Over the years, surfing has seen a vast transformation from the wooden boards that first stood on waves as surfing tools. Through advanced technology and creative shaping, the boards have been made to be more efficient in performance and in how they link the rider with the ocean.
Some pioneering designs showcase six changes that adapted to new styles, transforming how surfers perceive the water and waves.
1. Fish Shapes for Speed and Control
Small to medium waves are perfect playgrounds for fish-shaped boards. The wide nose and twin-fin configuration promise you more speed, even when the surf is a bit slow.
At the same time, the shortboard design ensures sharp turns and a fun, summer-appropriate performance. The reduced length also makes the paddling process quicker, which is great for those who need some help balancing their body.
2. Longboards for Classic Style and Flow
Longboards have been popular for years and years for good reason. Many surfers describe the riding experience as far more fluid and peaceful, with the extra room giving them an opportunity to walk up and down the board.
They also perform exceptionally in small surf, meaning they are more than acceptable during all seasons. Longboards are a wonderful choice for everyone whose ultimate goal is to achieve that classic, mellow dream of surfing because they are extremely stable and graceful at the same time.
3. Shortboards for Precision and Power
As the names suggest, shortboards are designed to be shorter and are the fastest boards on the waves. These boards have an immediate response rate to the feet’s pressure, allowing sharp turns and rapid-ups.
Most professional surfers prefer shortboards, as they are ridden on the face of the curl and are used in plots to catapult the rider several feet above the wave. They are perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers.
4. Hybrid Boards for Versatile Conditions
Hybrids provide the perfect compromise between fish and shortboard constructions. Thanks to their overall balanced shape and moderate rocker, they work well in small beach breaks and large swells.
Hence, many surfers appreciate the board’s versatility and prefer to have only this one in their quiver. While paddling, hybrids have similar performance to broader constructions. During the ride, in turn, the board feels as comfortable as your high-performance shortboard.
5. Epoxy Construction for Durability
The material of the board was equally as essential as its shape in modern life. For example, epoxy surfboards are new and have quickly gained popularity. They are less likely to break, more resistant to dings, and lighter and stronger than a traditional fibreglass board.
Because of these advantages, the epoxy board is perfect for beginners and tourists. It is more comfortable to paddle on them because they have better float and more stability.
6. Soft-Top Boards for Beginners and Fun
Some boards are not meant to be too much high-performance fun. Soft-top boards are generally safer and easier to use due to their foam deck. They are ideal to start newbies out in the sport.
For this reason alone, the soft-top board, which floats super well, can still help you to get a lot of pleasure from the sport. It is the same with the experienced customers who want the board for casual fun on relaxed days to be on the water.
The Future of Surfboard Design
From nature to art, from the street to the water, a perfect board can now be found to suit everyone, no matter the skill level or spot. Every board carries a piece of history as old as time and pushes the sport into the future.
