Different kind of surfboard shapes?
Nowadays, surfboards and surfboard shapes come in every size and shape imaginable. From longboards to shortboards, entry-level surfboards to big wave guns, modern experimental shapes and retro designs, there is a huge selection of surfboard types.
The many different models, shapes and names make it difficult, especially for new surfers, to keep track. That's why we would like to give you a little insight into the world of different surfboard shapes.
When it comes to surfboard design, it's not about color and appearance, but rather about the shape and the resulting dynamics of the board. If you want to buy a board, you should first think carefully about what experience you have and which waves you want to surf.
There are no exact boundaries between the different shapes and surfboard types; in fact, in modern surfboard design the different shapes often merge somewhat with each other.
SHORTBOARD (Length 5" - 6.5" feet)
The term shortboard only gives a rough overview of the type of surfboard - there are many different shapes of shortboards. In general, shortboards have a narrower, more pointed nose and smaller overall dimensions. This allows surfers greater mobility for turns, airs and tricks.
However, you have to be aware that as you increase speed, power and control you lose a lot of the ease of paddling. A short board is intended for more experienced surfers and radical maneuvers, as well as quick changes of direction.
FISH (Length 5" - 7" feet)
In addition to being the name of the animal that swims in our seas and rivers, “fish” is also the name of a surfboard and a specific surfboard tail. Coincidentally, the name of the surfboard comes from the similarity of its shape to that of the fish and these boards also have a fish tail (also called a dovetail or split tail).
A fish board is similar to a shortboard, but is significantly wider, has a rounder nose, and has a dovetail or fishtail. This makes the board fast and makes riding waves easier. This makes a fish-shaped surfboard a good alternative for small waves. In general, fish boards are designed to ride more waves while maintaining speed and handling performance.
FUNBOARD (Length 7" - 9" feet)
Funboards are not independent types of surfboards. Rather, it is a general term for various boards such as Hybrids, Eggs and Malibus, which use their additional volume to help you get as many waves as possible. Since funboards are usually wide and stable, they can also be used by less experienced surfers.
Fun boards are typically longer, wider, thicker, have a rounder tip and are generally bulkier. If you want to ditch your beginner board, fun boards are a great transition. But a funboard can also be a great change from “normal” surfing for more experienced surfers. Funboards are suitable for most conditions, from small, gentle waves to big waves. The extra width makes them more stable and forgiving.
HYBRID (Lengths from 5.10" - 7" feet)
When shortboard and longboard love each other, a hybrid is created. The shape is between the two, but is a little more shortboard. The result is a board with plenty of volume and buoyancy that makes paddling and surfing relatively easy. A hybrid surfboard is a good option for less experienced surfers or older, heavier or less fit surfers.
EGG (Length 6" - 7" feet)
The Egg Boards, as the name suggests, look somewhat egg-shaped. Especially in smaller conditions, these surfboards are more for fun than for showing off or tricks. The Egg is similar to a hybrid board, only with a slightly more longboard shape: wider, thicker and usually longer than a shortboard.
They are a very good choice for inexperienced surfers as they are relatively stable in the water due to their high volume and are also good for smaller waves. We recommend an Egg board if you're not necessarily interested in professional surfing and radical maneuvers, but just want to have fun in different conditions.
MALIBU (Length from 7" - 8.5" feet)
A Malibu or Mini Mal looks similar to a longboard, but is slightly shorter and narrower for tighter curves. The shorter length makes surfers more maneuverable in the water and makes the Malibus perfect for longboarders who want faster turns or even for more inexperienced surfers. Malibu has one large fin or three smaller ones.
LONGBOARD (length 8" - 12" feet)
Longboards are the most traditional and oldest surfboard model. They are typically 8 to 12 feet long, at least 2.5 inches thick and 20 inches wide. This extra volume makes longboard surfboards easy to paddle and easy to catch in the waves. The round nose, the length and the single fin are characteristic. They are also called “cruizers” or “logs”.
When it comes to longboarding, a lot of style is important. Radical turns and airs are not possible on a longboard, but you can move back and forth on the board and there are special maneuvers such as the hang five or hang ten, drop knee turns or even tandem surfing.
Longboards were the first surfboards and the forerunners of all current surfboard shapes. They helped popularize surfing in the 1960s, but almost disappeared completely in the late 1970s with the shortboard revolution. But the Lombards are back!
GUN (Length 7" - 12" feet)
Guns are surfboards used for really big waves. They are narrow, making them easier to paddle and control in big, steep waves. The slim design with the pointed nose is similar to a shortboard, but the arms are significantly longer and the tail is also pointed.
The name comes from the term “Elephant Gun”, which means that boards are the surfer’s weapons with which he “chases” huge waves.
SOFTBOARD / SOFTTOP (many different lengths and shapes possible)
Softboards are the typical beginner boards that you will use to start surfing in our Sunwave surf camp. Softboards, also called “foamies,” are designed to absorb waves more easily and give you a more stable surface once you step on the surfboard. Since the material of the boards is softer, they are perfect for beginners as injuries can be avoided.
We hope that this article helps you get an overview of the different surfboard shapes and their areas of application.
