Best surfboards for 2020

Surfing is an extreme sport, the essence is riding on the waves on a special device. There are no strict requirements and regulations in surfing; to master it, you only need a high-quality board and hard training. The right equipment is half the battle, so it is important for a beginner athlete to know how to choose it correctly. The editors of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" offer you an overview of the best surfboards for 2020.

Types of surfing

Sports discipline includes several areas:

• Classic surfing is surfing the wave using a board only. One of its types is Hawaiian surfing. It differs from the usual one in that the athlete does not stand on the apparatus, but lies on it.
• Windsurfing is one of the options involving the use of not only a surfboard, but also a sail. The movement of the structure is due to the force of the wind.
• Wakesurfing. It is riding on the waves created by a towing boat. In the process of acceleration, the athlete slides after the boat, holding on to the rope, and then releases it.
• Kitesurfing is moving through the water following an air sail - a kite. The process is quite complicated, because the athlete must control both a surfboard and a parachute at the same time.
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) is movement on the water with a paddle, sometimes a small sail is allowed. Large models are available for this sport.

Surfboard design features

The complete set of the board includes the following elements:

• The deck is the upper side on which a person stands or lies. To prevent slipping, it is covered with wax or rubber pads are used.
• The nose is the front end of the harness. Its shape is different: pointed, flat or rounded. To avoid injury, the nose is sometimes fitted with a protector.
• The tail is the back, which determines the behavior of the surfboard during operation. It also contains a mortgage for attaching a safety cable. There are many variations of the tail shape, for example, rounded square, star, pin, rounded.
• Edges are lateral sides; the dynamic characteristics of a sports equipment depend on their shape and thickness.
• A stringer is a wooden strip designed to enhance the strength of the surfboard. It is usually centered and runs from nose to tail. In some samples, it may be absent, while others, on the contrary, are equipped with several stringers.
• Fins (fin) are an important element, thanks to which a person can control equipment and control its movement. Most often, fins are detachable, their number and type depend on the type of surfboard.
• The bottom is the underside of the projectile on which the fin is attached. Different models differ from each other in the bend of the bottom, which can be stepped or even.

Types of surfboards

The modern manufacturer offers a wide range of wave gliding devices: short and long, wide and narrow, with a round and pointed nose. Inexperienced beginners usually have no idea which shell is better to buy. To avoid a mistake when choosing, you need to know what swimming accessories for surfing are, what are their parameters and functionality.

Softtop (about 7 feet long)

As a rule, this is the first sports equipment acquired by a person who wants to test his strength in conquering the water element. Even a child can train on it. Durable material and soft top cover help to protect the beginner from injury, and the unit itself - from damage during the inevitable impacts on rocks and reefs. Softtops are large, which makes it quite easy to get up and balance on them. Another plus of such samples is the affordable price compared to other types of surfboards.

Longboard (8 feet or more)

Such an instance is a champion in length, width and thickness. It has a round nose and tail and one to three fins. Longboards are renowned for their stability and ease of use, so they are popular with beginners. You can ride it in different ways: alone or together, sitting or lying down, standing on your feet and even your head. The main drawback of such equipment is that it is too clumsy and massive, therefore it is suitable only for relaxing gliding along small and gentle waves. Longboards for professionals are usually made of fiberglass, but for beginner surfers, more durable plastic structures are ideal.

Fanboard (6.5 to 8 feet length)

From the name of the unit (from the English word fan - fun, fun) it is clear that it is designed for easy and unpretentious recreation on the water. Such specimens are rather thick and long, but still their dimensions are smaller than that of longboards, so they are more mobile. Fanboards have a variety of shapes, sizes and number of fins. The equipment is suitable for beginners, as well as for experienced surfers, whose goal is not to perform difficult tricks, but to have fun.

Shortboard (5 to 7 feet length)

This is the most popular type of equipment. It is a thin, short and narrow structure with a pointed nose and 3-5 fins. The shortboard is designed for extreme outdoor activities: its small size allows you to develop significant speed, perform complex tricks, and ride in pipes. These are the varieties preferred by professionals, but for inexperienced surfers they are not the best option, because they are quite difficult to balance on. Shortboards also have a significant disadvantage: they are not suitable for riding on small waves.

Fishboard (5 to 6 feet long)

Similar samples existed in the 70s of the last century. They are wider and shorter than shortboards, have 2 to 5 fins and an extensive forked dovetail. The design is perfect for quick and agile gliding in calm water, but it can be difficult to control in large waves. Almost every advanced surfer has a fishboard in his arsenal for those cases when it is impossible to ride a shortboard due to small waves.

Gan (6 to 10 feet long)

The model is a long and thick, but narrow board. Such a surfboard is designed for riding huge waves. Due to its elongated shape, it can accelerate, and due to its small width it remains manoeuvrable. The design has a sharp nose and tail, it is necessary to maintain controllability in the process of risky maneuvering on giant waves.Ghana is particularly durable, and this is not surprising, because an ordinary board will simply break under the onslaught of large waves. Naturally, beginners should not purchase such copies, only masters use them.

Jet surf

Jet surf is an interesting novelty on the market of goods for water sports, which is a board with a motor. It is a fast and lightweight model with movement function even in the absence of wind and waves. They cannot yet be called a mass product, but they continue to gain popularity despite their high cost.

Surfboard selection criteria

The average price for water sports equipment is quite high, so you shouldn't make spontaneous purchases. To understand what to look for, you need to look at the description and rating of quality goods on the Internet, evaluate their design in the photo, study the recommendations of experienced surfers, read tips and customer reviews.

You should also consider a few essential points:

• Preparation level. For beginners, a softtop, longboard or fanboard is suitable. The main requirements for the projectile are large size, high strength and soft coating. Professional surfers can use any model, but, as a rule, they choose more mobile and difficult to control surfboards (gun, fishboard, shortboard).
• Athlete's height and weight. Every surfboard has an important parameter - volume. When choosing, you should take into account the ratio of the user's weight and the volume of the board. For beginners, the optimal ratio will be 1 kg / 1 l, and masters can try to ride a projectile with an indicator of 3 kg / 1 l. If you ignore this parameter or make a mistake in the calculations, the surfboard will simply sink under the excessive weight of a person.
• Skiing place. The choice of equipment largely depends on where you plan to use it. For a sandy beach with small and calm waves, a longboard is suitable, but for taming the reef waves, it is wiser to purchase a shortboard.
• Gliding manner. The riding style is always determined by the characteristics and size of the waves, and this, in turn, depends on the season, the structure of the bottom, and the weather. There is no universal surfboard for all occasions. Therefore, a person planning to seriously engage in surfing, it is advisable to have in stock several boards for different external conditions.

Top surfboard makers

Currently, the market presents new items and popular models of both Chinese and Russian production, as well as branded products from France, Australia, the USA and other countries. To figure out which product is better to buy from which company, it is useful to study the rating of reliable companies that have won the trust of consumers.

The best manufacturers:

• BIC Sport. It is a leading French manufacturer of water sports products since 1979. Its main principles are durability, availability and quality. The company pays great attention to the environmental friendliness of the production process and the preservation of the environment. For this she was awarded the "Prix du Bateau Bleu" award.
• New Surf Project (NSP). This is a famous Australian company that produces high-quality and durable boards, as well as various accessories: bags, lichen, paddles. The company's products are widely used in surf schools and rental shops.
• Liquid Force is an American company specializing in the production of water sports products and related apparel. The company actively sponsors various sporting events and promotes a healthy lifestyle. In 2005 and 2008 the Water Sports Industry Association awarded the Liquid Force brand with the title of “Manufacturer of the Year”, which indicates the high quality of the products.
• JP Australia is one of the favorite brands of most athletes, founded by renowned windsurfer Jason Polyakov.Since 2007, the company's products have been available to Russian consumers. JP products cannot be confused with others: they are distinguished not only by their excellent quality, but also by their striking original design.
• Slingshot is an American brand founded in 1999. The company is currently the world leader in kitesurfing. It has become famous not only for its excellent products, but also for its innovative developments, patents for which are bought by other well-known firms.
• Aqua Marina. Chinese products from this company are popular in the domestic market due to the optimal combination of price and quality. The company has existed since 2002 and boasts a wide range of products for users of all levels, as well as regular releases of new products.
• Gladiator. It is a domestic brand owned by the Russian company DV-Extreme. The company is a champion at low prices in the water sports market. The goods are certified, manufactured in compliance with all requirements and technologies and are of decent quality. The package usually includes not only a surfboard, but also the necessary accessories: a safety cable, a backpack, a paddle.

Review of the best surfboards for 2020

The most inexpensive models

For a beginner surfer, the essential question is how much the surfing equipment costs. A beginner does not have to immediately purchase expensive equipment; simple budget copies are suitable for training. According to most buyers, they have excellent characteristics and can take their rightful place even in the collection of an experienced surfer.

Surfboard BIC Sport Mini Malibu Surf Original

Made in France with the exclusive DURA-TEC technology, the surfboard is suitable for both beginners and more experienced athletes. This is one of the best selling surfboards in the world. The popularity of the models is due to their versatility and excellent value for money. The shell is equipped with an FCS fin and has a built-in nose guard to increase durability. Volume: 46 liters, length: 220 cm, width: 54 cm, thickness: 6.4 cm.

Cost: 24,490 rubles.

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Surfboard BIC Sport Malibu

The model from the PROGRESS series is distinguished by increased durability, it is not afraid of scratches and chips. It is perfect for frequent and strenuous use, for example at rental locations. A great option for both students and advanced users who prefer a relaxing holiday on the water. Volume: 58 l, length: 238 cm, width: 56 cm, thickness: 7.3 cm.

Cost: 26890 rubles.

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Wakesurf LIQUID FORCE ROCKET 2020 Blue 4 ′ 8 ″

Fast and stable model for riding the waves behind the towing boat. Designed for intermediate surfers. Thanks to the forked tail, the structure is very maneuverable. It features an EVA foam pad and two side fins. At the same time, it is possible to install a third (central) keel; for this, embedded holes are provided. Volume: 15.7 liters, length: 146 cm, width: 50 cm.

Cost: 29950 rubles.

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Surfboard SIC Drifter 7.2

SIC is a French brand owned by BIC Sport. Drifter 7.2 is a user-friendly model suitable for users of all skill levels. It is equipped with a half ring for attaching a leash and a TriFin thruster.Volume: 55 l, length: 218 cm, width: 56.52 cm, thickness: 7.62 cm.

Cost: 30540 rubles.

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Models of the middle price segment

Inflatable SUP & Windsurf Board JP Younggun Air Le Ws

The model is designed for two sports at once and fits in a small backpack. It is even suitable for teaching children thanks to its stability, lightness and safety. Even if a person hits the surfboard, they will not be seriously injured thanks to the inflatable structure. The equipment is equipped with a center fin to help the athlete keep the course. Volume: 212 L, length: 270 cm, width: 80 cm, thickness: 12.7 cm.

Cost: 58,520 rubles.

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Inflatable SUP and Windsurf Board Unifiber Experience Iwindsurf 280

The ideal Chinese-made model for beginners, it is specially designed for use in surf schools and rental centers. Due to its small size, the projectile is quite maneuverable. The stern is additionally reinforced with a PVC rim for easy turns. The package includes 2 fins, a comfortable backpack on wheels, a repair kit and a pump. Volume: 275 l, length: 280 cm, width: 86 cm. Recommended user weight: up to 110 kg.

Cost: 72,210 rubles.

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Rigid SUP SIC Tao Surf X 31.5 St Art

The styrofoam model, based on a traditional longboard, delivers high performance on waves and excellent handling in calm waters. It is ideal for teaching surf schools, families and rental locations. The design is equipped with mortgages for securing a safety cable and a hydraulic pack, as well as three fins. The EVA mat has a pleasant texture and prevents slipping. The outer ASA polymer coating ensures the durability of the equipment. Volume: 145 liters, length: 279 cm, width: 80 cm, weight: 10.9 kg.

Cost: 85,080 rubles

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Inflatable SUP board for a group of people Aqua Marina Mega

This is an excellent option for a large group of people, it can support up to 650 kg and can accommodate up to 7 people at a time. The model has been tested and tested in the most difficult conditions. It can be used both in calm weather and in low waves. Includes five detachable fins, carrying bag and hand pump. Volume: 1400 l, length: 550 cm, width: 152 cm, thickness: 20 cm.

Cost: 94580 rubles.

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Premium models

Slingshot Converter Universal Hydrofoil Board

The model can be operated as a hydrofoil, as well as a classic surfboard. Equipment for all occasions, which is easy to transport and store. Designed for advanced users and professionals. Volume: 26 l, length: 164 cm, width: 46 cm, thickness: 5.5 cm.

Cost: 100,700 rubles.

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Rigid SUP & Windsurf Board JP Foil Slate 8.2 X 30 Ipr Ws

This equipment is suitable for surfing and foiling. The special shape of the bottom provides easy carving and measured lifting. The edge is covered with a special Innegra polypropylene fiber, which gives the structure its rigidity and strength. The outer coating is pigmented, not dyed, so the possibility of paint chips is excluded. For versatility and the ability to use in different sports areas, the model received the "Paddlesports Product of the Year 2020: Stand Up Paddling" award. Volume: 128 liters, length 248 cm, width: 76 cm, thickness: 11.3 cm.

Cost: 118 690 rubles.

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Rigid SUP board JP Race Flatwater Carbon 14'0

Designed specifically for professional sports and flat water racing on a windy day. Famous athletes took part in its development. The projectile is capable of withstanding a large weight - up to 105 kg. Volume: 277 liters, length: 426 cm, width: 63.5 cm, thickness: 21 cm.

Cost: 180,000 rubles.

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Rigid SUP board JP Flatwater Race 14'0 "X 21.5" Pro

Model for professional training and competition. Its main feature is the low location of the zone in which the athlete is located and the voluminous sides. This ensures maximum structural stability and good balance even in strong wind conditions. Volume: 243 L, length: 426 cm, width: 54.9 cm, thickness: 26.8 cm.

Cost: 221610 rubles.

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The purchase of surfing equipment must be taken seriously, because even budget items cost a lot of money. A novice surfer may have a question where to buy the samples discussed in the review. The problem is solved simply: any surfboard can be ordered online in an online store without any problems, without leaving your own home. If you have experience with the products presented in the review, or other interesting models, tell us about it in the comments.