What to Consider When Buying a Used Surfboard

Buying a new surfboard is sort of like buying a car -- they lose some of their value as soon as you 'drive off the lot'! Still, there's nothing like a new board, but sometimes, it's just not do-able. If you're thinking about going with a used board instead, how will you know if you're getting a good deal? Here are a few things to consider when picking out a used surfboard:

• Check the condition: Is it in 'like-new' condition, or well-used?
• Look at the dings: How many are there? Have they been fixed? Were they professionally repaired? If fixed, were they fixed before the board became water-damaged? If not fixed, has this been figured into the price of the board?
• Is this the right board for you? In general, long boards are for beginners and short boards are for intermediates or pros.
• Check the dimensions: Are they right for you and your level of experience? Will it still be a decent board as your skills improve?
• Usability: How good is the foam? Are the rails still firm or have they gone a little spongy?

If you're a more experienced surfer, you might want to consider things like the nose and tail rocker, deck shape (domed or flat), nose thickness/width, tail type and width, board construction (e.g., foam, poly, carbon, wood), etc. These details aren't as important for beginners, who can generally stick to the guidelines highlighted above.

When you decide the time is right to shop for a new or used surfboard, be sure to check out our selection at Surfboards.com. Once you narrow it down to a few choices, contact us -- we'll give you some expert guidance and answer any questions you have!

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Surfboard Leashes are an Inexpensive Safety Measure

“Catch a wave and you’re sittin’ on top of the world,” was written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love in 1963.

“Lose your board, not so much,” was written by me, today.

There are a lot of pros for using a board leash, and, well, not too many cons - perhaps that you may not look as cool.

In a 2014 article, Surfer Today lists the following reasons a leash should become mandatory:

• Surf leashes may save your life.
• A leg rope will prevent your surfboard from hitting and injuring other surfers.
• A surf cord will make you surf more.
• Leg ropes allow you to leave the surfboard for emergency duck dives.

We have a few more:

• Avoiding long swims after losing your board.
• Protects your board from hitting the rocks and other dangerous obstacles.
• Leashes are affordable.

Using a leash does not give you permission to ditch your board just anytime you want, especially when other surfers are close by. This could still be dangerous.

One nice thing about surfboard leashes is that they are not very expensive – you can always shop for more and have one on each of your boards.

Decide whether you want a leash to attach to your ankle or calf. The ankle is a bit more popular as it is less likely to be in the way when paddling. Obviously, you will want it to be comfortable, so check the padding. Consider a swivel or two, this lessens the chance of the leash getting caught up on your feet. Longboarders generally like a calf leash, as it is easier to walk the board with the leash up higher on the leg.

A thicker leash can add drag. You will want a leash that is only maybe a foot longer than you board; any longer and it, too, can add drag, and could get caught on something in the water. With use a leash will stretch. This is compounded by hard surf, so consider a replacement when one has been used a lot and stretches out.

Other than that, it comes down to personnel choice. Maybe you want your leash to match your board, or maybe you want it to contrast, so it's easy to see. At Surfboards.com, we carry DaKine, FCS and the BIC coil leash. We have everyday low pricing and guarantee we will beat any price by at least 10%.

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Get Hurley Clothes for Back to School

Don't worry, we won't make you start thinking about school just yet. We just wanted to let you know that when you start your back-to-school shopping, Surfboards.com has all of the best Hurley fashion at the lowest prices. Our low price guarantee and our free shipping on all orders make us the place you want to go for back-to-school shopping.

Need a new backpack? We've got you covered. Hurley has a number of different styles available depending on your needs. The Hurley Mater Backpack is like the grown-up version of the backpack you had as a kid. Hurley also makes some great backpacks for women, like the One and Only Women's Backpack. This backpack has a sleeker look and more fun colors and patterns.

For other back-to-school accessories, we have a large selection of Hurley hats. From fitted to trucker hats, you can't go wrong with a hat with that beloved Hurley logo on the front. For a versatile and cute women's hat, check out this dandelion patterned hat. And for a classic men's Hurley hat, see this one in black with a fountain blue. 

Of course, aside from accessories, we carry all the Hurley apparel you love, like walk shorts, t-shirts, button-downs, tanks, hoodies, and more. So when you start thinking about back-to-school shopping, check with us at Surfboards.com first. We have the lowest prices, the widest selection, and to top if off we have free shipping. It doesn't matter if you order one t-shirt or a $700 surfboard. For more information, contact us today.

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