Bodyboards

Bodyboards

Bodyboards are used to ride waves and are similar to surfboards. In fact, anyone who can swim will find it easy to ride waves on bodyboards. This guide will take you through everything you need to know when shopping for these products.

What size bodyboard should you look for?

A boogie board of the right size will float perfectly. Maneuverability will also be enhanced if you use the right board. A good way to tell that your board has the correct dimensions is to hold it straight and check where the nose is in relation to your body. It should always be within an inch of your navel.

You also need to make sure it is of the right weight, and this must be compared to your actual body weight. For example, a person weighing 65 pounds and measuring 4 feet will find a 35-inch board ideal. If you are unsure of the bodyboard to choose, you can refer to the guiding charts.

What materials are used to make the boards?

The core of the board can be made of many different materials. However, these are the most commonly used:

  • Polyethylene This material is heavy and flexible. This is ideal for bodyboarding in large waves or cold water.
  • Polypropylene This is completely waterproof, lightweight and very high in quality. It is ideal for small waves and warm water.

The slick is the lower part of the board. It is slippery and is designed to add strength to the board. It also increases the power of the user, giving you more speed. Here are the materials used to make this part of the board:

  • HDPP This is typically used on smaller bodyboards or those intended for novices. It is hard and thick.
  • Surlyn This offers better performance and is quite flexible. It is used to make boards for more experienced users.
  • HDPE This is hard and not flexible.
What accessories are used with a bodyboard?
  • Fins These are important if you intend to paddle out long distances. Short fins provide great maneuverability while long ones provide significant power. When buying these products, also consider the material used for construction.
  • Leash This is not an essential accessory but is highly convenient to have. In case the bodyboard falls off, you will not lose it if you have a leash.
  • Wax This should be chosen in consideration of the temperature of the water. Your riding style will determine the section where the wax is applied.
  • Wetsuit This is important to have if you are riding in cold water.
What colors and designs are available for bodyboards?

You can find bodyboards in numerous shades, such as neon yellow, bright orange, and cool blue. You can also show off your beach-lifestyle personality with a bodyboard designed with attractive artwork, from tropical patterns to spirals and waves.