Softboard Size Guide for Beginners
"What size surfboard should I learn on?" Here's the advice we give in the shop at Bathsheba Surf, Perranporth, for anyone buying their first foam surfboard (softboard).
The quick answer
For an average-sized adult man, an 8ft softboard is what we recommend for learning – it's what most surf schools use. A lighter, smaller woman will usually get on well with a 7'6". For kids, a 6ft board suits smaller, lighter children, and a 7ft suits bigger kids.
Why volume matters
Volume, measured in litres, is how much foam a board has – and so how well it floats you. More volume makes a board more stable and easier to paddle, which means catching more waves and standing up sooner. Length is only part of it: a wider, thicker board has more volume than a narrow one of the same length.
A good rule of thumb for beginners is at least 0.8–1 litre of volume for every kilo you weigh. So a 75kg beginner wants roughly 60–75 litres or more.
Softboard size chart
| Rider | Length | Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Smaller, lighter children | 6'0" | About 40–50 litres |
| Bigger kids and young teens | 7'0" | About 50–65 litres |
| Lighter, smaller adults (about 50–70kg) | 7'6" | About 55–70 litres |
| Average-sized adults (about 70–90kg) | 8'0" | About 70–90 litres |
| Bigger, heavier adults (90kg+) | 8'0" extra-wide, 8'6" or 9'0" | 90 litres or more |
It's a guide, not a rule – fitness, how often you'll surf and the waves you'll be riding all make a difference.
Tips for getting it right
- If in doubt, go bigger. Too little volume is the most common beginner mistake – a board that's too small is wobbly and slow to paddle, and makes learning much harder.
- Small summer waves: Cornish summer surf is often small and soft, and more volume helps you catch it.
- Surfing a lot? If you'll be in the water regularly and want to progress, you can go towards the lower end of the volume range sooner. If you're mainly surfing on holiday, stay at the higher end.
- Kids: a softboard is the way to go – soft rails and fins don't hurt, and the extra float builds confidence. Extra length adds stability but makes the board harder to turn and carry, so don't go too big.
- Wax it: most softboards still need wax on the deck for grip.
Try before you buy
Not sure which size suits you? Our surf hire includes softboards from 6'6" to 9'0", so you can try a size before you buy. Or pop into the shop in Perranporth and we'll help you choose – tell us your height, weight and how often you'll be surfing.