Help with equipment

[geoff442]

Hi. I went for a couple lessons which helped alot thanks for recommending that. I was able to stand and turn nothing pretty but the more I did it the better I got. My next question is, I was using a nine foot softboard I want to buy my own equipment so I can go out when I have free time,so should I buy a softboard, there around 250.00 to 350.00 or should I buy something that's going to get me more years of use,and any advice on winter gear. Thanks for the advice on the lessons it really was a smart move and got me motivated to to get going.

[infinity8]

Don't buy a softboard....unless you want to have one around to teach friends how to surf (which is fine, but if you won't be doing that, your money will be better spent on a "real" board). There's lots of advice on this site as to what size, where to look for one, etc...so take a look You will want to be getting a board in the 8-9' range.

[jpmoser]

Hey, Just had a custom baord made for me. I am newbie also. Got a 9'-3" longboard from local shaper in Robbinsville. He has website : BC Winn. $600 for a new board. Can get it made for your height weight and type of waves etc.. I started on a 7'-6" softboard that I bought from Ron Jons. Bought it used for $150.00. was good for floating in water but too short to ride with my inexperience. Go with 8-10' board. I am hooked on the sport and plan to surf through fall and winter. Just need to find some surf buddies in rt 195 area (Belmar Spring Lakeetc...) Jeff

[Devg76]

Definately an 8-9 footer. Check out Craigslist or the local shops for used boards. It should cost like 300? I would not drop 600 on a board just yet.

Infinity8 and myself are in the Freehold/Howell area and frequently go to Spring Lake, Belmar, Manasquan, etc...feel free to get in touch with us if you ever want to meetup.

[geoff442]

I have been looking on craigslist I would like to buy a new one but would like to keep the price down. I weigh 185 height is 5-8. I'm not sure what to get or a brand to get I would like to spend around 450.00 or less, plus i still have to get a wet suit and whatever else I might need. I really didn't think it was going to happen this fast. I plan on going out on Fridays and Sundays.I'm still taking lessons on Sundays, but I think getting out there and keep doing it will help bigtime. I'm about forty minutes from Belmar. Thanks for the help.

[rayme]

i would pick up a used longboard at one of the local shops. they should all have a few to choose from and you wont have to spend much on it. dont be too concerned with the size, just get a longboard. the great thing is, when you are ready for a new board or something else, you will be able to see the board for what you paid for it, assuming you didnt damage it too much. they dont go down in value that much if they are taken care of. i would go used though. a softboard is fine at first. the most important thing is that you get out in the water often. its just takes a lot of practice to get proficient.