10 Best Beach Boards To Buy In 2024
What are Beach Boards?
Well, in simple terms, a beach board is a type of surfboard that’s shorter and designed with a snub-shaped nose. Beach boards are designed for bodyboarding.
The beach boards we have today were created in 1971, by Tom Morey, although their history dates way before that. Most beach boards are fitted with crescent tails, rails, and a snub nose.
Since these boards need to be lightweight and buoyant, you can typically find them being constructed from resilient plastic or foam. Some high-quality beach boards are designed with an extra layer of resin for protection, but you might be more familiar with the more common design of a thin layer of plastic.
There are some bodyboarders that get their boards specially made by getting artisans to personally carve out a bodyboard for them from wood.
Beach Boards, Bodyboards, Boogie Boards, What’s The Difference?
Okay, you might have heard people refer to a beach board as a bodyboard, and sometimes a boogie board. Don’t get too worked up over it! In fact, you’ll note that we’ll vary the terminology in our publications from time to time.
It’s all right! They all fundamentally mean the same thing. Although bodyboard is the general name, it was actually called a boogie board when Morey invented it.
As time passed, however, boogie board became less popular and more terms like beach board and bodyboard became more well-known.
Now, the awaited moment has arrived, and its time to introduce the stars of the day. You should have an idea of the features and specifications you would require from your beach board, so keep them in mind while you look through this list.
1. Bo-Toys Bodyboard
If you’re looking to gift a beach board to your child, or even a niece or nephew, then you should consider the Bo-Toys beach board. This board is perfect if you want to introduce bodyboarding to a kid.
The Bo-Toy produces bodyboards in sizes 33” and 41”, meaning that kids of all sizes will be able to find one for themselves, even teenagers aren’t excluded. The 33” board is meant for kids below 12 years and the 41” board is designed for kids 12 and up.
Although the board is designed for kids, the board is sturdy enough to support the weight of an adult. So yes, even adults can still take it out for a spin on the water.
The lightweight board is constructed with an EPS core and heat lamination technique to provide impact strength, durability, and lightweight mobility. The Bo-Toys also come will several accessories, like a hauling cable and a wrist harness, keeping the board secure and impossible for your child to lose.
Because of the sturdy design, the board may be loaded into the trunk of the car without fear of cracking in half. Depending on your preferences, the sleek design is available in a variety of colors.
Another great thing about this board is that the Bo-Toys team is ever ready to answer and fix any issues you may experience when using their product. They provide total assurance.
Key Points:
- Bodyboard sizes 33” and 41” available
- Perfect for your junior bodyboarder
- Crescent tail design
- Lightweight, great quality, and very durable
- Different colors available
- Impact Resistant
- Accessories included
2. Goplus Super Bodyboard
With this skull-themed boogie board, your kids will surely dominate the waves. This board, which comes in 37- and 41-inch lengths is ideal for the teenager in your life who wishes for a beach board for a baddie.
But if skulls are not their style, it comes with other prints and designs that your teen is sure to love. Due to its XPE covered deck, the Goplus bodyboard is extremely waterproof and has great impact resistance.
The HDPE slick bottom enhances rigidity while also increasing speed, projection, and optimal flexibility. And, thanks to the strong EPS core, it will not readily shatter or deform.
Because of its modest weight, you can easily transport it wherever you go. The bodyboard has a high load-bearing capability due to its buoyancy and durable construction.
It is not quickly deformed or faded and could be used for an extended period of time. This beach board also comes with a leash with a wristband included with every purchase.
The bracelet may be worn around the wrist or ankle to keep the surfboard from falling off. The scientifically engineered leash position gives a superior grip and increases safety when surfing. The wristband’s tension may be easily adjusted for optimal comfort.
Key Points:
- Bodyboard 37” and 41” sizes available
- Various designs available
- Budget friendly
- Great for teens
- Crescent tail and 60/40 rails
- Lightweight and very buoyant
- Free leash included
3. Morey Mach 7 42″ Bodyboard
This 42-inch HDPE (high-density polyethylene) bodyboard has a smooth bodyboard bottom and a power rod running through the center of the board. These characteristics are what distinguish good boards from the beginning boards discussed before.
This board works well for riders of medium height and weight (160-180 pounds and 5’9″-6′ feet tall). You may find a lot of professional bodyboarders using this board on the water, which is a testament to how good this beach board is.
The Morey Mach 7 is meant to be used in warmer waters, so if you want the best bodyboarding experience, stick to the warmer regions.
Colors vary on Amazon, so if you want this high-quality board to be available in a range of lovely colors. Higher-quality boards typically do not come with a leash, so you will need to purchase one separately.
If you’re purchasing for someone who knows their way around the beach and boards, this board will not disappoint — take our word for it! However, due to its speed, beginner bodyboarders may find this board harder to handle.
Other bodyboarders have said that the Morey Mach 7 is beefy (4.2 lbs.) and feels strong and durable. They have also mentioned superior quality and brand recognition.
Key Points:
- 42” board, but sizes 41” and 43” are available too
- Different colors available
- Perfect for kids and adults
- Great quality and very durable
- 100% hydrophobic
- Crescent tail design
- Power rod provides support when riding big waves
- Not for beginners
- No accessories
4. Own the Wave ‘Beach Attack Pack’ Wave Weapon
The Wave Weapon bodyboard is great for casual use. It’s available in 33”, 37”, and 41” sizes, so no matter your weight or height, there’s a board that’s perfect for you. Even kids can use this board easily. It’s also very lightweight, so you can take it with you anywhere you go.
It’s constructed with an EPS core, making it extra buoyant, and its bottom rear channels and crescent tail design makes it a high-performing board. It’s known for its excellent maneuverability, speed, and stability, making it perfect for beginners and experienced bodyboarders.
No matter what wave ride, this board will give you maximum support! Another great thing is the accessories that come with this board. This board comes with a coiled leash with prevents you from losing the board, and fin tethers, to stop you from losing your fins.
Sine the Own the Wave beach board is another product of the BPS company, you should expect that 12 months guarantee with your purchase. And, if you face any issues while using their boards, they have an after-sales service team that’s ready to sort that problem out.
The only thing you might have to watch out for is the foam top. A lot of bodyboarders have lodged complaints regarding minor issues and concerns about the foam top, but other than that, this is a good quality board at a great price.
Key Points:
- Bodyboard sizes 33”, 37”, and 41” available
- Perfect for kids and adults
- Crescent tail and bottom rear channels design
- Improved durability and buoyancy
- Blue, Green, and Magenta colors available
- Easy to maneuver and control
- Coiled leash and fin tethers included
- 12 BPS Guarantee
5. BPS Storm Bodyboard
Here’s another BPS beach board making its way to our list. This is a great beach board to get if you’re on a budget. It comes in three different sizes, 33”, 37”, and, 41” meaning both parents and kids can have one each.
Storm bodyboards have an extremely lightweight frame that allows for rapid and easy maneuvering. It has a high-speed slippery bottom that allows you to glide between waves and gain speed.
It’s engineered to endure for optimal comfort, featuring an EPS core for lightweight buoyancy, buoyancy, and durability. Crescent tail shaped board to adjust to your body form and boost the flow of the board.
The BPS Storm bodyboard also comes with various color schemes and designs that are absolutely stunning. So, whatever your aesthetic may be, there’s a storm bodyboard out there for you. And because there are so many, every family member can choose their own.
It also includes fin tethers, which are designed to keep your swim fins from falling off when riding waves. The board also comes with some freebies like a coil leash, which prevents you from losing your board when surfing the waves.
Key Points:
- 33”, 37” and 41” bodyboard sizes available
- Up to 12 different color designs available
- Crescent tail and bottom rear channel design
- Several accessories included
- 12 months guarantee
- Lightweight design
- Layers may deteriorate over time
- Harder to control in rough waters
6. Kinsuite Lightweight Bodyboard
This is another budget beach board, which is currently priced below $35 dollars. What a deal! And even though it’s easy on the wallet, it is made with quality materials and it’s a high-performing bodyboard.
The Kinsuite lightweight bodyboard is made of a robust, high density super EPS core and closed-cell foam formed of super strong polymeric chains, meaning it can be used in both warm and cold water. This board guarantees you a great bodyboarding experience whether you’re a beginner or a pro.
A lightweight bodyboard with 60/40 rails and a water-resistant core that is perfect for any waves. During the hot summer months, you may use our bodyboard to have a fantastic and exciting surfing experience at the sea, beach, river, or water park.
The XPE deck provides comfort and improves impact resistance, so you’ll know that this board will be with you for a long time. It also comes with a free leash and wristband!
Although there’s only one design available, it’s a great choice if you want to introduce the sport to your kids and you don’t want to have to break the bank for it.
Key Points:
- Bodyboard sizes 37” and 47” available
- High-performance design
- Made with high quality materials
- Very durable
- Great for, kids, teens, and adults
- Budget friendly
- 60/40 rails
- Free leash included
- Only one color available
7. Thurso Surf Lightning 42”
Thurso Surf 42 is built with stability and glide in mind for effortless riding and maximum pleasure. This bodyboard has a solid PE core and two FRP stringers, making it exceptionally light and buoyant.
Furthermore, the Thurso Surf has a 4mm high-density durable IXPE deck, which keeps the board well cushioned and protected, reducing the chance of delamination.
The bottom is a crucial feature that distinguishes this board from the others. The bottom is comprised of high-density polyethylene, a tough and responsive bottom skin that adds hardness and increases board speed.
Unfortunately, the Thurso Surf bodyboard only comes in one size, 42”, with a limited weight capacity of 145 – 180 lbs and height capacity of 5’9” – 6” only. If you fall within this range, great! This beach board might just be the one for you. If not, you might want to consider other options. Remember, sizing is important!
The Thurso Surf comes in 4 stunning colors that will make you the point of envy. Trust us when we say that, this board will not disappoint you. Thurso Surf is made of high-quality materials that will last for years.
Key Points:
- High-performance design
- Four different colors available
- Free bodyboard leash and bodyboard carrying bag included
- Heated lamination coating
- Perfect for kids and adults
- Beginner friendly
- Weak leash material
- Not great for advanced tricks
8. Decathlon Radbug 100
If you are a beginner and you’re looking for a beach board that is easy to use and handle, then look no further and consider getting a Decathlon Radbug 100 bodyboard. It comes in three sizes, 36”, 39”, and 42” making it perfect for bodyboarders of all shapes and sizes.
This board is also easy to maneuver while on water, making it a great choice for bodyboarders of all experience levels.
Its made of high-quality EPS foam and polyethylene and constructed with a laminated bottom. This gives the bodyboard a better glide and the extra protection it needs to be durable. It also comes designed with a pre-formed deck for the correct positioning of your hands and elbows.
A fresh bodyboard leash is also provided with this board so won’t your board to the ocean when you wipe out. The Decathlon Radbug 100 bodyboard comes with a 2-year warranty protecting you and your bodyboard from any damages that might occur during use.
This beach board is designed for smaller waves, i.e., waves smaller than 40”, so if you’re a pro that enjoys tackling bigger and higher waves, then this board might not be the one for you. But, all in all, the Decathlon Radbug 100 is a great learning board.
Key Points:
- Made from high-quality materials
- Available in 3 different sizes
- Provides great comfort and control
- Beginner friendly
- Bodyboard leash included
- Budget friendly
- Multiple colors available
- Not appropriate for waves larger than 40”
9. Empire Makai Bodyboard
The Empire Makai Bodyboard is another board that was designed with beginner bodyboarders in mind. This board is an excellent choice for younger and newer riders looking for an easy to control board that will take their riding game to the next level.
This is a great board to consider getting if you’re also on a budget. It has a strong EPS core that is both lightweight and durable. Another thing we love about this board is that it can be used on both warm and cold water.
With this board, you don’t have to limit you’re riding location to cold or warm areas only. The XPE deck is extremely water-proof and designed with pre-formed contours to make sure you’re putting your hands and elbows in the right place.
The WaveSlick HD slick bottom provides all the support, speed, and stiffness that you’ll need when you are bodyboarding. You won’t have to order a leash too since a bodyboard leash is included in every purchase.
The Empire Makai Bodyboard comes in up to 6 different sizes, 33”, 36”, 39”, 41” 42.5”, and a massive 45”! No matter your size, there’s a Makai board for everyone. It also has various color schemes that you can choose from.
Overall, it’s a great entry level beach board that can cater to the demands of each and every bodyboarder out there.
Key Points:
- Various color combos available
- Comes in 6 different board sizes
- Beginner friendly
- Wrist leash included
- Durable
- High-quality construction
- Budget friendly
- Can be used in warm and cold water
10. BZ The Big Bruddah Body and Boogie board
Where are the bigger guys at, cause this one is for you! If you’re a larger guy who enjoys getting out in the waves and bodyboarding, this is the bodyboard for you. It’s a bad-assed board.
Most boards nowadays are designed for smaller or average-sized riders, but this bodyboard is ideal for huge people. It measures 45 inches long and is guaranteed to keep you floating.
It’s designed with the BZ VFS (Variable Flex System) stringer, which is exclusive to BZ boards alone. This creates an upward flexing nose on the beach board while the other parts remain flat and stiff. This system makes it easier for bodyboarders to drop in on large waves.
Its polypropylene core is unmatched in its stability, cell memory, durability, and water resistance. The PP core used in the BZ Big Bruddah board is a special blend called the Zero-G PP which, you guessed it, is also exclusive to the BZ brand.
This core is specially designed to be buoyant in matter the size of its rider. The BZ Big Bruddah boogie board also comes with a surlyn slick bottom. What this does is it makes it easier for the board to glide through the waves like a knife through butter.
It also further protects the boogie board from impact or damage ensuring that the board will be around for many years to come.
Key Points:
- Bodyboard colors ship randomly
- Nose grips and bat tail designs
- Very fast
- Extremely buoyant
- Designed for bigger riders (over 180 lbs)
- Great for water trick
- BZ patent core and VFS stringer
- No accessories
What is Bodyboarding?
Now that we’ve talked about bodyboards, let’s talk about the activity that it is built for. Bodyboarding is another form of water sport, similar to surfing, but here bodyboarders don’t stand on the board while riding the waves.
Instead, bodyboarders ride waves while lying on the surface of their boards. This is known as the prone position. Bodyboarding is an activity that people have been partaking in for centuries, but it has recently become very popular.
If you haven’t tried it out yet, then you should definitely think about it. Bodyboarding is also an activity that does discriminate, and it’s also very easy to learn.
Different Riding Styles
There are three main riding styles that bodyboarders use; prone, dropknee, and stand-up.
When riding in a prone position, bodyboarders ride flat against the board, riding the waves out on their stomachs.
When you visit the beach, you’ll see a lot of bodyboarders riding prone, because it’s the traditional way of bodyboarding making it very common. To ride dropknee, a fin is placed forward on the board, with the opposite knee on the bottom end of the board, and their fin dragging in the water.
Stand-up riding is as the name describes, standing upon the board as if you were surfing.
There are a lot of tricks you can perform on a bodyboard, like the 360 and the Air Roll Spin (ARS).
Pros of Bodyboarding
There are a lot of major benefits to bodyboarding and here are a few;
- It’s a great form of exercise since it engages all parts of the body.
- Bodyboarding is a great way to boost coordination skills due to the focus and balance needed to stay on the board.
- It develops leg muscles and muscular arm strength from paddling and propelling the bodyboard through open waters.
- Bodyboarding also helps improve the cardiovascular system by increasing the efficiency with which the heart and lungs circulate oxygen throughout the bloodstream to the body’s muscles.
- The sea air and ocean waves provide the perfect environment to refresh the mind.
Five Common Mistakes Made When Buying a Beach Board
Buying a beach board can be a bit difficult. Because there is no ‘one-size fits all’ beach board, you need to make sure that the beach board you buy fits you, and with so many different choices out there, this can prove to be a daunting task.
If you’ve ever made the wrong decision and regretted your purchase before, don’t worry, you’re one of many and we’re right there with you. But if this is your first buy, then here is a list of some mistakes that you should watch out for.
1# The first mistake you should avoid is buying your beach board from the wrong shop. A lot of people make the mistake of going to surf shops, thinking ‘well’ it’s kind of the same thing, right?’.
Unfortunately for them, no it’s not. A surf shop will have equipment and accessories meant for surfing. This equipment will probably not be able to meet your bodyboarding needs and requirements.
However, a good beach board shop will not only have the proper equipment needed but you will also be attended to by people who are not only expert sellers but are also experienced bodyboarders themselves. They’ll be equipped with the right knowledge and experience that will better serve you when purchasing your own beach board.
2# The second mistake that I want to highlight is not considering other brands when you’re shopping for a bodyboard.
Don’t limit your horizons by focusing on one specific brand because it’s a popular brand or because it’s a ‘cool’ one! Brand loyalty is great for ensuring quality in other cases, but for beach boards? Eh, not so much.
You don’t really have to worry about board quality reducing and varying across the different brands because almost 80% of all bodyboard brands produce their boards from the same factories.
And since these factories use the same quality cores and materials when manufacturing beach boards, the quality standard is kept the same across the market. So, don’t be afraid to open your mind and try other brands.
3# The third mistake that may have and are probably still falling victim to would be buying a bodyboard that’s either too big or too small for them. No one likes getting new shoes and finding out that they’re oversized or a little too tight.
In the same way shoes have to be just the right size for their owner, your beach board has to be just the right size for you. For the big guys, consider getting a larger board that’s wider and thicker that will be able to accommodate your body size and make it easier to float.
Also, don’t be afraid to change your current bodyboard if you feel like it has become too small or it just doesn’t feel right anymore. The size of the beach board you’ll want to buy is also influenced by how you ride.
For example, a lot of dropknee bodyboarders request for longer boards as these adequately accommodate and work well with their riding style.
4# Buying the wrong core would be the fourth mistake that you should watch out for. Depending on where you plan on bodyboarding, getting the right core for the water temperature in the region is important.
If not, you may end up with a beach board that’s too stiff or too flexible to turn on the water while bodyboarding. Trust me, you do not want that, it ruins the whole experience.
If you plan on bodyboarding in regions with colder waters, then consider getting a bodyboard made out of a harder and stiffer core, while for more tropical regions with warmer waters, then a more flexible core would be best.
5# And last but not least, avoid listening to bad advice! What may work for your buddy, might not be the best option for you.
Remember, there is no ‘one-size fits all’ beach board, so the advice that they may give you based on their own bodyboarding experience may not b applicable to you due to a possible difference in your circumstances.
Now, we’re not saying you should dismiss any advice that comes your way, but don’t just follow them blindly too. And if you’re confused about something, don’t be afraid to ask for professional help if you need it.
How To Get The Best Board For You
There are so many different types and sizes of beach boards, and even though we’ve highlighted the 10 best beach boards you could get, buying the beach board that best fits you can be a bit difficult.
So, what exactly do you look for when buying a bodyboard? Here’s a guide that can help you prepare your mind and give you an idea of what bodyboard you might want to buy.
Core Material
The type of core that a bodyboard has will greatly influence its ability to do dips, turns, and perform on water. There are currently 5 different core material found modern bodyboards.
They are polypropylene, extruded foam, extruded polyethylene, arcel and beaded cores. Polypropylene (aka PP and Polypro) is stiff, fast, and great for areas with warmer waters. On the downside, they’re harder to perform late turns on and also do scoops.
Extruded polyethylene (aka Dow core or PE) is more appropriate for colder water regions and because it offers more flexibility, this makes it easier to turn on, however, it’s not as fast as polypropylene. This material is commonly found in bodyboards meant for beginners.
Beaded cores, although pricey and less buoyant, are more water resistant, making them a more durable material. Extruded foam is cheaper, but it tends to absorb more water, which will reduce the life span of the board. Arcel, which is a combination of both polypropylene and polyethylene, is durable and stiff too.
Sizing
As mentioned before, when purchasing a bodyboard an important factor to consider is the size of the bodyboard. There are thick ones, long ones, short ones, wide ones, and so many other sizes available.
With so many available choices picking the right none for you can seem overwhelming, but don’t worry, it’s actually much simpler than you think. To find that perfect bodyboard, for the most part of the job, all you have to do is take into consideration your height and weight.
If you have a longer and heavier body then consider a larger bodyboard. Below is a bodyboard sizing chart that you can use to check and choose what size of board would be good for you.
Boogie Board Size Chart
Besides weight and height, there are some other factors that affect sizing. For example, it is recommended that beginner bodyboarders purchase a slightly longer board as they will be more buoyant and easier to paddle.
They will also support you better when you’re climbing waves. Also, as I said before, how you ride will affect the size of your bodyboard.
So, depending on whether you’re a prone, dropknee, or stand-up rider, and whether you like a challenge and take on big waves or you tend to play it safe with the smaller waves, all these factors play a key role when deciding what size of beach board to purchase.
Shape of the Nose
If you tend to ride prone or flat on your board, then a beach board with a wider nose would be much better for your riding style since it provides a larger surface area and more room to hold onto.
For dropknee bodyboarders who don’t really need the extra space, boards with smaller noses would feel much better. A nose bulb also provides a greater grip, so also look out for those when you’re purchasing your bodyboard.
Beach Board Tail
Tails are the last point of exit for water exiting the board’s bottom, and various forms have distinct impacts. The crescent and bat shapes inspired the major modern beach board tails. If you like taking on big waves, look for a beach board designed with a bat tail.
A bat tail offers more drive, they’re faster, and they also reduce drag making them perfect for riding big waves. They’re also easier to perform tricks with too. Crescent tails are more popular as they are more versatile.
This means that whether you’re a prone or dropknee bodyboarder, a crescent tail board will still work well for you. There are lots of other tail options to consider so don’t be afraid to try different ones out.
Brands
If you’ve been bodyboard hunting before, then you must be familiar with the large number of beach board brands that exist. There are several bodyboard brands available nowadays. However, here is a handful that stands out.
- Morey: A well-known figure in the bodyboarding community. They make amazing bodyboards for beginners and also have a good assortment of boards for more seasoned riders.
- Catch Surf: Catch Surf has been quite innovative in the soft-top surfboard and beach board markets.
- BZ: Bobby Szabad, a former Morey employee, founded it. BZ was founded when he struck out on his own to build a high-performance bodyboard company. BZ is now recognized for a number of innovative bodyboard types, most notably the Fundamental.
- Custom X: Debbie Colwell was another early Morey employee, beginning in 1976. She later founded Custom X in 1987. Custom X has become a household brand in pro bodyboarding, producing some of the highest-quality boards on the market today.
- Empire: Empire has one of the most extensive bodyboard lines, including boards for everyone from the beginner to the experienced bodyboarder.
- Science: Science Bodyboards must be mentioned while discussing pro bodyboard brands. Science boards, invented by world champion bodyboarder Mike Stewart, are highly regarded by both pro and novice riders.
Beach Board Maintenance
Looking after your beach board is actually very easy and hassle-free. It requires no long processes or complicated stages, but remember to rinse it with cool fresh water after use, store it in a cool environment, and keep it from overheating.
Bodyboards are very durable and good with the occasional wear and tear, so if you look after ours properly, they will be with you for a long time. Some brands provide a care booklet with every purchase, so look through it to get more info.
Beach Board Accessories
There are a lot of accessories you’ll need when bodyboarding. A leash is essential, in fact, a lot of brands include a leash with every purchase. When a leash is attached to a bodyboard then you won’t lose it while out on the water.
Leashes can be attached at either the wrist or the bicep, but most riders prefer having it tied to the bicep so it doesn’t affect their paddling. A coiled leash is preferred over a straight one because they’re less likely to get tangled when bodyboarding.
We can’t forget fins and fin savers. After getting more experience on the water, you come to realize the need for fins. Not only do they give you more power and control but they also protect your feet.
However, because the feet hang over the beach board, riders often lose them to the waves. Fin savers prevent this by attaching to the ankle so you won’t lose them.
Not every beach board comes with leashes and fin savers but most of them do, and even if they don’t you can always purchase them in shops or order them online. If you do have to buy a leash separately, then don’t forget to buy a leash plug, so you have something to tie the leash to.
Other accessories you might need are swim socks to stop blisters from the fins and a wetsuit to keep warm in colder waters. You can consider getting a bodyboard carrier bag, just to make moving around with the board easier.
Phew, we have talked about a lot in this article! We mentioned somethings to look out for and mistakes that you should avoid making when buying a beach board. Just remember, get a bodyboard to meets your standards and is perfect for you! Don’t be afraid to return it if it doesn’t feel right.
