Learning To Surf
Learning to surf is an exciting and rewarding journey. Especially for the learner surfer discovering the waves for the first time. While mastering the sport can take time and patience. This process itself is filled with joy, laughter, and a sense of adventure. Even as you’re learning to surf, each small breakthrough—standing up for a second longer, catching your first wave—brings a deep sense of achievement.
Beyond the physical challenge, surfing offers profound benefits for mental well-being: the ocean’s natural rhythm has a calming effect, helping to reduce stress, clear the mind, and boost mood. With every session, the learner surfer gains not just skill, but also a sense of peace and connection. It’s absolutely worthwhile—even the early wipeouts come with a smile.
Getting Started
Getting started as a learner surfer is all about taking it step by step. A great way to begin is by having lessons at your local surf spot. This is where experienced instructors can guide you through the fundamentals in a safe and fun environment. Starting out on a foam surfboard is ideal—it’s stable, safe, and perfect for learning the basics like paddling, popping up, and riding straight in on whitewater. Don’t rush the process; take your time building confidence and technique before thinking about buying your first hard surfboard. The more solid your foundation, the more rewarding your surf journey will be.
Choosing the right surfboard
Once you’ve gained confidence riding a foam board and you’re ready to take the next step, choosing the right surfboard is key to continuing your progress. Boards like the Minimal or Weemal are ideal for the learner surfer—they offer great stability and paddle power while allowing you to start turning and improving your technique.
It’s important to buy your first proper board from a trusted local surf shop, where you can get expert advice on the right size and shape to suit your ability, height, and weight. Getting the right board will make all the difference in keeping your surfing fun and frustration-free.
Here’s a general guide to surfboard sizes for learner surfers transitioning from a foam board to something more performance-oriented like a Minimal or Weemal. These recommendations can vary slightly depending on your fitness, balance, and how often you plan to surf, but they’re a solid starting point:
Recommended Surfboard Sizes for Learner Surfers:
Adults (Beginner Level)
- Under 60 kg (132 lbs):
Look for a 7’0” to 7’6” Minimal/Weemal - 60–80 kg (132–176 lbs):
A 7’6” to 8’0” is ideal - 80–95 kg (176–210 lbs):
Consider an 8’0” to 8’6” - 95+ kg (210+ lbs):
Go for an 8’6” to 9’0”, possibly even a soft-top longboard if balance is still an issue
Teens & Kids
- Teens (40–60 kg):
6’6” to 7’2” Minimal - Younger kids (under 40 kg):
6’0” to 6’6” soft-top or hybrid board
Key Tips:
- Look for boards with plenty of volume (at least 50–70+ liters for adults).
- Don’t go too short too soon—volume and length help you catch more waves and develop technique.
- Ask your local surf shop for guidance based on your surf spot conditions—they’ll know what works best locally.
- You can also have a Custom learner surfboard built by ND Surfboards
Learning Surfing is a life long lesson
Surfing is a lifelong journey, and while it can take years to truly master, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever take on. The more time and energy you put into it, the more enjoyment, progress, and connection to the ocean you’ll gain in return. It’s not about how quickly you improve—it’s about the joy of learning, wave by wave.
At Surf Pun Surf Shop, we’ve helped countless learner surfers get started and supported them all the way through to becoming confident, advanced riders. From your first foamy to your dream performance board, we’re here to make sure you’re always riding the right board for your stage of the journey.
Although as a surf shop we don’t sell foam surfboards we can take your foamy in as a part exchange when you want to upgrade to a hard board, just give us a ring if you want to discuss some options. 07789764475
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