At Peña Txuri Surf Eskola, we know how difficult it can be to choose the right board, whether you’re just starting out in the world of surfing or you’ve already taken your first steps and want to improve. Each type of board has specific characteristics that can influence your progress and experience in the water. That’s why, in this article, we briefly explain the different types of surfboards and, in the end, how our school helps you choose the best option based on your level and needs, in a clear and simple way.
Softboards
Softboards are the best option for those just starting to surf. Made of a soft material, these boards are safe and stable, which is ideal for taking the first steps in the sport. With their large volume, they allow easy paddling and balance in the first sessions on the shore, where you usually work with foam waves. These boards are designed to help you learn to stand up on the board and build confidence without the risk of injuries from falls.
When to use a softboard?
- If you’re a beginner and taking your first lessons on the shore.
- If you’re looking for a safe and easy-to-control board.
- For practicing in small, foamy waves.
Funboard or Evolution Board
As you gain more confidence and skills, it’s time to reduce the volume of your board. Funboards or evolution boards are perfect for this stage. With these boards, the surfer can start catching unbroken waves, or green waves. Although they remain more stable than shortboards, they allow for greater maneuverability, making the surfer more independent and helping them work on their technique and wave reading.
When to use a funboard?
- If you already have some fluency in the water and want to progress.
- To start surfing unbroken waves.
- When you’re looking for a balance between stability and maneuverability.
Shortboard
When you reach a more advanced level and seek more speed and maneuverability in your surfing sessions, the shortboard is the ideal choice. This board, shorter and with less volume, is designed for performing technical maneuvers like sharp turns and aerials. It’s perfect for experienced surfers who already master wave reading and want to face larger and more powerful waves.
When to use a shortboard?
- If you already have experience and full control over the waves.
- For performing fast and technical maneuvers.
- In medium to large waves with good power.
Longboard
The longboard is the longest and most classic board in surfing. With over 9 feet in length, these boards are ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed and fluid surfing style. Thanks to their size, they allow you to catch waves easily, even when they are small. It’s the perfect option for performing traditional maneuvers like “noseriding” and enjoying the smooth glide over the water.
When to use a longboard?
- If you like a more relaxed surfing style.
- For surfing small to medium waves.
- If you enjoy classic maneuvers like walking to the nose of the board.
Fish
The fish is a short and wide board, perfect for small and slow waves. Its design includes a fish-shaped tail that provides more speed and buoyancy in low-power conditions. This board is ideal for intermediate or advanced surfers who want to maximize fun in flatter, slower waves.
When to use a fish?
- If you already have an intermediate level and want speed in small waves.
- For surfing in low-power conditions or on small wave days.
- For those who want a fun, loose style in the water.
How We Work with Different Types of Boards at Peña Txuri Surf Eskola
At Peña Txuri Surf Eskola, we adapt our boards and teaching methods to your level and progress. We know that choosing the right board can be complicated, so our instructors are here to guide you at every stage to ensure you use the equipment that best suits your needs. Additionally, we offer different types of boards depending on the sea conditions. Here’s how we do it:
- Softboards for Beginners: In your first lessons, we use softboards, designed specifically for initial experiences in surfing. These boards are mainly used on the shore, where you’ll practice with foam waves, gaining balance and confidence in a safe environment.
- Funboards for Intermediate Level: Once you start gaining fluency and control in the water, we provide funboards or evolution boards. These boards will allow you to start surfing unbroken waves, helping you become more independent and improve your technique.
- Shortboards for Advanced Levels: When you reach an advanced level, we provide shortboards, ideal for performing fast and technical maneuvers in bigger waves. Our instructors will be available to guide you on how to make the most of these boards and the sea conditions.
At Peña Txuri Surf Eskola, we ensure that every student, regardless of their level, has the right equipment to enjoy surfing safely and efficiently. Our team of professionals will guide and advise you at all times, offering you a personalized experience that suits your needs. We look forward to seeing you at the beach to share our passion for surfing!
