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  • 9 Best Surfboards for Beginners UK 2024 Guide | Osprey, Bic and More 1
  • 9 Best Surfboards for Beginners UK 2024 Guide | Osprey, Bic and More 2
  • 9 Best Surfboards for Beginners UK 2024 Guide | Osprey, Bic and More 3
  • 9 Best Surfboards for Beginners UK 2024 Guide | Osprey, Bic and More 4
  • 9 Best Surfboards for Beginners UK 2024 Guide | Osprey, Bic and More 5

9 Best Surfboards for Beginners UK 2024 Guide | Osprey, Bic and More

Surfing has come a long way from its counter-culture origins of the 1960s and 70s. The International Surfing Association estimates some 50 million people now surf globally, and in 2018 it was revealed that over 1 million gave surfing a try in the UK alone. With all the physical and mental health benefits associated with the ocean and surfing, you can't blame people for wanting to try their luck at this exciting watersport.


There's never been a better time to learn with brands like Torq, Osprey, and Bic putting a real emphasis on modern board design for beginners. Whether it's for an adult or a 10 year old, our guide helps you choose and introduces the wide range of foam and epoxy surfboards available from Decathlon and Amazon that will have you standing up and surfing in no time. Well, that's the idea anyway. 

Last updated 25/03/2024

Quick List - Top Surfboards for Beginners

1

Torq

8'6" Foam Longboard
8'6" Foam Longboard

Torq's Top Quality, Modern Surfboard for Learning

2

Osprey

Soft Foam Surfboard
Soft Foam Surfboard

Large and Buoyant With Fins, Leash and Foot Positioning Pads

3

Torq

8 ft Epoxy Longboard
8 ft Epoxy Longboard

An Epoxy Performance Longboard for Beginners

4

Olaian

7ft Foam Surfboard
7ft Foam Surfboard

High-Spec Foam Designed for Progression With Safety

5

Circle One

8ft Beginner Surfboard SSR
8ft Beginner Surfboard

Find Your Feet and Have Fun With an 8 ft Beginner Surfboard

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Beginner Surfboard in the UK - Buying Guide

In this simple buying guide, we'll run through the key components to consider when deciding on that magic beginner surfboard – the one that's going to have you riding waves with style, ease and, hopefully, grace! Once you've become more acquainted with surfboard design and surfing in general, you'll be able to take that knowledge and throw it into buying the perfect beginner board.

1

Consider Material: Foam or Epoxy Surfboards Are Ideal for Learning

It used to be that the only surfboards being built were fibreglass boards with fibreglass fins. These proved to be tricky for beginners, as they are extremely unforgiving with a sharp nose and even sharper fins. Luckily, there's now a significant range of foam and epoxy boards, and deciding whether you would prefer to take it easy on a 'foamie' initially or jump straight onto an epoxy is your first port of call.

Foam Surfboards or 'Foamies' Are the Softest and Most Forgiving Surfboards

Foam Surfboards or 'Foamies' Are the Softest and Most Forgiving Surfboards

Foam surfboards or 'foamies' are made from a soft foam material with a hard layer of plastic glued to the bottom for more glide and speed on a wave. They're ideal for beginners as they pose little to no threat if the inevitable happens and your head or limbs get in the way of the surfboard when you're being bashed about in the waves. 


Foamies can come in all shapes and sizes these days, with even pro surfers finding enjoyment in riding the smaller, more refined foamies. When learning, however, you should be looking for a longer foamie, the specifics of which we'll get into later on. 


Price will ultimately determine the quality of a foamie, with the higher-spec surfboards being lighter and easier to manoeuvre than the cheaper foamies which will be heavier and more cumbersome to turn.

Epoxy Surfboards Are Light and Strong Enough to Withstand a Lot of Water Time

Epoxy Surfboards Are Light and Strong Enough to Withstand a Lot of Water Time

Epoxy surfboards are popular with beginners as they don't damage or 'ding' as easily as fibreglass boards. Epoxy boards also benefit from extra buoyancy making it easier for you to paddle onto waves. 


They are made using a light foam core with epoxy resin encasing the foam. This basically means if an epoxy surfboard hits you in the water, it won't be with such vigour as a fibreglass board. However, they will certainly hurt a lot more than a foamie as they are still a more solid and hardened surfboard design.


Epoxy surfboards, therefore, enable more manoeuvrability than foamies as they benefit from a more responsive and refined design which more closely resembles fibreglass boards. They're a good choice if you have surfed a few times before and know some basic surf etiquette and awareness, but are still looking for a beginner board to master the basics on.

2

The Fins of a Surfboard Dictate Speed, Power and Flow

Fins are one of the most important parts of a surfboard, both in terms of material and how they are configured on the board. Knowing the difference between rubber, plastic, and fibreglass fins and their subsequent impact on a surfboard is critical for any avid beginner. Here's the skinny on this crucial element. 

Boards With a Thruster Setup Are the Most User-Friendly When Starting Out

Boards With a Thruster Setup Are the Most User-Friendly When Starting Out

A surfboard can have anywhere from 1-5 fins attached to it, which will ultimately determine the style of surfing a surfer is aiming to achieve with that particular board. 


The most tried-and-tested fin configuration is the thruster fin setup, which is invariably three fins of the same size in a triangular formation. It is consequently almost always recommended to learn with a thruster set of fins as it gives a good amount of stability while still allowing beginners to practice turns in small waves.


Most beginner surfboards will come with fins included, but it will pay to check before you buy just in case you need to source them separately. 

Rubber Fins Are Most Suited to Complete Beginners and Foamie Surfboards

Rubber Fins Are Most Suited to Complete Beginners and Foamie Surfboards

Rubber fins are the type of fin you don't mind scraping across your leg in a 'wipeout'. They are soft, flexible and forgiving fins that can enable fear-free learning as fins are usually the most dangerous part of a surfboard. 


The downside to rubber fins is they aren't as responsive as plastic or fibreglass fins meaning you won't be turning a foamie with rubber fins in a hurry. 


Overall, they're the ideal fin for someone who has never surfed before and is a little hesitant due to the risks associated with surfing. They are generally the fins that accompany foamies designed for learning to stand up in the whitewash and surfing straight toward the beach.

Plastic Fins Are Good for Epoxy or Higher-Spec Foam Surfboards

Plastic Fins Are Good for Epoxy or Higher-Spec Foam Surfboards

Plastic fins are a lot more responsive than rubber fins. They are designed for epoxy beginner surfboards or the higher end of foamie surfboards found on the market. They lend themselves to the type of surfing that is leading toward progression through turns. 


Through plastic makes for a harder fin, you will be able to start turning the surfboard with more power, finding your flow and desired style of surfing. They won't hurt or cut you in the same way a fibreglass fin will as the plastic has more give than fibreglass. 


For this reason, it is definitely not recommended to learn with a set of fibreglass fins. Fibreglass fins are very hard and sharp and they consequently have the potential to send you to A&E in need of stitches, so if you want something a bit more responsive than rubber, choose plastic.

3

Volume and Length Are Crucial When Understanding the Size of a Surfboard

When looking at a surfboard's size, the most defining factors are volume and length. Volume is measured in total litres and length is measured in feet and inches. Both have significant importance in determining who a surfboard is designed for through their own size and surfing ability.

The Buoyancy of a Surfboard Is Defined by Its Volume

The Buoyancy of a Surfboard Is Defined by Its Volume

The volume of a surfboard is measured in terms of its total litreage. When starting out, it's super important to have enough litres to float you and make it easy to paddle and catch waves. 


If not, the surfboard will be forever fighting against you with the wrong volume. And there's nothing more awkward than watching someone try to surf with a board that's too small for them – it's like witnessing Bambi trying to stand on ice. 


As a rule of thumb, total beginners should start out with a surfboard that is near enough in volume to their body weight. It can be more or a little less, but this guide will help in choosing a board you're bound to get along with. So, for a complete beginner weighing 70 kg, a foam board of 60+ litres will mean learning to stand up won't seem like an impossible task.

A Surfboard's Length Affects Volume and Turning Prowess

A Surfboard's Length Affects Volume and Turning Prowess

From their origins to the present day, surfboards have always been measured in feet and inches. A standard shortboard for an experienced surfer will measure in the vicinity of 6 ft, as this is the optimal length for advanced turning and fitting into the pocket of a way.


Beginner surfboards, however, need to be longer to gain more volume and stability for ease of learning. Adults should look within the 7-9 ft range (depending on volume and ability), while kids would benefit from a high-volume foam board of 5-7 ft. That's not to say a child can't learn on a 7-9 ft surfboard, but they'll probably need a hand controlling such a big board in the waves. 


All in all, for any surfer finding their feet in the ocean, opting for more length and volume is recommended – at least until you feel comfortable enough with the basics of paddling, standing up, and surfing the unbroken parts of a wave known as 'green waves'. 

4

Consider Your Proximity to the Surf and How Many Times a Year You'll Be Surfing

Figuring out how many times you estimate to be surfing each year is a key consideration when buying a beginner surfboard, as your progression will ultimately be determined by your surfing time. Think about this in relation to the board's overall suitability to your level and intentions, which we'll summarise below. 

If Surfing is Part of the Family Holiday a Few Times a Year, Pick a Complete Beginner Board

If Surfing is Part of the Family Holiday a Few Times a Year, Pick a Complete Beginner Board

To keep it simple, if you're landlocked and think you'll be heading down to Cornwall a few times each summer to spend beach days with the family (while mixing in a bit of surfing when it's appropriate!), then a basic longer foam board with rubber fins will be all you need to start


With this type of board, you'll be catching more waves each session which is more beneficial than catching fewer waves and getting frustrated with a refined surfboard. If this sounds like you, look for the boards we've marked as suitable for 'complete beginners' on our recommendation list. 

If the Surf Is Becoming Your Passion, Go for Progression-Focused Boards

If the Surf Is Becoming Your Passion, Go for Progression-Focused Boards

Whether it's the North East, Wales, Devon or Cornwall, if you're already living near a UK surfing coastline you have a huge learning advantage, as you'll be able to really dig the heels in and get things moving quickly. 


Or maybe you're not so geographically-gifted, but the surf world has taken you by storm. So much so that you're already pencilling in weekend after weekend of surf trips, expecting to drive hours upon hours scouring all the amazing surf potential the UK has to offer.


If you fit into one of these two categories, opting for a more progression-focused surfboard is the right choice. From the more refined foamies to epoxy boards with plastic fins, already knowing you plan to dedicate serious time to surfing means you should hopefully progress with a more refined board from the offset. We've listed these as suitable for 'dedicated beginners'. 

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

The Best Beginner Surfboards in the UK

After reading our guide, you've hopefully started to formulate an idea of the kind of surfboard you want to own. Buying your first board is a super special prospect as it will set you up for a lifelong love affair with the ocean and its waves. So without further ado, it's time to reveal the best beginner surfboards in the UK today.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Torq

8'6" Foam Longboard

Torq 8'6" Foam Longboard 1

Torq's Top Quality, Modern Surfboard for Learning

2

Osprey

Soft Foam Surfboard

Osprey Soft Foam Surfboard 1

Large and Buoyant With Fins, Leash and Foot Positioning Pads

3

Torq

8 ft Epoxy Longboard

Torq 8 ft Epoxy Longboard  1

An Epoxy Performance Longboard for Beginners

4

Olaian

7ft Foam Surfboard

Olaian 7ft Foam Surfboard 1

High-Spec Foam Designed for Progression With Safety

5

Circle One

8ft Beginner Surfboard SSR

Circle One 8ft Beginner Surfboard  1

Find Your Feet and Have Fun With an 8 ft Beginner Surfboard

6

Osprey

Soft Foamie Surfboard

Osprey Soft Foamie Surfboard 1

The Best Small Foamie for Kids Complete With Fins and Leash

7

Bic

Bic Malibu 7'9"

Bic Bic Malibu 7'9" 1

A Durable Epoxy Malibu Built to Last

8

Circle One

SSR Beginner Surfboard

Circle One SSR Beginner Surfboard 1

A High Volume 7 ft Foamie Perfect for Children or Small Adults

9

O'Shea

7'10 Epoxy Minimal Surfboard

O'Shea 7'10 Epoxy Minimal Surfboard 1

An Epoxy Minimal With Bag and Leash Included

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Torq
8'6" Foam Longboard

8'6" Foam Longboard 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£453.91
High Mid
Reference price
£453.91
High Mid

Torq's Top Quality, Modern Surfboard for Learning

The soft-tech construction of this foam longboard is certainly market-leading in beginner surfboard design. It is constructed with a high-grade epoxy core for a durable and strong board that'll last many years. The epoxy has then been covered with a layer of soft foam, helping beginners learn the basics without fear of their surfboard.


Its long length and high volume will also create a stable platform while starting out and learning the basics. Even the kids will be able to have a lot of fun and enjoyment through the stability that this board offers, although they may need help getting through the waves initially. 

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No.2

Osprey
Soft Foam Surfboard

Soft Foam Surfboard 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£209.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£209.99
Low Mid

Large and Buoyant With Fins, Leash and Foot Positioning Pads

The main benefit of this extra large beginner surfboard from Osprey is that it facilitates extreme wave-catching ability for just about anyone. The extra volume and length will mean even the shakiest of beginners will have stability while learning to stand up.


The whole family can have fun on this surfboard, with a carry handle ensuring even the kids will be able to drag the board up the beach. The rubber fins allow extra safety in the water, and as a beginner bonus, the traction pads on the deck show where your feet should be positioned while learning to surf.

No.3

Torq
8 ft Epoxy Longboard

8 ft Epoxy Longboard  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£424.13
High Mid
Reference price
£424.13
High Mid

An Epoxy Performance Longboard for Beginners

This 8 ft longboard from Torq will give you added manoeuvrability through its performance-driven design, while still enabling a lot of waves to be caught. It is ideal for any adult that fancies themselves on the higher end of the beginner surfers spectrum, and is craving to test their capabilities in all types of surf conditions. 


The all-blue colourway gives it a classic oceanic surfing look, and the epoxy core construction means it'll be around for many years of good surfing times

No.4

Olaian
7ft Foam Surfboard

Reference price
£179.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£179.99
Low Mid

High-Spec Foam Designed for Progression With Safety

Brought to you by the French brand Olaian, this option comes highly recommended for any young surfer striving to progress while remaining safe. It is 7 ft tall with 55 litres of volume, so it's definitely one for smaller rather than heavier surf enthusiasts.


Its design lends itself to progression with a tapered nose and tail giving the board a responsive feel through turns. It also comes with plastic fins that have silicone ends, which enable performance while remaining focused on safe learning. The leaf-print burgundy colourway is also an attractive, unique touch. 

No.5

Circle One
8ft Beginner Surfboard SSR

8ft Beginner Surfboard  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
8ft Beginner Surfboard  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£355.00
Mid
Reference price
£355.00
Mid

Find Your Feet and Have Fun With an 8 ft Beginner Surfboard

While our other Circle One recommendation was ideally suited to kids, this is their 8 ft SSR model which is blessed with serious amounts of volume – so even the heaviest of learners will be able to catch waves with this beast. 


The set of thruster rubber fins included is a nice touch, meaning the family is safe from any potential fin cuts. The SSR also has an inbuilt bamboo core for extra durability and strength against the elements. This is a perfect workhorse of a surfboard designed for the whole family to catch loads of waves and have loads of fun. 

No.6

Osprey
Soft Foamie Surfboard

Soft Foamie Surfboard 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£169.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£169.99
Low Mid

The Best Small Foamie for Kids Complete With Fins and Leash

An ideal beginner surfboard for children under 45 kg, this foamie from Osprey is a safety-focused board with rubber fins and soft foam, ensuring the kids won't be coming in with tears after getting a little knock.


The extra buoyancy gives the board good paddling and wave-catching ability, whilst the design gives the board a striking look. It also comes with a leash, and for just under £170 it's certainly a well-priced package for any young 'uns enthusiastic to start learning how to surf. 

No.7

Bic
Bic Malibu 7'9"

Bic Malibu 7'9" 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£295.09
Mid
Reference price
£295.09
Mid

A Durable Epoxy Malibu Built to Last

Bic has put a lot of emphasis on progression for beginners with this malibu epoxy design. Its user-friendly design boasts ample flotation while still focusing on speed and turning possibility with more refined performance rails and tail. 


On the downside, it doesn't come with any fins included, so you would need to buy a set of plastic thruster fins with FCS compatibility before hitting the water. This Bic beauty is suited to any surfer under 70 kg that is keen to progress with turns and expects to be surfing a lot. 

No.8

Circle One
SSR Beginner Surfboard

SSR Beginner Surfboard 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
SSR Beginner Surfboard 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£315.00
Mid
Reference price
£315.00
Mid

A High Volume 7 ft Foamie Perfect for Children or Small Adults

This 7 ft surfboard from Circle One is the perfect beginner surfboard for kids or smaller adults. It benefits from added volume and width, making it a real wave catcher through more increased buoyancy. The handle on the deck of the board is a great addition too, ensuring kids won't have such a hard time carrying it down to the water.


The safety-focused rubber fins will also give parents peace of mind when sending their kids out in the waves. However, although the volume is high, the length is what holds it back from being a good beginner board for the whole family, as heavier adults will benefit from an 8-9 ft surfboard instead.

No.9

O'Shea
7'10 Epoxy Minimal Surfboard

7'10 Epoxy Minimal Surfboard 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
7'10 Epoxy Minimal Surfboard 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
7'10 Epoxy Minimal Surfboard 3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£439.00
High Mid
Reference price
£439.00
High Mid

An Epoxy Minimal With Bag and Leash Included

This epoxy surfboard from O'Shea is going to suit the dedicated beginner. The light epoxy construction gives the surfboard good performance capabilities, while its length of 7'10" is a suitable size for dedicated beginners of 70 kg or less. This makes it a little more niche as it's not suited for everyone.  


The surfboard comes equipped with plastic fins, giving it good response and enabled progression through turning. It also comes with a leash and surfboard bag which is a huge win. The reinforced bamboo design gives the board added strength and completes the retro surfboard look.

Summary

We are certain that after reading through our guide and recommendations, you're clued up and ready to buy your very own surfboard – whether it's one for the whole family to enjoy or it's the chosen surfboard destined to lead you down a lifelong journey of mastering the waves. Either way, we hope you found what you were looking for and it will serve you well in the ocean's playground for many years to come. 


Author: Connor Macanally

Top 5 Surfboards for Beginners

No. 1: Torq8'6" Foam Longboard

No. 2: OspreySoft Foam Surfboard

No. 3: Torq8 ft Epoxy Longboard

No. 4: Olaian7ft Foam Surfboard

No. 5: Circle One8ft Beginner Surfboard SSR

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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