longboard aspect. The squash tail, which comes from the shortboard aspect makes it very responsive.
The edgy and angular tail helps for sharper and looser turns. Its wider tail, having more surface area translates to a more lift and ease of preserving speed. This is handy for overcoming past slower wave sections. It also provides more control in steeper and bigger waves.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Firm board with spongy foam and slick plastic material for the bottom layer | Fins can be too loose and remove by themselves during the ride |
| Stiff fins soft enough to be forgiving and safe |
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| Pretty thick for a softboard |
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| Easy to carry around |
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| Versatile | |
#4. 7’ Ruccus by South Bay Board Co. – Best Fun-size Foam Surfboard
Specifications
- Dimensions: 84 x 22 x 2.85 inches
- Hand-tapered rails
- Compressed fingerprint textured IXPE foam deck
- Slight tail rocker
- Slick HDPE surface
Features
- Slim pinched in squash tail with rubber bumpers
- Beginner-friendly nose rocker
- Slight tail rocker
- Constructed with mold and vacuum-sealed strengthening process
- Cross-hatch impact threading
A proof that a brand is reputable is when a “best of list” has more than one of their products. And, South Board Bay Co. is just that on this list. Their second entry is 7’ Ruccus, their fun-sized version of Verve 8’.
All the same winning features of Verve surfboard have been applied to the funboard Ruccus. Such features include the IXPE fingerprint wax-free deck, HDPE slick double concave bottom, GoPro mount, and tapered rails.
This high-performance funboard surfboard has all the volume for a smaller board allows for an easy maneuver down the line while still being able to catch waves instantly. The watertight core that is attached to an HDPE bottom deck has a special netting that disperses impact.
The construction will not allow getting it waterlogged since the fin holes are also PVC lined to keep from water entry. Its heat valve at its nose releases heat to keep delamination.
Ruccus, not only can take a beating but, it also keeps its shape with durable and strong fiberglass rod stringer. Two additional wooden stringers add to its toughness. No more worrying about dings or scratches with its impressive deck resin layers.
Comes with three pop thru fins on an easy to install fin system, a 7 ft leash, leash string and loads of guarantee that you will have so much fun riding this surfboard.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Too compact that it can fit inside of civic hatchback | Low rider weight capacity |
| Durable, sturdy, and well-made | Not easy to learn on |
| Plug for GoPro camera mount |
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| Textured, wax-free surface |
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| Excellent maneuverability |
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#5. 8’ Brushed Graphic by Wavestorm – Best for Your Budget
Specifications
- Dimensions: 96 x 22.5 x 3.75 inches, 86 liters in volume
- Skill level: Beginners
- Soft EBS (Elastomer Barrier Skin) crosslink top deck and rails
- High-Density HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) slick bottom skin
- Weight Capacity: up to 200 pounds
Features
- Package includes traction pad, fin set, and removable ankle leash
- High-density slick bottom skin
- Triple marine-ply stringers
- Built with Water Barrier System technology
- Fins are bolted through the deck
The 8’ Brushed Graphic by Wavestorm is a perfect funboard that is just right for your budget. Not costing you an arm and leg, you can start training for your surfing lessons with this brand’s best selling surfboard.
This classic soft-top brand released the 8’ Brushed Graphic that is quality tested and wave catching guaranteed. The surfboard’s top deck is fabricated with a soft WBS-IXL (Water Barrier Skin) crosslinked watertight material. The bottom’s durability and resistance to scratches are all due to its ultra-tough and high-density polyethylene construction.
Its design is unique and exciting that you will be catching the eye of style aficionados in and around the surfing area. You can easily carry this surfboard around the beach at its weight of 11 pounds. This also allows the surfboard to be more forgiving in the event of a collision.
Learning how to surf is easy and fun with this funboard. The soft top deck’s textured traction pad allows you to stay upright while guiding your foot placement. You will be sure the shape is maintained throughout the whole summer because of its HDPE bottom. The design is not just for visual aesthetics, but for protection against direct exposure to UV sunlight.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong EPS Core and 3 Marine Ply Stringers | Lacked some stabilization on the rails |
| Comes with fins, leash, and surfboard sock | Poor customer service |
| Cheaper than most funboards | Poor leash material |
| Great entry-level board |
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| Elaborate design |
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#6. 6’ Foamie Board by Giantex – Best Funboard for Kids
Specifications
- Dimensions: 72 x 20 x 3 inches
- Capacity: 200 pounds
- Slick HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
- PP (polypropylene) hard slick bottom
- Fishtail and removable fins design
Features
- Ankle leash
- Decent price for entry-level board
- Thruster fins
- Built-in traction pads
- Unique bottom concave
The 6’ Foamie Board by Giantex is the perfect funboard for kids and young adults. Its volume offers a very stable ride, especially for a first-timer.
It offers the rider a slick HDPE high-speed bottom with a durable top foam. The skin at the bottom is responsive and strong that it removes the feeling of stiffness at the same time adding speed. The design doesn’t just make it functional but fashionable too.
This funboard packs in so much volume that it is significant for its buoyancy. The volume it has helps any beginner to float better. It leaves them from worrying about sinking and having to paddle too much. Its lightness allows for buoying up nice and easy.
Soft-tops are usually slow and splashy, but for Giantex’s unique bottom concave, it gains a bit more speed than other foamies. They are faster and quicker than other beginner boards.
Giantex is durable. It should last a long time as long as proper surfboard care guidelines are followed. You would not want to leave it under direct sunlight especially without rinsing it out with fresh water after a session from the sea.
As a soft-top, this surfboard is expected to perform reasonably well on small-sized beach break waves. This means that even when it is flexible, it is not the recommended go-to board if you plan on some more serious surfing. Perhaps, just the right board for lessons.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Reduces the risk of surf-related damages | Ideal for beginners only, not for tricks and advanced maneuvers |
| Length is ideal for fast and speedy waves | Length may be too short for adult beginners |
| Made of durable foam material |
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| Easy to transport and handle |
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| Comes with leash | |
#7. 7’ Aero Soft Top by Thurso Surf – Best High Capacity Funboard
Specifications
- Dimensions: 84 x 21.5 x 3.5 inches
- The capacity of 210 pounds
- High-density EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) core
- High-density durable IXPE (Irradiated cross-linked polyethylene) deck
- HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) slick bottom
Features
- The package comes with three fins
- High quality double stainless steel swivels
- Designed with a focus on smooth glide and stability
- Sealed to reduce the risk of delamination
- Wood stringers for excellent strength and rigidity
The Aero Soft Top by Thurso Surf made it to this list because of how generous its weight capacity bears. Its strength can hold up to 210 pounds. And with that, it becomes the ideal funboard for the family. From the youngest who weighs less to the adults that weigh a little extra.
The surfboard features everything a beginner needs to have a good time while surfing. Such includes a soft-top for added grip, a high-density EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) core for added buoyancy, an HDPE slick bottom for effortless glide, and an ankle leash to maintain your connection with the board.
For a considerable amount, your family can enjoy learning how to surf on this beginner funboard. Although, there might be a need to add a little wax here and there because its slick top may not have enough grip pad. This will help to keep your feet on the board.
One of my favorite things about Thurso, not just about this funboard, is how they want you to be happy with their product. Therefore if you are not, you may just reach them back and they will refund your money or send you a replacement for free.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Best surfboard for the whole family | Needs to be waxed every now and then |
| Weighs just around 8 pounds |
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| Stiff but responsive board | |
Our Top Pick
Funboards are surfboards that are traditionally shorter than most longboards. That being said, they are considered fun-sized. Hence the name funboard.
Despite shortness, the added width allows them to be more buoyant than traditional shortboards. This makes 6’8” Casper Funboard by South Bay Board Co. the best funboard surfboard. The sheer volume and substantial surface area help to surf and perform better long and shortboards.
The unique rubber tail bumper is perfect for crowded days when you can’t keep but knock into someone along the waters.
Funboard Surfboards Pros and Cons
Choosing the right surfboard for you (if you haven’t yet) is all about compromise. You will have to lose something to gain something. Thus, this in-between of long and shortboard is just your go-to when you want to find out the surfboard that will really work for you.
Pros
- Ideal transitional or learning boards
- Catches waves easier with its volume
- Combines the easy paddling of a longboard with the maneuverability of shortboards
- Works in different types of water conditions, from poor to good, short and head high waves
- Perfect for practicing your turns as you try to get used to getting more control
Cons
- It is a compromise, therefore there might be somethings you will have to give up
- Less maneuverable than shortboards
- Harder to paddle than longboards
- Not for big wave surfing or even powerful water situations
What to Look For In A Funboard Surfboard
Shopping for a funboard surfboard is just as fun as riding it. After all, it is a funboard we are looking for. There are just a few basic things you need to remember.
Funboards surfboards should run from:
- 6 to 8 ft long
- 2 ½ to 3 inches thick
- 20 to 22 inches wide
Here’s a few more information you may want to take note of before going down to the surf shop;
- If you are weighing 100 to 175 pounds, the surfboard ideal for you has the dimensions of 7 ft to 7 ft 2 inches long, 21 inches wide, and 2 ½ inches thick
- If you are weighing 150 to 200 pounds, the surfboard ideal for you has the dimensions of 7 ft 6 inches to 7 ft 8 inches long, 21 ½ inches wide, and 3 inches thick
- If you are weighing 175 to 225 pounds, the surfboard ideal for you has the dimensions of 7 ft 10 inches and above long, 21 ¾ inches wide, and 3+ inches thick
When considering the length of the board, you may want to choose one that is a head taller than you. It may also help to advise the salesperson of your surfing skill level. Some surf shops also tend to take in used surfboards and sell them at a lower price. If you are just starting out, it wouldn’t be so bad to get a used one.
Why? They are cheaper and you won’t feel as bad when you beat and wear it out in the waters and on the sand. Possible hazards to your surfboard aren’t just limited to the oceans but even in your own house as you store it.
Epoxy or Polyester? Between these two, the best resin is epoxy. Surfboards that are laminated with epoxy resin are stronger and lighter than polyester resin. Plus, they are the most commonly used in the surfboard world.
Epoxy resins may cause you a few more dollars to spend than polyester, but that’s just a small fraction of the amount you can give back to the environment. Nothing is better than riding a lighter and stronger funboard and caring for the environment at the same time.
What Is a Funboard Surfboard?
It might be hard to spot the funboard on an ocean with longboards and the latter. Both are about 6 to 8 ft long, but a true surfer knows they hold contrasting features and capabilities.
Funboard surfboard is what can be considered as an “in-between.” They are half-way between the longboard and the fish surfboard.
Beginners who have spent enough time riding a longboard but are not ready to jump on to shortboard can shred funboards. They are usually ridden by those who have already learned the basics on a soft-top and are now prepared to make progress with their surfing skills.
These surfboards have the ideal dimensions, thus may be the reason they are called funboards. Their volume, length, width, and thickness are just right to give the incredible fun time surfing.
They may not be thin and narrow, or short enough to be controlled like a high-performance shortboard, but their pivotal and rail-turning ability are of good amount. Funboards are what you should ride when you want to learn how to do the bottom turn, cutback, or getting barreled.
Funboard surfboards are ideal to have when you are near an area where surfing is almost year-round consistent. They work well in small and mushy waves and can get you to duck dive in head-high surf.
The funboard surfboard’s round and wide nose (like that of a longboard), preventing the board to catch the nose in and under the water. This usually causes the riders to fall while turning or nose-diving as they take off.
Surfing a Funboard
If you are an experienced longboarder and are trying to switch to funboard, a few challenges may arise. Here are a few tips you can find handy to get started.
- They don’t get into waves as easy as a longboard. Sit a little further towards shore in the line-up. Since you won’t be able to gain as much thrust into waves, you will need to paddle and pop up a little later after the wave breaking.
- Try getting used to carving. Rather than going straight into the face of the wave, turn up to the top of the wave and back down to the bottom. Repeated transition upwards and downwards is a lot of fun.
- Pop up a lot. They are easier to do on funboards than on longboards so try practicing even on land.
Conclusion
The funboard is said to be the best beginner surfboard. It proves to be true because as a beginner, you should only involve yourself with a surfboard that performs, is durable, and affordable. Funboards offer just that, making it the functional choice for a beginner.
As you advanced and you look back on fancier surfboards, you will realize that you don’t get allured by their beauty and superficial thrills any more so than funboards’ superior performance that matches your skill level.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What is the difference between funboards and other surfboards?
Q: Who are funboards made for?
Q: What water conditions are funboards best to ride on?
Q: What are funboards made of?
Q: Can I buy aaa used funboard?
Q: What are the best brands for funboards?
Related Resources
- Surfboard Brands
- Mini Mal Surfboards
- Shortboards
- Electric Surfboards
- Groveler Surfboards
- Surfboard Shapes
G’day, my name is Rach Taylor and I’m the proud Founder of Surf Hungry. I am a former Australian Olympic athlete and Australian representative surf sports athlete. I’ve worked in the surf industry and lived at several of Australia’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which has now well and truly rubbed off on my two young sons, both little Aussie surf-stoked groms!
