Buying the right Bodyboard for the right conditions is absolutely vital. Not only to how your performance is affected but also to how much enjoyment you will get out of riding waves with it. When it comes to buying a bodyboard you the choices and all the jargon can be over whelming! Stringers, this core, that core, size, channels, rails and lots of other things in between.
On our most recent Bodyboard-Holidays trip to California we were lucky enough to catch up with legend Bodyboarder and owner of the worlds largest Bodyboard store ‘Ebodyboarding’ we asked Jay what in his 20 years of experience of selling boards were the 5 most common mistakes people make when purchasing a board.
1. Buying a board from the wrong shop.
Where possible always make sure that you buy your bodyboard from a bodyboard specific shop as the person working there will have superior knowledge of the sport and the requirements unique to your specifications.
2. Not considering other brands
Its easy to get caught up in different brands of bodyboard and not be open minded to the possibility of different makes. There are lots of different brands out there so don’t be afraid to try different ones.
3. Buying the wrong size
The size of the board you buy is very important. You may have a different body shape now than when you first bought a board. There are a few ways to ensure that you are riding the correct size board. Always seek advice from the the assistant in the bodyboard shop.
4. Buying the wrong core
As with the size of your bodyboard the core of the board is also very important. If you ride in predominantly cold water you may want to choose a softer core allowing for more flex. If your board is too stiff in cold water you may have issues with edge control. Likewise, If you use a soft board in warm water the likelihood is that your board will be too flexible and decrease speed, control and ultimately, performance. Always speak to the assistant in a bodyboard shop and discuss where you intend to ride the board.
5. Listening to bad advice
Don’t just listen to your friends about what is the best board to get. Every rider is different and what works for them may not work for you. The best thing to do is speak to someone in a bodyboard shop and take advice from them.
Having the wrong board can really detract from your riding experience but if you go into the bodyboard shop with an open mind and take the advice from the professional, purchasing and using the correct board will make you feel great in the water and give you the best chance at making improvements.
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