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10 Best Beginner Surfboards 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Wavestorm 8ft Classic Surfboard Bundle - Soft Top Foam Longboard and Accessories for Beginners and All Levels

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,405
Length
Material
Shape

Most important from
288 reviews

Length
Handles a wide range of wave sizes from gentle 1-footers up to 6-foot swells, offering versatility for beginners progressing in different conditions.
Material
Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver, enhancing the overall surfing experience.
Shape
Effortless to learn on with a stable, smooth ride that suits all ages and skill levels.

The Wavestorm 8ft Classic Surfboard is a solid choice for beginners thanks to its user-friendly size and construction. At 8 feet long, 22.5 inches wide, and 3.25 inches thick, it offers a stable and forgiving ride, which is great for those new to surfing. Its high volume of 86 liters helps with buoyancy, making it easier to catch waves and balance on the board. The soft foam (EPS core) with a three-stringer system adds durability and safety, reducing the chance of injury from hard surfaces. Weighing just 11.5 pounds, this board is light enough to carry around without trouble. The included removable fins, ankle leash, and traction pad are practical extras that help beginners get started without needing to buy additional gear.

The shape and soft top deck also contribute to better grip and comfort. While foam boards are excellent for learning, they don’t perform as well as harder boards in bigger or more challenging waves, so this board may not satisfy surfers looking to progress quickly or ride advanced waves. Also, the size might be a bit bulky for very young kids or smaller teens.

This surfboard bundle represents an excellent, safe, and stable option for beginners of all ages who want a hassle-free start in surfing.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,405
Length
Material
Shape

Most important from
288 reviews

Length
Handles a wide range of wave sizes from gentle 1-footers up to 6-foot swells, offering versatility for beginners progressing in different conditions.
Material
Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver, enhancing the overall surfing experience.
Shape
Effortless to learn on with a stable, smooth ride that suits all ages and skill levels.
#2

Wavestorm - Classic Soft Top Foam 8ft Surfboard (Tri Color Solid

The Wavestorm Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard is an excellent choice for beginners looking to hit the waves. At 8 feet long, 22 1/2 inches wide, and 3 1/4 inches thick, its dimensions provide stability and ease of use, which are ideal for those who are just starting. The soft foam construction offers safety, reducing the risk of injury during falls, while the strong EPS core with a 3-stringer system ensures durability. Additionally, the high-density polyethylene slick bottom allows for smooth gliding on the water.

One of its standout features is the soft WBS-IXL Water Barrier Skin, which helps protect the board from water damage and adds to its longevity. The removable fins and ankle leash included with the surfboard offer convenience for users, ensuring a customizable experience depending on skill level and preference.

This surfboard shines as a beginner-friendly option with its forgiving design and ease of handling, making it perfect for teens and kids eager to learn. However, those planning to progress quickly in their surfing skills might eventually outgrow it. The Wavestorm Classic Soft Top Surfboard represents a solid investment for novices wanting to build their confidence in the water.

#3

WAVESTORM Classic Soft Top Foam 8ft Surfboard Surfboard for Beginners and All Surfing Levels Complete Board Set Including Accessories Leash and Fins,Burst,8 Feet x 22.5 Inch x 3.25 Inch

Rating
9.6
Length
Volume
Material

Most important from
99 reviews

Length
For users with extensive board sport experience and good balance, a slightly shorter model might be a better fit to maximize performance.
Volume
Offers excellent floatation for heavier riders, helping them stay stable and enjoy the learning process.
Material
The board arrived in perfect condition, avoiding the common issue of damage during shipping that foam boards often face.

The WAVESTORM Classic Soft Top Foam 8ft Surfboard is a solid choice for beginners and casual surfers looking for a friendly, easy-to-handle board. Its 8-foot length, 22.5-inch width, and 3.25-inch thickness provide good stability, which helps new surfers catch waves more easily and maintain balance. The volume of 86 liters is generous, supporting users up to 200 pounds comfortably. Made with a soft foam top and a strong EPS core, it offers durability and a forgiving surface that reduces injury risk—great for those just starting out. The water-resistant WBS-IXL skin and HDPE slick bottom help with smooth rides and longevity.

The board comes with removable fins, an ankle leash, and a traction pad, so you get everything needed to start surfing right away. While it’s a bit heavier than some fiberglass boards at around 21 pounds, this adds stability and toughness, which beginners often prefer over lighter but more fragile alternatives. Some experienced surfers might find the foam construction less responsive in bigger or more challenging waves, but for learning and casual use, it’s hard to beat.

The bright ‘burst’ design also adds a fun, classic look. If you’re just starting out or want a reliable, low-maintenance longboard, the WAVESTORM offers great value and ease of use.

Rating
9.6
Length
Volume
Material

Most important from
99 reviews

Length
For users with extensive board sport experience and good balance, a slightly shorter model might be a better fit to maximize performance.
Volume
Offers excellent floatation for heavier riders, helping them stay stable and enjoy the learning process.
Material
The board arrived in perfect condition, avoiding the common issue of damage during shipping that foam boards often face.

Buying Guide for the Best Beginner Surfboards

Choosing the right beginner surfboard is crucial for your learning experience and overall enjoyment of the sport. As a beginner, you want a board that is stable, easy to paddle, and forgiving. The right surfboard will help you catch waves more easily and improve your skills faster. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a beginner surfboard and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
LengthThe length of a surfboard is measured from the nose to the tail. For beginners, longer boards are generally better because they provide more stability and are easier to paddle. Surfboards for beginners typically range from 7 to 9 feet. If you are a smaller person or a child, you might opt for a board on the shorter end of this range. If you are taller or heavier, a longer board will provide better buoyancy and stability.
WidthThe width of a surfboard is measured at its widest point. Wider boards offer more stability, which is essential for beginners. A width of around 20 to 22 inches is ideal for most beginners. If you find yourself struggling with balance, a wider board can help you stay upright more easily. Conversely, if you feel comfortable with your balance, you might opt for a slightly narrower board to start practicing more advanced maneuvers.
ThicknessThickness refers to how thick the surfboard is from top to bottom. Thicker boards provide more buoyancy, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. For beginners, a thickness of around 2.5 to 3 inches is recommended. If you are heavier, you might need a thicker board to ensure it floats well. If you are lighter, a slightly thinner board can still provide enough buoyancy while being easier to handle.
VolumeVolume is a combination of length, width, and thickness, and it determines how much flotation the board provides. It is measured in liters. For beginners, higher volume boards are better because they are more stable and easier to paddle. A volume of 60 to 80 liters is generally suitable for most beginners. If you are heavier, aim for the higher end of this range. If you are lighter, you can go for a lower volume within this range.
MaterialSurfboards can be made from different materials, including foam, fiberglass, and epoxy. Foam boards are great for beginners because they are soft, making them safer and more forgiving if you fall. Fiberglass boards are more durable and offer better performance but can be more challenging for beginners. Epoxy boards are a good middle ground, offering durability and performance while still being relatively easy to handle. As a beginner, starting with a foam or epoxy board is usually the best choice.
ShapeThe shape of the surfboard affects how it performs in the water. For beginners, a board with a rounded nose and a wide, stable shape is ideal. These shapes are often referred to as 'funboards' or 'mini-mals.' They provide the stability and ease of paddling that beginners need. Avoid boards with pointed noses or narrow tails, as these are designed for more advanced surfers and can be difficult to control.

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