Bodyboard Size Guide
"What size bodyboard do I need?" is one of the questions we get asked most in the shop. Here's how we size people at Bathsheba Surf in Perranporth.
The quick answer
Stand the board on its tail next to you: the nose should come up to about your belly button. For most average-sized adults that means a 42" board. Bigger, heavier riders usually want a 44", 45", 46" or 48", ideally with stringers and a stronger core for the extra strength.
Bodyboard size chart
| Board length | Rider height | Rider weight |
|---|---|---|
| Under 34" | Under 122cm (4ft) | Under 27kg |
| 34"–36" | 122–137cm (4ft–4ft 6in) | Up to about 36kg |
| 36"–38" | 137–157cm (4ft 6in–5ft 2in) | About 30–50kg |
| 39"–40" | 157–168cm (5ft 2in–5ft 6in) | About 50–64kg |
| 41"–42" | 168–183cm (5ft 6in–6ft) | About 57–82kg |
| 43"–44" | 183–193cm (6ft–6ft 4in) | About 77–113kg |
| 45"–48" | 193cm+ (6ft 4in+), or heavier builds | 90kg+ – look for stringers and a strong core |
It's a guide, not a rule – build, ability and the waves you ride all make a difference.
Tips for getting it right
- Between sizes? Go by weight. Weight decides how much float you need, so a tall, light rider may suit a shorter board than their height suggests.
- Bigger riders: above about 86kg, a longer, higher-volume board with one or more stringers will float you better and keep its shape for longer.
- Whitewater and no fins: if you'll mainly be catching broken waves near the beach without fins, going a little longer than belly-button height gives you more float and makes it easier to catch waves.
- Kids: if they wear fins, choose a board that fits them now rather than one to grow into – a board that's too big is hard to control. For splashing about in the whitewater, a bit bigger is fine.
Still not sure?
Pop into the shop in Perranporth and we'll stand a few boards up next to you, or get in touch and tell us your height and weight.