This post includes Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Looking for the best longboard surfboard? You’re in the right place. Whether you’re just getting started with surfing or looking to upgrade your current board, choosing the right longboard makes a huge difference in how much fun you’ll have in the water.
Longboards are popular for good reason—they’re stable, easy to paddle, and catch waves better than shorter boards. In this guide, we’ll cover the top-selling longboard surfboards, what makes them worth buying, and how to pick the right one for your needs.
The Best Longboard Surfboard Options in 2025
Wavestorm 8ft Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.6/5 stars – 133 reviews) Price: $259.99
The Wavestorm 8ft is the #1 best-seller for a reason. This board has helped more people learn to surf than probably any other board on the market. It’s affordable, nearly indestructible, and performs well for both beginners and intermediate surfers.
What We Love:
- Extremely durable soft-top construction
- Comes with leash and fins included
- Wax-free surface with great grip
- Perfect stability for learning
- Great value for the price
What to Consider: This is primarily a learning and recreational board. Advanced surfers doing high-performance maneuvers might want something more responsive, but for most people, this board does everything you need.
User Review: “Best purchase I made for learning to surf. I’ve had mine for over a year, caught hundreds of waves, and it still looks almost new. My friends who spent more on other boards are actually jealous.” – Mike R.
2. Thurso Surf 7/8 ft Soft Top Foam Beginner Surfboard
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.2/5 stars – 128 reviews) Price: $239.99
Thurso Surf offers a quality alternative to Wavestorm at a similar price point. Available in both 7ft and 8ft sizes, this board features a modern design that works for adults and kids. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, making it great for families.
What We Love:
- Lightweight design—easier to carry than competitors
- Modern, attractive styling
- Good for all skill levels
- Durable foam construction
- Slightly lower price than Wavestorm
What to Consider: Some users report the fins could be sturdier. If you’re surfing in rocky areas or beach breaks with lots of sand, check the fins regularly.
User Review: “Got the 8ft for my family to share. My kids love it, and I use it too. It’s light enough for my 12-year-old to carry to the beach herself. Catches waves really easily.” – Jennifer S.
3. Wavestorm 7ft Classic Soft Top Foam Surfboard
Rating: ★★★★★ (4.6/5 stars – 164 reviews) Price: $259.00
The 7ft Wavestorm is perfect if you want something a bit more compact than the 8ft model. This size is great for teens, smaller adults, or anyone who wants better maneuverability without sacrificing too much stability. It comes as a complete set with leash and multiple fins.
What We Love:
- More maneuverable than longer boards
- Complete set includes everything you need
- Heat-laminated construction for extra durability
- Same quality as the 8ft model
- Easier to transport and store
What to Consider: Smaller riders will love the 7ft, but if you’re over 180 lbs or completely new to surfing, the 8ft model might be a better choice for stability. Check out how long it takes to learn how to surf to help decide which size fits your learning timeline.
User Review: “Perfect size for my needs. I’m 5’8″ and 160 lbs, and this board is so much easier to handle than my friend’s 9ft board. Still super stable but way more fun to turn.” – Carlos M.
4. Fender x Wavestorm Collaboration 8ft Surfboard
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5 stars – 11 reviews) Price: $379.00
This is the premium version of the classic Wavestorm, featuring a collaboration with Fender guitars. It has a graphic top deck, high-density slick bottom, and comes with all accessories. If you want a board that performs great and looks unique, this is worth the extra cost.
What We Love:
- Unique Fender-branded design stands out
- High-density slick bottom improves speed
- Premium feel compared to standard models
- Includes quality leash and fin set
- Great for both kids and adults
What to Consider: You’re paying extra for the branding and upgraded materials. Performance-wise, it’s similar to the standard Wavestorm, so decide if the aesthetics and slight improvements are worth the additional $120.
User Review: “I’m a Fender fan, so I had to get this. It looks awesome and surfs great. Yes, it costs more, but the quality feels a step up from regular foam boards.” – Dave L.
5. Wavestorm 8ft Classic Surfboard (Wax-Free Model)
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5 stars – 300 reviews) Price: $235.00
This is another variation of the classic Wavestorm, and with 300+ reviews, it’s one of the most trusted boards out there. The wax-free soft top means less maintenance, and at $235, it’s the most affordable option in the lineup.
What We Love:
- Lowest price for an 8ft quality board
- Wax-free surface—no maintenance needed
- Most reviews of any board on this list
- Proven track record with hundreds of satisfied buyers
- Great for all skill levels
What to Consider: This is the basic model without extras. It performs excellently, but if you want upgraded features or unique styling, consider one of the other options.
User Review: “Six months in and I’m still impressed. I surf 2-3 times a week, and this board handles everything I throw at it. Can’t beat the price for what you get.” – Amy T.
6. Giantex 6′ Surfboard with Removable Fins
Rating: ★★★★☆ (3.9/5 stars – 700 reviews) Price: $90.24
The Giantex is the budget option on this list, and while it’s technically more of a funboard than a traditional longboard due to its 6ft length, it’s worth mentioning for families looking for an affordable option for kids. At under $100, it’s a great entry point.
What We Love:
- Extremely affordable—great for kids
- Lightweight and easy for youth to handle
- Removable fins for easy transport
- Good starter board before investing more
What to Consider: This is a kids’ board. The 6ft length and lower volume make it unsuitable for most adults. The quality isn’t on par with Wavestorm, but at this price, it’s reasonable for what you get. If you’re serious about surfing, invest in one of the 7-8ft options instead.
User Review: “Bought this for my 10-year-old son to see if he’d stick with surfing. It’s perfect for him, and I’m not worried about him damaging an expensive board while learning.” – Robert K.
What Makes a Good Longboard Surfboard?
A quality longboard should be stable enough to help you catch waves easily while being durable enough to last through many surf sessions. Here’s what to look for:
Key Features to Consider
Length and Volume: Most longboards range from 7 to 10 feet. Longer boards with more volume are more stable and catch waves easier, which is why they’re recommended as the best surfboards for beginners. More foam equals easier paddling and better wave-catching.
Construction Materials: Foam soft-top boards have become the go-to choice for many surfers. They’re durable, safer in crowded conditions, and need less maintenance than traditional fiberglass boards. Plus, they’re more forgiving when you’re learning.
Fin Setup: Most longboards come with removable fins, usually in a thruster (three-fin) or single-fin setup. Fins help with stability and turning, and removable ones make transport easier.
Weight Capacity: Make sure the board can support your weight comfortably. Most 7-8 foot boards work well for riders up to 200 lbs, while larger boards handle heavier riders better.
Choosing the Right Size Best Longboard Surfboard
Size matters when picking a longboard. For a deeper dive into sizing, check out our complete guide on how to choose surfboard size. Here’s a simple guide:
For Beginners (First 6 Months of Surfing)
Go with an 8ft board if you’re average height or taller. The extra foam helps you catch waves easier and stay balanced while learning. Pair this with visits to surfing destinations for beginners where the waves are more forgiving.
For Intermediate Surfers
Once you’re comfortable standing up and riding waves, a 7ft board offers more maneuverability while still being stable enough to catch waves consistently. This size is ideal for progressing your skills.
For Kids and Teens
The 6-7ft range works well for younger surfers under 140 lbs. Make sure they can comfortably carry the board—a board that’s too heavy or long won’t get used.
Understanding Longboard Features
Foam Soft-Top vs. Hard-Top Boards
All the boards on this list are soft-top foam boards, and that’s intentional. Here’s why soft-tops are popular:
Soft-Top Advantages:
- Much safer in crowded lineups
- More durable than fiberglass
- Require less maintenance
- More affordable
- Better for learning
When to Consider Hard-Top: If you’re an advanced surfer looking for high-performance longboarding, traditional fiberglass or epoxy boards offer better responsiveness. But for 90% of surfers, soft-tops work perfectly.
Fin Configurations
Most boards on this list come with removable fins in various setups:
- Thruster (3-fin): Best all-around option, offers good stability and turning
- Single fin: Traditional longboard setup, better for classic style surfing
- Twin fin: Less common, but offers a loose, skatey feel
Weight and Portability
The 7-8ft boards on this list weigh between 15-25 lbs. Consider how you’ll transport your board. If you’re walking to the beach, a 7ft board is easier to manage. If you’re driving, the 8ft works fine for most vehicles with roof racks.
Maintaining Your Longboard
Foam boards need less maintenance than traditional surfboards, but taking care of yours will extend its life.
Storage Tips
Always store your board out of direct sunlight. UV rays can damage the foam and cause discoloration. Keep it in a garage, shed, or board bag when not in use.
Cleaning
Rinse your board with fresh water after each session to remove salt and sand. This prevents buildup and keeps the surface grippy. Understanding why you should wax a surfboard helps, though these soft-tops don’t need wax.
Checking for Damage
Inspect your board regularly for cracks or punctures. Small damage can let water in, which adds weight and can lead to bigger problems. For minor repairs, check out DIY eco-friendly board repairs to fix issues yourself.
Fin Maintenance
Check that fins are secure before each session. Loose fins can fall out in the water, and missing fins make the board almost impossible to control. Carry a spare fin and the installation tool in your car.
What to Wear When Surfing Your Longboard
Your comfort in the water depends on wearing the right gear. Check out our guide on what to wear surfing for detailed advice, but here’s the quick version:
Warm Water (70°F+): Board shorts or a swimsuit work fine
Moderate Water (60-70°F): Spring suit or shorty wetsuit
Cold Water (Below 60°F): Full wetsuit (3/2mm or thicker depending on temperature)
Learn how to choose a wetsuit for surfing to get the right thickness for your local conditions. Being comfortable means longer sessions and more waves caught.
Getting in Shape for Longboarding
Surfing looks relaxing, but it’s actually a solid workout. Paddling out, catching waves, and maintaining balance all require fitness. Follow a surfing fitness guide to build the strength and endurance you need.
Key Areas to Focus On:
- Shoulder and back strength for paddling
- Core stability for balance
- Leg strength for popping up
- Cardiovascular endurance for longer sessions
You don’t need to be in perfect shape to start, but improving your fitness will help you catch more waves and have more fun.
Reading Wave Conditions
Longboards work best in certain conditions. Use a wave forecast guide to plan your sessions for when conditions match your board.
Ideal Longboard Conditions:
- Wave height: 2-5 feet
- Clean, organized waves with long periods
- Gentle beach breaks or point breaks
- Light or offshore winds
Conditions to Avoid:
- Large, powerful waves (over 6 feet)
- Choppy, windblown conditions
- Crowded spots where your large board could hit others
- Shore break with shallow water (higher injury risk)
Safety Tips for Longboard Surfing
Longboards are bigger and heavier than shortboards, which means you need to be extra careful. Review essential surfing safety tips for challenging ocean conditions before heading out.
Key Safety Points:
- Always use a leash—a loose longboard is dangerous
- Be aware of other surfers around you
- Don’t ditch your board in crowded lineups
- Know your limits and don’t paddle out in conditions beyond your skill level
- Learn surf etiquette to avoid collisions
Comparing Longboards to Other Surf Styles
If you’re wondering how longboard surfing compares to other board sports, it has its own unique feel. Some people ask is surfing like snowboarding, and while there are similarities in balance and turning, the wave-reading aspect of surfing is completely different.
Longboarding is generally more relaxed than shortboarding. You’ll catch more waves, have an easier time paddling, and enjoy a smooth, flowing ride. Shortboards are better for aggressive turns and aerials, but longboards offer a more accessible and laid-back surfing experience.
The Cultural Side of Longboarding
Longboard surfing has deep roots in surf history. Understanding the history of surf culture helps you appreciate why longboards remain so popular today. These boards represent the original style of surfing and continue to embody the soul of wave riding.
Making Your Decision: Which Board Should You Buy?
Here’s a quick decision guide based on the boards reviewed:
Best Overall Value: Wavestorm 8ft Classic ($235-259) – Proven quality, most reviews, great performance
Best for Smaller Riders: Wavestorm 7ft Classic ($259) – More maneuverable, easier to handle
Best Budget Option: Thurso Surf 7/8ft ($239.99) – Slightly cheaper, lightweight design
Best for Style: Fender x Wavestorm ($379) – Premium look and feel if budget allows
Best for Kids: Giantex 6ft ($90.24) – Affordable starter board for youth
Most Trusted: Wavestorm 8ft Wax-Free ($235) – 300+ reviews, lowest price
Final Thoughts on Finding Your Best Longboard Surfboard
The best longboard surfboard for you depends on your size, skill level, and budget. For most people, the Wavestorm 8ft offers unbeatable value and performance. It’s why it’s the #1 best-seller and why you’ll see dozens of them at any beach break.
If you’re just starting out, don’t overthink it—any of the Wavestorm models will serve you well. The money you save by not buying an expensive board can go toward wetsuits, lessons, or more surf trips.
Remember, the best board is the one you’ll actually use. Pick something in your budget that fits your size, and get out there and start surfing. You’ll learn more from time in the water than from reading reviews online.
Ready to get started? Grab one of these boards, check the surf forecast, and head to the beach. The waves are waiting, and with the right longboard under your feet, you’ll be catching them in no time. Happy surfing!
