Surfing 101: The In's and Out's of Choosing a Surfboard Bag

A well cared for surfboard is a well protected surfboard. Simply put, leaving your board uncovered while in storage or during your travels can lead to unnecessary dents and scratches. Whether it's an accidental fall or an unfortunate collision, your surfboard needs a barrier placed between it and the unforgiving hazards it faces while out of the water. Luckily, placing your board in a surfboard bag can keep it safe and save you money on needless repairs.

The Board Sock

Although, it only offers a thin layer of protection, a board sock is a cost-effective choice. Not only can a sock stop annoying nicks and scratches from marring your surfboard, but it can also shield your board from the damaging effects of the sun. However, if your travels are bit more frequent or you plan on leaving your board outside for a prolonged amount of time, you may want to invest in a more durable board bag.

The Day Bag

Sturdier than a board sock, the day bag is the perfect selection for the more serious surfer. While not necessarily built to withstand harsher environments, such as the rough and tumble life of long distance travel, the day bag is excellent for transporting your board to and from the beaches in your area. The extra protection provided by the bag's foam padding ensures your surfboard won't feel those extra bumpy moments on the road.

The Travel Bag

If long distance travel is your thing, a surfboard travel bag is a must. Unfortunately, without the right type of bag a plane ride can turn into a disaster for you and your board. The increased padding in a travel bag combined with the extra space for one or two more boards allows you to travel stress free and with less luggage. While the price for one of these bags is higher, the protection and piece of mind they provide is well worth the investment.

Whether you're in need of a new surfboard or you're simply looking for the perfect board bag, please contact us today to view our large selection of surfing equipment.

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Why You Should Shop For Boardshorts In The Off-Season

The middle of winter is probably not when most people are thinking of buying their next round of swim wear. However, the last thing a surfer wants to be doing during amazing surfing weather is shopping.

The off-season is the perfect time to go through your equipment and make sure everything is in proper working order for spring and summer surfing. That way, as soon as you have great weather for a day out on the waves, you'll know that you're ready to hit the beach, and you won't find yourself scrambling when you realize that last year's boardshorts are in no shape to be worn again this year.

Surfboards.com has a huge variety of boardshorts for men and women. In men's wear we offer boardshorts in every color imaginable by your favorite brands including, but not limited to, Hurley, Quicksilver, Billabong, Reef, Volcom, Rip Curl and Nike. Our prices range from $32 to $150 so there is something to suit everyone's personal style and budget.

In women's boardshorts you will find options in every length, design and color, from the companies you already love Roxy, Hurley, Volcom and Billabong.

Shopping online simplifies the process, because you can find everything you want in one place without leaving the comfort of your home. Please contact us for all of your surf equipment, accessories and apparel needs. We want to see you perfectly outfitted to enjoy the big waves and not wasting time traveling from store to store looking for things we can help you find.

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3 Things to Consider When Looking for Your First Surfboard

Granted the process of buying a surfboard may not be as exciting and adventurous as actually using it, but it is a necessary component before hitting the waves. To make sure you get the best surfboard for your needs, there are some things to keep in mind before just buying anything. These are three things to consider when purchasing your first board.

Go Bigger When You Are Beginner

If you are a beginner, you will want to consider you age, height, fitness level, and the types of waves you will be riding. Beginners should look for longboards or funboards. Anything that is at least a foot taller than you is a good board to start with. As you skill level progresses, you can being to look for a smaller board. 

Consider the Cost

Fortunately, surfboards for beginners are generally not very expensive. You can usually find a funboard for anywhere from $200-$500. When you are buying your first surfboard, there is no shame in purchasing a used one. In fact, it is shrewd move as you will be able to practice on it for 6-12 months than resell it and buy a newer one. 

How Often Will You Be Surfing?

Surfing is a dedicated sport that looks effortless, but requires a lot of work. The practice is well worth it, but you don't want to buy a board the pros use when you are just starting out and if you don't plan on surfing at least three time a week. To avoid spending hundreds of dollars on a board that you are not ready for, take into consideration how much time you are willing to practice and then make your purchase.

For more assistance on finding the right surfboard for you, please contact us today.

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The Basics of Surfboard Fins

Surfboard fins play a pivotal role in overall performance. Surfboards.com has a number of fins to choose from, but the vast array may be overwhelming to newcomers. Below are some basic points to remember when shopping with us for surfboard fins.

Flexibility

The flexibility or stiffness of a fin determines the way a surfboard handles in the water. Stiff fins are good for beginners because they are more forgiving and provide greater stability. However, this lack of flexibility makes it more difficult to make sharp turns. Stiff fins tend to revert quickly to their natural position, which may make turns faster. Flexible fins add a level of feel to the surfboard that more advanced surfers prefer.

Length

The length is measured at the widest point of the fin at its base. The base length impacts the way a board turns and drives. A longer base provides more surface area that pushes against the water. This makes turns stronger and increases drive, but the larger base does not permit the board to turn sharply.

Depth

The depth of a fin is the length that sticks into the water. It is usually measured from the bottom of the surfboard to the tallest point of the fin. Depth impacts the way a board grips the water through turns and may help determine the stability of the surfboard. The taller the fin, the more hold it has in the water, which typically provides the rider with more control.

Cant

The cant of a fin is the angle it makes in relation to the bottom of a surfboard. A fin that sticks straight up, perpendicular to the board’s base is said to have no cant. Increasing the fins’ cant produces a more responsive surfboard through turns. Decreasing the cant makes the board faster especially when moving in a straight line.

Rake

The amount a fin curves back in relation to its base is called the rake. Fins with a small rake are stable and propel the board faster, but there may be some sacrifice in turnability. Fins with a large rake allow for a tighter turning radius, however, the board may be less stable.

Foil

The thickest part of the fin is in the middle while the thinnest part is at the outer edges. This shape is known as the fin’s foil. It impacts the way that water flows under the board. Foil helps create lift under a surfboard and propels it in different wave conditions. Generally, the more pronounced the foil, the more lift it provides. However, this also causes drag on the board, which slows the speed of the board.

These are just a few points to keep in mind when shopping for surfboard fins. Contact us to find out which fins might be best for your needs. We sell all kinds of surfboards, accessories and apparel that may be of interest to you.

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Surfboard Bags Protect Your Board

You've put in all the effort to learn to surf, you can catch and ride a wave, and you've put those awkward first few months of surfing behind you. You've even managed to learn exactly what you want in a surfboard, researching all your choices, from fins and wax to leashes and length. Now that you have a surfboard that suits your skill level and personal style, it is time to protect your investment.

Surfboard Bags protect your surfboard while you're away from the ocean and help you keep all your accessories and other equipment in one place so you're not spending valuable surf time trying to gather up your stuff.

Day bags are available to simply protect your board on short trips to and from the ocean.  If you plan on traveling further with your surfboard, or checking it on an airplane, you will want to consider sturdier travel bags. Some travel surf bags are  designed to hold more than one surfboard.

Once you know what kind of surfboard bag you're looking for, you will decide the size and shape of the bag to purchase based on your surfboard.  Check the dimensions of your surfboard to be sure that the bag you buy will hold your surfboard.  If you're buying a travel bag, be sure to check the baggage policy of any airlines you might be flying with, because they will each have their own restrictions on maximum dimensions.

When you're ready to begin shopping, please contact us. We have an incredible selection of surfboard bags at great prices on our convenient website.

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