Types of Surfboards

Choosing the right surfboard is a key decision for progressing and enjoying your time in the water. There are different types of surfboards based on their shape, volume, maneuverability, and the surfer’s skill level. In this guide, you’ll discover the main categories of surfboards, classified by levels (beginner, intermediate, and advanced), so you can choose the option that suits you best.

Types of Surfboards

1. Shortboard

• Description: Short, narrow, and thin board. Ideal for fast turns, radical maneuvers, and powerful waves.
• Common sizes: Between 5’6” and 6’4”.
• Recommended level: Advanced.
• Advantages: High maneuverability.
• Disadvantages: Difficult paddling and lower flotation.

2. Longboard

• Description: Long and wide board, perfect for a more classic and fluid style of surfing.
• Common sizes: From 8’6” to 10’.
• Recommended level: All levels (excellent for beginners).
• Advantages: Easy paddling, great stability, and ease in catching waves.
• Disadvantages: Difficult to transport, less maneuverable.

3. Funboard or Mini Malibú

• Description: Intermediate board between a shortboard and a longboard.
• Common sizes: Between 7’ and 8’.
• Recommended level: Beginners and intermediates.
• Advantages: Good balance between stability and maneuverability.
• Disadvantages: Not as agile as a shortboard or as stable as a longboard.

4. Fish

• Description: Short, wide board with a “swallow tail” design.
• Common sizes: Between 5’2” and 6’2”.
• Recommended level: Intermediate to advanced.
• Advantages: Excellent flotation, ideal for small and weak waves.
• Disadvantages: Lower performance in very large waves.

5. Hybrid or Evolutionary

• Description: Combines characteristics of different types of boards.
• Recommended level: Intermediate.
• Advantages: Adaptability to various conditions.
• Disadvantages: Not specialized.

6. Gun

• Description: Long, narrow board with a lot of rocker, designed for big waves.
• Common sizes: 6’6” to 10’.
• Recommended level: Expert.
• Advantages: Great control in big waves.
• Disadvantages: Very technical.

Surfboards Based on Skill Level

Surfboards for Beginners

• Longboard or Mini Malibu: Offer stability, easy paddling, and simplicity in standing up.
• Recommended material: Foam (softboards), safer and more resistant to impacts.
• Volume: High, for better flotation.

Surfboards for Intermediate Level

• Funboard, Fish, or Hybrid: Combine flotation with better performance in maneuvers.
• Material: Epoxy or PU.
• Volume: Medium.

Surfboards for Advanced Level

• Shortboard, Fish, or Gun: Designed for complex maneuvers, surfing larger and faster waves.
• These require greater control, technique, and physical condition.

Want to Try the Ideal Board for You?

At Oceanside Gran Canaria, we offer personalized advice and surfboard rentals for all levels, as well as individual and group surf lessons at Las Canteras Beach. Our professional team will help you find the perfect board and improve your technique in a safe and fun environment.