Do you want to buy an intermediate level surfboard? Or do you feel that your beginner foam surfboard is no longer suitable for your practice? Do you want to take the next step and buy your first hard board (epoxy or fiber) suitable for intermediate surfers? We've written this handy guide to help you choose your intermediate level surfboard.
Assess your surfing level properly
First, when you want to buy an intermediate level surfboard. You have to assess your surfing level carefully. Indeed, it is essential to know what level you really have, before buying a new surfboard. There is often a difference between perception and reality in surfing. Indeed, one way or the other, we often have the wrong idea of our level of surfing. This is why it is important to see yourself surfing (by filming yourself) to have a visual on your own level of surfing.
The different levels of surfing
Here we will divide the levels into three large groups:
- 1 Beginner surfing level: We are said to be a beginner surfer since our first day of surfing (the first time we surf). Until the moment when we are able to read the waves which arrive. Do the take-off right and left. And roll out the wave.
- 2 Intermediate level of surfing: We are an intermediate level surfer. When we are able to read the waves. Pass the "bar" in autonomy (manage to pass behind the waves to reach the peak). Do the take-off in the right direction and unroll the wave by making small turns.
- 3 Advanced level of surfing: We will say that we are an advanced surfer (confirmed). Only when you are able to surf in all conditions, do real maneuvers (take a tube, snaps, area, etc.).
With this information, you should be able to define your surfing level. If you are in the intermediate level surfing category, read the following section to choose your intermediate level surfboard. However, if you recognize yourself more in the beginner level of surfing, then check out this practical guide. It will be more adapted to your level of surfing: Which surfboard to buy to start?
Choosing the right surfboard for intermediate level
Now that you have clearly identified your surfing level. We will guide you in choosing your intermediate level surfboard.
What type of surfboard to choose
When you have an intermediate level of surfing, the choice of your surfboard should be oriented towards a Malibu, egg or hybrid type board. Indeed, these types of surfboards are best suited to the intermediate level. They will allow you to take a maximum of waves and therefore progress quickly. Let's not forget that the purpose of surfing is to ride the wave. So there is no point in taking a board that is too small. You will stagnate and fail to catch waves. As we say all the time, it is better to have too much volume than not enough.
With an intermediate level of surfing, you can start orienting your surfing. That is to say, if you ultimately want to go longboarding. So you will opt for a malibu or egg type board long enough to start to understand the big boards. Conversely if your goal is to shortboard. So we advise you to go for a hybrid type surfboard (but not too small).
Read also => Surf Trip in Morocco: Sidi Kaouki
The ideal surfboard for intermediate level
The ideal when you have an intermediate level of surfing is to start with an egg or malibu type surfboard. You will then have to adapt the size of the board to your morphology. Indeed, a person who is two meters tall and weighs one hundred kilograms will take a larger surfboard than a short person. It's all about the lift volume of the surfboard (ability to float). We recommend this type of surfboard for intermediate levels because they are quite maneuverable. They go easily in the waves and are very scalable (will allow you to progress easily). In addition, you can keep it for life, even when you have progressed. A malibu in the quiver is almost essential (for all levels of surfing).
You can choose a surfboard called egg or malibu (funboard) either in epoxy or in fiber. Epoxy surfboards are generally stronger than fiberboards. However, intermediate level epoxy surfboards are heavier and less flexible.
- The eggs (fun board) of the brand torq et dnk are of excellent quality and very solid
- Decathlon, always the best value for money.
- The best Egg in the world is surely that of Mark Phipps, the One Bad Egg
The essential accessories for your surfboard
Now that you know which board to buy, here is a list of essential accessories to go with your intermediate level surfboard.
The leash
First, you will need to purchase a Leash. To choose the right leash, it's quite simple. You have to choose one that makes the board size or a little bigger. If it is too short, it can be dangerous because your board can hit you in the event of a fall. And if it's too long, it'll get in your way, catch on your feet and slow you down when you're surfing. Then you have to buy a surf leash from the right thickness, the longer and heavier your board, the more you will have to choose a solid leash, i.e. a thick leash. The same goes if you want to surf big waves, the stronger the impact of the wave, the more you will need a leash capable of resisting the power of the swell.
The leash is your safety and that of others, you should always check it before going surfing, attach it properly and change it when it is damaged. If you want to buy a quality leash, I recommend those from ripcurl. This is what I use on a daily basis and they are really good quality.
The fins
Next you are going to need to buy fins for your surfboard. Depending on the type of board you can choose the appropriate fins. It is the fin insert also called "plug" that will determine the type you need. There are several types of plugs, fcs, fcs2, future, american boxing (single fin, longboard). Ask the person who sells you the board to advise you.
The cover
Then, you will also need a cover for your intermediate level surfboard (“board bag”). This is important to protect your board on a daily basis but especially if you travel with it. I advise you to buy a cover ripcurl, they are of excellent quality. Choose one that is suitable for the size of your board.
The Pad
Finally, if you buy a small board, it may be necessary to install a "traction pad", "grip". It is a foam that sticks to the back of the board ("tail") and which allows better grip of the rear foot in turns. Almost all shortboards have them. Similar, the "tail pad" from ripcurl are really good. I highly recommend them.
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Hello I am RomainFounder everybodysurf.com, a platform dedicated to the world of surfing. With over 10 years of experience in surfing, I co-founded surf camps in Morocco and Sri Lanka, two world-famous surfing destinations. Over the years, I have acquired an in-depth knowledge of the surf market and particularly surf travel. In addition to surf camps, I actively work with Margaux Soulie in the development of its surf & yoga trips for women.
For me, surfing is much more than just a sport. It's a culture, a way of life that involves travelling, discovering new waves, new cultures, exploring local cuisines, and being part of a global community of enthusiasts.
On everybodysurf.com, I share my surfing tips, gear recommendations, travel experiences and my views on the economics of surfing. I'm delighted to share with you everything I've learned about this incredible sport and its strong culture.
