Dear Betty,
I am new to surfing and wonder what kind of surfboard to buy? How much do they cost? And can I buy one used?
—Boardless in the South Bay, CA
Dear Terri,
Let me stress that you want to begin on a longboard, and by long we are talking 8 or 9 feet. If you are 12 years old, you can get away with a shortboard, but if you're a grown-up (in body, if not in mind), you will want to learn on a big 'ol beater longboard (even if you aspire to eventually become a shortboarder). It's as simple as this: A longboards is more stable and is easier to paddle. You want your board as big and floaty as possible until you have mastered the art of surfing (and it can take some time before you master it!). It's only after only you really know what you're doing that you should transition down to something smaller. If you have your eye on the board with the pretty hibiscus in the shop, but it is a 6'2"—wait—please. You will only get frustrated trying to learn on a board like this.
A brand new longboard will cost you anywhere from $400 to $700. It's an investment, but after you purchase your surfboard and wetsuit, surfing is virtually free! But you don't need to start with a new board. I absolutely endorse the idea of looking into a used board that can run you anywhere from $150 to $500; price is determined by the board's condition. When looking, make sure to see the board in person before you pay. Run your hands over it to check for dings or cracks (look for one without too many) and pressure marks (which are okay). Dings can be repaired for about $25 each, so keep that in mind if you see what seems like a steal that has multiple cracks. Look on Craig's List or go into surf shops and check out the "used" selection. Betty doesn't recommend Ebay or buying one from a distance that requires shipping of a board—this will certainly be costly and your board will probably get damaged in transport.
Enjoy the ride,
Betty
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