Anyone who wants to start learning how to surf must’ve asked – “how much do surfboards cost?” This question doesn’t come as a surprise. After all, the surfboard is the first thing you need in surfing, aside from the ocean.
Generally, a beginner surfboard may cost between $380 and $1,030 or more. Starting doesn’t require you to get an expensive surfboard. You only need one that will gain you experience. Eventually, you can move on to more costly surfboards as you get better.
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Best Board for Beginners
What you must note if you are a beginner or a medium rider is the shape of the board, your riding style, and your body physique. These factors will help you figure out the best surfboard for you. But, since you are at the starting line, it would be best to stick to avoiding shortboards and gun boards.
Shortboards and gun boards are not recommended to beginners as these require a certain level of expertise. Longboards measuring 8ft+ are what you should start with. They offer plenty of stability and help you learn how to stand while also making it easier to paddle to waves.
Stability is the most important thing when you are learning. A surfboard with good stability lets you paddle into the waves effortlessly. Buoyancy plays a significant role, too. Biggers boards offer these and more. Check out this list of best boards for beginners here.
Used vs. New Surfboards
A used board for a low price isn’t a bad choice to start. In fact, many surfers target used boards for practical reasons.
If you are looking at getting a used board, watch out for cracks, dings, or holes that may cause the surfboard to lose its integrity. It would be nice if the board is watertight, fiberglass, or not too yellowed. An overly yellowed surfboard signifies that the board is either overused or left out too much.
A new board is always the easiest way to make sure that you are getting a quality surfboard. Still, it isn’t too bad to get a used board. Sometimes, new surfboards aren’t much more than a well-maintained used board.
How Much Does Surfing Cost?
Now that you have an idea of how much surfboards cost, you must understand that surfing has its typical start-up costs like most sports. Aside from the surfboard, there are also other expenses, like lessons and additional equipment, to shell out. Some of the additional costs worth noting are:
Wetsuits/Rash Guards
Taking on the waves also means taking on the water temperatures. Find out the water temperatures and see which kind of surfing apparel you need to wear. If it usually is cold and you will surely need a wetsuit, prepare around $125 to $350 for one.
Otherwise, rash guards or board shorts costing around $25 to $50 will be fine.
Surfing Lessons
Surfing lessons cost between $25 to $100 depending on the reputation of the classes and where you are taking it from. An hour or two of surfing lessons in small areas costs around $10 to $20. Popular surf spots may charge you between $20 to $70 per hour.
Check out surf shops that offer free lessons in exchange for you buying from them. Most often, these are good deals.
Other Surfing Equipment
Aside from your surfboard, wetsuit, and basic surfing knowledge, there are other things you need to arm yourself with – other surfing equipment. These pieces include:
While some of the equipment is optional at this point, you must be ready to spend on them. Once you learn how to surf, what you thought was a hobby will turn into a lifestyle. And, you know how a lifestyle must be supported financially, right?
You may spend around $500 to $700 for this additional surfing gear.
Conclusion
A surfboard is your first investment in your journey to dance with the waves. They can be costly, especially if you don’t have enough funds for them.
What you should consider most important when picking your first surfboard is your skill level. No matter how good or popular a surfboard can be, you will not enjoy the ride if it is beyond your skill level.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Do you need a traction pad?
A: Traction pads are a personal choice. In general, there isn’t too much difference between wax and traction pad. However, wax is still recommended even with a traction pad since the tactics pad is usually by the back foot spot only.
Related Resources
- Best Surfing Tips for Beginners
- A Beginner’s Guide to Surfing
- Best Surfboard Leashes
- Best Surfing Accessories
- How Long Does It Take to Make A Surfboard?
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 many of Australia’s best surf spots, sparking a life-long love of the ocean and a passion for surf sports which also rubbed off on my two young sons! I am also lucky to spend a lot of ocean-time in my favorite second home, Indonesia. In addition to SurfHungry I have founded several other websites in my areas of passion, namely coffee and rock climbing, and am also a regular rowing content contributor.
