Over the years I can attest to riding a few waves on a bodyboard. While I don’t consider myself a pro I did research over 25 bodyboards after 39 hours of research and making a few calls, we made some conclusions. and found the Custom X Titan to be the best bodyboard for overall performance.
Despite its slightly heavier construction, the Custom X Titan moves at an impressive clip. It provides riders with hairpin control and the maneuverability to perform any trick their heart desires.
The Custom X Titan comes in attractive colors and a sleek aesthetic design. It works for bodyboarders of any age or experience level and is perfect for both prone and drop knee positions. The price tag is substantial, but it is also one of the most durable bodyboards on the market, making it worth the price since you won’t have to replace it any time soon.
Of course, that does not mean that the X Titan is the only good bodyboard out there. Far from it. You need to consider various factors when evaluating bodyboards. Different aspects of the equipment can have effects on the bodyboarding experience.
Depending on your specific needs and interests, multiple options on the market can lead you to the perfect day on the water. Keep reading to find out which of our bodyboard picks are best for you.
Table of Contents
The 10 Best Bodyboards Reviewed
The purpose of this list is to assist anyone who loves the sport of bodyboarding – and anyone who wants to give it a try – with some guidance in choosing precisely the right bodyboard.
The Top-Rated Bodyboards Go As Follows:
- Custom X Titan Bodyboard – (Best Overall)
- Morey Mach 10 Bodyboard – (Best for Prone Riding)
- Morey Mach 7ss Bodyboard – (Best for Cold Water)
- Morey Mach 11 Bodyboard – (Best for Beginners)
- BPS Shaka Bodyboard – (Best for Speed)
- Wavestorm Bodyboard – (Best for Kids)
- CBC Switch Bodyboard – (Most Stylish Appearance)
- Own the Wave – Wave Weapon Bodyboard – (Best Value)
- Bo-Toys Bodyboard – (Best for Maneuverability)
- WooWave Bodyboard – (Most Durable)
So which boards made the list? Read on to find out.
1. Custom X Titan Bodyboard (Best Overall)
Features
- Size: five sizes available
- Materials: Wave-Plank Polyethylene, Surlyn, Tight Cell Deck (TCD)
- Stringer: single or double stringer options depending on size
- Tail: crescent tail or bat tail and channels
- Color: multiple color options
For all of the reasons noted above, the Custom X Titan Bodyboard is my top pick. It offers the most features, has a large size range to accommodate even the tallest riders, and works for any skill level.
Construction
The Custom X Titan Bodyboard may be the sturdiest option available thanks to the quality, multi-layered construction. The 60/40 double rails and Tight Cell Deck Material provide a firm, durable surface while the Wave-Plank Polyethylene Core adds flotation and softens the impact.
Additionally, the single graphite stringer enhances flex while the 50/50 template works for prone and drop-knee boarding. Factor in the Surlyn Slick Bottom for enhanced speed, and it would be tough to pass this board over.
Sizes
The Custom X Titan offers multiple size options, including larger sizes for big and tall bodyboarders.
- 39” x 20 ½” x 11 ¼” x 17 ¼”
- 41” x 21” x 11 ¾” x 17 ¾”
- 42” x 21 ¼” x 12” x 18”
- 43” x 21 ½” x 12 ¼” x 18 ¼”
- 44” x 21 ¾” x 12 ½” x 18 ½”
Skill Level
Given the size ranges, construction, and enhancements, this board works well for bodyboarders of all skill levels. It’s easy enough for beginners but fulfills the speed and durability needs of advanced bodyboarders.
How It Compares
Versatility and choice – that is what the Custom X Titan Bodyboard offers. From size to tail style, the Custom X Titan Bodyboard is the most customizable bodyboard on this list. Any bodyboarder can order this board to precisely fit his/her needs. The larger size options make this model especially attractive for bodybuilders over 6 feet tall and/or 200 pounds.
Pros
- Customizability
- Versatility
- Size Options
- High-End Features at Mid-Range Price
Cons
- Heavier Than Most Bodyboards
- Lacks a Wrist Leash
2. Morey Mach 10 Bodyboard (Best for Prone Riding)
Features
- Size: three sizes to choose from
- Materials: X-Flexy Polypro, TC8, Surlyn, X-flex Mesh
- Stringer: single power rod
- Tail: crescent tail
- Color: multiple color options
Construction
The Morey Mach 10, also known as the Mach X, is a sturdy bodyboard thanks to its Dow Polyethylene construction. The closed-cell TC8 deck and channels enhance speed while providing excellent traction, and the Surlyn Slick with X-Flex mesh increases rider control.
You can expect extra strength and better wave-riding performance thanks to the single power rod stringer. Additionally, this bodyboard is heat laminated and sealed to avoid bubbling, so you get the ideal amount of flex for warm and cold weather performance.
Sizes
Though there’s not as wide a selection as the Custom X Titan, you can choose between three lengths, 40”, 41”, or 42”.
Skill Level
The Mach 10 is not an ideal option for beginners because it requires some experience to safely maneuver it, so it’s recommended for intermediate and advanced bodyboarders.
How It Compares
The Mach 10 is one of the most durably built, best-performing bodyboards available, if you can handle it. With slick bulbs and a single power rod stringer, you can expect to fly through the water. Factor in the narrow template and you can expect easy maneuverability. The Mach 10 even has enough flex to handle cooler temperatures making it an ideal board for most of the year.
Pros
- Made by an established brand
- Excellent speed and control
- Handles a variety of wave types and water temperatures
Cons
- Pricey
- Too narrow for Knee Riding
- Not designed for beginners
3. Morey Mach 7ss Bodyboard (Best for Cold Water)
Features
- Size: 41 ½” or 43”
- Materials: X-Flex Polypro, TC8, Surlyn, X-Flex Mesh
- Stringer: dual power rod stringers
- Tail: crescent tail and tail piece
- Color: black or green
Construction
Because it is denser and heavier than bodyboards with an EPS core, the Morey Mach 7ss is especially suited for cold water bodyboarding. Its versatile shape also makes it ideal for both prone and drop-knee positions. It features raised thumb ridges and custom knee contours which provide superior grip and knee-lock capabilities. The Morey Mach 7ss’s durability and flex also set it apart from other bodyboards.
Sizes
Only two sizes to choose from: 41 ½” x 22 ½” x 7 ½” or 43” x 22 ½” x 7 ½”.
Skill Level
Given the advanced features, speed, and maneuverability options, the Mach 7ss is best suited for intermediate and advanced bodyboarders. It has unique features, like dual power rod stringers and a tail piece, that help it speed through water in a manner that may be uncomfortable for beginners.
How It Compares
Thanks to unique materials and construction, the Morey Mach 7ss performs exceptionally well in cold water when compared to its peers. It is also one of the best options for tall men, as it can accommodate a 6 ft, 190 lb bodyboarder.
While many bodyboards are limited to either knee drop or prone positions, the Morey Mach 7ss is ideal for both. It even features knee contours for comfort on a knee drop without impacting a prone ride.
Pros
- Crescent-Designed Tail Provides Excellent Grip
- Weight Limit of 190 lbs
- Designed for Drop-Knee and Prone
Cons
- Too many bells and whistles for Beginners
- Only Available in Two Colors
4. Morey Mach 11 Bodyboard (Best for Beginners)
Features
- Size: 42 ½”
- Materials: Phuzion EPS, IXPE, HDPE
- Stringer: none
- Tail: crescent tail
- Color: multiple color options
Construction
The Morey Mach 11 Bodyboard seems custom-made for beginning bodyboarders. It is optimized for control and stability, from its heat-laminated Phuzion core to its crescent tail, which holds the body in place. The IXPE Deck is lightweight but sturdy, while the HDPE bottom skin provides flexibility.
Sizes
The Mach 11, also known as the 42.5” Cruiser, comes in one size: 43 ⅓” x 22 ¾” x 15 ¼”. That said, it’s large enough to accommodate most riders.
Skill Level
Since the Mach 11 is lightweight and easy to handle, it’s ideal for beginners, but intermediate bodyboarders won’t mind the easy handling either. Advanced bodyboarders may find it too basic to be enjoyable.
How It Compares
While some reviews point out that the Morey Mach 11 tends to deteriorate more quickly than other Morey products. However, this lack of durability is acceptable for a beginner’s bodyboard since it will most likely be replaced as the user advances in the sport. With its superior control and impressively affordable price tag, the Mach 11 is still a bargain even with this drawback.
Pros
- Excellent for Beginners
- Provides excellent stability and control
- Very affordable
Cons
- Some durability issues
- May not offer enough speed or features for Advanced Bodyboarders
5. BPS Shaka Bodyboard (Best for Speed)
Features
- Size: three sizes available
- Materials: EPS, HDPE slick
- Stringer: none
- Tail: crescent tail
- Color: multiple color options
The BPS Shaka Bodyboard was built with speed in mind. What this model may lack in durability, it makes up for with a reasonable price tag and lightning speed on the water.
Construction
Exceedingly lightweight, with a surface designed to reduce friction and an ultra-buoyant core, this is the bodyboard for anyone who wants to torpedo through the waves. The EPS core provides buoyancy, while the HDPE Slick reduces friction to increase speed and maneuverability.
Sizes
The Shaka line features some of the smallest boards on the list with three options: 33”, 37” or 41”, making them ideal for smaller riders. This issue brings up one drawback because even the largest board may not accommodate a taller rider.
Skill Level
Though the sizing may suggest this as a beginning board, the BPS Shaka is all about speed, making it best for intermediate riders. Advanced bodyboarders may feel it’s too basic and small to create an enjoyable ride.
How It Compares
This model is far from the most durable bodyboard on this list. BPS sacrificed sturdiness for a quick yet controlled boarding experience. Because of this bodyboard’s impressive speed capabilities, it’s less than ideal for beginner bodyboarders. Still, it is available at a reasonable price and is sure to thrill the speed-freaks out there.
Pros
- One word – speed!
- Excellent maneuverability
- Affordable
- Available in multiple sizes and colors
Cons
- Lacks the durability you get with other boards
- Not safe for beginners
- Not ideal for larger riders, even in its largest size
6. Wavestorm Bodyboard (Best for Kids)
Features
- Size: five sizes to choose from plus a mini bodyboard
- Materials: Superior Grade EPS, HDPE
- Stringer: single stringer
- Tail: crescent tail or bat tail and channels
- Color: colorful graphic designs that rotate seasonally
Construction
Wavestorm Bodyboards are designed to be lightweight and stable but easy to grip and ride, making them ideal for children. The Wavestorm features soft foam construction with an EPS Core for stability and a WBS (Water Barrier Skin) that provides good grip, stability, and maneuverability.
Since this board is kid-friendly, it helps to know there’s a built-in security feature. The board includes a leash plug with a removable wrist leash to prevent the board from being lost in the waves.
Sizes
You can choose from a wide range of sizes starting at 40” and capping out at 42 ½”. However, if you prefer something smaller that can double as a kickboard, you can opt for a mini board that’s just 22”.
Skill Level
This board was designed with beginners in mind and probably won’t satisfy more experienced riders because it may not be speedy enough.
How It Compares
Wavestorm is a popular family brand and with good reason. These boards are perfect learning tools to serve as an introduction to bodyboarding for kids. Quite a few customers point out the Wavestorm’s lack of durability. It is most likely a single-summer product, but with its affordable price, especially since it includes two boards, it serves the role of a child’s first bodyboard perfectly.
Pros
- Excellent Value
- Well-Known Brand
- Great for Children
Cons
- Lack of Durability
- No Performance Features
- Not Designed for Drop Knee Riding
7. CBC Switch Bodyboard (Most Stylish Appearance)
Features
- Size: three sizes available ranging from 36” up to 42”
- Materials: HDPE slick, PE, EPS
- Stringer: none
- Tail: crescent tail and channels
- Color: four color options
Construction
The Switch Bodyboard is eye-catching in four color options with distinctive graphic prints. It features a lightweight but durable construction, thanks to the cross-linked Polyethylene deck and waterproof EPS core. The HDPE bottom and channels enhance speed, while the crescent tail gives riders excellent control.
Sizes
California Board Company currently sells the Switch in three sizes:
- 36” x 18” x 2”
- 39” x 20” x 2 ¼”
- 42” x 21 ½” x 2 ½”
Skill Level
With a durable design and easy handling, the Switch works well for beginner and intermediate bodyboarders. Advanced riders may appreciate the design but find the lack of features makes it too simplistic.
How It Compares
The Switch wins the beauty contest hands down, but it also gives other bodyboards a run for their money in the comfort and control categories. The board itself ranks highly for durability (the wrist strap is another story). While advanced bodyboarders know that looks are not everything, this is an excellent option for beginners and intermediate users who want to bring a little glamour to the beach.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Easy handling makes it great for beginners
- Comfortable
- Provides plenty of control
Cons
- Some reports of the wrist strap breaking easily
- Not ideal for advanced bodyboarders
- Not designed for big and tall riders
8. Own the Wave – Wave Weapon Bodyboard (Best Value)
Features
- Size: three sizes available starting at 33” and capping out at 41”
- Materials: HDPE slick, EPS
- Stringer: none
- Tail: crescent tail
- Color: multiple color options
Construction
The Wave Weapon Bodyboard features a waterproof EPS core that makes it lightweight while the HDPE slick bottom increases speed. It also features a crescent tail, which garners better control and secures the rider. The Wave Weapon comes with a wrist leash as well as fin tethers, a unique feature.
Sizes
Choose from three sizes based on your height:
- 33” board suggested for riders between two feet and four feet
- 37” board accommodates riders from four feet up to 5’7”
- 41” board works for riders ranging from 5’5” up to 5’9”
Skill Level
The Wave Weapon is an affordable board for riders of all skill levels. It’s durable enough for advanced riders but easy for beginners to handle.
How It Compares
Own the Wave has a few designs available, but the Wave Weapon may be one of their best. The bodyboard stacks up well against its competitors on speed, control, and stability, while it edges out the competition in value. It offers high-end features at a reasonable cost, plus the company offers a 12-month money-back guarantee, so this bodyboard packs a lot of bang for your buck.
Of note, some customer reviews did report problems with the foam top’s durability. However, considering the price and the guarantee, this seems like a minor issue.
Pros
- Excellent value
- Lightweight and durable
- Impressive speed and control
- Above average stability
- Emailed instructions with your purchase
- 12-Month Money-Back Guarantee
Cons
- Some quality control issues with foam top durability
- Not ideal for big/tall bodyboarders
9. Bo-Toys Bodyboard (Best for Maneuverability)
Features
- Size: one size only – 33”
- Materials: HDPE, EPS
- Stringer: none
- Tail: crescent tail
- Color: four fun color choices
Construction
The Bo-Toys Bodyboard is designed for those who want to show off their skills. The EPS core makes it lightweight yet durable, and the HDPE super slick bottom increases speed over the water. Additionally, 60/40 rails and a crescent tail give you superior maneuverability and control so that you can easily perform tricks.
Sizes
Unfortunately for larger riders, this bodyboard comes in a single size that runs on the smaller end of the list at just 33” x 18” x 2”.
Skill Level
Provided you can fit comfortably on the board, it’s suitable for all levels from beginner to advanced. While it’s easy enough for beginners to manage, advanced riders will appreciate the speed and opportunity to perform tricks seamlessly.
How It Compares
The Bo-Toys bodyboard offers top-notch speed, control, and especially maneuverability. It is a bodyboarding showoff’s dream come true. While the limited size options will rule this bodyboard out for some users, others won’t be able to wait to see what this one can do on the waves.
Pros
- Superior maneuverability
- Impressive speed and control
- Lightweight construction
- Bright color options
Cons
- Lack of size options
- Some issues with durability of foam
10. WooWave Bodyboard (Most Durable)
Features
- Size: three lengths available – 33”, 37”, 42”
- Materials: premium EVA, EPS, HDPE
- Stringer: none
- Tail: crescent tail
- Color: five color options
Construction
The WooWave Bodyboard is a beast with unsurpassed durability. The EPS core makes it lightweight yet extremely durable while the premium EVA surface and HDPE slick bottom improve speed. Throw in the 60/40 rails for impressive maneuverability, and it’s tough to pass on this board that’s made to last.
Sizes
Choose from three sizes depending on your height and weight:
- 33” x 19” x 2 ⅓”
- 37” x 19” x 2”
- 42” x 21” x 2”
Skill Level
Given the durability and handling, beginner, intermediate, and advanced bodyboarders will appreciate the WooWave. The fun colors and easy handling make it a viable option for every rider, especially given the wide range of size options to accommodate most bodyboarders.
How It Compares
The WooWave bodyboard stacks up well against its competitors regarding speed, control, and maneuverability. It can definitely hold its own in a race, and it allows its rider to manage direction deftly for superior control. Beginners will love the sense of control, while advanced bodyboarders will appreciate the opportunity to perform tricks.
Where the WooWave really outshines the competition is in durability. Though some users reported colors fading in the sun, it’s widely reported as sturdy and durable no matter what the waves bring. It’s safe to say that this board is here to last, even if it’s a little faded.
Pros
- Unsurpassed durability
- Impressive speed and control
- One-year warranty included
- Appropriate for bodyboarders of all experience levels
- Good value
Cons
- Colors tend to fade in the sun
- Wrist leash is not as durable as board
How to Choose a Bodyboard
Since there are various types of skim boards and bodyboards on the market, you have the ability to choose the best one for your specific purposes. They come in a range of different sizes, styles, and designs that allow you to find one that fits your body, your skill level as well as the types of activities that you’ll be doing with the board. In order to choose the best one for your specific uses, you’ll have to consider the overall construction, the size of the waves in the water you’ll be using the board in, what types of boarding you’ll be doing and much more to choose the best bodyboard for you.
Construction
Construction can be the make or break factor for your bodyboard. Below are some of the most important factors to consider.
Size
Perhaps the most important factor to consider when you’re searching for bodyboards on the market is the size. The size of the board directly affects its performance capabilities as well as your comfortability in using that specific bodyboard. The size of the board generally encompasses its length, width, thickness and overall shape.
All of these components should be related to your height, weight, and your level of experience. Regarding height, the bodyboard should reach at least upwards from your waistline when it’s placed on the ground standing in front of you. And it should be wide enough so that the whole width of your body can fit on the board. Lastly, your experience level is important to consider when you’re looking for a bodyboard because some boards are catered more for people with less or more experience.
Thickness
It’s important that you consider the overall amount of thickness that bodyboards have because this directly affects not only the board’s performance, but it can also drastically affect its usability. For instance, bodyboards with a thinner construction tend to have the ability to travel at slower speeds throughout the water while having easier maneuverability. And surprisingly, thinner body boards also tend to have less buoyancy because of the difficultly they have in holding up more weight while in the water .
Conversely, thicker bodyboards have higher levels of buoyancy due to their ability to hold up higher amounts of weight. Additionally, they can travel faster throughout the water than thinner bodyboards. They also perform larger carves in the water, making it more difficult to maneuver on the waves.
Stringer
The stringer is essentially the spine of the board. It’s a composite construction that’s located in the middle of the board, giving the board more strength and the ability to withstand hardshell water conditions. The higher-quality the stringer of the board, the more instant the recoil effects are, making for higher performance while you’re projecting the board in the water.
Rocker
A bodyboards rocker refers to the overall amount of curve that the board has. The curve can either be weak or strong, weak meaning that the board is flatter and strong meaning that the board has a more pronounced curve. Generally, bodyboards should only have a slight curve, especially compared to surfboards simply because of their shorter and wider length. But the rockers in bodyboards can vary, requiring that you consider your skill level and the types of water you’re using the board in.
Bodyboards that have a weaker rocker tend to travel faster throughout the water and they will be more difficult to maneuver. On the other hand, bodyboards with stronger rockers are easier to maneuver throughout the water while also having a more loose performance. That being said, you should aim to find a flatter bodyboard with a weaker rocker if you’re a beginner. And you’ll probably want a more curved board with a stronger rocker if you have more advanced skills.
It’s also important to note that bodyboards will technically develop a curve naturally over time, so you should refrain from getting a board whose rocker is too pronounced, as this will drastically affect your overall performance. They develop a curve over time usually because of their constant exposure to heat from being in the sun. The type of materials that the board is made out of also has an effect on the level of a curve that appears over time.
Tail
The tail of the bodyboard refers to the shape of the board at its bottom part. The shape of the bottom part of the board’s construction is important in giving the board different performance effects since the water will act differently with the various types of shapes and constructions. In this case, the majority of the bodyboards on this list have a Crescent tail shape.
Usually, the wider tails of the bodyboards give the rider a more stable and secure performance, and they also tend to move faster throughout the water. On the other hand, bodyboards with tails that are narrower tend to provide easier maneuverability through the water and slower speeds. The length of the tail is only one of the aspects of shape to consider when evaluating the board’s tail since there are generally four main shape types of bodyboards. The other two shapes are considered the bat shape or the crescent tail.
Bodyboards with tails that present a crescent tail shape can either have a clipped crescent or a full crescent, both increasing the rider’s control and attraction to the waves. On the other hand, the bat tail shape of bodyboards presents a much looser performance, requiring that the rider use more skill and direction to maneuver throughout the waves.
Wave Size
Lastly, you should think about the size of the waves that you’ll be using the bodyboard on. Some bodyboards are constructed in order to withstand waves that are harsher than others. Generally, wider boards can tackle larger waves than smaller ones. But narrower bodyboards can maneuver throughout the water more easily, so they can speed past the larger waves.
Common Types of Bodyboarding
There are many different types of riding techniques that bodyboards can perform, ranging from tricks and crushing skills. Although bodyboards have the ability to stand up on the board, it can be more difficult to do so while easily controlling the board throughout the water, especially when waves are present. Aside from standing up on the board, there are two main types of bodyboarding techniques, indulging drop knee riding and prone riding.
Drop Knee
Drop knee bodyboarding tends to be more difficult than prone riding because of the balance and higher level of skill required to accurately perform. Drop knee riding involves the rider using their leg to maneuver throughout the water. Rather than lying down on the bodyboard, the rider is instead placed in a kneeling position on the board with one foot placed near the front of the board and the opposing knee resting on the tail end of the board, hense why its called drop knee.
Prone
Prone bodyboarding is one of the more common types of riding because it’s easier to perform than other styles. Riders tend to feel more comfortable doing prone bodyboarding because it involves the rider lying on their stomach on the bodyboard. In order to maneuver throughout the water, the rider can use their arms to steer whether the board goes left or right in the water. Because you’re lying down, you will be more comfortable and feel more secure and stable in the waves.
FAQ’s
Below are the most common FAQ’s that customers have asked us about body boarding.
What size bodyboards should I get?
| Board Size | Your Height | Your Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 37" | 4' - 4'1" | 61 - 121 lbs |
| 37.5" | 4'2" - 5' | 66 - 121 lbs |
| 38" | 4'4" - 5' | 77 - 127 lbs |
| 38.5" | 4'6" - 5'2" | 83 - 127 lbs |
| 39" | 4'5" - 5'3" | 88 - 132 lbs |
| 39.5" | 4'8" - 5'4" | 92 - 143 lbs |
| 40" | 5'1" - 5'4" | 92 - 158 lbs |
| 40.5" | 5'1" - 5'5" | 110 - 176 lbs |
| 41" | 5'2" - 5'6" | 121 - 187 lbs |
| 41.5" | 5'4" - 5'8" | 132 - 198 lbs |
| 42" | 5'5" - 6' | 143 - 209 lbs |
| 42.5" | 6'1" - 6'2" | 154 - 220 lbs |
| 43" | 6'1" - 6'3" | 154 - 231 lbs |
| 44" | 6'3" - 6'4" | 178 - 209 lbs |
| 45" | 6'3" - 6'6" | 194 - 253+ lbs |
Choosing the right size bodyboard is one of the most important factors to think about when you’re browsing on the market. They come in a range of sizes and designs, sometimes making the buying process more difficult. But you have to choose the right size according to your body in order to find a board that can perform the best.
If you use bodyboards that are too small, then you risk traveling slower throughout the water due to your legs trailing off the back of the board in the water. On the other hand, using a bodyboard that’s too big may negatively affect your performance ability. You may not be able to control the board as easily if it’s too large for your body.
To find the best size bodyboard, you should place the board on the ground, standing up in front of you. The length should reach your bellybutton. And the width of the board should cover at least the width of your body along with enough room to comfortably hold the sides of the board for control.
Ultimately, you should consider your weight and your height when looking for the right size bodyboard. For a rider that weighs between 145 to 180 pounds, you should aim to get a board around 42 inches. If you weigh less, then you’ll want a shorter board. If you weigh more, then you’ll want a longer board. Likewise, if you’re less than six feet, then you’ll want a board that’s either 42 inches or less. And if you’re any taller, you’ll want a longer board as well .
Which bodyboards do the pros use?
Professional bodyboarders use more high-quality boards, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they pay more for them. They tend to use boards that have narrower tails and a stronger rocker. And they also usually use boards that are constructed using a heat-sealed process. For example, most professional bodyboarders use either the GYN Trade Heat Sealed Legendary Pro X Bodyboard or the BeachMall Ultimate Wavemaster Pro Bodyboard.
What Factors Make a Good Bodyboard?
Good boards tend to be produced with more high-quality materials overall, and they also have a construction that has more long-lasting results. Typically, the type of core and deck ultimately have the most impact on what sets apart a good board from a bad one.
The type of core is important because it determines the overall performance of the board in the water. The different types of cores differ in the way they perform in certain types of waters, usually affected by the temperature of the water and the types of waves present. Typically the most high-quality boards are made with a PP foam because it’s stiffer and more lightweight. But they are more difficult to control than PE boards. Bodyboards with decks made out of PP also tend to have longer-lasting results.
Also, the shape of the tail on bodyboards is an important factor that differentiates a good board from a bad one because it affects the board’s ability to control the direction it moves in and its maneuverability. Boards with narrow tails are easier to navigate through the water, and wider boards are more stable .
Do I need Swim Fins for Bodyboarding?
It is a good idea to use swim fins when bodyboarding as they will be able to give you more of a head start when trying to ride a wave. As you kick with your swim fins you get extra prupolsion which allows you to catch the wave better.
How Do I Ride These Bodyboards?
Riding waves using a bodyboard tends to be much easier than riding waves using a surfboard, simply because of its easier controllability and the fact that you don’t stand up on the board. So instead of requiring balance, you simply need to understand how waves function and know how to swim.
To start, you’ll want to get on your bodyboard and paddle out towards where the waves are in the water. After this, you’ll need to find your wave, and you should avoid waves that are traveling too fast or too high if you’re a beginner.
Once you’ve found your wave, you’ll want to position yourself around five feet in front of it and face the beach. Once you’re in this position, the wave will start to get under you, and this is when you’ll need to start kicking your feet and positioning your arms to best accommodate for your preferred technique. But there are certain arm positions that you should avoid, and this YouTube video addresses those.
You’ll then want to ride the wave until you reach the shallow part of the water. Then you can either stand and take a break, or you can even go out for more.
Final Thoughts
Overall, bodyboarding can be one of the most exciting ways to cool off on a hot day. Some people even think of it as a stepping stone to learning how to surf. It may seem difficult to catch onto at first, but it’s extremely easy once you get the hang of it. I hope this guide has helped you to better understand the process of bodyboarding and also provides you with the necessary information to learning the best bodyboard on the market. If you found it helpful, then you should share the article so that others around you can gain insight as well.
