The Big Surfer's Blueprint: Choosing the Perfect Board
If you've ever struggled to catch waves or felt unsteady on your board, you know how frustrating it can be when your surfboard isn't right for your size. Surfing should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of size. If you’re a heavier surfer, finding the right board can make all the difference in your surfing experience. The right surfboard will help you paddle effortlessly, catch waves with ease, and fill you with confidence. In this guide, we’ll dive into what makes a great surfboard for bigger surfers and how you can find the perfect board for your needs.
Understanding Big Guy Surfboards
When it comes to surfboards for larger surfers, the key factor is volume. Volume directly influences how much buoyancy your board will have, which is crucial for stability and ease of paddling. For heavier surfers, it’s essential to choose a board that provides enough volume to support your weight without sacrificing performance. This is achieved by increasing the board’s rail thickness, width, and sometimes length.
Unlike standard boards that might struggle to stay afloat under extra weight, big guy surfboards are specifically designed to handle the demands of heavier surfers. Whether you’re looking to rip on a shortboard, cruise on a longboard, or enjoy the versatility of a fun shape, the right volume will ensure that your board performs optimally in the water.
We have put together a Volume Calculator Tool. Click here to try it out and see what volume is suggested for your weight and skill level.
Surfboards for Heavier Surfers and Their Ideal Conditions
When selecting a surfboard, it’s crucial to consider both the type of board and the wave conditions you’ll be riding in most frequently.
Longboards are naturally more buoyant, making them a fantastic option for heavier surfers, especially in smaller wave conditions. Whether you prefer a classic noserider or a performance-oriented log, a slight increase in dimensions will help you achieve the perfect ride. Longboards offer the buoyancy needed to catch small waves effortlessly and provide stability for those leisurely summer sessions. In tiny, knee-high conditions, where maximum float is essential, a high-volume longboard will keep you locked into the wave, allowing you to enjoy smooth, controlled rides.
Ideal Conditions:
- Best for: Small, soft, rolling waves
- Wave size: Knee-high to waist-high
Explore our range of popular Big Guy longboards here:
Mid lengths strike a balance between the easy paddling of a longboard and the performance of a shortboard. These boards are incredibly versatile, allowing heavier surfers to ride a wide range of wave conditions. Designed with extra volume in the deck, nose, and tail, mid lengths provide stability and buoyancy while still offering the ability to carve turns and navigate the wave face. They excel in small to medium-sized waves and more gutless conditions, making them a go-to choice for those looking for the best of both worlds.
- Best for: Small to medium-sized waves - easy to surf in a range of conditions
- Wave size: Waist-high to head-high
Check out our range of favourite Big Guy mid lengths here:
Shortboards are synonymous with high-performance surfing, and that doesn’t change for bigger surfers. The key is selecting a shortboard that incorporates additional volume without sacrificing agility. Look for designs with wider tails, thicker rails, and a slightly longer length to help you paddle faster, maintain speed, and perform sharp turns with ease. Shortboards are best suited for more powerful waves with steeper faces where the added volume helps you paddle in early and stay ahead of the wave.
- Best for: Powerful waves with steeper faces
- Wave size: Chest-high and above
Explore our range of Big Guy shortboards here:
FINDING YOUR PERFECT BOARD
At Global Surf Industries, we specialise in making boards catered to heavier surfers. We’re here to help you find a board that fits your size, skill level, and surfing goals.
When shopping for your board, keep in mind the importance of volume and how it affects your board’s buoyancy and performance. We offer tools like our volume calculator, which can guide you toward the best board for your weight and skill level.
And if you ever need personalized advice, our team is here to help you make the best choice on LiveChat (link in the bottom of this screen). We also have a huge dealer network around the world for you to visit for in person advice.
Surfing is all about having as much fun in the water as possible. Don’t let your size hold you back. With the right big guy surfboard, you’ll be able to paddle out with ease, catch waves early and turn the board how you want to. At Global Surf Industries, we’re here to support your journey and help you find the board that makes every session a joy.
