Bodyboards

What Bodyboard Should I Purchase?

There are several elements to assess when selecting a new foam bodyboard: its core, tail design, and slick (skins).

The Core

The core of bodyboards is vital to examine as it signifies the type of foam utilised in crafting the board.

Two types are available: polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). PE is the prevalent material in bodyboard cores. The mechanical attributes of the foams alter based on water temperature. In colder waters, boards tend to become more rigid, whereas warmer waters render them more pliable. PE is inherently flexible, ensuring PE bodyboards do not become excessively rigid in colder environments. This maintains their manoeuvrability and ease of control. However, in waters exceeding 23℃, they become too soft and challenging to control.

Conversely, PP is a more rigid and lighter compound, which firms up in waters below 15℃. Hence, this can make the board uncomfortable to handle, with only skilled riders managing it competently. For this reason, PE bodyboards are favoured by novices and casual enthusiasts due to their adaptability in varying water temperatures.

Tail Design

The tail influences both direction and manoeuvrability. Crescent tails offer excellent wave grip, aiding riders in maintaining their position on the board. If you seek larger surface area that provides enhanced lift, speed, and drive, a bat tail would be ideal.

The Slick (Skins)

The slick, or skin, is the substance attached to the underside of bodyboards. Surlyn slicks, crafted from ethylene resins and copolymers, deliver elastic qualities. These components enhance the speed of bodyboards and extend their durability. Entry-level boards feature HDPE slicks, made of a robust material that diminishes drag when catching waves.

Selecting the Appropriate Bodyboard Size

Both children’s bodyboards and those for adults should match the rider’s height and weight. Typically, children’s bodyboards measure between 33 and 37 inches (83 cm - 94 cm) in length, while sizes larger than this are suitable for adults, often extending up to 46 inches (117 cm). Design differences between boards for children and adults are minimal, so a smaller adult might satisfactorily use a board intended for children.

Choosing the correct size is crucial. If the board is overly lengthy, your knees will collide with the tail during paddling. Conversely, an undersized board won’t provide adequate flotation. To accurately choose the board size, measure from the ground to your navel or the span between your chin and knees.

For further insights into bodyboards, please explore our Buying a Bodyboard guide.