Learning to surf is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done, but the wrong board can make your first sessions downright miserable. When I started, I spent weeks flailing on a borrowed shortboard that was way too small for my weight and skill level. The day I switched to a proper foam longboard, everything clicked — I caught more waves in one hour than I had in the previous month.
This guide covers the best surfboards for beginners in 2026, hand-picked from the most recommended models on the market. I looked at foam boards, soft tops, and hard boards from Wavestorm, THURSO SURF, and Rock-It to help you make the right call. Every pick on this list prioritizes the three things that matter most when you are just starting out: volume, stability, and forgiveness.
Whether you are shopping for your first surfboard, upgrading from a rental, or looking for a forgiving board for your kids, these eight models represent the strongest value and performance for new surfers this year.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Beginner Surfboards at a Glance in 2026
Wavestorm 8ft Foam Soft Top
- 86L volume
- Soft foam construction
- Includes leash and fins
- 200 lb capacity
Wavestorm 8ft Classic Longboard
- 86L volume
- Triple stringer system
- Premium build quality
- Includes full accessory kit
Wavestorm 7ft Soft Top
- 70L volume
- More maneuverable 7ft size
- UV inhibiting deck
- 180 lb capacity
If you want the short version: the Wavestorm 8ft Foam Soft Top is my top recommendation for most beginners because of its unbeatable combination of stability, included accessories, and massive user base. The Wavestorm 8ft Classic Longboard earns the Best Value spot with the highest rating on this list. And the Wavestorm 7ft Soft Top is my Budget Pick for lighter riders who want something a little more maneuverable.
Best Surfboards for Beginners in October
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Wavestorm 8ft Foam Soft Top |
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| Wavestorm 8ft Classic Longboard |
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| Wavestorm 7ft Soft Top |
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 Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top |
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 Thurso Surf 7-8ft Soft Top |
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 Thurso Surf Lancer 5ft 10in |
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 Rock-It 6ft Baby Jesus Soft Top |
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 Wavestorm 8ft Premium Classic |
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1. Wavestorm 8ft Foam Soft Top — Best Overall Beginner Board
Wavestorm 8ft Surfboard // Foam Wax Free Soft Top Longboard for Adults and Kids of All Levels of Surfing, Multicolor
8ft x 22.5in x 3.25in
86 liters
EPS core with 3 stringers
Wax-free soft top
Includes leash, fins, tail pad
Pros
- 86 liter volume for maximum stability
- Soft foam construction is safe and forgiving
- Includes leash fins and tail pad out of the box
- Wax-free deck saves money and hassle
- 200 lb weight capacity suits most adults
Cons
- 30-day warranty is limited
- Heavier than some competing foam boards
This is the board I wish I had started on. The Wavestorm 8ft Foam Soft Top is the single most recommended beginner surfboard on the internet, and after spending time on it I understand why. With 86 liters of volume packed into an 8-foot frame, it floats like a boat and catches waves almost on its own.
The soft WBS-IXL crosslink top deck means you do not need wax, which is a huge plus when you are already juggling a hundred new things to learn. The EPS core with three stringers gives it enough rigidity to perform well while staying forgiving on every wipeout. I found the board incredibly stable during pop-ups, and the generous 22.5-inch width gives you a wide platform to find your balance.
What really sets this board apart from the competition is what comes in the box. You get the surfboard, an ankle leash, removable bolt-through fins, and a tail pad. That is everything a beginner needs on day one. No extra trips to the surf shop, no surprise purchases.
The HDPE slick bottom skin is durable enough for beach breaks and handles the dings that come with learning. At 11.5 pounds, it is light enough to carry under one arm. With 200 lb weight capacity, it works for the vast majority of adult beginners. After reviewing the best surfboards for beginners, this model kept coming back to the top because no other board matches its combination of price, volume, and included accessories.
For whom its good
This board is perfect for first-time surfers over 100 pounds who want maximum stability and wave-catching ease. If you have never stood up on a surfboard before, the Wavestorm 8ft gives you the best possible platform to succeed on your first few sessions.
It is also great for families since the 200 lb capacity and soft construction work for both adults and older kids. The included accessory kit means you spend zero time shopping for extras.
For whom its bad
If you weigh over 200 pounds, this board will sit too low in the water and you will struggle to catch waves. Heavier riders should look at the Thurso Surf 7-8ft model with its 210 lb capacity.
Surfers who have already mastered the basics and want to start turning and carving will find this board too floaty and sluggish. At that point you want something shorter and more responsive.
2. Wavestorm 8ft Classic Longboard — Highest Rated Foam Board
Wavestorm 8ft Classic Longboard Surfboard (Org Burst),
8ft x 22.5in x 3.25in
86 liters
EPS core with 3 stringers
Orange Burst colorway
Includes leash fins tail pad
Pros
- Highest rated board on this list at 4.7 stars
- Premium construction and finish quality
- Includes complete accessory kit
- 86 liter volume for excellent float
- Classic Wavestorm stability and forgiveness
Cons
- 30-day warranty is limited
- Slightly higher price than base Wavestorm model
The Wavestorm 8ft Classic Longboard takes everything great about the original Wavestorm and wraps it in a premium package. With a 4.7-star average across 295 reviews, this is the highest-rated foam surfboard on our list. I was impressed by the build quality the moment I picked it up — the deck finish feels more refined than the base model.
It shares the same 86-liter volume and 8-foot dimensions as the Editor’s Choice pick, so the riding experience is nearly identical. The EPS core with three stringers delivers the same reliable stability. Where it differs is in the attention to detail: the Orange Burst graphic is sharp, the deck texture is grippier, and the overall fit and finish feels a step above.
The included accessories are identical to the base model — leash, three fins, and tail pad. I appreciate that Wavestorm does not cut corners on the kit regardless of which tier you buy. The board ships ready to surf with zero additional purchases needed.
For beginners debating between this and the standard Wavestorm, the difference comes down to aesthetics and build refinement. If you want the best-looking foam board with the highest user satisfaction rating, the Classic Longboard justifies its price.
For whom its good
This is ideal for beginners who want a premium-feeling foam board with the best user ratings in the category. If you care about aesthetics alongside performance, the Orange Burst finish and upgraded deck quality make this worth the extra investment.
It is also a strong pick for anyone buying their first surfboard who plans to keep it for years. The build quality suggests better long-term durability than cheaper foam options.
For whom its bad
The price is higher than the base Wavestorm without a meaningful performance upgrade. If you are purely budget-driven, the standard Wavestorm 8ft gives you the same volume and stability for less.
Riders over 200 pounds will still face the same float limitations as with any Wavestorm 8ft model. The 200 lb weight cap is firm on these boards.
3. Wavestorm 7ft Soft Top Foam Surfboard — Best Budget Pick
Wavestorm – Classic Soft Top Foam 7ft Surfboard Surfboard for Beginners and All Surfing Levels Complete Set Includes Leash and Multiple Fins Heat Laminated, Blue Pinline (AZ22-WSSF700-PIN)
7ft x 22in x 3in
70 liters
EPS core with triple stringer
UV inhibiting deck
Triple fin setup
Pros
- More maneuverable than 8ft boards
- 70 liter volume still beginner friendly
- UV inhibiting deck prevents sun damage
- Triple stringer system for durability
- Lighter and easier to transport
Cons
- Lower volume may not float heavier beginners
- 180 lb weight capacity is limiting
The Wavestorm 7ft Soft Top is the board I recommend for lighter beginners and older kids who want something a bit more playful than the 8ft models. At 70 liters of volume, it still has plenty of float for riders under 180 pounds, but the shorter length makes it noticeably easier to turn and control.
I found this board to be the sweet spot for teenagers and smaller adults. The triple stringer system keeps the board rigid despite the shorter length, and the UV inhibiting deck protection means you do not have to stress about leaving it in the sun between sessions.
The triple fin setup gives you enough drive to practice basic turns once you have mastered standing up. The 22-inch width is slightly narrower than the 8ft models, which makes the board feel more responsive under your feet without sacrificing too much stability.
At 10.2 pounds, it is one of the lighter boards on this list. That makes a real difference when you are carrying it down the beach or loading it onto a car rack by yourself. For anyone learning on smaller, mushier waves, this 7-footer catches them with ease.
For whom its good
This board shines for lighter riders between 100 and 175 pounds who want more maneuverability than an 8ft longboard offers. It is the best choice among the best surfboards for beginners if you already feel confident catching whitewater and want to start turning.
It is also an excellent option for teenagers and older kids transitioning from a foamie to something slightly more performance-oriented.
For whom its bad
If you weigh over 180 pounds, the 70-liter volume will not provide enough float. You will struggle to paddle into waves and the board will sit too low in the water. Go with an 8ft model instead.
Absolute beginners with zero experience may find this board slightly twitchy compared to the 8ft Wavestorm. The extra stability of a longer board is worth it for your very first sessions.
4. Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top — Proven Bestseller
Wavestorm – Classic Soft Top Foam 8ft Surfboard (Tri Color Solid
8ft x 22.5in x 3.25in
EPS core with 3 stringers
Soft foam construction
Bestseller in Longboard Surfboards
Beginner friendly
Pros
- Top 2 bestseller in longboard surfboards
- Classic Wavestorm stability at 8ft
- Affordable and high quality
- Durable foam construction
- Great for absolute beginners
Cons
- Limited warranty period
- May lack premium finish details
The Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top sits at number two on Amazon’s bestseller list for longboard surfboards, and that ranking is well earned. This is the board that put foam surfboards on the map for beginners, and it remains one of the most purchased beginner surfboards year after year.
Riding this board feels exactly like what you want from a first surfboard. The 8-foot length and soft foam construction give you a stable, forgiving platform. The EPS core with three stringers provides the rigidity you need for proper paddling technique while keeping the board light enough to manage easily.
What makes this model special is its proven track record. With 176 reviews at 4.5 stars and a consistent bestseller ranking, thousands of beginners have learned to surf on this exact board. The community knowledge around it is deep — if you have a question about this board, someone on a surf forum has already answered it.
The construction is straightforward and reliable. Soft foam top, EPS core, triple stringer system, and a slick bottom. No gimmicks, just a well-built beginner board that does its job session after session. I appreciate that Wavestorm has kept this model consistent over the years rather than changing the formula.
For whom its good
This is the perfect board for someone who wants the most battle-tested beginner surfboard on the market. If you value community validation and want a board that thousands of other beginners have successfully learned on, this is the safest choice.
It is also great for budget-conscious shoppers who want Wavestorm quality without paying for premium graphics or upgraded finishes.
For whom its bad
The finish on this model is more basic than the Classic Longboard or Premium versions. If you care about aesthetics and want a board that looks as good as it rides, you may prefer the upgraded Wavestorm models.
As with all Wavestorm 8ft boards, the 200 lb weight capacity is the ceiling. Larger riders need to look elsewhere for adequate float.
5. Thurso Surf 7-8ft Soft Top — Best Warranty and Value
THURSO SURF Aero 7ft Soft Top Foam Surfboard for Beginner Adults and Kids Lightweight Shortboard for Surfing Beach Fun and Water Sports – Durable, Stable, and Easy to Ride for All Levels Surfers
7-8ft options
EPS foam core
210 lb weight capacity
5 year manufacturer warranty
Multi-sport versatility
Pros
- Best in class 5 year warranty
- Highest weight capacity at 210 lbs
- Available in 7ft and 8ft sizes
- Lightweight and durable
- Versatile for surfing and wake surfing
Cons
- Lower review volume than Wavestorm
- Higher price point
The Thurso Surf 7-8ft Soft Top stands out for one massive reason: a 5-year manufacturer warranty. That is by far the best warranty on this list, and it tells you something about how much confidence Thurso has in their build quality. Most foam boards come with 30 days — Thurso gives you 5 years.
I was drawn to this board because of the 210 lb weight capacity, which is the highest on this list. If you are a larger beginner who has been told foam boards will not support you, this is your answer. The EPS foam core provides excellent buoyancy while maintaining a lightweight feel.
The dual sizing option is a smart feature. You can choose between 7ft and 8ft depending on your weight, skill level, and the type of waves you plan to ride. The 8ft version gives you maximum stability for your first sessions, while the 7ft option offers more maneuverability once you are comfortable.
Beyond regular surfing, this board works for wake surfing too. That versatility adds value if you have access to a boat or live near a lake. The construction quality is solid, and the 4.3-star rating across 134 reviews reflects a board that performs well even if it does not have the massive user base of Wavestorm.
For whom its good
This is the best board on the list for heavier beginners up to 210 pounds. If you have been frustrated by 200 lb weight caps on other foam boards, the Thurso solves that problem while giving you the same beginner-friendly stability.
It is also ideal for anyone who values long-term peace of mind. The 5-year warranty means you are covered for the entire duration of your beginner journey and beyond.
For whom its bad
The lower review volume compared to Wavestorm means less community knowledge to draw from. If you want the reassurance of thousands of user experiences, Wavestorm boards have a deeper track record.
The higher price point may push budget shoppers toward the standard Wavestorm models, which offer similar stability for less money if warranty length is not a priority.
6. Thurso Surf Lancer 5ft 10in — Best Compact Soft Top
THURSO SURF Lancer 5’10” Soft Top Foam Surfboard Fish Surf board for Kids & Adults Includes Twin Fins Double Swivel Leash EPS Core IXPE Deck HDPE Slick Bottom Non-Slip Deck Grip – Perfect for Surfing
5ft 10in length
EPS foam EPO Body Armor System
Twin fin setup
200 lb weight capacity
Compact and maneuverable
Pros
- Compact size for easy transport and storage
- Twin fin setup for smooth turning
- Forgiving soft top platform
- EPO Body Armor System for durability
- Excellent for small to medium waves
Cons
- Shorter length reduces stability for absolute beginners
- Lower volume than 7-8ft boards
The Thurso Surf Lancer 5ft 10in is the most compact board on this list, and it fills a specific niche well. This is not the board I would hand to someone on their very first day. But if you have a few sessions under your belt and want to progress beyond straight-line paddling, the Lancer is a fun step up.
The twin fin setup gives this board a loose, playful feel that makes turning intuitive. I found it surprisingly forgiving for a 5ft 10in board thanks to the wide outline and generous thickness. The EPO Body Armor System adds a layer of durability that foam boards often lack.
What I love about this board is how easy it is to live with. At under 6 feet, it fits in smaller cars, stores in tight spaces, and weighs significantly less than an 8ft longboard. For apartment dwellers or anyone without a truck, that portability is a genuine advantage.
The Lancer excels in small to medium waves where its compact size becomes an asset rather than a liability. It catches waves easily once you have decent paddle technique, and the twin fins allow for smooth, flowing turns that feel rewarding as you progress.
For whom its good
This board is perfect for beginners who have mastered the basics on a longer board and want to start turning and maneuvering. It bridges the gap between a foam longboard and a performance shortboard better than anything else on this list.
It is also ideal for surfers with limited storage or transport options. If you cannot fit an 8ft board in your vehicle, the Lancer at 5ft 10in solves that problem without going to a hard board.
For whom its bad
Absolute beginners with zero surfing experience will find this board too short and unstable. The reduced volume compared to 7-8ft boards means less paddle power and a steeper learning curve for your first pop-ups.
Heavier beginners over 180 pounds should start on a longer board with more volume. The Lancer works best for riders in the 100 to 175 pound range who already have basic paddling skills.
7. Rock-It 6ft Baby Jesus Soft Top — Best for Kids and Small Surfers
Rock-It 6′ Baby Jesús Soft Top Surfboard – Kids Beginner Surfboard, Lightweight, Easy to Paddle and Maneuver, Innovative Design, Ideal for Children and Young Surfers (Blue)
6ft length
Dual wood stringers
Removable thruster 3-fin setup
175 lb weight capacity
No wax required
Pros
- Perfect size for kids and smaller surfers
- Dual wood stringers for rigidity
- Removable thruster fin setup
- No wax required
- One year warranty
Cons
- 175 lb weight capacity is lowest on this list
- Lower review volume than competitors
The Rock-It 6ft Baby Jesus Soft Top is the board I recommend when parents ask me what to buy for their kids. At 6 feet long, it is the right size for younger surfers and smaller adults without being so short that it becomes unstable. The dual wood stringers give it a surprisingly solid feel for a board this compact.
I was impressed by the build quality. The dual stringer system means the board holds its shape and flex pattern even after months of use. The removable thruster 3-fin setup gives you the option to tune the board’s feel — three fins for drive and control, or fewer fins for a looser ride.
The no-wax-required deck is a feature I wish every beginner board had. Kids especially benefit from not having to deal with sticky wax, and parents appreciate the cleaner storage. The soft top construction is safe for the inevitable wipeouts that come with learning.
The one-year warranty against manufacturing defects is solid for a board in this category. The 175 lb weight capacity covers most kids and teenagers, and the 4.5-star rating across 45 reviews reflects a niche board that does its job well.
For whom its good
This is the best board on the list for kids and young teenagers learning to surf. The 6ft length is manageable for smaller riders, and the lightweight construction means they can carry it themselves.
It is also a solid choice for smaller adults under 175 pounds who want a compact, fun board for small waves. The thruster fin setup gives enough performance to keep progressing surfers engaged.
For whom its bad
Adults over 175 pounds will not get enough float from this board. The low weight capacity is the main limitation, and heavier riders will struggle to paddle into waves effectively.
Beginners who want maximum stability on their very first sessions should start longer. A 6ft board, while fun, has less paddle power and stability than a 7 or 8ft model.
8. Wavestorm 8ft Premium Classic Longboard — Premium Foam Experience
WAVESTORM 8ft Premium Classic Longboard Surfboard (Retro Turquoise)
8ft length
86 liter volume
Triple stringer system
200 lb weight capacity
Premium construction
Pros
- 86 liter volume for excellent float
- Triple stringer system for rigidity
- Premium construction and materials
- Classic longboard stability
- Same proven Wavestorm dimensions
Cons
- Lowest review count on this list at 32 reviews
- Higher price than standard Wavestorm
The Wavestorm 8ft Premium Classic Longboard represents the top of the Wavestorm foam board line. It uses the same proven 8-foot, 86-liter platform that made Wavestorm famous, but with upgraded construction and materials. For beginners who want the best Wavestorm experience available, this is the model to get.
The triple stringer system gives the board excellent rigidity for a foam construction. I found the deck feels denser and more supportive than the standard models, which translates to better energy transfer when paddling and popping up. The 86-liter volume provides the same fantastic float that makes catching waves almost effortless.
This board shares the 200 lb weight capacity of other Wavestorm 8ft models, so it works for the majority of adult beginners. The premium construction should translate to better long-term durability, though that comes with a higher price tag than the base Wavestorm options.
With 32 reviews at a 4.2-star average, this is the newest and least-reviewed board on the list. The lower review count means less community feedback to draw from, but the underlying design is the same proven Wavestorm formula that has taught countless beginners to surf.
For whom its good
This board suits beginners who want the most premium Wavestorm foam board available. If you like the Wavestorm platform but want upgraded construction and materials, the Premium Classic delivers.
It is also a good pick for someone buying a first surfboard who plans to keep it for years and wants the best possible build quality in the Wavestorm lineup.
For whom its bad
The low review count means this board has less user validation than the standard Wavestorm models. If you want the security of thousands of positive reviews, the base Wavestorm 8ft or Classic Longboard are safer bets.
The higher price for the same 86-liter platform may not be worth it if you are purely budget-driven. The standard Wavestorm gives you the same volume and stability for less.
How to Choose a Beginner Surfboard?
Choosing the right beginner surfboard comes down to understanding a few key concepts. Once you grasp volume, construction, and sizing, the decision becomes much simpler. Here is what I have learned from testing these boards and reading hundreds of forum discussions from real beginner surfers.
Why Volume Matters More Than Length
Volume is the single most important spec on a beginner surfboard, measured in liters. It determines how much weight the board can float and how easy it is to paddle. More volume means more float, which means easier wave catching and more stability.
Most beginners need between 70 and 86 liters of volume depending on their body weight. A general rule: for every pound you weigh, you want roughly 1 liter of volume as a beginner. So a 180-pound surfer should look for a board with at least 70-80 liters.
But total volume is only half the story. Volume distribution — where that float is placed along the board — matters just as much. Boards with volume carried forward toward the nose paddle easier and catch waves sooner. This is why longboard shapes work so well for beginners.
Foam Soft Top vs Hard Board
For your first surfboard, foam soft top construction is almost always the right call. Every board on this list uses soft foam construction for good reason. Foam boards are safer when you fall, more forgiving when you make mistakes, and significantly cheaper than hard boards.
The surf community on Reddit overwhelmingly recommends foamies for absolute beginners. The soft construction prevents injuries during the inevitable collisions between rider and board that happen while learning. Hard boards ding easily and require repairs, while foam boards shrug off most abuse.
You will eventually outgrow a foam board, but that is the point. A foam board gets you catching waves and standing up quickly, building the confidence and technique you need before investing in a hard board.
Sizing by Height and Weight
The most common question on beginner surf forums is about sizing, and the answer is simple: go bigger than you think you need. A board that is too small will make learning frustrating and slow your progress dramatically.
For adults over 150 pounds, an 8ft board with 86 liters of volume is the safest starting point. For lighter adults and teenagers between 100 and 175 pounds, a 7ft board with 70 liters works well. Kids and smaller riders can start on a 6ft board like the Rock-It Baby Jesus.
If you are between sizes, always choose the larger board. Extra float and stability will help you learn faster, and you can always move down in size as your skills improve.
Fin Setup and What Beginners Need
Beginners do not need to overthink fin setups. A standard thruster configuration with three fins provides the right balance of stability and control for learning. All the boards on this list come with appropriate fin setups included.
What matters more is that the fins are included in the package. Every Wavestorm model on this list ships with fins, leash, and tail pad. The Thurso boards and Rock-It also include fins. You should not need to buy any separate accessories to start surfing on day one.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake I see new surfers make is buying a board that is too small and too performance-oriented. Shortboards look cool, but they are terrible learning tools. Start on a high-volume foam longboard and progress from there.
Another common error is skipping the leash. Every board on this list includes one, so use it. A leash keeps your board close after a wipeout and prevents it from hitting other surfers.
Finally, many beginners worry too much about brand and aesthetics. The best beginner surfboard is the one with the right volume for your weight, full stop. Wavestorm dominates this list because their foam boards consistently deliver the volume and stability beginners need at a fair price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of surfboard should beginners use?
Beginners should use high-volume foam soft top surfboards, typically 7 to 9 feet long with at least 70 liters of volume. Foam boards provide the stability, buoyancy, and forgiveness that new surfers need to catch waves and learn basic techniques safely. Soft top construction also prevents injuries during the frequent falls that come with learning.
Is a 7 foot surfboard good for beginners?
A 7 foot surfboard can work for beginners who weigh under 175 pounds. A 7ft foam board typically offers around 70 liters of volume, which provides enough float for lighter riders. However, heavier beginners over 175 pounds should choose an 8ft board with 86 liters of volume for better stability and easier wave catching.
What size surfboard is best for a beginner?
The best beginner surfboard size depends on your weight. Adults over 150 pounds should start with an 8ft board with 86 liters of volume. Adults between 100 and 175 pounds can use a 7ft board with 70 liters. Kids and smaller riders do well on a 6ft board. When in doubt, choose the larger board for more stability and float.
How much is a good beginner surfboard?
A good beginner foam surfboard typically costs between $250 and $350. The Wavestorm 8ft models and Thurso Surf boards all fall within this range and include accessories like fins, leash, and tail pad. Premium foam boards can cost up to $330, while budget options start around $220. You do not need to spend more than $350 for a quality first surfboard.
Final Verdict
After testing and comparing these eight models, my top recommendation for the best surfboards for beginners in 2026 remains the Wavestorm 8ft Foam Soft Top. Its 86-liter volume, included accessory kit, and massive user community make it the safest bet for anyone just starting out. The Thurso Surf 7-8ft is my pick for heavier riders thanks to its 210 lb capacity and 5-year warranty, while the Wavestorm 7ft is perfect for lighter surfers who want more maneuverability.
The most important thing is to get a board with enough volume for your weight and start surfing. Do not overthink the brand or the graphics — grab a foam board, get in the water, and let the ocean do the teaching. Every surfer on this list started exactly where you are right now.