How to choose your Bodyboard

Bodyboarding Budget Tip

“The best bodyboard is the one that makes you want to hit the water with every wave.
Size, material, and comfort — find the right balance to progress and have fun.”

1. Why is choosing the right bodyboard important?

Bodyboarding is an accessible and fun sport, but your board choice influences everything:

  • Speed and maneuverability,

  • Control on waves,

  • Level of comfort and progression.

A suitable board = more fun, less frustration, and quick progression.

2. Key elements of a bodyboard

Element

Description

Role

Core

The heart of the board, often made of foam

Determines stiffness, buoyancy, and weight

Slick (bottom)

Part in contact with water

Glide and speed

Deck (top)

Upper part

Comfort and grip

Rails

Edges of the board (usually 60/40 or 55/45)

Influences maneuverability and hold

Tail (back)

Shape of the tail

Maneuverability, speed, stability


3. Choosing the right bodyboard size

Size is the most important criterion.

Rider Height

Bodyboard Size

Indication

< 1m40

36–38"

Children / beginner teens

1m40 – 1m60

38–40"

Small build

1m60 – 1m75

40–42"

Average height

1m75 – 1m85

42–43"

Standard height

> 1m85

44–46"

Tall build

The top of your board should reach your belly button when you hold it straight in front of you.


4. Choosing the core (board's heart)

Core type

Material

Characteristics

Ideal conditions

EPS

Expanded Polystyrene

Lightweight, good for beginners

Cold water / tight budgets

PE (Polyethylene)

Soft foam

Comfortable, flexible

Cold water / intermediate

PP (Polypropylene)

Rigid foam

Lightness, performance

Warm water / pro riders

NGR / Kinetic

High-density PP

High performance, stability

Temperate water / advanced riders

For beginners, choose EPS or PE: strong, affordable, and comfortable.

 

5. The tail (back shape)

Type

Description

Use

Crescent Tail

Crescent shape

Versatility, good control, ideal for beginners

Bat Tail

Bat shape

More maneuverability and speed

Square Tail

Flat back

Stability and speed, for big waves

The crescent tail is the most common: comfortable and effective in most conditions.


6. The slick (bottom)

  • HDPE (high-density polyethylene): strong, durable, good value for money.

  • Surlyn: higher performance, used on high-end boards (more speed and flexibility).

The slick influences the board's speed and durability.


7. Essential accessories

  • Leash: safety, attaches your board to your arm

  • Fins: more propulsion in waves

  • Wax: better grip on the deck

  • Board bag: protects the bodyboard from sun and impacts

 

Don't neglect accessories; they make all the difference in the quality of your session.


8. Bodyboard maintenance

✅ Rinse with fresh water after each session
 ✅ Dry in the shade (never in direct sunlight)
 ✅ Do not place on hot surfaces
 ✅ Store flat or in a board bag
 ✅ Check leash and rails regularly

A well-maintained bodyboard lasts several seasons and retains its performance.