Bodyboard Size Calculator

Height (Feet/Inches)	Height (Centimeters)	Weight (Pounds)	Bodyboard Size (Inches)
4’6″ – 5’0″	137 – 152 cm	60 – 120 lbs	36 – 38 inches
5’1″ – 5’6″	155 – 168 cm	120 – 150 lbs	38 – 40 inches
5’7″ – 6’0″	170 – 183 cm	150 – 180 lbs	40 – 42 inches
6’1″ – 6’6″	185 – 198 cm	180 – 210 lbs	42 – 44 inches
6’7″ and above	200 cm and above	210 lbs and above	44 inches and larger

FAQs

How do I know what size bodyboard to get? Bodyboard size depends on your height and weight. A general estimate is to choose a bodyboard that is roughly 2-4 inches shorter than your height.

How many inches should my bodyboard be? A typical bodyboard for an average-sized adult might be around 40-42 inches in length. However, this can vary based on your height and preference.

Are bigger bodyboards better? Bigger bodyboards can provide more buoyancy and stability, making them suitable for beginners and larger riders. However, the best size depends on your body type and skill level.

Can a boogie board be too big? Yes, a boogie board can be too big if it’s difficult for you to control or maneuver in the water.

How do you pick a bodyboard? Consider your skill level, height, weight, and the type of waves you’ll be riding. Consult with a knowledgeable salesperson for personalized advice.

What is the difference between bodyboard and boogie boarding? The terms are often used interchangeably, but some might consider “bodyboarding” to be the sport and “boogie boarding” to refer to the activity of riding a bodyboard.

Do you plug bodyboard left or right? There’s no strict rule for plugging your bodyboard. It’s a personal preference, but many people plug it on the side that feels more comfortable to them.

How do you bodyboard for beginners? Start with smaller waves, practice paddling, catching waves, and maintaining balance. Learn to control your bodyboard before attempting advanced maneuvers.

Can you sit on a bodyboard? Yes, you can sit on a bodyboard to rest between waves or while waiting for the right one.

Does the size of the board matter? Yes, the size of the board matters for buoyancy, control, and maneuverability. It should match your body size and skill level.

Why is bodyboarding better than surfing? It’s not necessarily better; it’s a matter of personal preference. Bodyboarding offers a different experience, lower entry barrier, and can be enjoyed in various wave conditions.

What bodyboards do the pros use? Professional bodyboarders often use custom-made boards tailored to their preferences, featuring advanced materials and design.

What happens if bodyboard is too big? An oversized bodyboard may be harder to control and maneuver, making it less suitable for your skill level and potentially less enjoyable.

Are bigger boards better for bigger waves? Larger boards can handle bigger waves, but they require more skill to maneuver in powerful surf.

Are bigger boards easier to surf? Generally, larger boards offer more stability and buoyancy, making them easier for beginners. However, they might be less maneuverable.

Why do you plug in bodyboard? Plugging a bodyboard helps prevent water from getting inside the board’s core, which can lead to delamination and reduced buoyancy.

Why is my bodyboard slippery? Bodyboards can become slippery due to wax buildup or a lack of wax. Apply bodyboard wax to improve grip.

Does a good bodyboard make a difference? Yes, a high-quality bodyboard with the right features can significantly enhance your performance and overall experience.

Are bigger or smaller boogie boards better? The size of a boogie board should match your body size and skill level. Smaller boards may offer more maneuverability, while larger boards provide stability.

Do I need to wax my bodyboard? Yes, waxing your bodyboard improves grip and helps you stay on the board.

Is Boogie Boarding harder than surfing? Boogie boarding is generally considered easier to learn for beginners compared to surfing.

Do you need flippers to boogie board? Flippers (fins) can enhance your boogie boarding experience by providing better control and speed, but they are not strictly necessary.

How do you position yourself on a boogie board? Lie on your stomach with your chest near the front of the board, arms extended forward, and fins (if used) in the water.

Where does the leash go on a bodyboard? The leash is typically attached to your wrist or bicep, ensuring that the board stays with you in the water.

Can you bodyboard without flippers? Yes, you can bodyboard without flippers, but flippers can help with control and speed.

How do you catch small waves on a bodyboard? Paddle out beyond the breaking waves, watch for approaching small waves, and use your arms to paddle and catch them.

Do I need lessons to bodyboard? Lessons can be beneficial, especially for beginners, as they teach proper technique, safety, and wave selection.

Can I bring my boogie board on a plane? Boogie boards are generally allowed on planes, but check with your airline for specific baggage policies.

Can you float on a bodyboard? Yes, you can float on a bodyboard by lying on it and using your arms and legs to stay afloat.

How do I know my board size? Choose a bodyboard size based on your height, weight, and skill level. Consult a sizing chart or seek advice from experts.

What is the ideal board size? The ideal board size varies from person to person but is generally 2-4 inches shorter than your height.

How do I know if my snowboard is too small? If your snowboard is too small, you may have difficulty controlling it, especially at higher speeds. It should match your height and skill level.

Do surfers dislike bodyboarders? Opinions vary among surfers, but some may have negative perceptions of bodyboarders due to conflicts in crowded surf spots.

Does bodyboarding build muscle? Bodyboarding can help build core and upper body strength, especially in the shoulders and arms.

What do surfers think of bodyboarders? Attitudes towards bodyboarders vary, but many surfers respect them as fellow water enthusiasts.

What does a bat tail do on a bodyboard? A bat tail design on a bodyboard can improve control and maneuverability, particularly in steeper waves.

Can you kneel on a bodyboard? While you typically lie on a bodyboard, you can kneel on it in certain situations, such as when waiting for waves.

How do you sit on a boogie board? Sitting on a boogie board involves balancing your weight toward the rear of the board while keeping your legs and feet in the water.

Why do boogie boards bubble? Boogie boards can develop bubbles if there are imperfections in the foam core or if they are exposed to heat, causing the core to expand.

What is the difference between a belly board and a bodyboard? A belly board is typically smaller and flatter than a bodyboard, designed for riding prone and catching smaller waves close to shore.

How do you know if your waves will be big? You can check surf forecasts, wave height reports, and local surf reports to get an idea of wave size.

Are bigger boards harder to flip? Larger boards can be more challenging to flip due to their increased buoyancy and size.

Why are smaller boards better? Smaller boards are often preferred for maneuverability, especially in more critical surf conditions.

What is the hardest thing to do in surfing? For many surfers, the most challenging aspect is mastering the timing and positioning needed to catch and ride larger, more powerful waves.

Is surfing the hardest sport to learn? Surfing can be challenging to learn due to its unique skills and the unpredictability of the ocean, but the difficulty varies from person to person.

Is it easier to surf if you weigh less? Generally, lighter individuals may find it easier to paddle and maneuver on a surfboard, but technique and experience also play significant roles.

Do I need a bodyboard bag? A bodyboard bag is not necessary but can help protect your board and make transportation more convenient.

How do you barrel a bodyboard? Barreling on a bodyboard involves positioning yourself inside a breaking wave so that the curl of the wave covers you.

Are wrist or bicep leashes better for bodyboards? Both wrist and bicep leashes are suitable for bodyboarding, but some prefer bicep leashes for better freedom of movement.

Should you bodyboard with or without fins? Using fins (flippers) can enhance your bodyboarding experience, providing better control and speed, but it’s not mandatory.

Can you bodyboard on 1ft waves? You can bodyboard on 1ft waves, but the experience may be limited, as larger waves typically offer more excitement and rideable sections.

How do you drop in on bigger waves? Dropping in on bigger waves requires timing, positioning, and paddling skill. It’s essential to practice in smaller conditions before attempting larger waves.

Can you bodyboard without a wetsuit? You can bodyboard without a wetsuit in warm water, but in colder conditions, a wetsuit is essential for comfort and safety.

How do you not slip off the bodyboard? Apply bodyboard wax to improve grip, and make sure your body and board are clean and free from sand or oils.