PERFORMANCE SHORTBOARDS Performance shortboards today are generally boards found in lengths between 5′6″ and 6′6″. The average width falls between 17 1/2″ and      19 1/2″ and thicknesses of 2″ and 2 3/4″. Nose widths vary from about 10″ and tail widths usually fall between 13″ and 14 1/2″. These basic dimensions are increased or decreased depending upon the height and weight of the rider.

Recent trends in shortboards feature a slightly flatter rocker, with various subtle concave configurations on the bottom. Virtually all are the basic 3 fin thruster design. The center widths have seemed to creep a bit wider along with slightly wider tails.

Tail configurations vary wildy in shortboard design………. squash tails, round tails, along with swallows and occasional wing designs are all widely being ridden.

For the novice Surfer, shortboards can be very frustrating……. they are difficult to catch waves on and can be very hard to ride in small weak surf. We always suggest beginners to start with a Funboard shape, learn the basics, and advance to a shortboard later.