Soft Top
Best for true beginners. Stable, safe, forgiving, and ideal for learning pop-ups and first turns.
- Easy to paddle
- More waves per session
- Great for families
Surfboard Guide | How to Choose the Right Surfboard | Parrot Surf & Skate
LEARN
Surfboard Guide
Everything you need to choose the right surfboard — shape basics, sizing, board types, and what to buy first. Built by Parrot Surf & Skate in Mount Pleasant, SC.
Updated: • Parrot Surf & Skate
Quick Answers
What surfboard should a beginner start with?
Most beginners do best on a soft top or a funboard/longboard with extra volume for stability. The goal is more waves and easier pop-ups.
How do I choose the right size surfboard?
Start with your height, weight, fitness, and skill level. Beginners typically want more volume (float) than they think.
What matters most: length or volume?
Volume is the best quick indicator for float and forgiveness. Length impacts paddle power and stability, but two boards with the same length can feel totally different.
What board is best for small / mushy waves?
Look for more volume, wider outlines, and flatter rocker — like a fish or groveler. You’ll catch more waves with less effort.
Surfboard Types (and who they’re for)
Different shapes do different jobs. Use this as your cheat sheet — then hit us up if you want a quick recommendation.
Longboard
Smooth and classic. Great for small surf, learning, and anyone who wants glide and trim.
- Best stability
- Great in weak waves
- Cross-step / nose ride potential
Funboard / Mid-Length
The “do-everything” zone. A perfect progression board after a soft top or longboard.
- More maneuverable than a longboard
- Still paddles well
- Great for most East Coast days
Fish
Fast and floaty for small-to-medium waves. Wide outline + volume makes them fun when it’s not pumping.
- Great wave catcher
- Speed in soft sections
- Loose, skatey feel
Shortboard
High performance. Needs better waves and more skill to paddle and surf well.
- Best for steep / powerful surf
- More responsive
- Less forgiving
Groveler
A shortboard built for smaller waves. Wider and thicker than a performance shortboard.
- Extra speed in weak surf
- More volume than a typical shortboard
- Fun daily driver
Key Surfboard Parts (what they change)
Rocker
Flatter rocker = faster & better in small waves. More rocker = better in steep surf, tighter turns.
Outline & Width
Wider boards are more stable and catch waves easier. Narrower outlines feel more sensitive and turn faster.
Volume (Liters)
More liters = more float, easier paddling, more stability. Great for beginners and small days.
Fin Setup
Thruster (3-fin) = control. Twin = speed/loose. Quad = fast with hold.
Sizing & Volume Basics
The “right size” depends on experience and fitness more than height alone. If you’re unsure, go a bit bigger — catching waves is the whole game.
Beginner rule of thumb
If you’re new, prioritize stability + paddle power over tight turns. A board you can catch waves on will progress you faster than a board that “looks right.”
Beginner
- Soft top, funboard, or longboard
- More liters / width
- Stable, easy paddle
Intermediate
- Mid-length, fish, or groveler
- Balance float + maneuverability
- Choose based on your typical wave quality
Want a fast recommendation? Contact us with your height/weight, skill level, and where you surf most.
Recommendations by Level
First Board
Soft top or stable funboard. Prioritize wave count and safe progression.
Shop Soft TopsProgression Board
Mid-length or funboard for smoother turns and better positioning practice.
Shop Mid-LengthSmall-Wave Fun
Fish or groveler for speed and float when it’s knee-to-waist and soft.
Shop FishCharleston & South Carolina Wave Notes
Most days in the Lowcountry are softer and smaller — boards with a bit more volume and flatter rocker tend to get more action. If you’re building a one-board quiver for Charleston, a mid-length or fish/groveler is often a smart move.
Check current conditions: Surf Report
Videos
Short, practical clips that match the guide above. (Swap these with your real uploads.)
How to choose your first surfboard (beginner basics)
Surfboard types explained in 5 minutes
More on YouTube: Parrot Surf & Skate
Shop Surfboards
Ready to pick one? Start with our surfboard collection, or contact the shop for quick guidance.
Surfboard FAQ
What surfboard is easiest to learn on?
A soft top or stable funboard/longboard is usually easiest because it paddles well and feels stable under your feet.
How long should my first surfboard be?
Most beginners do well on a longer board (often 7'0"+). The exact length depends on your weight and fitness — volume matters more.
What’s the difference between a fish and a shortboard?
A fish is typically wider and thicker (more volume) for speed and fun in smaller waves. Shortboards are more performance-focused and less forgiving.
Do I need fins and a leash?
Yes. Most boards require fins, and a leash is essential for safety and board control. If you’re unsure, we’ll help you match the right setup.
Still unsure? Message the shop and we’ll point you in the right direction.