About the POP OUT board..... If you're new to the sport but keen to start surfing then you'll need a 'high volume' board. These boards are long, wide and thick.

By Pop-Out, we’re referring to any surfboard that is not shaped. In one way or another, it is popped-out of a mold that duplicates hundreds, thousands, maybe millions of the exact same shape. They are solid and hard to damage, pick up waves easily and can take you from complete novice to basic level of surfing. Bic, NSP and South Point are the top manufacturers of pop out surfboards.

Although robust and hard wearing they tend to be a lot heavier than a custom board (made from foam and fibre glass). This can cause problems with smaller people trying to surf as they'll physically struggle with these weightier boards.. Some times a 'foam and fibreglass' board is the solution. However you'll notice that the 'plastic' boards tend to be cheaper.

What Size should I start on?....Pop out boards are usually between 7'0" and 9'6" long and everyone should find a start up board somewhere in between. The easiest way to look at it, is to imagine that a 7'6" is ideal for joe average; Someone thats fairly fit, between 20 and 30, surfing a few times a month and most of the year. If you're larger than 'Joe' then you need to go larger. If you're smaller then.....well you get the picture. Going for something towards a 9'6" is optional if you're riding particularly small waves and are interested in longboarding, as opposed to shortboarding.

Tips....when looking for a board and if you're unsure, then perhaps seek professional advice first. A reputable Surf Shop that sells and hires surfboards is your best bet. They'll certainly guide you in the right direction. Primarily 'price' will dictate what you buy. New molded boards are about £180 - £280 and used are usually about £80- £200.