If you are in a hurry and just want to find out what the best bodyboard for beginners is, then we recommend the THURSO SURF Lightning 42 the best one.
If you’re adventurous or into trying new things then bodyboarding can be a very good option. It may sound like a difficult job but it can be a lot of fun if you get your hands on the right bodyboard.
To help you get the right one, we have shortlisted five best bodyboards for beginners.
- Younger 37 inch Body BoardCLICK FOR PRICE
- Lucky Bums Body Board
- THURSO SURF Lightning 42” Bodyboard
- Wham-O Mach 7 Body Board, 42
- Morey 44″ Big Kahuna Bodyboard
We picked these products after much research. They’re safe, fun, and very reliable.
How to Choose a Bodyboard?
The most important thing is the size. You need to find a bodyboard that’s right for your height and weight.
A bodyboard that’s too big will be hard to maneuver. On the other hand, a bodyboard that’s too small will cause you to sit too low, which will ruin all the fun and also put you at risk.
The right size depends on your height and weight. In order to measure the right height, stand up straight and calculate the distance between your belly button and the surface.
If that’s difficult, you may opt to measure the distance between your chin and knees. It will be the same in both the cases. In case there is a slight difference between the two measurements, take an average and that’s the ideal size for your bodyboard.
Here’s a sample sizing chart to help you get started:
Weight | Height | Board Size |
|---|---|---|
65 to 85 pounds | Under 5 feet | 37” |
85 to 115 pounds | 4’5” to 5’3” | 39” |
110 to 130 pounds | 5’3” to 5’6” | 40” |
125 to 170 pounds | 5’7” to 5’9” | 41” |
145-180 pounds | 5’10” to 6’ | 42” |
160-190 pounds | 6’1” to 6’2” | 42.5” |
As evident from the chart above, just the difference of an inch can make a lot of difference. So be careful when measuring and picking a bodyboard.
You can make sure the size is right for you if you can carry it under your arm without any trouble, i.e: you can hold it from the other end without a significant gap under the armpit.
Where You Wish to Ride Also Matters
If you’re just starting bodyboarding then we suggest tht you stick to smaller waves. In such a case a large bodyboard will be a better option. However, if you want to try larger waves then a smaller board will give you better control. However, it should still not be too big or too small for your body.
What to Consider When Buying a Bodyboard?
Other than the size, the make of the board should be considered as well. Bodyboards are usually made of polyethylene foam (PE) and polypropylene foam (PP). While they’re both good materials, PP offers more benefit since it’s a newer material and offers better control due to its lightweight. Plus, it’s also more durable but costs more than PE.
Most companies use a mix of PP and PE to create reliable products. In addition to this, you should also pay attention to the stringer. It’s a tube that’s made of fiberglass and runs down the board. It adds flexibility and strength to the board but adds up to the cost.
What Designs Are Available?
Bodyboards are available in different designs. These are not only for aesthetic purposes but can also impact your bodyboarding experience.
- Tails
The ‘crescent’ tail design is what you will find on most bodyboards for beginners. Such boards are quite fast and give you a stable experience thanks to a wide end.
However, some boards also come with a ‘bat’ tail design, which is usually suitable for experienced riders.
- Rails
It’s the lower edge of the board. Available in two configurations (50-50 and 60-40), we suggest you opt for the latter as it gives you better control, whereas a 50-50 configuration is more suitable for experienced riders since it gives more speed.
- Wide Point
If you’ve ever seen a bodyboard, you must know it’s wide from a point. This is called the wide point. The closer it is to the front, the better for new riders in terms of stability. Plus, narrow boards are better for control.
- Thickness and Curve
Boards are either 51 or 51mm thick. Thicker boards are more suitable for smaller waves but they’re faster than thinner boards. Other than this, the curve should also be considered. Known as ‘rocker’, it can impact the speed.
Beginners should ideally go for a board that’s more rocker to enjoy better control.
Younger 37 inch Body Board with Handle Safe for Kids
This board is made for kids and adults under the height of five feet. Composed of high-density polyethylene, it has a crescent tail that gives you good control. Plus, the rails (60-40) also make it a good choice for beginners.
Pros:
- The handles make it easy to hold the board.
- Looks very good and is available in several colors.
- Lightweight, hence easy to carry and control.
Cons:
- Some parts are not very durable.
- The leash has to be bought separately.
This can be a good choice for someone who’s just starting to learn bodyboarding.
Lucky Bums Body Board
Made for kids, it’s also suitable for beginners under four feet. The board is composed of high-density polyethylene which makes it extremely durable.
It can handle all kinds of waves and comes with a leash and wrist strap to make sure it doesn’t wander off. Plus, the rails (60-40) also make it a good choice for beginners.
Pros:
- Suitable for all kinds of waves.
- Great customer support.
- Extremely durable.
Cons:
- Not suitable for people over four feet and 60 pounds.
- You might have to screw the plastic rings before use.
If you need a bodyboard for your kid then this might be the best option on the list.
THURSO SURF Lightning 42
This board comes with a leash and a carry bag, which makes it easy to take it to the beach. It has a length of 42” with a 21.5” tail.
Thanks to 4mm high-density heat laminated IXPE deck, it’s very comfortable and durable to use. The presence of 2 FRP stringers makes it extra durable.
Pros:
- The backpack carrier makes it very easy to carry
- Very durable.
- Suitable for all kinds of riders.
Cons:
- May bubble up in some cases.
This is a perfect fit for people who are just starting to bodyboard. It’s easy to carry and very soft when you lay on it.
Wham-O Mach 7 Body Board, 42″
Perfect for beginners, this one comes with a crescent tail and a stringer, which makes it very durable. Made of high-density polyethylene, it’s comfortable to use and suitable for all kinds of waves.
Pros:
- Very durable and easy to use.
- Suitable for experienced bodyboarders as well.
- You can put a hole for the leash.
Cons:
- You have to purchase the leash separately.
- A little expensive.
This may be a little more expensive than other options, but it’s worth the price due to the amazing features and durability it offers. This one will be with you even when you’re no more a beginner.
Morey 44″ Big Kahuna Bodyboard
This board is suitable for large riders. It comes with a stringer that makes it highly durable. Plus, polyethylene core adds to the features as well.
With a crescent tail, you have no problem in controlling the board.
Pros:
- Suitable for big riders.
- Suitable for all kinds of waves.
- Very durable.
Cons:
- The leash has to be bought separately.
- The customer service can be better.
If you’re above 6 feet then this is the best pick for you. It works well for waves up to seven feet and is also very easy to carry.
Conclusion.
We’d say THURSO SURF Lightning 42” Bodyboard Package PE Core IXPE Deck HDPE Slick Bottom Durable Lightweight Includes Double Stainless Steel Swivels Leash and LUX Bodyboard Bag is the best board out there for average consumers, under 6 feet. It offers great features and is highly durable thanks to the double stringer. Plus, the bag makes it easy to carry.
However, for children, Younger 37 inch Body Board with Handle Safe for Kids, EPS Core and Slick Bottom can be a good choice due to its safety handles and perfect size.
For people above six feet, Morey 44″ Big Kahuna Bodyboard with Power Rod Stringer (Choose Black, Blue or Red) can be a good pick. It’s durable and suitable for all kinds of waves thanks to the right thickness and tail.
