10 Best Surfboards For Kids To Buy In 2024

Surfing provides many health benefits that can be gained from surfing. It can help you improve both physically and mentally. It is important that you encourage your kids to do it. It helps them to develop their cardiovascular health, improve flexibility, and muscle tone, and also relieve stress.

For your kids to learn surfing and better enjoy the sport, it is best they make use of the best surfboards. The best surfboards for kids ensure your kids are safe while on the water. Finding a safe and reliable surfboard for your kids is similar to finding a great surfboard for beginners.

You should be able to pick a product that would avoid possible injuries and accidents. To avoid you doing several hours of browsing and research, we have decided to bring to you the 15 best surfboards for your kids.

1. South Bay Board Co “Guppy” Soft Top

Specification:

• Length: 72 inches
• Width: 21 inches
• Volume: 60L
• Weight: 15 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 125 pounds

The South Bay Board Co Soft Top is a 6-foot-long surfboard that is great for small kids and pre-teens. It aids your kids’ performance and balance in the water. South Bay Board Soft Top is constructed with expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam.

The closed-cell EPS foam core prevents water absorption, unlike most beginner boards. It is a budget-friendly surfboard and you don’t have to worry about spending much.  The surfboard is a lightweight board and portable which makes it very easy for your kids to carry it around.

It has 2 full-length wooden lightweight stringers that keep the boards strong and ready for beginners to go for trial and error. The board includes a 6-foot long leash, EZ carry handle, and 3 safe, rounded-edge soft-top surfboard fins and fin screws.

2. California Board Company Surfboard 7′

Specification:

• Length: 84 inches
• Width: 22 inches
• Volume: 60L
• Weight: 10 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 210 pounds

This incredible surfboard makes a perfect first board for kids. The 7ft mini Mal has a well-designed shape that will continue to perform as the rider improves. The California board is constructed with a heat laminated density 100% waterproof EPS Core with 3 multi-layered (molded-in) laminated wood stringers that keep the board stiff and resist warping.

The CBC 7ft board is a foam top surfboard with an EPS foam core although it looks like a wood or plastic board. It has a plastic tail cap at the tail that protects the board from dings.

A Surf Leash with a strong polyurethane cord and an ankle strap is included with the board. The leash protects your kids from getting separated from the board while out in the water.

California Board 7ft has a high-density polyethylene slick bottom and comes with a classic Wood Grain graphic that makes it look like a pro surfboard.

3. Liquid Shredder EZ-Slider Surfboard

Specification:

• Length: 72 inches
• Width: 20 inches
• Volume: 42L
• Weight: 7 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 120 pounds

The Liquid Shredder is a 6-foot-long board reinforced with wooden stringers ideal for beginners. It is soft enough to prevent your kid from falling off. The Shredder is constructed with Expanded PolyStyrene (EPS) foam and dual wooden stringers which enhance its strength and rigidity.

It is also made of high-density polyethylene slick bottom for great speed and durability. It is heat-laminated with no glue.  The Liquid Shredder is suggested for beginner surfers up to 95 lbs. and can float experienced surfers up to 120 lbs.

The board has a removable Tri-Fin Thruster fin system. You will need to get a leash because it does not come with a leash.

4. Giantex 6’ Surfboard

Specification:

• Length: 72 inches
• Width: 20 inches
• Volume: 42L
• Weight: 10 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 200 pounds

The Giantex 6’ surfboard is ideal for anyone who has never ridden a wave before. It is made of a strong durable top foam material and slick high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The board has a hard slick bottom made from polypropylene (PP).

The tough deck of the board is made of expanded polyethylene (EPE) and expanded polystyrene (EPS). The Giantex 6’ is designed with standard thruster fins (1 fin at the center and 2 side bites). The removable fins allow for good speed, stability, and easy transportation.

The board deck is padded with a traction strip which improves your kid’s grip and reduces the chance of slipping off when riding.  Giantex comes with a 6-foot leash with an ankle cuff. The leash is made of webbed nylon and is easy to put on.

5. A Alpenflow 7’ Surfboard

Specification:

• Length: 84 inches
• Width: 22 inches
• Volume: 54L
• Weight: 13 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 185 pounds

The A Alpenflow 7’ Soft Top Foam is a 7-foot surfboard that easily supports beginner rider’s weight up to 185 lbs. The board offers high stability and features a traction pad that adds extra grip.

The board is constructed with double-reinforced and treated stringers. The top and bottom are made with fiberglass. The board has a high-density lightweight XPE deck cover protective skin.

The A Alpenflow features a high volume and thickness which increases its stability and buoyancy in the water. The bottom has a concave shape for advanced speed and performance.

6. Bo-Toys Bodyboard

Specification:

• Length: 33 inches
• Width: 22 inches
• Volume: 54L
• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 185 pounds

The Bo-Toys Body Board is a lightweight bodyboard ideal for beginner surfers. It is more suitable for kids between ages 3 and 6. Heat lamination technology is used in the construction which makes it more durable.

High-density polyethylene is incorporated at the bottom of the board which enhances a slicker ride. The board can ride all kinds of waves due to the 60/40 rails.

The board design allows for more maneuverability and stability when on the water. With the stability offered by the board, there are fewer chances of unpredictable events.

The body board is available in vibrant colors your kids can choose from. This board features a pro-quality leash with a wristband to keep the board nearby.

7. Catch Surf Odysea Stump- Thruster 5’0”

Specification:

• Length: 60 inches
• Width: 21.5 inches
• Volume: 36L
• Weight: 8 pounds

The Catch Surf is a soft board with a retro and stylish design. Catch Surf is a wide board that has quite a bit of volume for a 5-foot board. The board is more maneuverable in waves and offers great stability.

The board is made with a stiff dual composite core and also features triple maple stingers. Catch surf has enough grip, especially when wearing sticky boots. It does not come with a leash plug but has a traction pad for extra grip.

The board is ideal if you live near a break and have a kid who loves to shred or if you go to surf spots regularly.

8. Rock-It 4’11” CHUB Surfboard

Specification:

• Length: 59 inches
• Width: 20.5 inches
• Volume: 30.1L
• Weight: 10 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 150 pounds

Rock-it CHUB surfboard is a perfect starter board for the kids. The board is thick and wide which gives it great stability and buoyancy. The core is made from recycled EPS foam.

It features twin wood dual stringers and 6oz fiberglass cloth under the soft top for enhanced durability. The Rock-It CHUB is a perfect starter board for your kids. It is great for kids who have had a few lessons and want to take surfing a go.

9. Catch Surf Beater Board

Specification:

• Length: 48 inches
• Width: 20 inches
• Volume: 27 liters
• Weight: 8 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 150 pounds

The Catch Beater is a 48-inch board. It features a strong, lightweight, and water-resistant core with dual maple-plywood stringers and a high-density bottom. The Catch Surf Beater is stiff and extremely durable making it one of the most durable beaters.

The beater is available in three models; finless, single fin, and twin fin. The twin-fin comes with two removable 3.5 inches soft pop thru keel fins and the single-fin model comes with 4.5” raked fins. And the finless does not come with any fins.  The board does not include a leash but has a thru leash plug.

10. Wavestorm 8’ Surfboard

Specification:

• Length: 96 inches
• Width: 22.5 inches
• Volume: 86 liters
• Weight: 11.5 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 200 pounds

The Wavestorm 8′ is an all-around bargain board for kids who want to ride and slide along green waves or bump and bat in the whitewater. Wavestorm 8′ is great if your child is tall and strong enough to move it around.

The Wavestorm 8′ is a soft foam construction classic surfboard and a strong EPS core with a 3-stringer system. It also features a soft water barrier skin (WBS) crosslink and high-density polyethylene slick bottom skin. The bottom slick provides stiffness to maintain the board shape.

The board includes a removable thru fins ankle leash traction pad for enhanced grip and stability. The large size and volume make it extremely buoyant and stable.

Other Worthy Mentions

1. Thurso Surf Lancer 5’10” Soft Top Surfboard

Specification:

• Length: 70 inches
• Width: 20 inches
• Volume: 33.6 liters
• Weight: 6 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 200 pounds

The Thrust Surf Lancer is a fish tail soft top surfboard designed with a focus on stability and glide for easy surfing with maximum enjoyment. It is made with a high-density EPS core that makes the board very light and buoyant.

The board is constructed with heat laminated high-density polyethylene slick strong and responsive bottom skin that adds stiffness and improves the board speeds. Thrust Surf Lancer features two wood stringers that provide greater longitudinal strength, rigidity, and controlled flex.

The adjustable fin box makes the board great at changing performance and easy to transport. The fish tail also gives the board more hold and traction.

2. Wave Bandit Easy Rider

Specification:

• Length: 84 inches
• Width: 22 inches
• Volume: 72 liters

Wave Bandit Easy Rider is a great board for beginners and experienced surfers alike. The board features double maple stringers and a removable 4.5-inch tri-fin set which provide increased stability and durability.

Wave Bandit is available in different bold colors to choose from for your kid. The board features a pro-style leash attachment. The Easy Rider is available in 7-foot, 8-foot, and 9-foot pro shape sizes. The board requires surf wax for grip.

3. Surftech Learn2surf blacktip

Specification:

• Length: 96 inches
• Width: 5 inches
• Volume: 86 liters

Surftech Learn2Surf Blacktip is available in multiple sizes ranging from 5’6” to 10’0” in length. The board has a durable construction with fins included. Blacktip is easy to paddle and rides smoothly.

It has rear bumpers that provide safe vertical storage and stability through turns. This board also features durable and rigid multi-stringer cores. Your kid would smile through and have a good time when paddling the Surftech Blacktip.

4. Kona Surf Co 4-4 Surfboard

Specification:

• Length: 52 inches
• Width: 19.5 inches
• Volume: 27 liters
• Maximum weight capacity: 160 pounds

The 4-4 is a mini softboard that is perfect for kids with plenty of volume to easily catch waves. This surfboard is constructed with an EPS core with 2 wooden stringers that give added durability.

The deck is covered with a soft IXPE foam and the bottom is slick high-density polyethylene with a scratch-resistant checker pattern. Kona Surf 4-4 comes with two wooden stringers that provide extra flex and durability. The board also comes with a leash to keep your kid connected to the board.

This board offers a diverse use with the addition of removable fins. The fins can be set up as 3 fins, 2 fins, or removed.

5. Goplus 5’5” Surfboard

Specification:

• Length: 64.5 inches
• Width: 21.5 inches
• Volume: 27 liters
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Maximum weight capacity: 200 pounds

The Goplus 5’5” is a fish short surfboard ideal for kids and beginner surfers. It is constructed with an EPS core, wood strips, an XPE deck, and an HDPE smooth bottom. This board is extremely durable and does not deform or damage.

Goplus 5’5” features three removable fins that allow the surfboard to adapt to different wave conditions. This surfboard is suitable for water sports and it offers a great outdoor experience.

The board is lightweight which makes it very easy to transport. Goplus also features a leash and a wristband that protects your kids from being washed away by the waves.

Finding the Right Surfboard For Your Kids

Finding the surfboard that is right for your kid can be a bit complex. Selecting a surfboard that is sized correctly is important. The style and construction of the surfboard should also be considered. Here are some factors you should consider before you choose the best surfboard for your kid(s).

Size

One important thing you must remember when choosing a surfboard for your kid is the size. Always keep in mind that the larger the dimension of a surfboard, the greater the stability it offers.

Try as much as possible to pick the blade that comes with a broader surface. This helps your kids to stand and gain balance quickly. On the other hand, ensure the board is portable and can be carried around easily.

It should also be easy to store. Generally, a board should be at least 2 feet taller than the surfer and not more than 3.5 feet over the surfer’s standing height.

Price

When picking a surfboard for your kid, you certainly don’t want to spend your savings on it. Children change their minds or lose interest in things they love easily. You will not want to invest a lot in a surfboard that would be abandoned after a few uses because your kid does not want to surf again.

You should buy a cheaper one. You might also want to consider the frequency of use. It is not beneficial to buy an expensive surfboard if your child (ren) will make use of the surfboard once every two years. You can choose to go for an expensive surfboard if you think your kid(s) have a true passion for surfing.

Volume

A surfboard volume has a direct relationship with the ability to float. Surfboards’ volume is measured in liters. A general rule is that a beginner surfer should ride a board that is 100% of their body weight in volume.

That is, a beginner weighing 40kg should ride a surfboard of around 40 liters in volume. On the other hand, an experienced surfer can ride a surfboard that is 35% to 40 % of their body weight in volume.

To find the right surfboard volume that you need to purchase for your kid, you need to get their weight first. Once this is done, you can then pick the right surfboard for your kid. Note that surfboards with higher volume tend to have higher buoyancy. They are easier to paddle, control, and float better.

Design

Although listed last, having a surfboard with a great design can boost your kid’s confidence and make them happier. The design, i.e. appearance and texture, of your kid’s surfboard may determine the level of acceptance of the board.

Designs and graphics do not have any effect on the performance of the board but most kids love them. Textures on the surface of the planks provide extra grips for novice surfers. You might want to consider purchasing a surfboard that has great designs and good texture for your kid.

All surfboards are not the same and I am sure you don’t want to put your kid’s safety at stake. You should not settle for just anyhow surfboard for your kid. Pick the best surfboard that helps support your child (ren) to learn, keep them safe, and also boost their confidence.

Material

The materials used for the core of foam boards are diverse. All materials are good options to look for when buying your kids’ surfboards. However, each material has its weaknesses and strengths. Below are the materials used for the core of foam boards and their features.

Polystyrene (PS):

• Lightweight
• Recyclable
• Environmentally friendly
• Extremely buoyant
• Not as durable as polyurethane

Polyurethane (PU):

• Very buoyant
• Strong and durable
• Easy to shape
• Disposal poses an environmental threat

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)

• Ultra-Lightweight
• Recyclable
• Environmentally friendly
• Extremely buoyant
• Not as durable as polyurethane

Polypropylene (PP)

• Lightweight
• Very durable
• Not easy to recycle
• Strong in cold water

Irradiated Cross-linked Polyethylene (IXPE)

• Excellent waterproof property
• Shock absorbent property

What to Look For In a Beginner Surfboard

With a lot of boards on the market, you will be dazzled with a long list when you Google “surfboards for beginners”. Now that you know what to consider when finding the right board for your kids, a guide on what to look for when selecting a beginner surfboard for your kid would be helpful.

The majority of kids would be pleased if you gave them a serving tray as a surfboard. Picking a beginner surfboard for kids largely depends on their age. Getting your kid the right board would make it easier to learn, stand, paddle, and catch the waves as they learn to surf. The number one thing to consider is your child’s safety.

Ages 6 to 12

If your kid is between the ages of 6 and 12, you should get them a soft board. Softboards are also known as foamie. These kinds of boards prevent kids from getting hurt when they fall. Softboards allow for soft landings and give your kid the confidence to try
again.

Foamie surfboards are sized from 5’6” and upwards. Softboards around the 7ft mark are ideal for kids under age 12. However, you need to consider their weight when choosing a board.

Ages 13 to 18

As a beginner surfer between the ages of 13 to 18, there are more options available to your kid. You can choose from foamies or mini mals. Fish boards are ideal if your kid is a fast learner or a little more experienced.

Picking a board for your teen also comes down to their weight. Anything from 6’8” with a wider base is ideal. Foamies tend to be a bit more restricted for teens due to their unusual shape. Mini mal and fish boards are the common recommendations.

Love to kayak? Review our in-depth guide on the best inflatable kayaks on the market, or you could also take a sneak peek into our best 10 fishing kayaks under 1000.

Kid Surfboard Size Chart

Choosing the right surfboard for your kid can be a major challenge. The surfboard size chart will be helpful when selecting the right board. The main defining factors are the weight and level of surfer your kids are. Confused about which surfboard to pick?

• Softboard: The softboard is ideal if you are price-conscious and only go to the beach a couple of times a year. Softboard is the safest option to choose from when your kid is learning to surf. They are ideal for kids to try surfing for the first time and see if they will stick with it.
• Minimal Softboard: These are the most stable surfboards for learning. It allows your kids to get to their feet while they have fun. It can be passed on through the family.
• Fish Surfboard: Fish boards have extra volume and stability. They are great options for kids. They can last a while as your kids grow and progress in surfing.

The following chart will help you find the right surfboard size for your kid.

Surfer’s Weight	Softboard	Fish Surfboard	Minimal
< 30 kg	5’5” – 5’8”
30 – 40 kg	5’8” – 6’2”	5’8” – 6’2”
40 – 50 kg	6’2” – 7’0”	6’2” – 6’6”	6’8” – 6’10”
50 – 60 kg	7’0”	6’6” – 6’10”	6’10” – 7’2”
60 – 70 kg	8’0”	6’10” – 7’0”	7’6” – 8’0”
> 75 kg			8’0” – 8’6”

Minimal and Longboard Size Chart

Surfer’s Weight	Beginner	Intermediate
< 55 kg	6’8″ – 7’2″	6’8″ – 7’0″
55 – 65 kg	7’2″ – 7’6″	6’10” – 7’2″
65 – 75 kg	8’0″ – 8’6″	7’0″ – 7’6″
75 – 85 kg	8’6″ – 9’2″	7’6″ – 8’0″
85 – 95 kg	9’2″ – 9’6″	8’0″ – 8’6″
> 95 kg	9’6″ +	8’6″ – 9’2″

Fish Surfboard Size Chart

Surfer’s Weight	Beginner	Intermediate	Advanced
< 65 kg	6’6″ – 6’8″	5’8″ – 6’2″	5’4″ – 5’8″
65 – 75 kg	6’8″ – 7’0″	6’0″ – 6’4″	5’6″ – 5’10”
75 – 85 kg	7’0″ – 7’10”	6’2″ – 6’6″	5’8″ – 6’0″
85 – 95 kg	7’4″ +	6’4″ – 6’8″	5’10” – 6’4″
> 95 kg	7’10” +	6’6″ – 7’0″	6’2″ – 6’10”

Differences Between Beginner and Professional Surfboards

There are various surfboards available on the market and all boards are not the same. You need to know the difference between surfboards for beginners and professionals before you grab a board for your kid.

Beginner surfers often face the issue of standing, paddling, and controlling their board. They often tend to have a problem balancing on the waves. Beginner’s surfboards would solve these issues. Beginner’s surfboards are also known as foamie or softboards. 

They are ideal for kids and are effective for enhanced buoyancy and maneuverability. When an amateur surfer bumps into another surfer, both of them will not get hurt because of the soft foams that serve as a barrier. Softboards are also cheaper compared to hardboards.

Hardboards or hardtops are surfboards for professionals. These types of boards are ideal for individuals with a great surfing experience. Hardboards are not ideal for beginners and can be damaged easily. Beginners will most likely fall off the board 99% of the time.

Conclusion

Surfboards for kids are designed to enhance flexibility and stability. Your child’s safety is the first to be considered when choosing a surfboard for your kids. There are diverse surfboards available on the market from which you can select.

The above article has done justice to what you should look into before you select the best surfboard for your kid. With the information above, you can easily pick the best surfboard for your kid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are kids’ surfboards expensive?

If your kid(s) is just starting at surfing, you do not need to spend a lot on purchasing a surfboard. Surfing is not an expensive hobby and beginners’ surfboards are not that expensive.

You only need to pay for a foamie/softboard which is cheaper than the hardboard. You however need to get a quality board to avoid spending twice on replacement.

What size surfboard should I get for my child?

The size of a surfboard you should get for a child depends on a lot of factors. Your child’s age, weight, size, and surf experience all work together to determine the size of board that is best.

Kids between the ages of 5 and 10 years often do best with all softboards around 4 to 6 feet in size. While boards between 7 to 8 feet are suitable for kids above 10 years of age who are just starting surfing.