Bodyboard size – Which size do I need?

Bodyboards come in all kinds of shapes and sizes and have come a long way since their invention by Tom More in the seventies. Back then, when they were still called “Boogie Boards”. Today, bodyboards have advanced and have become a popular type of surfboard, especially among people just starting out with the sport.

Generally speaking, a bodyboard is a surfboard design for riding waves while lying down on the stomach instead of standing. It is therefore important to not only know your own body size, but especially which bodyboard size is the right fit for you to make the most out of your surfing experience. And one thing must be said in advance: the size of your bodyboard depends not only on your height, but also on several other factors that you should definitely consider before buying your bodyboard. In this article, you will learn everything about those factors and which bodyboard size is right for you.

Bodyboard design – Which aspects are important?

Are you thinking about buying your first bodyboard and can’t wait to take it out to the water to crush some waves? Then look no further, we have all the answers for you needed to make the right choice. Let’s start out with one of the most essential factors: the design.

Bodyboards are typically all made out of foam, which is why they are sometimes also referred to as “sponge boards”. Although the material doesn’t vary, there are still some major differences when it comes to quality and finish. 

If you want to get a great experience on the water, you should avoid grabbing the cheapest bodyboard from your supermarket nearby – even though it may be tempting. For the best surfing experience, grab a bodyboard that has a slick bottom that allows for a smooth ride on the water. 

Shape is another factor important to consider when selecting a bodyboard, as it can significantly improve or worsen the control of the waves. Make sure to pick a bodyboard that has channels on the base. These channels allow water to flow efficiently, making your bodyboard as aerodynamic as possible. A simple round shape surely won’t do the same magic.

High-quality bodyboards also come with high quality material such as EPS (extruded polystyrene) High Density Pressurized Foam Core. These bodyboards are also equipped with a hard-wearing XPE or IXPE skin that further increase the durability and grip of the board. Cheap bodyboards not only wear off fast, but also have far less grip. 

Bodyboard size guide – Choosing the right size

Body height is not the only factor that plays a role when choosing the right bodyboard size. Next to your height, there are two other crucial variables that come into play: your weight and your experience on the water. 

Generally speaking, it is recommended that the bodyboard should reach up to your belly button when standing upright. That is a general rule of thumb. The length of your bodyboard, however, also depends on the types of waves you are planning to catch as well as your experience on the water.

For an experience bodyboard surfer, who is able to anticipate wave movements perfectly, a smaller bodyboard is the ideal fit as it increases performance – especially maneuverability and speed. If you are just starting out with bodyboarding, a slightly bigger bodyboard is the one you should go for, as it provides greater buoyancy. Hence, you will be able to jump into the water and catch your first waves with ease.

Bodyboard size chart

To help you find the right bodyboard size, we have created a bodyboard size chart. Remember, this chart acts as an indicator. If you are unsure on whether the bodyboard size recommended – typically measured in inches – is the one for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for direct support.

BODYBOARD SIZE CHART IN CENTIMETERS AND KILOGRAMS

BOARD LENGTH (in)	RIDER HEIGHT (cm)	RIDER WEIGHT (kg)
32″	110cm – 145cm	20kg – 35kg
33″	113cm – 148cm	22kg – 37kg
34″	115cm – 150cm	25kg – 40kg
36″	120cm – 151cm	28kg – 45kg
37″	123cm – 153cm	30kg – 50kg
38″	130cm – 155cm	33kg – 55kg
38.5″	135cm – 158cm	35kg – 58kg
39″	138cm – 160cm	38kg – 60kg
39.5″	140cm – 163cm	40kg – 65kg
40″	157cm – 170cm	42kg – 72kg
41″	160cm – 178cm	55kg – 85kg
42″	168cm – 183cm	70kg – 100kg
42.5″	170cm – 189cm	70kg – 115kg
43″	172cm – 192cm	75kg – 125kg
43.5″	175cm – 194cm	75kg – 130kg
44″	175cm – 195cm	80kg – 135kg
45″	185cm – 200cm	85kg – 140kg
46″	190cm – 215cm+	90kg – 145kg+

BODYBOARD SIZE CHART IN INCHES AND POUNDS

BOARD LENGTH (in)	RIDER HEIGHT (in)	RIDER WEIGHT (lbs)
32″	43 – 57″	44 – 77lbs
33″	44 – 58″	49 – 82lbs
34″	45 – 59″	55 – 88lbs
36″	47 – 59″	62 – 99lbs
37″	48 – 60″	66 – 110lbs
38″	51 – 61″	73 – 121lbs
38.5″	53 – 62″	77 – 127lbs
39″	54 – 64″	84 – 132lbs
39.5″	55 – 64″	88 – 132lbs
40″	62 – 67″	93 – 159lbs
41″	63 – 70″	121 – 187lbs
42″	66 – 72″	154 – 220lbs
42.5″	67 – 75″	154 – 254lbs
43″	68 – 76″	165 – 287lbs
43.5″	69 – 77″	187 – 298lbs
44″	71 – 77″	187 – 298lbs
45″	73 – 79″	198 – 309lbs
46″	75 – 85″+	198 – 320lbs+

Those aspects are important to choose the best bodyboard

Choosing the right bodyboard might be a daunting task when you are just starting out with the sport. There are various aspects one must consider besides color and design. We have identified the most important aspects to help you confidently pick your own bodyboard.

The types of bodyboards

In general, there are two types of bodyboards that can either increase or decrease your performance on the water, depending on your personal style. These types refer to the two types of tails that can be found in bodyboards: crescent tails and bat tails. 

Crescent tails are the most common type of tail. They have a curved shape and are a great pick for various types of water and wave conditions, offering a good balance between speed and control. Their user-friendly shape is what makes crescent tails so popular.

Bat tails are not as curved as crescent tails, but rather squared at the end, providing a bigger surface area for the surfer. As bat tails provide surfers with greater maneuverability than crescent tails, these types of bodyboards are usually used in waters with smaller, unpredictable waves. 

Material of the bodyboard

Although all bodyboards are made of foam, there are significant differences that you should be aware of. The three most common materials used today are:

1. Dow polyethylene foam (PE)
2. Polypropylene foam (PP)
3. Extruded polystyrene (EPS)

Each of these materials have their own advantages and disadvantages. Dow polyethylene foam (PE) for example is a great all-rounder material that is best used in cold waters. Warmer waters can slightly soften this foam type. 

Polypropylene foam (PP) on the other hand is slightly lighter and stiffer than dow polyethylene foam, but can become too stiff for some surfers, especially in colder waters. 

Extruded polystyrene (EPS) is typically found in beginner bodyboards, as this foam is cheaper than others and very light. Although these factors generally speak for EPS bodyboards, they lack foam memory and full recoil. 

Thickness and width

The thickness of a bodyboard can greatly influence your performance. In recent years, bodyboards have become slimmer and nowadays range somewhere between 45mm and 60mm. Slimmer bodyboards increase the maneuverability in the water.

The width of a bodyboard also affects the surfing experience. Wider bodyboards offer higher buoyancy, but are also more difficult to maneuver. Narrower bodyboards increase performance in the water, but also take time to get used to.

Stringers

As a rule of thumb regarding body weight, heavier surfers should go for boards with stiffer cores and at least on stringer. Stringers are found in modern bodyboards and act like a spine running down the center of the board. They add to the longevity of the bodyboard and provide near-instant recoil and greater projection. Depending on the water and wave condition, you can add or remove stringers to your bodyboard.

A few tips to buy the right surfboard

A few tips can make life a lot easier – you probably know that already. Therefore, we have collected some valuable tips surrounding bodyboards to make your life easier and especially one thing when it comes to bodyboarding: more fun.

Tip Nr. 1 – Don’t choose a bodyboard solely based on color and design: 

Carrying a super cool bodyboard under your arm might be fine if the bodyboard also fits you. But don’t fall into the trap and solely select a bodyboard based on appearance rather than function. You might look cool when walking with such a bodyboard, but you will definitely not look cool falling down from it over and over again.

Tip Nr. 2 – Don’t let your friend’s bodyboard influence your decision:

Buying the same products as your friends is only a natural thing to do. But be careful when it comes to bodyboards. There are several factors that affect the type of bodyboard that is best for you. So, instead of looking at your friend’s board, take a look at a bodyboard size chart first.

Tip Nr. 3 – Keep on learning:

Just like with any sport, learning how to bodyboard takes time and practice. So, stay hungry for the next wave and keep asking more experienced bodyboarders for tips and tricks that will help you develop your skills.

Conclusion: Bodyboard size chart – Finding the right board  

Bodyboards come in all kids of shapes and sizes, and it is important to know which combination is the right one for you. Instead of choosing a bodyboard solely based on color and design, take a look at the different factors that might influence your decision, such as the type of bodyboard, the material, width, and thickness of the board. Some bodyboards are beginner-friendly, and offer others are best fitted for experienced riders trying to catch more unpredictable waves. In order to make the best out of your bodyboarding experience and to have fun while doing so, make your decision a personal one and you will definitely enjoy the ride!

FAQ – Most asked questions about bodyboard size