Aloha, fellow wave riders! As those who are in-the-know will attest, choosing the perfect surfboard size can make all the difference between taking on the perfect wave or getting drilled by it – and believe us, no one wants the latter. That’s why, in this blog post, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the world of 8ft surfboards – a size that balances the need for stability and maneuverability, making it a great choice for surfers of all
8ft Surfboard: Find Your Perfect Wave with this Ideal Board Size
When it comes to selecting the right surfboard, there’s a lot to take into account – your skill level, the type of waves you want to tackle, and your personal preferences all play important roles in the decision-making process. But if you’re looking for a board that offers a balanced combination of stability and maneuverability, look no further than the 8ft surfboard. This board size is ideal for intermediate surfers looking to step up their game, while also providing enough stability for beginners to get comfortable in the water.
At 8ft long, these boards offer enough length and buoyancy to help you paddle into waves with ease, while also providing enough responsiveness to carve and turn with confidence. They’re versatile enough for a range of wave sizes and types, from small beach breakers to mellow point breaks to more challenging reef breaks. Whether you
Introduction
Aloha, fellow wave riders! As those who are in-the-know will attest, choosing the perfect surfboard size can make all the difference between taking on the perfect wave or getting drilled by it – and believe us, no one wants the latter. That’s why, in this blog post, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the world of 8ft surfboards – a size that balances the need for stability and maneuverability, making it a great choice for surfers of all levels. Read on to find out everything you need to know to find your perfect wave with this ideal board size.
What is an 8ft surfboard?
As you might have guessed, an 8ft surfboard is a surfboard that measures approximately eight feet in length. It’s a relatively common size, suitable for intermediate surfers looking to progress from a longboard or for those who want to increase responsiveness and manoeuvrability on smaller waves.
The size and shape of a board play a crucial part in how it performs in the water, which is why it is essential to find the right size board for your surfing ability, style, and weight. A board that is too small will require a lot of skill to handle, while a board that is too big can hinder your progress.
Why Choose an 8ft Surfboard?
There are several reasons why an 8ft surfboard might be the ideal board size for you. For one, it offers a great balance between stability and maneuverability. This means that it’s easier to catch waves and stay on them, even in choppy conditions, but also provides enough responsiveness to carve and turn with confidence.
Another reason to choose an 8ft surfboard is their versatility. These boards are suitable for a range of wave sizes and types. Whether you’re surfing small beach breakers, mellow point breaks, or more challenging reef breaks, you can count on an 8ft board to give you the stability and manoeuvrability you need to take on the waves.
Finally, they’re a great choice for surfers looking to progress without sacrificing too much stability. The smaller size of an 8ft board makes it easier to carry and travel with, making it a practical option for intermediate surfers that want to improve their skills quickly. Also, they’re easy to sell on as there’s always a strong demand for used surfboards for sale.
When to Use an 8ft Surfboard?
An 8ft surfboard is an excellent choice for small-to-medium size waves, from knee-high to head-high. It’s not an ideal board size for bigger or more powerful waves, as the extra weight could make it challenging to manoeuvre. However, it’s perfect for learning how to control a shorter board and trying out new moves like bottom turns, cutbacks, and floaters, which are essential to take on bigger waves.
It’s also a great option for surfers who want to get more comfortable with their turns and manoeuvres. The shorter length means you don’t have to work as hard to turn it or move around on it, making it great for honing technique and building confidence.
Types of 8ft Surfboards
Mini Mal
One type of 8ft surfboard that is quite popular is the Mini Mal. These boards typically range from 7ft to 8ft in length and are designed to provide the stability and buoyancy of a longboard and the manoeuvrability of a shortboard. They’re an excellent choice for surfers looking to step up their skills while still having fun in the water.
Mini Mals are also an ideal choice if you’re looking to transition from a longboard to a shorter board. The extra buoyancy of the board makes it easier to catch waves, while the shorter length and less volume make it easier to perform manoeuvres.
Fish
Another type of 8ft surfboard is the fish. These boards are shorter and wider than traditional surfboards, providing more stability and buoyancy. They’re excellent for smaller waves and perfect for surfers who are looking to catch and ride waves with ease.
The fish tail allows for a tighter turning radius, enabling the rider to carve more significant lines on small waves than they would be able to with a longboard. They provide a slower and more relaxed surfing experience but still offer the ability to catch waves quickly.
Funboard
The Funboard is also an 8ft surfboard but is designed to offer a little bit of everything. They’re a great choice for beginner and intermediate surfers who want to prioritise stability over performance or anyone that wants to paddle more comfortably.
Funboards range in length from just under 7ft to about 8ft, and they’re wider and thicker than shortboards. The increased volume makes them easier to paddle and catch waves while still providing some manoeuvrability.
Conclusion
If you’re an intermediate surfer looking for a board that balances stability and manoeuvrability, you can’t go wrong with an 8ft surfboard. They’re versatile, manoeuvrable, and excellent for beginner and intermediate surfers looking to progress. With so many different types of 8ft surfboards on the market, you’re sure to find one that suits your style and preferences.
Don’t forget to keep an eye out for used surfboards for sale in your area, as they can be an affordable way to get started on your surfing journey with a quality board.
The Benefits of Owning an 8ft Surfboard
Aside from the balance of stability and manoeuvrability, owning an 8ft surfboard can have other benefits. For instance, they’re easier to transport and store when compared to longer boards like longboards or SUPs (Stand up paddleboards).
Additionally, an 8ft surfboard’s smaller size means that you can get into more crowded lineups and take on waves that larger boards wouldn’t be able to handle. They are also great for places with beach breaks or small waves where surfing longboards can be challenging.
Tips for Choosing an 8ft Surfboard
When choosing an 8ft surfboard, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind:
- Consider your skill level and experience.
- Think about the types of waves you’ll be riding.
- Find a shape that aligns with your surfing style and preferences.
- Always check out used surfboards for sale before buying brand new, as you can save a ton of money.
Caring for Your 8ft Surfboard
Once you’ve found your perfect board, you’ll want to take good care of it to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Some tips for maintaining your board include:
- Rinse your board with fresh water after each use.
- Store your board in a cool, dry place.
- Check your board regularly for signs of wear and damage.
- Repair any dings or cracks as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping into the board.
Conclusion
Choosing the right surfboard can be a daunting task, but hopefully, this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Whether you’re an intermediate surfer looking to progress or a beginner looking for a board to practice on, an 8ft surfboard is an excellent choice. Just remember to choose a board that aligns with your skill level and preferences, and take good care of it, and you’ll be riding waves like a pro in no time! So, grab your board, hit the beach, and catch some waves!
FAQs
Here are some FAQs that surfers often ask about 8ft surfboards:
What skill level should I be before I start using an 8ft surfboard?
An 8ft surfboard is perfect for intermediate surfers looking to progress from a longboard or for those who want to increase responsiveness and manoeuvrability on smaller waves. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a longer board such as a longboard to help you get your balance and stability.
Can I ride an 8ft surfboard on bigger waves?
While 8ft surfboards are fantastic for smaller waves, they are not ideal for bigger or more powerful waves as the extra weight can make it challenging to manoeuvre. It’s best to use a longer board, such as a longboard or SUP, for bigger waves.
What types of waves are best for using an 8ft surfboard?
An 8ft surfboard is suitable for small-to-medium size waves, from knee-high to head-high. They’re not ideal for bigger waves, but they’re perfect for learning how to control a shorter board and trying out new moves.
What features should I look for in an 8ft surfboard?
When choosing an 8ft surfboard, consider your skill level, the types of waves you’ll be riding, and your personal preference for board shape and design. Look for a board that provides adequate stability while still being manoeuvrable. Additionally, you want a board that is comfortable, easy to handle and matches your surfing style.
Do I need to wax my 8ft surfboard?
Yes, you should wax your surfboard regularly to maintain good grip, even if your board has a traction pad. Waxing your board can be done according to the temperature of the water on the day. A softer wax for warmer waters and a harder wax for colder waters.
What’s the difference between a Mini Mal, Fish and Funboard 8ft Surfboard?
Mini Mals are designed to provide the stability and buoyancy of a longboard and the manoeuvrability of a shortboard. Fish boards have a wider profile and offer more stability, which makes catching small waves easier. Funboards are a type of hybrid board that combines the manoeuvrability of a shortboard with the stability of a longboard, making them an excellent choice for beginner and intermediate surfers looking to progress.
How should I store my 8ft surfboard?
Store your board in a cool, dry place where it won’t be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. Direct sunlight can cause delamination, warping, and discolouration of the board. If you have a bag for your surfboard, keep the board in the bag when not in use to protect it from dust and dirt.
Can I travel with my 8ft surfboard?
Yes, you can travel with your 8ft surfboard. It’s recommended that you buy a protective cover to keep your surfboard safe while travelling.