Pipeline Surf Point

5 Responses to “I’m Learning To Surf And Looking At Buying My First Surfboard. I Am 187cm Tall, Can I Learn On A 6″8 Board?”

1. John F Says:
   August 16th, 2009 at 2:13 pm

   Here we go again! Welcome to surfing. This question has been asked enough times before, but there is really only one true answer.
   First of all, surfing is an ocean sport, that should only be practiced by persons who are confident and competent ocean swimmers, who are able to deal with undertows, rips, and sometimes very BIG waves.
   Lessons are the only sensible way to start surfing, either from a professional instructor, or surfing family or friends who are experienced surfers. There are way too many dangerous people in the water now, who THINK they can surf. Please don’t join their ranks.The VERY LAST THING the rest of us experienced surfers want is people to take silly on-line advice, and go down to the beach, grab a surfboard, and go out and get in our way.
   Most people start out best on long boards, but I have seen plenty of surfers start begin with a short board and master it in no time. It just tends to be more difficult. The bottom line is there are NO RULES as to what kind of surfboard you learn on. Certainly a longboard usually is more user friendly.
   Most professional instructors will rent you a board to learn on. Beginners shouldn’t even think about buying a board until they master the basics, and decide they really want to keep on surfing.When you are finally ready, you should really think about buying a decent board, and avoiding popouts , and boards made in sweat shops in China, unless that’s just all you can afford. At a good surf shop, they will help you pick the right board for your weight (height is fairly irrelevant), skill level, and local wave conditions. And don’t forget, there are always used boards for sale in every surf shop. After 42 years of surfing, I still get my surfboard buying advice at good local shops in the places where I surf.
   And, I know there are lots of nice kids who want to share information with you on line. But don’t take the advice from youngsters, who may know even less than you do about surfing, a surfboard is a big investment. I supect that at 187 cm tall, you are mature enough to read through the BS that lots of people throw at you on line.
   Anybody, on-line, who gives specific advice on what size board someone should buy is foolish. Anyone who takes that advice is more foolish.Good luck! http://www.mckevlins.com/nopopstory.htm
   Boards made in far eastern sweats shops:http://bp3.blogger.com/_hPACOtZKKko/RkST…

2. blue copper Says:
   August 16th, 2009 at 5:27 pm

   Mahalo! The president was caught wearing a Hawaiian shirt on television. The Beach Boys are selling albums like never before. Kids are wearing seashells around their necks and using adjectives like “gnarly” and “tubular.” You would have to be living under a rock to miss one the latest trends in fashion and sport- surfing. However, despite what some youth today might claim, surfing is by no means a “new fad”. Rather, it is a lifestyle and culture passed down from many generations ago. The forefathers of the surfing pastime would be proud to see their favorite sport gaining popularity all over the world in this millennium, but they themselves truly understood the frightening power of the oceans, regardless of what continent or shore you’re on. This is significant for your first day learning to surf. It’s important that all groms hit the break with some knowledge and preparation, not to mention respect for mother ocean.
   Let’s start off with the most obvious, yet most overlooked prerequisite for surfing- the ABILITY TO SWIM. If you are not a frequent swimmer, or are unsure of your ability to swim, it is important to gain a confident attitude. Spend a few weeks at your local pool swimming laps getting your body ready for intense physical activity. You should be able to swim a good 200 meters without stopping in order to be considered ocean worthy. Next, if you are not experienced with ocean water activities, take some time to accustom yourself with the saltwater and the waves WITHOUT a board. Just like Mom always said ‘don’t talk to strangers’, surfers say, ‘NEVER GO IN THE OCEAN ALONE’.
   Secondly, you’ll need a beach. One with an ocean and tides. This means no lakes. No ponds. No bathtubs! A lifeguard who will let you surf in his or her territory would be a plus, however unlikely.
   The following water conditions are ideal for typical beginners for their first day on the water:
   -clean, shore breaking waves anywhere from shin height to waist height.
   -water temperature of at least 40 degrees farenheit
   -smooth bottom, no rocks or boulders
   Next, you need a surfboard. Yes, world famous surfing competitor Kelly Slater did in fact once surf a large wooden door; however, one wouldn’t recommend hauling Grandma’s back door to the nearest beach. Instead, head to your local surf shop and rent yourself a real log. Choose one as big as you can carry. Ask the storeowner about board recommendations for your height and weight. A general rule of toe is to get a board a little taller than your self. However, with so many different types of boards, uses and preferences revolving around surfboards these days, this rule may not suit you. When choosing a board, look for one that is light. This is important should you ever lose control of your board, or if it ever hits you, expected or not. A heavy board is more dangerous.
   For your first trip, don’t worry about how pretty the board looks, or if it has appealing colors. A rental board has most likely been used many times, and thus will not be a Brad Pitt. Just keep an eye out for dings, water, and cracks. As far as shape, a ‘fish’ is probably your best choice. Wide in the tail, thick rails, and round in the nose…this configuration gives beginners excellent control and buoyancy. Take care of your board. A good one takes a lot of time to design and make. Treat it with care.
   You’re going to need a leash. This is how you will keep track of your board when out on the water. The board is attached to your ankle by way of a long leash. The leash should be about one and a half times the length of the board. It should be sturdy and strong. You do not want to lose your board when out on the water!
   You are going to need some board wax. There are many specialty types available in all surf shops. Just ask for what is best for you. Go cheap! Don’t fall for marketing scams- you don’t need anything fancy. This wax is your lifeline. When rubbed all over the top of your board, it will provide the traction necessary to keep your feet and your body from slipping off the board.
   Depending on the temperature and condition of the water, you may need some protective garments. A wetsuit of appropriate thickness, hood, gloves, and/or booties may be necessary. Be smart. Keep your head and body warm. Your body cools much faster in water than it does in the air!
   Take a course in oceanography. Ok, so the thought of teachers and chalk scratching on the board doesn’t send you running to the nearest school. Well, educate yourself. It is very important to learn about the ocean and its tides and currents. These factors differ depending on the area so it is your responsibility to ensure you are not endangering you or your peers. Find out if your spot contains prevalent ripcurrents, undertow, or dangerous underwater creatures. The resources are out there. Ask around; contact your local coastal environment centers or Harbor Master Department. Check out your local library, and don’t forget t

3. Anonymous Says:
   August 16th, 2009 at 11:28 pm

   It’ll always be easier to learn and pick up fundamentals with a longer board (I learned on an 8′2″ board myself). But, if you’re getting a good deal, go for it. You’ll have to work a little harder, but hey, then you’ll already be used to the board.

4. =]] Says:
   August 17th, 2009 at 2:58 am

   I had a six foot when i was about ten. so about 4″10 let’s say. and it was wayyy too hard to catch waves! but if you are going to be traveling, it’s not worth buying a board. at all! it’s difficult transporting it and you have to pay money on some airlines!
   surf on!

5. vitanimo Says:
   August 17th, 2009 at 7:03 am

   that’s still too short. you’ll end up selling it & pissed off about buying it in the first place.

Pipeline Surf Point © 2009