Bodyboards are ridden mainly when lying on the tummy and/or stomach so the size of the board isn't so critical. However smaller bodyboards for bodyboarding or body boarding do suit smaller riders and visa-versa. Nevertheless there are well over 100 different models to choose, especially if you've just gone into a shop for a bodyboard - anything will do really. So read the following which describes the major differences between the most common types of bodyboarding construction. Its also a good idea to know what sort of surf you want to bodyboard in - if you're learning it probably pays to start off on something small and cheap to get the hang of things before moving up a step or two.
Polystyrene:
These are the cheapest and lightest boards available for bodyboarding and are great for kids or adults as first-time bodyboards. The new models now have improved shapes to suit intermediate bodyboarders as well. The new model polystyrene bodyboards have a material covering or vinyl coverings which improve performance and durability but they won't last as long as EVA boards if treated roughly. Most polystyrene bodyboards are Australian made.
EVA Foam:
This is the same material from which most thongs are made. Solid EVA foam bodyboards are one of the most durable types of construction and are ideal for beginners that like bodyboarding. EVA boards tend to flex or bend more in larger waves or in hard turns so advancing riders should look at getting a stiffer board. Some solid EVA foam boards are now available with a smooth 'slick bottom' which greatly improves stiffness and performance but at a price.
Polyethylene Foam:
One of the most durable and lightweight foams, polyethelene bodyboards can be solid foam, or have a 'slick bottom' laminated to them. They can also be made with internal stiffeners to reduce flexing. Most polyethelene boards will tend to hold some moisture in their outer surface after use. So don't worry, this is normal.
Combined Foam Boards:
The majority of top model bodyboards use a combination of materials. A dense EVA rail and deck skin with a Polyethylene core gives good grip and durability while still providing light weight and shape memory.The smooth 'slick bottoms' can be made of a hard or soft plastic, the choice depends on personal preference.(Fancy technical names are often used to describe different slick bottoms or core materials) Obviously there is a lot more work and time involved in making a bodyboard with a combination of materials than producing a solid foam board, this is one of the main reasons why the prices differ so much from a solid foam board to a 'top-of-the-line' bodyboard.
Accessories:
Once you have chosen a bodyboard the only other things you may need (apart from a wetsuit) are a pair of flippers, a wrist leash or legrope and perhaps a cover. when you get these items you wil be set to go body boarding !
Flippers:
When trying on flippers make sure they have an 'open heel' to let the water pass through the strap ('closed heel' flippers tend to get pulled off more easily in the surf). The blade area of a surfing flipper should be short and stiff to enable rapid kicking in short bursts for catching waves. You may find some brands of flipper more comfortable than others, as flippers last a long time it may be wise to spend a little extra if it means getting a good fit. (Lycra or thin neoprene flipper socks can greatly improve comfort). Because even good fitting flippers can be pulled off by the power of the surf, flipper grippers virtually eliminate the chances of losing your flippers and are a good investment for around $10.
Wrist Leashes:
These often come with most cheaper boards but are not supplied on more expensive boards as some riders prefer to have a leash on the left or right, or a legrope. Some riders don't use a leash at all. The most common type of leash is the coiled wrist leash. Neoprene padding on the wrist strap is a good idea for comfort.
Bodyboard Covers:
Covers for bodyboards range from basic towelling to heavy duty padded nylon. A cover with a large outer pocket and backpack straps is a good idea if you're riding a bike or walking a long way to get surf. Buy the cover that best suits your needs and budget.
Before you part with your hard earned dollars take the time to think over the various choices available to you. Bodyboarding is not a team sport so above all choose the equipment that you will be happy with. Often your choice can be swayed by peer group pressure or advertising hype. Some pushy salespeople will even bad mouth brands they haven't got to try and make you buy one they have.
Bodyboarding and Surfing
for the Beginner What Gear Will I Need?
Equipment could be just a surfboard and board shorts
or could include a wetsuit. Wherever you surf, booties
are a good idea for foot protection. And no matter
how much clothing you wear, you'll always be attached
to your board using a bodyboard leash. Trunks or Board Shorts
Beyond style, surf shorts are designed for function.
Fast-drying nylon with Velcro closures and, usually,
a lace-up "button," surf shorts stay on
through the heaviest pounding. A strong wave can rip
a swimsuit right off! Rash guards
Thin, form-fitting shirts, rash guards protect the
skin from the seams of a wetsuit. Without a wetsuit,
they protect the skin from the sand a waxed board
accumulates and from the sun's rays. A rash guard
can be handy in warm-water surfing areas, where sunscreen
may be outlasted by conditions. Wetsuits
A must as you get further from the equator, choose
the right thickness for the water and season you surf
in. This could mean a 2-millimeter short for hot summer
days in Santa Cruz and a 4-millimeter full suit for
round in British Columbia. Booties
Booties protect against cold and injury. Buy them
snug, and consider a model with a "sleeve"
inside for your big toe, or one that actually has
a split toe design; like a sandal with a toe loop,
these booties will anchor your foot and give you better
sensitivity on the body boarding.
Even in warm water, booties protect against reefs,
rocks, and shells. Coral cuts can lead to serious
infections, and places without coral -- even some
of the most beautiful beaches of California -- can
still have very high bacteria and virus levels in
the water. A Few Words About Hypothermia
Hypothermia is always a risk outdoors, especially
in water. In California, water temperatures are 55
degrees and under, and even tropical waters are 15
to 20 degrees lower than normal body temperature.
A rash guard offers wonderful protection against the
Fiji sun, but wet nylon can act as a "radiator,"
speeding the rate at which heat is vented from the
body. So monitor your own condition, and get out of
the water before you feel cold. bodyboard and bodyboards and bodyboarding
