Picking A Board

Texas is very different from most surf spots, so naturally it has an effect over which board you choose. 

Now the first temptation for people is to buy a short board either because it's what they rode before they came to Texas or they hear other people telling them to get a short board because "It turns better." We're not going to say it's impossible to ride a shortboard in Texas it's just more difficult because our surf isn't very powerful like the Pacific ocean swells.  It usually doesn't get bigger than waist-chest high and clean on the upper coast with bigger more powerful waves the further south you go. Where on the Texas coast you'll be riding most and your ability level will be the key factors.


We recommend going to reputable local surf shops or shapers and that you be honest with the staff about your ability.

If your looking for your first board purchase look for a longboard. Even though they don't turn as fast they catch more waves because of the extra flotation. This also works to your advantage because the better it floats the easier it is to paddle which can save you a lot of energy. Flotation is a big plus for any board to function better in our mushier surf.

If you have purchased a board before and even surfed outside of Texas we still recommend owning a longboard to ride the most days, but if you really want to buy a shortboard go ahead and get one, just remember it could likely become a secondary board that only gets used when the conditions are suitable.  

Regardless of your situation pick a board with a relatively thick and wide tail. Tail volume is important because it's where the wave will make contact and any extra flotation will make it easier to catch the wave. Another advantage to more volume besides catching the wave easier is that you can get in the wave earlier and get more ride time for your effort.

So that's the end of Part 1! Check out our Links Page for other helpful sites including surf cams, swell forecasts, and more!