Surfboard Parts

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Surfboard Parts

Surfboard Parts

There are many different types of surfboards available. Some are better for beginners, whilst others are made with certain types of wave conditions in mind. As many surfers themselves are the ones making and improving surfboards and their design, it's always been a personal choice as to which type is more suitable.

While todays surfboards are thin and light, the ancient Hawaiian's surfed using boards made of wood and were anything from ten to sixteen feet long.

Let's go through the main parts of a surfboard:

Nose

The nose can either be pointed or rounded depending on the type of surfboard you have. The nose is the front end of the board, that's out of the water. When you are paddling it's the nose of the board that is just above the water. To protect your board from dents you can use a nose guard.

Deck

The upper part of the board where you lie or stand on is referred to as the deck. Surfboard wax is used on the deck to give you the traction you need to avoid slipping. There is a slight arch in the surface known as the Domed Deck. This describes the slight arch which can be seen from the rail to the middle and back to the rail of the board.

Rails

The edges that run from the nose to the tail of the board are known as the rails. They are used for turning the surfboard, and when you change from paddling to surfing you'll rest the palm of your hands on the rails so you can push your body upwards into standing position. Rails can be different shapes, and this will effect the boards speed and ability to turn.

Tail

The rear of the board where the surfboard leash is attached is referred to as the tail. Like the rails, the tail can come in different shapes and this will affect the ability for the board to turn, and it will also have an impact on speed.

Stringer

The stringer helps increase the strength of the board, and is made from a thin piece of wood that runs from the nose to the tail of the board.

It's important to know the different parts of your surfboard so you can learn how to make it work best for you every time you hit the surf. Ultimately it will ensure your performance keeps improving each time you're in the water.

Ultimately you need to know all of the elements you want in your board, and the finished product should compliment you. Above all, your new custom board should be great to ride and really help improve your skills and surfing performance.

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"I believe that in music and in a lot of things it's kind of like surfing, you can have a really big wave sometimes and then you can have a smaller wave."

- Delta Goodrem


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