Surfboards Explained

Shortboarding ( 3fins ) (Thruster)

Generally shortboards will have a cut away nose allowing for steeper take off and more aggressive maneuvers. There are many variations of shortboards. Different dimensions will suit different abilities, weight and types of wave. Typically sizes range from 5ft for younger experienced surfers, to 7ft for heavier surfers.

Mini Mal (single fin or thruster)

A smaller version of a longboard with a round nose and generally full in their width, both nose and tail. Typically around 7-8ft thay are ideal for beginners.

Longboards (single fin, thruster or single fin plus to smaller side fins)

Generally Over 9ft longboards are the orinal wave riding tool with a wider nose increased width and volume. Longboards catch waves with ease but take skill to maneuver.

Surfboard Designs Explained

Rails

 

Rail Volume

• Rail volume is also an important component. Rails with lots of volume are suited to smaller waves; in bigger steeper waves less volumes rails are more desirable

Bottom Contours

• Flat fast bottom shape, however difficult to control, good for small poor waves
• Concave this will give the board lift and speed.
• Vee fast through turns allowing easy rail to rail transition. Not as fast in a straight line.
• Channels give lift and speed

Tail shapes

• Squash/square tail enhances maneuverability and especially suited to small waves
• Pintail holds in bigger waves where a wider tail would spin out
• Swallow has the area and turning ability of a wide tail design while the tips of the
  
• Swallow act in a similar way to pintail

Fins

Single Fins

• Single fins are generally used in longboards and retro boards. The bigger the fin the more resistance and control the rider has, however the less maneuverable it will be.

3 Fins (Thruster)

• This set up allows good maneuverability and holds well on the wave making the board feel stable

2 Fins (Twin Fins)

• Ideal for small waves, lots of speed and loose but difficult to control in bigger or steeper waves

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