Bodyboarding is a thrilling water sport that offers an accessible entry point to wave riding for beginners while still providing ample excitement for seasoned enthusiasts. Choosing the right bodyboard can significantly enhance your experience, allowing you to ride waves with greater control, speed, and style. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best bodyboards available on the market, delving into their features, benefits, and what makes them stand out. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, this article will help you make an informed decision.
What to Consider When Choosing a Bodyboard
Before diving into the specifics of the best bodyboards, it’s essential to understand the key factors to consider when making your choice:
Size and Shape
Bodyboards come in various sizes and shapes, each suited to different skill levels, body weights, and wave conditions. The general rule of thumb is that the board should reach up to your belly button when stood on end. A larger board offers more buoyancy and stability, ideal for beginners or heavier riders, while a smaller board provides greater maneuverability for advanced riders.
Core Material
The core of a bodyboard significantly affects its performance and durability. The two most common materials are:
- Polyethylene (PE): Offers excellent flexibility and is ideal for colder waters.
- Polypropylene (PP): Lighter and more rigid, making it suitable for warmer waters and more advanced riders.
Deck Material
The deck material impacts the board’s comfort and grip. Most bodyboards feature decks made from:
- Crosslink: Durable and stiff, providing good response.
- Surlyn: Offers excellent flex and recoil, enhancing performance.
Tail Shape
The tail shape affects how the board rides the waves. Common tail shapes include:
- Crescent Tail: Offers better control and is suitable for all wave conditions.
- Bat Tail: Provides more lift and speed, ideal for smaller waves and advanced tricks.
Stringers
Stringers are rods inserted into the bodyboard to provide additional strength and stiffness. They help maintain the board’s shape and improve performance, especially in larger waves.
Top Bodyboards on the Market
1. Morey Mach 7
The Morey Mach 7 is an iconic bodyboard known for its durability and performance. It features a PE core, making it flexible and suitable for colder waters. The crescent tail design provides excellent control, making it ideal for both beginners and advanced riders.
Key Features:
- PE core for flexibility
- Crescent tail for better control
- Durable deck material
2. NMD Ben Player Kinetic PP
Designed by world champion Ben Player, this bodyboard is built for high performance. It features a PP core, making it lightweight and rigid. The Kinetic PP stringer system provides extra strength and durability, making it perfect for advanced riders looking to perform at their best.
Key Features:
- PP core for rigidity
- Kinetic PP stringer system
- Crescent tail for versatile wave riding
3. Custom X Titan
The Custom X Titan is a versatile bodyboard that caters to riders of all skill levels. It features a PE core and a Surlyn deck, offering a perfect balance of flexibility and durability. The crescent tail design ensures excellent control, making it suitable for various wave conditions.
Key Features:
- PE core for flexibility
- Surlyn deck for durability
- Crescent tail for improved control
4. Hubboards Dubb Edition PP
The Hubboards Dubb Edition PP is a premium bodyboard designed for advanced riders. It features a PP core and a single stringer for added stiffness and control. The bat tail design offers extra lift and speed, making it ideal for performing tricks and riding smaller waves.
Key Features:
- PP core for stiffness
- Single stringer for added control
- Bat tail for increased lift and speed
5. Pride Answer PE
The Pride Answer PE is a high-quality bodyboard suitable for both beginners and intermediate riders. It features a PE core, providing excellent flexibility and comfort. The crescent tail design ensures great control and stability, making it a reliable choice for various wave conditions.
Key Features:
- PE core for flexibility
- Crescent tail for control
- Durable construction
Specialized Bodyboards
1. Drop-Knee Bodyboards
Drop-knee bodyboarding is a style where the rider places one knee on the board while keeping the other leg extended, offering a different riding experience. Some of the best drop-knee bodyboards include:
- VS Dave Winchester DKB: Designed for drop-knee riding with a PP core and crescent tail.
- Science Style Loaded DK: Offers excellent performance with a PE core and a Surlyn deck.
SEE ALSO: BEST PADDLE BOARDING NEAR ME
2. Prone Bodyboards
Prone bodyboarding involves lying flat on the board. This is the most common style, and many of the best bodyboards are designed for prone riding. Some top picks include:
- Stealth Quantum: A high-performance prone bodyboard with a PP core and double stringers.
- Cartel Blackball: Offers excellent value with a PE core and a crescent tail.
Maintaining Your Bodyboard
To ensure your bodyboard lasts longer and performs well, proper maintenance is crucial. Here are some tips:
Rinse After Use
Always rinse your bodyboard with fresh water after each use to remove salt, sand, and debris that can damage the board over time.
Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure
Direct sunlight can cause the board to become brittle and fade in color. Store your bodyboard in a cool, shaded area when not in use.
Regular Inspections
Inspect your bodyboard regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or delamination. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Use a Board Bag
Invest in a good quality board bag to protect your bodyboard from scratches, dings, and UV damage when transporting or storing it.
Conclusion
Choosing the best bodyboard depends on your skill level, riding style, and the conditions you’ll be facing. Whether you prefer the flexibility of a PE core or the rigidity of a PP core, there’s a bodyboard out there that will meet your needs. The Morey Mach 7, NMD Ben Player Kinetic PP, Custom X Titan, Hubboards Dubb Edition PP, and Pride Answer PE are all excellent choices, each offering unique features to enhance your bodyboarding experience.
Remember to consider factors like size, shape, core material, and tail design when making your decision. With the right bodyboard, you’ll be ready to hit the waves and enjoy the thrill of bodyboarding to the fullest. Happy riding!