Surfboard Size Chart
The right surfboard size depends on three things: your body size, your skill level, and the type of waves you'll be surfing. These charts help you find the sweet spot.
Beginner Surfboard Size Chart
| Your Weight | Board Length | Volume | Board Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 55 kg (120 lbs) | 7'0 - 8'0 | 45-55L | Foam / Longboard |
| 55-70 kg (120-155 lbs) | 7'6 - 8'6 | 50-65L | Foam / Longboard |
| 70-85 kg (155-190 lbs) | 8'0 - 9'0 | 60-75L | Foam / Longboard |
| 85-95 kg (190-210 lbs) | 8'6 - 9'6 | 70-85L | Foam / Longboard |
| Over 95 kg (210+ lbs) | 9'0 - 10'0 | 80-100L | Foam / Longboard |
Intermediate Surfboard Size Chart
| Weight | Shortboard | Fish | Funboard | Longboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 55 kg | 5'6-5'10 (22-26L) | 5'4-5'8 (26-30L) | 6'8-7'2 (38-44L) | 8'6-9'0 (55-65L) |
| 55-70 kg | 5'8-6'0 (25-29L) | 5'6-5'10 (28-33L) | 7'0-7'6 (42-50L) | 9'0-9'4 (60-70L) |
| 70-85 kg | 5'10-6'2 (28-33L) | 5'8-6'2 (31-37L) | 7'2-7'8 (46-55L) | 9'0-9'6 (65-75L) |
| 85-95 kg | 6'0-6'4 (31-36L) | 6'0-6'4 (34-40L) | 7'6-8'0 (52-60L) | 9'4-9'8 (72-82L) |
| Over 95 kg | 6'2-6'6 (34-40L) | 6'2-6'6 (38-45L) | 7'8-8'4 (58-68L) | 9'6-10'0 (78-90L) |
Understanding Volume
Volume (measured in liters) is the most important number when choosing a surfboard. Higher volume means easier paddling and wave catching. Here's the rule of thumb by skill level:
Other Dimensions That Matter
- WidthBeginners want 21-23 inches for stability. Advanced surfers ride 18-20 inches for responsiveness.
- ThicknessAffects float and paddle power. Beginners: 2.75-3.25 inches. Advanced: 2.25-2.5 inches.
- RockerThe nose-to-tail curve. Low rocker = faster in small waves. High rocker = better in steep, powerful waves.
Quick Rules of Thumb
An oversized board is way more fun than an undersized one for non-advanced surfers.
No exceptions. It's safer, easier, and cheaper.
A 7'0 with 55L paddles better than a 7'6 with 40L.
Drop 2-4 liters at a time, not 10+.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size surfboard do I need for my height?
Height matters less than weight and skill level. A 6-foot tall beginner weighing 80 kg needs the same board as a 5'8 beginner at 80 kg — an 8'0-9'0 foam board with 60-75 liters of volume.
How do I calculate surfboard volume?
Most modern boards list volume in liters on the stringer or bottom. As a beginner, aim for a volume equal to your body weight in kg. Intermediate surfers target 65-80% and advanced 50-65%.
Can a surfboard be too big?
For beginners, almost never. A bigger board is always easier to learn on. For intermediate+ surfers, an oversized board can feel sluggish and hard to duck dive, but it's rarely dangerous — just less fun.
What volume surfboard do I need?
Beginner: 100% of body weight in kg = liters. Intermediate: 65-80%. Advanced: 50-65%. Example: 75 kg beginner needs a 75L board.
Is a 7-foot surfboard good for beginners?
A 7-foot foam board works for lighter beginners (under 65 kg). Most adult beginners do better on an 8-9 foot board. The extra length provides significantly more stability and wave-catching ability.
Rent Before You Buy
Not sure what size to get? Rent a few different boards from a local surf shop to find your sweet spot before investing.
Find Board Rentals Near You