Longboard
Once at the leading edge of surfboard design, the Long board has aged well over the decades and still remains a popular shape in the world of surfing. At 9 feet or longer, there's clearly enough volume for almost anyone to stand up without the need of much more than a ripple of a wave. And with many parts for the world struggling for quality year round surf conditions, the *Malibu* board has proven to be the number one choice of board for many surfers. On a basic level, the boards are a great option to try surfing for the first time - especially in weaker conditions. On an intermediate level - having a board in your quiver often offers the chance to ride more often than you usually would. Many shortboarders - are faced with countless knee-waist waves in summer of which wouldn't be surfable without a rather large plank tucked away for such times. Longboarding also offers a totally different surfing style and technique to that of shortboarding as the focus remains on walking the board, rather than top to bottom surfing on a shorter board. Despite the focus largely on softer conditions, it's not to say there aren't high performance boards available too.
Pros
- Ideal for learning to surf.
- Catches waves easily.
- Performs well in weak, flat faced, sloppy surf.
- Thicker boards generally don't snap as easily.
- Gets you in the surf in marginal conditions.
- Still rides well in onshore conditions.
- Ideal for those looking to surf just a small number of times each year.
- Excellent resale value.
Cons
- Hard to duck dive.
- Not suited for hollow waves.
- Hard to travel with.
- Different riding technique to shortboarding.
Ability: Beginners +
Volume: Large
Size range: 9'0" - 12'0"
Optimal riding conditions: Generally small surf conditions.
Cost New: $400-$1300 (average price $500-$800)
Cost Used: $250-$650