anybody surf?

mh65fm · Post by **mh65fm** » April 18, 2004 10:04 pm

i am learning how to surf this summer and would just like some input on a few things. First, what size board would be good for learning on the North Carolina shore? What are some good board brands? and any other input would be helpful as well. Thanks a lot and phinz up!

mrmiata · Post by **mrmiata** » April 18, 2004 10:44 pm

Longboards are easier to start with. I started with 6.5' thrusters (IIRC. It has been *years*) and it was *not* easy. Longboards provide stability.

Bellyboarding is a good way to start, too. You get a feel for the waves that way before you have to try standing up.

Lastplaneout · Post by **Lastplaneout** » April 19, 2004 1:23 am

I just bought the new Rusty '89 6'0" board. I love it. It is just shy of being It is just a little wider that a shortboard, and the rocker is just a little lower. It is great for the surf here in Florida. I suggest a cheaper board to start. I started with a cheaper 6'2" suf tech and just bought this Rusty and I love it. True a long board is easier, but I would start where you'll stay.

OceanCityGirl · Post by **OceanCityGirl** » April 19, 2004 12:13 pm

Just came back from a surf trip to Cape Hatteras. Both of my sons surf and have been since they were little. It is better to learn on a bigger, heavier board. Even one of those big blue foam things. It's not a bad idea to buy used. Go into some of your local surf shops and tell them you are looking for a cheap used board to learn on. You may have to go to a couple of shops and stop in a couple of times but you should find one in the $125. range. Let me know where in NC you are going and I might be able to recommend a shop. If you are in Hatteras go to Natural Art, they are great there. You want a small locally owned shop rather then a big touristy place. Once you surf awhile you will want to upgrade, and by then you will know more what is best for you.
When we were in Hatteras we had guys with various types of boards. When the waves were decent sized the bigger long boards weren't really usable. There were a few of our guys who only long board who could ride then, but nobody else could. Shorter boards are better for the big waves in Hatteras. But in the summer it's much smaller there and you would do fine on a long board.
You don't need to start on a long board. Just a bigger wider, clunkier board. My boys started with a big old single finned, 70's Bing. They still break this board out on small days.

longlinergirl · Post by **longlinergirl** » April 19, 2004 11:29 pm

May I suggest looking at local surf shops for used boards or asking surf shop employees if they have old boards they may want to sell. Sometimes you can get a great board that only needs a little ding repair.