High vs Low Volume Surfboards: Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing the right surfboard volume is crucial for better performance and easier paddling. Volume affects your balance, stability, and control on waves.
Picking the correct volume helps you catch more waves and enjoy surfing more effectively. Knowing how much volume you need for your surfboard can be a game changer.
There are various types of surfboards, each with different volumes. Some examples include high-volume boards and low-volume boards.
Understanding Surfboard Volume Fundamentals
Surfboard volume measures the amount of water a board displaces, reflecting its buoyancy. Higher volume gives extra flotation, which makes paddling and catching waves much easier. Advanced surfers can choose slightly lower volume for faster, sharper turns and better control.
Lower volume improves manoeuvrability, allowing sharper turns and faster performances. Understanding these fundamentals helps surfers select boards that match weight, skill, and wave conditions.
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High-volume boards: you get extra flotation, easier paddling, and better wave-catching, ideal for beginners or small waves.
- Low-volume boards: if you’re looking for boards that provide faster, sharper turns and greater control, suited for advanced surfers and powerful waves.
For instance, the EV model, the iSUP board, provides a wider (33”) and thicker (6”) version of the Allsport. The iSUP 10.10 EV has more volume, which makes it perfect for new riders. The board provides more stability for larger paddlers.
Here’s an important note to look at: the shapers. Notes: along with the hybrid nose shape, you get more stability, and the board provides reduced drag and plowing symptomatic of most inflatable all-rounders. Side carry handles provide an uninterrupted deck surface ideal for yoga. EV model: beginners up to 230 lbs / advanced up to 280 lbs.
Features: D-rings on the rail of the board for a carrying strap, bungee tie-downs, and multiple handles for easy transport.
Board Details
|
L |
W |
T |
LBS |
V |
|
10' 10" |
33" |
6" |
25 |
285 |
Wave Rider Pro Elite 8.0 (enhanced carving in a shorter, lower volume board)
These high-performance surf SUPs are built for surfers looking to advance their wave-riding skills and perform. Additionally, the board has unique shaping characteristics that have enhanced carving and turning ability in a shorter, lower-volume board.
Here are a shaper's notes: The Wave Rider Pro has low volume, but it offers features that help you surf with ease: This surf-specific SUP with its pointed, piercing nose and swallow tail provides great acceleration and enhanced carving ability.
If you’re a beginner up to 150 lbs - 215lbs, this one is for you. You’ll get a built-in GoPro mount.
Board details:
|
L |
W |
T |
LBS |
V |
|
8' |
29.75 |
4.25" |
16 |
104 |
How to Calculate Your Ideal Surfboard Volume
You’ll need to figure out the right volume that suits your needs. The right volume depends on your weight and skill level.
If you’re a beginner, you need extra flotation to stay balanced and catch waves more easily. Boards like the Lake Log 8.0 Soft-top Surfboard are perfect for you.
Step 1: Know Your Weight
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Surfers under 65 kg (143 lbs) need about 26–35 litres for shortboards.
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Surfers between 65 and 80 kg (143–176 lbs) usually need 30–40 litres.
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Surfers over 80 kg (176 lbs) often need 35–45 litres or more.
Step 2: Match Your Skill Level
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Beginners: Use roughly 0.5 litres per kilogram of body weight for extra float.
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Intermediate surfers: Choose 0.45–0.5 litres per kilogram for balance and manoeuvrability.
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Advanced surfers: Use 0.35–0.45 litres per kilogram to focus on control and speed.
Surfboard Types and Their Volume Needs
Different boards need different volumes due to shape, length, and width.
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Shortboards: Low volume for quick turns and high-performance surfing. Beginners may need extra litres.
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Funboards and Hybrids: Medium volume works well for various conditions and skill levels.
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Longboards: High volume gives more flotation and makes paddling easier on small waves.
How Wave Conditions Affect Volume Choice
Small, weak waves require more volume for easy paddling and catching waves. Strong, hollow waves need slightly lower volume for sharper turns and faster movement. Always adjust volume depending on typical local surf conditions.
Other Factors to Consider for Surfboard Volume
Board thickness and width also influence overall volume and stability. Thicker boards with wide rails increase float without adding too much length. Your strength and paddling ability affect how much volume you can handle. Demoing boards helps you find the perfect fit for your body and style.
Tips for Selecting the Right Surfboard Volume
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Test Boards: Try boards with different volumes to feel the difference in paddling and control.
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Consider Fitness: Stronger paddlers can handle boards with slightly lower volume.
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Observe Local Waves: Increase volume for small waves and reduce for steep, fast waves.
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Ask Experts: Surf instructors and shapers can provide tailored volume recommendations.
Conclusion
Wondering how much volume I need for my surfboard? You need to understand the key factors and your personal needs. Choosing the correct surfboard volume improves stability, paddling, and wave-catching ability. Match volume with your weight, skill, and local wave conditions for optimal results.
Choosing the right volume turns your surfboard into a natural extension of your skills. Visit Blu Wave SUP to find the perfect match and start riding waves confidently. Enjoy smoother rides, faster waves, and better overall control every time you paddle out.
