Bodyboard Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Bodyboard

A bodyboard might look like one of the simplest pieces of equipment to take to the beach, but choosing the right one can make a big difference to your experience in the water. Whether you're buying your first bodyboard, upgrading to a performance model or choosing one for the kids, getting the correct size, core material and design is essential.

With so many different bodyboards available, it's easy to focus on colour and price rather than the features that really matter. But a bodyboard that doesn't suit your height, weight or ability can make catching waves and controlling your board much more difficult.

At Rapid Surf & Ski in Adelaide, we stock a great range of quality bodyboards from leading brands including Stealth and Nomad, with options for beginners through to experienced riders.

This bodyboard buying guide walks you through everything you need to know, from choosing the correct size to understanding core materials, tail shapes and accessories, so you can find the right board for your next trip to the beach.

1. Start With the Right Bodyboard Size

Choosing the correct bodyboard size is one of the most important decisions you'll make.

A bodyboard that's too short may lack buoyancy and make catching waves difficult, while a board that's too long can be harder to control and manoeuvre.

A simple starting point is to stand the bodyboard upright on its tail. As a general guide, the nose of the board should reach approximately your belly button. However, your height, weight and riding style should all influence your final decision.

Bodyboard Size Guide

Bodyboard Size	Approximate Rider Height
32–34 inches	110–150 cm
36 inches	120–151 cm
38 inches	130–155 cm
40 inches	157–170 cm
41 inches	160–178 cm
42 inches	168–183 cm
43 inches	172–192 cm
44 inches	175–195 cm

This is a general sizing guide based on manufacturer recommendations. Rider weight, experience and board design should also be considered.

If you're between sizes, think about how you'll be using your board.

A slightly longer bodyboard can provide additional buoyancy and stability, making it easier for beginners to catch waves. A slightly shorter board may offer greater manoeuvrability for experienced riders.

For a more detailed recommendation, check our Stealth Bodyboard Size Guide.

2. Don't Forget Your Weight

Two people of the same height may need different bodyboards depending on their weight.

Heavier riders generally benefit from additional board volume to provide enough buoyancy, while lighter riders may find an excessively thick or wide board difficult to control.

This is where bodyboard width and thickness become important.

• Width: Influences stability, planing area and how the board handles turns.

• Thickness: Affects overall volume, buoyancy and the board's feel in the water.

• Length: Influences how the board fits the rider and how easily it can be controlled.

Rather than choosing your board based on height alone, use a manufacturer sizing chart that considers both height and weight.

3. Match Your Bodyboard to Your Ability

Your experience level should play a major role in choosing your bodyboard.

Beginner Bodyboards

Beginners benefit from a board that's stable, buoyant and easy to control.

An entry-level EPS core bodyboard is often the ideal choice, offering a lightweight construction and good buoyancy at an affordable price.

If you're learning to catch waves or simply enjoying the beach during summer, there's no need to invest in the most expensive performance board.

Intermediate Bodyboards

As your confidence and technique improve, you may want a bodyboard that offers greater responsiveness and control.

Intermediate riders often benefit from boards with improved core construction, better slick materials and more refined shapes.

Advanced Bodyboards

Experienced riders generally look for performance features such as responsive cores, reinforced stringers and carefully designed rails and tails.

These boards are designed to deliver greater control, speed and manoeuvrability in different wave conditions.

The key is to choose a bodyboard that suits your current ability rather than simply buying the most expensive model.

Explore our full range of bodyboards to compare options for different experience levels.

4. Understanding Bodyboard Core Materials

The core is the foam material inside your bodyboard and one of the biggest factors affecting its performance, flexibility, buoyancy and price.

The three main core materials you'll encounter are EPS, PE and PP.

EPS Core Bodyboards – Great for Beginners

EPS stands for Expanded Polystyrene.

EPS core bodyboards are generally lightweight, buoyant and affordable, making them a popular choice for beginners, younger riders and casual beachgoers.

Benefits of EPS bodyboards:

• Lightweight and easy to carry

• Good buoyancy for catching waves

• Generally more affordable

• Ideal for beginners and recreational use

• Available in a variety of sizes and designs

At Rapid Surf & Ski, popular EPS models include the Stealth Sonic, Stealth Tech, Stealth Combat and Nomad Neo.

These are excellent options for anyone starting out or looking for a bodyboard to enjoy on family beach holidays.

PE Core Bodyboards – Ideal for Cooler Water

PE stands for Polyethylene.

PE cores are known for their flexibility and responsive feel, making them popular among intermediate and experienced bodyboarders.

Benefits of PE bodyboards:

• Good flexibility and responsiveness

• Comfortable, forgiving flex

• Suitable for intermediate and advanced riders

• Performs particularly well in cooler water

• Offers good control through turns

PE core bodyboards are particularly well suited to the cooler waters found around Adelaide, the Fleurieu Peninsula and South Australia's southern coastline.

If you're looking to upgrade from an EPS bodyboard, a PE core model can be an excellent next step.

PP Core Bodyboards – Performance and Speed

PP stands for Polypropylene.

PP cores are generally lightweight, stiff and responsive, making them popular with experienced bodyboarders looking for speed, projection and performance.

Benefits of PP bodyboards:

• Lightweight construction

• High responsiveness and rebound

• Excellent speed and projection

• Popular with advanced riders

• Often preferred in warmer water conditions

Although PP cores are commonly associated with warmer water, modern construction and stringer systems can make them suitable for a range of conditions.

The best core depends on your experience, preferred riding style and the temperatures of the water you surf most often.

5. What Is a Bodyboard Stringer?

You may notice some bodyboards advertised with single or double stringers.

A stringer is a reinforcing rod that runs lengthwise through the core of a bodyboard.

Its purpose is to provide additional strength, influence the board's stiffness and help maintain its shape.

Stringers can also affect how a bodyboard flexes and rebounds during turns.

For beginners enjoying smaller waves, a basic board without a stringer may be perfectly suitable. More experienced riders may prefer the added support and responsiveness offered by a reinforced core.

6. Understanding the Deck, Slick and Rails

Apart from the core, several other parts of a bodyboard influence how it feels and performs.

The Deck

The deck is the top surface of the bodyboard that you lie on.

A comfortable, durable deck helps provide grip and support while riding. Different deck materials offer varying levels of softness, durability and resistance to compression.

The Slick

The slick is the smooth underside of the board.

Its purpose is to help the bodyboard glide efficiently across the water, maintain speed and respond through turns.

Common slick materials include high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and Surlyn, with differences in stiffness, flexibility and durability.

The Rails

The rails are the sides of the bodyboard.

Rail design influences how the board grips the wave, releases through turns and responds to changes in direction.

You'll often see rails described using ratios such as 60/40 or 50/50, which refer to the proportions of the upper and lower rail surfaces.

For most recreational riders, an all-round rail design provides a good balance of control and manoeuvrability.

7. Crescent Tail vs Bat Tail – What's the Difference?

The tail is the back of the bodyboard, and its shape can influence stability, control and manoeuvrability.

Two of the most common tail designs are crescent and bat tails.

Crescent Tail

The crescent tail is one of the most popular bodyboard designs.

Its curved shape provides good control and hold on the wave, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of conditions.

Crescent tails are suitable for beginners through to advanced riders and are an excellent option for anyone wanting one bodyboard for different conditions.

Bat Tail

A bat tail has a distinctive shape that generally provides additional surface area towards the rear of the board.

This can create a looser, more buoyant feel and is often preferred by riders looking for particular performance characteristics in smaller or softer waves.

For most beginners and recreational riders, a crescent tail is a great all-round choice.

8. Choosing a Bodyboard for Kids

Bodyboarding is a fantastic way for kids to enjoy the beach and develop confidence in the water.

When choosing a bodyboard for children, it's important to select one that's appropriately sized, lightweight and easy to manage.

A common mistake is purchasing a bodyboard that's too large, thinking the child will grow into it.

An oversized board can be difficult to carry, control and manoeuvre in the water.

When buying a kids' bodyboard, look for:

• A suitable size for their height and weight

• A lightweight EPS core

• Good buoyancy and stability

• A comfortable deck

• An appropriate bodyboard leash

EPS bodyboards are generally an excellent option for children and beginner riders.

Always supervise children around the water, choose suitable swimming conditions and follow local beach safety advice.

9. Choosing a Bodyboard for Australian Conditions

Australia offers a huge variety of bodyboarding locations, from warm northern beaches to the cooler waters of the southern coastline.

The conditions you ride in most often should influence your bodyboard choice.

Bodyboarding in South Australia

South Australia has some fantastic beaches for bodyboarding, including locations along the Fleurieu Peninsula, Yorke Peninsula and the state's southern coastline.

With cooler water temperatures for much of the year, PE core bodyboards are a popular option for riders wanting flexibility and responsiveness.

For beginners enjoying smaller summer waves, an EPS core bodyboard can be an affordable and practical choice.

More experienced riders may prefer different core constructions depending on their riding style and the conditions.

If you're looking for places to enjoy your new board, read our guide to South Australia's Best Bodyboarding Spots.

Always check surf conditions and local safety information before entering the water, and choose beaches appropriate to your experience.

10. Essential Bodyboarding Accessories

Choosing the right bodyboard is only part of the equation. A few essential accessories can make your time in the water more enjoyable.

Bodyboard Fins

A good pair of bodyboard fins helps provide the propulsion needed to catch waves and move efficiently through the water.

Fins become particularly useful as you progress from casual shallow-water bodyboarding to catching unbroken waves.

Fit is important, as poorly fitting fins can cause discomfort.

Shop Bodyboard Fins

Bodyboard Leashes

A bodyboard leash helps keep your board attached to you when you lose contact with it.

Leashes are available in wrist and bicep styles, with coiled designs popular among bodyboarders.

Some beginner bodyboards include a leash, while others require one to be purchased separately.

Check what's included before buying and make sure your leash is in good condition. A leash should never be relied upon as a flotation or rescue device.

Shop Bodyboard Leashes

Bodyboard Bags

A bodyboard bag is a worthwhile investment for protecting your board from scratches, dents and damage during transport and storage.

Whether you're travelling to your local beach or heading away on a surfing holiday, a quality bag can help maintain your board's condition.

Shop Bodyboard Bags

Bodyboard Wax

Bodyboard wax provides additional grip on the deck, helping you maintain your position when catching and riding waves.

It's a simple accessory that can make a noticeable difference, particularly during longer sessions.

11. How to Look After Your Bodyboard

Taking care of your bodyboard will help maintain its condition and performance.

A few simple tips can make a big difference:

• Rinse your board with fresh water after use.

• Avoid leaving your bodyboard in direct sunlight for extended periods.

• Never leave your board inside a hot car.

• Store your board somewhere cool and dry, away from excessive pressure.

• Use a protective bodyboard bag when travelling.

• Check your leash and board regularly for signs of damage.

• Allow your board to dry before storing it.

Excessive heat can damage the foam, materials and adhesives used in bodyboard construction, so proper care is particularly important during Australian summers.

12. Quick Bodyboard Buying Checklist

Before purchasing your next bodyboard, ask yourself:

1. Have I chosen the correct size for my height and weight?

2. Does the board suit my current ability?

3. Is the core material suitable for the water conditions I'll be riding in?

4. Do I need a basic recreational board or a performance model?

5. Does the board include a leash, or will I need to purchase one separately?

6. Have I considered accessories such as fins, wax and a bodyboard bag?

Taking a little extra time to answer these questions can help ensure you're choosing a bodyboard that you'll enjoy using.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bodyboards

What size bodyboard should I buy?

The right size depends on your height, weight and riding ability. As a general guide, a bodyboard should reach approximately your belly button when standing upright. Always check the manufacturer's sizing recommendations before purchasing.

What is the best bodyboard for a beginner?

An EPS core bodyboard is generally an excellent choice for beginners. EPS boards are lightweight, buoyant and affordable, making them suitable for learning the basics of catching waves.

Is a PE or PP bodyboard better?

Neither is automatically better. PE cores generally provide a softer, more flexible feel and are popular in cooler water. PP cores are typically lighter and stiffer, offering greater responsiveness and rebound. Your choice should depend on your experience, riding style and local water conditions.

What is the difference between an EPS and PE bodyboard?

EPS bodyboards are generally more affordable and are popular with beginners and recreational riders. PE bodyboards provide a different flex and responsiveness, making them popular with riders looking for greater performance.

Do I need fins for bodyboarding?

Fins aren't essential for casual beginner bodyboarding in suitable shallow-water conditions, but they become important as you progress to catching unbroken waves. They provide additional propulsion and help with control.

How long should a bodyboard last?

The lifespan of a bodyboard depends on its construction, how frequently it's used and how well it's maintained. Rinsing your board, avoiding excessive heat and storing it correctly can help prolong its life.

Shop Bodyboards at Rapid Surf & Ski Adelaide

Whether you're buying your first bodyboard, upgrading to a performance model or looking for a bodyboard for the kids, choosing the right size, construction and design will help you get the most out of every wave.

At Rapid Surf & Ski, we stock a great range of Stealth and Nomad bodyboards for beginners through to experienced riders, along with bodyboard fins, leashes, bags and accessories.

Family owned and operated since 1975, Rapid Surf & Ski is located at 180 Main North Road, Prospect, Adelaide, where our team can help you find the right bodyboard for your needs.

Can't make it into the store? Shop our range online with delivery available Australia-wide.

Ready to catch your next wave?

SHOP BODYBOARDS AT RAPID SURF & SKI