If you’re in a hurry and just want to find out what the best bodyboard for beginners is, then we recommend the GYN Trade Legendary Pro X Bodyboard.
Bodyboarding or as some call it…boogie boarding is a great way to introduce kids or even adults to riding the waves at the beach. However, how do you know which bodyboard to buy? Do you buy the cheap $20 board that sells at your local Walmart or do you spring for something a little more expensive?
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With a lot of great products on the market, choosing the right bodyboard for you might be a tough chore since you’re new to the game. Hopefully, after taking a look at the following options, you should find the perfect match.
In a Hurry? Here’s Our Top 3 Picks…
Reviews: Best Bodyboards for Beginners
GYN Trade Legendary Pro X Bodyboard
- Legendary Bodyboards are Heat Sealed, not glued. The heat sealing process bonds the layers together and provides a stronger stiffer board that prevent to bubble.
- Lightweight hard slick bottom bodyboard with detachable wrist retention leash. Atte: The leash is located at the bottom of the board and when the plastic wrap is remove the leash can be easily missed! Picture with the leash location included on every variation!
- With Legendary bodyboard you will enjoy the waves and have years of fun on the water.
- This quality Heat Sealed bodyboard is designed for beginners and more experienced boarders. This model features a crescent tail, slick hard bottom and sturdy construction for serious waves.
- Size 33'' - 16''Wide and 2'' Thick: 33 inch for riders heights 3-5' up to 150lb . Size 42'' - 22''Wide and 2 1/3'' Thick: 42 Inch for riders heights 5.5- 6.2' up to 220lb.
We’ll start our list with this cool bodyboard by GYN Trade. Besides its premium manufacturing and high-quality materials, it can be one of the best choices for a beginner. We’ll help you understand why that’s the case.
For starters, it’s heat-sealed, which is the more convenient alternative for being glued. This way, it can endure more wear and tear that’s only the natural result of outdoor weather. Not to mention that, after weeks of using it in the water, the glue might peel away from the board.
The next thing to admire about this product is that its sleek and lightweight design should give you the chance to body surf smoothly. Also, at the bottom of the board, you’ll notice that there’s a wrist leash for an extra level of stability.
As a beginner, you can count on this leash at first until you get a hang of using the bodyboard. Once you do, you can easily detach the leash.
The good news is that this bodyboard should be able to keep up with you even after mastering bodyboarding. Its sturdy build, crescent tail, and hard bottom make it an incredible choice for both beginners and pros alike.
Last but not least, you might be thrilled to know that it’s available in two size options. The first is suitable for riders of 3’5 in height and up to 150 lbs of weight. The second one should work great for people who are 5’5-6’2 tall and up to 220 lbs in weight.
If you’re looking for a reliable bodyboard for a beginner, whether they’re a kid or an adult, you might want to consider this one.
Pros
- Lightweight and solid design
- Long-lasting
- Heat-sealed
- Includes a wrist leash
- Moderately-priced
Cons
- Might produce bubbles if you leave it under the sun for too long
662 Ardian Bodyboard
- High-grade EPS foam core
- Crosslink top deck for durability
- High-density slick bottom for faster speeds
- Crescent tail offers more rider comfort
- Wrist leash included
Another product that might draw the attention of bodyboarding beginners is this 662 Ardian bodyboard. It’ll cost you more than our previous pick, but it might be your headstart to a cool beach adventure.
It only weighs 3.8 lbs, so carrying it from and to your car should be effortless. Also, this enables you to body surf without getting hung back, which could be a problem with other, heavier boards.
In terms of durability, the Ardian bodyboard should have you covered. Its core is made of EPS foam, it comes with a crosslink top deck, and its bottom is of high-density material. Let’s not forget that its unique shape should make it an awesome choice for going fast on the waves.
This board also includes a wrist leash to aid you on your journey to perfecting your body surfing skills. Standing out in the color red, it should grasp the attention of all your friends.
The only thing we’re not exactly fans of regarding this board is that it comes in one size. It’s available in 39 inches, which should be convenient for most adults but isn’t suitable for the use of children.
Still, according to many reviewers, the Ardian bodyboard has proven to be an excellent product to purchase.
Pros
- Sturdy build
- Lightweight materials
- Wrist straps included
- Sleek design
- Moderately-priced
Cons
- Only available in one size
- The wrist straps might come off after heavy use
Goplus Super Lightweight Bodyboard
- 【Bring You Great Surfing Experience】With stylish design and bright colors, this body board allows you to enjoy exciting surfing experience in ocean, river, swimming pool and water park. It can help you get rid of the irritability caused by the hot summer, fully wake up your energy and motivate your whole body.
- 【Dynamic Design】The body board has 60/40 rails, rear channels, and a crescent tail, which are suitable for all kinds of waves. It is not only suitable for experienced surfers, but also for beginners because it is easy to control and can increase your speed and strength.
- 【Durable and Premium Materials】Covered with XPE deck, this body board is waterproof and has good impact resistance. The HDPE slick bottom adds stiffness and increases speed, projection and ideal flexibility. And due to the durable EPS core, it will not break or deform easily.
- 【Includes Leash with Wristband】The wristband can be put on the wrist or ankle to prevent the surfboard from being lost. The scientifically designed leash position provides a good traction experience that enhances safety during surfing. You can freely adjust the tightness of the wristband for maximum comfort.
- 【Lightweight and Superior Buoyancy: The light weight makes it easy to carry, so you can take it wherever you go. Strong buoyancy and sturdy construction give the body board a strong load-bearing capacity. It is not easily deformed and faded and can be used for a long time.
This Goplus board is the number 1 best seller in the bodyboards category. Frankly, this board has earned this spot due to its incredible features as well as its reasonable price.
What makes it a great option for beginners is that its dynamic design makes it easy to control for inexperienced surfers. This way, you can take it to a waterpark, the beach, or even the swimming pool. It should work beautifully with any type of waves, natural or artificial.
Let’s talk about the materials that make it up. The core is durable EPS foam to keep it upright for as long as possible. In addition, it’s covered with an XPE deck, which is waterproof and offers great impact resistance. Not to mention that it’s non-toxic.
The Goplus board comes with an adjustable wristband to enhance safety and control. You can also put it around your ankle if you’d prefer.
It’s available in the sizes 37 and 41 inches and works for people that weigh up to 122 and 188 lbs in that order. Even though these specs mean that this bodyboard isn’t suitable for kids under 12 years of age, older kids and teens might find a liking to it.
Combining a relatively affordable price and impressive performance, we suggest that you give this board a shot.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great buoyancy
- Beginner-friendly design
- Comes in 4 unique color options
- Wristband included
- Mid-tier price
Cons
- Might develop some bubbles after a long period of use
BPS Storm Bodyboard
- ABOUT US - Helping everyone to 'get out and do’ is the reason Barrel Point Surf exists. Created by a Kiwi surfer, and caring Dad who loves helping others get out onto and into the water, we’re a Mom & Pop business that began with us building surfboards in our garage. Now we are all about helping make water sports accessible, wherever you are in the world. Say yes to barrels, not barriers.
- THE PRODUCT – The BPS "Storm" Bodyboard is a super light board with a slick, high-speed surface, an EPS core for buoyancy, bottom rear channels, and a crescent tail for top performance. Perfect for use in all wave conditions, the “Storm” Bodyboard is built for speed, perfect balance, and maneuverability.
- MORE ABOUT THE PRODUCT – The slick, hard-wearing HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) bottom amplifies the board’s performance for the ultimate ride. The HDPE not only adds strength but also provides a resistance-free ride for improved speed and maneuverability. The board comes with a coiled leash to stop you from losing your board, and fin tethers to make sure you don't lose your swim fins in the waves. They are placed at the bottom, wrapped in a tight bundle underneath the plastic wrapping.
- HERE TO HELP – To help you figure out which size will fit you best, check out the size charts on the product photos and additional sizing information in the description. Your purchase will also come with an easy-to-follow set of instructions so that you know the best way to use and look after your gear. If you have any questions or concerns, our responsive team is just a message away and is happy to help.
- GUARANTEE – All Barrel Point Surf products come with a full 12-month product guarantee from the date of purchase. If you’re not 100% satisfied with your purchase, or if you find a fault in the product, we will simply replace or refund it (the choice is yours). Our products are stored and shipped (quickly and reliably) to you by Amazon in the US. Thanks for supporting our small family business! As water lovers ourselves, we know and use our products – and we stand behind them 100%.
If you’re aiming for a product of even higher quality, and therefore higher cost, you might like the BPS Storm bodyboard. Offering you an array of boards with various sizes, every family member should find their favorite from this collection.
These lightweight boards can transform a normal summer into one filled with excitement. Made from durable materials and available in a resistance-free design, they can increase your speed on the waves a great deal.
Each one of these bodyboards comes with a slick bottom, EPS core, rear channels, and a crescent tail. See, these don’t only add grades to its performance in the water, but they should also grant you comfort and stability as you surf.
In addition to that, you’ll find a wrist leash and two fin savers attached to each board. This way, you won’t lose your board to the waves, nor your swim fins, for that matter.
As if all this greatness isn’t enough, there seems to be another point that many users loved. With this board, you’ll get a 12-month guarantee on any defects. And, check this out, you can ask for a replacement or a refund if you aren’t completely satisfied with the product.
With their on-point performance and outstanding customer service, buying one of these boards can be a good investment.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Lightweight materials
- Equipped with a coiled wrist leash and two fin tethers
- Improved speed and buoyancy
- Good customer service
- 12-month warranty
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Can easily be blown away by the beach air due to its low weight
Wave Weapon Bodyboard
- THE COMPANY - Helping everyone to ‘get out and do’ is the reason Surf and Snow Warehouse exists. Created by a Kiwi surfer and caring Dad who loves helping others get out onto and into the water, we’re a Mom & Pop business that began with us building surfboards in our garage. Now we are all about helping make water sports accessible, wherever you are in the world.
- THE PRODUCT - Own the Wave 'Wave Weapon' Bodyboard is a must on any water escapade! Comes with a super lightweight Premium coiled bodyboard leash, and a set of fin tethers to secure your swim fins while riding on the waves. The Own the Wave Premium coiled leash will keep your board close and attached to you at all times. No worries and more fun while catching some waves!
- MORE ABOUT THE PRODUCT - The HDPE Slick bottom intensifies the performance driven by the board. Not only it adds strength, but also makes the bodyboard a resistance-free riding for improved speed and maneuverability. Its EPS core, bottom rear channels is for great execution and a crescent tail to enhance it more. Comes with 1 bodyboard, 1 leash, and 2 fin savers. Take note that the leash and fin savers are at the bottom of the board wrapped in a tight bundle underneath the plastic wrapping.
- HERE TO HELP - Once you purchase any of these, an easy-to-follow E-Guide with instructions and photos on how to use and look after your product will be sent to you via email. You may also head over to the Product Guides and Documents section on this page to view or download the E-Guide if you happen to miss it in your email. Should you have any questions about our skimboards, don't hesitate to write us an email and we'll respond to you right away.
- GUARANTEE - All 'Surf and Snow Warehouse' items are fully guaranteed for 12 months from the date of purchase. We can have it either refunded or replaced (you choose!) should you encounter any quality issues or you're not 100% satisfied with your purchase. This product is also stored and shipped (quickly and reliably) to you by Amazon in the US. Thanks for supporting our small family business! We know our products, use our products, and stand behind them 100%.
The last product on our list is this eye-catching bodyboard by Own the Wave. Let’s find out how its characteristics make it a favorite of many.
First, you should know that it’s very light, giving you an advantage over those stubborn waves no matter the place. You can take it to the beach, waterpark, or simply anywhere you can body surf.
Second, we like the premium materials that were used to make this beauty. Consisting of an EPS core and HDPE bottom, this board offers you both durability and flexibility to ride the waves.
Just like our previous recommendation, it features a coiled wrist leash and two fin tethers to ensure your safety. It also ends with a crescent tail to match the contours of your body and give you maximum comfort.
In addition, you’ll find an instructions guide with descriptive pictures on how to install these attachments. You should also find directions on how to use the bodyboard and best take care of it for a longer lifetime.
If you want a board that has a balanced mixture of strength, maneuverability, and cool designs, you can check this one out.
Pros
- Top-quality materials and manufacturing
- Great customer service
- Sleek and buoyant design
- Informative user’s guide
- Appealing designs and colors
- Available in 3 different sizes
Cons
- The glue might come off after a while of use
- Might wear out if left out in the sun for a long time
How to Choose the Right Bodyboard for You
Now, that you’re aware of the options in the market, it’s time to pick your favorite. Still, with all these noteworthy bodyboards on display, it might be hard for you to focus on one product before another one snags your attention.
For that reason, we’ve put together this buying guide to help you make up your mind by focusing on a few key factors.
Let’s dive in!
Size
Making sure that you get the dimensions of your board right is the first step of your journey. See, if you’re not accurate when it comes to the size, things might become troublesome.
For example, a board that’s bigger than your recommended dimensions will be hard for you to control. As a beginner, that’s the last thing you need.
If it’s too small, then you’ll have to position yourself too low on its surface. Again, this is far from convenient and might even cause injuries.
For this reason, you’ll have to look for a bodyboard that matches your height and weight. Fortunately, all the manufacturers provide size charts to help you pick the right size for your body.
Generally speaking, a 37-inch board should be suitable for someone who’s under 5 feet of height. Bigger boards, say about 41 inches in length, work better for people from 5’7’’ to 6’.
Materials and Durability
The second most important factor that you should keep in mind is how sturdy a board’s build is. You can determine this based on the materials it’s made of.
You’ll find that a lot of bodyboards are reinforced with EPS foam cores to keep them from bending or breaking. Also, it’s even better if they’re made of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) foam for a higher level of durability.
To get the best of both worlds, you can choose a board that uses a mix of both materials. While it might cost you more, it should last you quite a while.
Speaking of materials, you’ll want to make sure that they’re lightweight for your benefit. This way, it’ll be easier for you to carry it on the beach. Also, the lighter your board is, the faster you should go on the waves.
Accessories
There are a few extra features to make your body surfing easier. It’s best that you look for a board that’s equipped with an adjustable wristband.
It can help you maintain your balance on the board and should keep it from wandering on its own with the current. The best thing about these straps is that you can detach them if you feel like you’re doing fine on your own.
Some bodyboards also come with tethers at the bottom for swim fins if you’re a fan of them. Again, they should do a good job of protecting your precious fins from getting lost.
Other Design Considerations
There are other elements that you need to pay attention to. These can up your game as a beginner and make your experience a piece of cake.
Thickness
Most boards are 50mm thick, but as a beginner, you should aim for a board of more thickness. This will allow you to have more control of your bodyboard until you develop a surfing technique of your own.
After that, you can upgrade to another, thicker board to enjoy faster speeds.
Tail Shape
Go for a crescent tail shape to maintain stability and comfort. Since you’re still new to bodyboarding, these two factors should be your top priority.
As you become more of an experienced rider, you can opt for a bat-tailed board to enhance velocity.
Wide Point
The last option we’d like to discuss is the board’s wide point. You’ll want it to be closer to the front for a more stable ride on the waves.
It also gives you a fine degree of control.
Conclusion
Bodyboarding is a great way to spend time with your family at the beach! Best of all, it’s an activity that kids and adults can enjoy even if they are complete beginners.
With that being said, having a good board can make things that much more fun!
While we selected the GYN Trade Legendary Pro X Bodyboard as the best bodyboard for beginners, you really can’t go wrong with any of the boogie boards on our list.
So choose the bodyboard that best fits your needs and get out on the water!