I was looking to buy a new Shortboard and i don't know exactly what size board i should get. i live in jersey were the waves aren't the best and almost the best waves we get here in the summer are waist to chest high. I'm not so bad so i can get along the wave pretty well I'm just not so knowledgeable about boards yet so can anyone make any suggestions?
You have to give a little bit of info about yourself before the forum surf gurus can help you out: How tall are you? Weight? What's your level of surfing ability? Age? What are you looking for in a new board (shredding/ cruising,etc)?
Board sizing is based on a combination of factors including your height, weight, skill level, and the conditions the board is intended for use. If you elaborate a bit more I'm sure we could help you here.
I just got a 7s aussiefish. Its 6'3" by 20 1/2". I think a little wider is good if you are surfing smaller waves. At least thats what I have been told. I moved down from a 7 footer and didnt have too much trouble, but it's been flat here so I have only taken it out once. I am definately not a guru though, just out there having fun.
Board length is only one factor. Thickness, width, and rocker are very inportant in NJ where most of the time the waves lack power and push due to the gradual coastline dropoff. Buy a used cheap board at whatever length you like plus another either thicker or longer board. Ride them both and see what works. Don't buy a new board if you're still trying to figure out what works. You'll know what to buy once you've tried more boards.
I'm about 5'11 and 150 pounds and I'm able to maneuver a little like do a couple carves but i always fall.
I think you should buy my Dumpster Diver 6'0" x 20 3/8 x 2 5/8", fins, leash and boardbag included $375
Sounds like you want to move to a shortboard, and improve your skills. If that's true, you should be looking at something user friendly... not a typical chippy high performance shortboard, but something a bit bigger all around with a bit more volume, that will keep you catching waves and having fun, but give you the ability to develop your skills. In other words, you want a board that's a little bit better than you. Consider a "modern fish" style board. Not the retro twin fin type, but a slighty wider, thicker, flatter performance shortboard in the 6'4 range. Thruster or thruster/quad convertible. Not knowing where you surf or your age, here are some numbers to start the discussion... 6'4 x 13 x 21 x 15 x 2 5/8 Rocker: 4N, 2T
