Surfboard volume (in litres) is the key number, driven by weight and skill. Beginners want lots of volume for easy paddling and stability. We list a beginner-friendly volume by weight.
| Your body weight | Recommended size |
|---|---|
| 45 to 55 kg surfer | 40 to 48 L (8 ft soft-top to longboard) |
| 55 to 65 kg surfer | 48 to 56 L |
| 65 to 75 kg surfer | 56 to 64 L |
| 75 to 85 kg surfer | 64 to 72 L |
| 85 to 95 kg surfer | 72 to 82 L |
| 95 to 110 kg surfer | 82 to 95 L |
| grom under 45 kg | 32 to 40 L (7 to 8 ft soft-top) |
| heavy beginner 110 kg and up | 95 L and up (9 ft+ longboard) |
| Complete beginner | Go big: a high-volume soft-top or longboard catches waves easily. |
| Intermediate | Drop volume toward your weight in litres for a shortboard feel. |
| Small / weak waves | Add volume to keep paddling and catching waves. |