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What To Consider When Picking A Skimboard Size
Before selecting a skimboard for yourself, you should understand that each skimboard is tailored to a certain weight and experience level. You need to pick the right skimboard size to enjoy skimboarding to the fullest. Different skimboards will offer different levels of control and maneuverability. The below chart gives a general guide for your skimboard selection:
| Rider Weight (kg) | Skimboard Size | Approx. Skimboard Dimensions (in) |
|---|---|---|
| < 35 | XXS | 45.00” x 20.00” |
| 35-45 | XS | 50.00” x 19.25” |
| 45-65 | S | 51.00” x 19.75” |
| 55-70 | M | 52.00” x 20.00” |
| 65-80 | ML | 52.25” x 20.25” |
| 70-90 | L | 52.50” x 20.50” |
| 80-100 | XL | 53.00” x 20.75” |
| 90-110 | XXL | 54.00” x 21.50” |
Skimboard Selection Factors
Shape
A skimboard’s thickness is a useful indicator of its behavior. The thicker a skimboard is, the better it floats and the less responsive it is. You are more likely to fall in the water with a thin skimboard, but you can move around much easier.
There are four skimboard rocker types: hybrid rockers, continuous, three-stage, and five-stage. Other skimboard models may have lots of rockers, which makes them slow and easy for the wind to blow. Rockers let pinboard riders hit more advanced tricks with more ease but maybe too much for rookie riders.
Wider skimboards are better for flatland skimboarders, while skimboards with huge tails and noses can spin quicker and will fly through obstacles and small waves. The skimboard world is varied, so make sure to check the shape and size charts of each skimboard manufacturer.
Size
As a general rule, larger skimboards are more maneuverable than smaller ones but can reach much higher speeds. Small boards are on the opposite side of the spectrum, allowing you to turn on a hair but not to reach as high speeds.
If you don’t care about either speed or maneuverability, then you should just pick the skimboard that is closest to chest height. In general, that’s a length that you should be able to handle without too much difficulty.
Weight
The weight of a skimboard also determines how well the skimboard will perform. Heavier skimboards are great for beginners because they offer more stability. If you are a more experienced rider, then you may want to consider a lighter skimboard so that you can perform tricks more easily.
Cost
The cost of a skimboard will also be a factor in your decision. If you are just starting, you may want to consider a cheaper skimboard so that you don’t have to spend too much money. However, if you are more experienced, you may want to invest in a more expensive skimboard for your specific use case.
If you aren’t ready to buy a skimboard, most local watersport clubs or surf shops give you lots of skimboard rent options. Renting lets you try skimboarding out for yourself without having to spend too much money.
Material
Skimboards can be made out of different materials such as wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber, or foam. Each skimboard material has skimboard advantages and disadvantages that you should take into account.
Wood skimboards are the classic boards that were used in the early days of skimboarding. Nowadays, they aren’t used as much because of the adverse effects on the environment. Wood skimboards are also heavier than other boards and can be more difficult to control.
Fiberglass skimboards are the most popular type of skimboard. They are lightweight and offer good maneuverability. Fiberglass skimboards are also durable, which is why they are a good choice for beginners.
Carbon fiber skimboards are the lightest type of skimboard, which makes them great for tricks. They are also the most expensive type of skimboard.
Foam skimboards are the cheapest and most beginner-friendly type of skimboard. They are made out of foam and are very buoyant. Foam skimboards are also very light, making them easy to control for beginners.