Buying a surfboard requires a responsible approach
Have you decided to buy a surfboard? The first thing you need to determine is what type of board you need. This is easy to figure out by reading our
surfboard guide
. If you’re not a surfing beginner, you can skip this step and continue reading. Let’s assume you already know what board you need—what’s next? One of the main decisions is whether to buy a new surfboard or a second-hand one.
Buying a New Surfboard
Honestly, you don’t need much guidance for this. If you are 100% sure about the board you need, you can buy it anywhere: at a local surf shop, by mail order, or online.
A surf shop is the best place to buy a board, as you can directly see what you’re purchasing.
Carefully inspect the board
Check for defects on the surface or dents that may have appeared during storage or transportation. A new surfboard should be in perfect condition—don’t settle for less!Don’t miss the opportunity to talk to the shop staff and learn more about the board you’re buying.
Inquire about possible discounts. Haggling might be customary in some places. Some smaller shops offer discounts if you pay in cash instead of using a card.
Once again, try to negotiate a discount on accessories, such as a leash, traction pad (grip), or a surfboard bag. Only a very stingy shop won’t throw in a couple of wax bars as a gift with your new surfboard!
Buying by mail or online is a bit different. Here, you won’t have the chance to talk to anyone about the board you’re about to purchase. This can be inconvenient, especially if you’re not sure this is the right board for you. You also won’t be able to easily exchange a problematic board for another one, as you could in a physical store.
However, if there’s no shop nearby and you know the type and size of board you need, this is a good way to buy one.
Carefully check the board dimensions when placing your order to ensure it matches your needs. Also, confirm the delivery time and cost—shipping internationally can be expensive! Look for shops that allow you to return the surfboard if it turns out not to be what you expected. Make sure you’ve read the return policy thoroughly before making a purchase.
Another option for buying a surfboard is to have one custom-made for you, like for famous surfers . If you’re lucky to live close to a place where surfboards are crafted and know a shaper (a surfboard maker), it’s worth talking to them to see what they can offer.
Typically (though not always), this is slightly more expensive than buying in a store. However, the board will meet your exact requirements for all types of waves . An experienced shaper will help you choose the best possible board shape for your needs. Buying a custom-made board is the top choice we recommend.
And it’s best to try it out in Algarve, Portugal or Biarritz, France .
Buying a new board involves significant costs. Could a used board be a better fit for your budget? Let’s explore.
Buying a Used Surfboard
The most cost-effective way to get a surfboard is to buy a surfing board that’s been previously used. This is an excellent way to find the best deal. However, it’s also easy to buy a “lemon” if you’re not careful.
First of all, keep in mind that if a board is unbelievably cheap, there’s probably something wrong with it. You need to be very cautious when buying a used surfboard.
Before starting your search, make sure you know exactly what board type you need. Once you have a clear picture of this, you can start selecting. Here are the main aspects you need to pay attention to:
A used surfboard requires thorough inspection
We recommend looking for boards that have had only one owner and thoroughly checking them before purchase. It’s not a great idea to buy a board online without a guarantee of its good condition.Inspect the board for dents and scratches. Any used board will have dents, but they are usually not a big deal. However, a heavily dented and damaged board is not worth your attention, no matter how cheap it is.
Conduct a thorough inspection. Look for areas discolored by seawater or other signs of water damage, fiberglass peeling, and any other problematic spots.
Pay attention to the fin box areas. If the fins are not removable and show signs of damage, it’s better not to take such a board unless you are prepared to deal with repairs or replacements.
Signs of previous repairs are not necessarily a problem if the repair was done properly. Check that the repaired area is fully sealed and waterproof so water doesn’t get under the top layer. (This can be identified by discoloration.)
If the board you are about to inspect is covered in wax, make sure to completely strip off the wax before checking it. Wax can hide many flaws. If the seller doesn’t let you do this (“I’m planning to surf soon” or other excuses), walk away from the purchase, even if you were planning a trip to Donegal in the next few weeks.
Take your time inspecting the board. It’s very important to thoroughly examine the board before buying it so you don’t end up with worthless junk.
Compare the price of the used board with a new one of the same model - is the bargain worth it? It might be better to spend extra to get a board you can trust.
Now that you’ve completed the inspection, double-check everything again to ensure you didn’t miss anything. If the board has been carefully examined, is in good condition, priced fairly, and above all, is the right type for you, then it’s time to buy it and hit the waves, whether on the beaches of England or in Peniche .
Where to Buy a Used Surfboard
Wishing you a good purchase!
There are three main ways to purchase a second-hand surfboard:
Surf gear store. A surf shop is the best place where you can have enough time and opportunity to thoroughly inspect the board before buying. Additionally, you’ll have somewhere to turn to in case you discover significant issues with the board post-purchase.
Free classifieds. Even if you don’t live near a surf spot, you’d be surprised by the number of ads in free classified newspapers. Buy a local classifieds newspaper, and you’ll have the opportunity to check the board in person at the time of purchase.
Online shopping. There are many places on the internet where you can find the perfect surfboard. Some websites even specialize exclusively in used surfboards. You can browse offers or even post your own ad if you’re looking to buy. If you know English, your search area expands significantly.
