Why Surfboard Volume Matters

The volume of your board can have a huge impact on your overall surfing experience, affecting how you ride, paddle, and the control you have on the wave. The right volume will help to maintain stability in the water – especially important for beginners who need more room to make mistakes.

When it comes to paddling, volume plays a big role. A higher-volume board makes paddling much easier, is less tiring, and conserves energy, versus lower-volume boards which require more effort to paddle.

Maneuverability is also influenced by the volume of your board. Generally speaking, a higher volume will make the board harder to turn and control. The correct volume for you depends on your skill level as well as the conditions you are surfing!

How To Calculate Surfboard Volume

The volume of your board is often printed on the board or is available when you buy it. But if you need to calculate it yourself, you just need a few simple measurements and a basic formula. You must measure your board’s length, width, and thickness in inches, and the formula to calculate volume is Length x Width x Thickness ÷ 1728.

For example, if your board is 72 inches long, 20 inches wide, and 2.5 inches thick, the calculation would be:

72 x 20 x 2.5 ÷ 1728 = 2.08 cubic feet or approximately 59 litres.

When using any tool or formula, double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy. Factors like the shape and type of board can also affect the exact volume, so you can always consult a surfboard shaper or expert at your local surf shop who can offer additional insights specific to your board type.

Choosing The Right Surfboard Volume

Choosing the right surfboard volume depends on several factors. First, consider your weight – heavier surfers will need more volume to keep the board buoyant. Next, think about your skill level. Beginners will benefit from higher volume boards which will provide more stability and room to make mistakes whilst they learn, while experienced surfers might prefer lower volume for added manoeuvrability.

Wave types also play a role. Small, weak waves are easier to catch with a high-volume board, and in contrast, larger, more powerful waves might be better suited to a lower volume. Balancing volume with other board characteristics like shape and size is important!

Here are some general volume ranges for different types of surfboards:
– Shortboards: 25-35 litres
– Longboards: 60-100 litres
– Fish boards: 30-50 litres

These ranges can vary based on personal preference and specific conditions. Always try to find a balance that works for you – checking in with a surf shop or shaper can help you make the right choice!

Common Mistake In Volume Calculation

Many surfers make mistakes when calculating or choosing their surfboard volume – be careful of some of the following common problems:

1: Ignoring Weight and Skill Level
– Solution: Always factor in your weight and experience. Heavier surfers need more volume; beginners should start with a higher volume for stability.

2: Not Considering Wave Conditions
– Solution: Match your board’s volume to the typical waves you’ll surf. Small, weak waves generally need more volume, while big waves require less. Talk to your local shop or shaper for tips and advice on what boards perform best in your local conditions!

3: Using Incorrect Measurements
– Solution: If the board you’re buying doesn’t list its volume – or you’re buying something second-hand – double-check measurements for length, width, and thickness. Even minor errors can lead to incorrect volume calculations.