When you’re just starting your surfing journey, it’s essential to choose the right equipment to set yourself up for success. While surfboards come in various shapes and sizes, not all boards are suited for beginners. One board that’s often misunderstood is the “gun” surfboard. These long, narrow boards are built for extreme conditions and are not ideal for novice surfers. In this article, we’ll explain why “gun” surfboards are not for beginners, and why choosing the right board at the start of your surf lessons is key to making your experience enjoyable and successful.
What Are “Gun” Surfboards?
“Gun” surfboards are designed specifically for big-wave surfing. They are long, thin, and have a pointed nose, allowing advanced surfers to paddle quickly and handle large, powerful waves. The board’s shape allows it to be stable in the face of massive waves, providing the control necessary to ride them. However, these boards are not built for ease of use, making them unsuitable for those learning to surf. If you’re considering your first surf lesson, opting for a “gun” surfboard will likely hinder, rather than help, your progress.
The Difference Between “Gun” Surfboards and Beginner Boards
To understand why “gun” surfboards are not for beginners, it’s important to compare them with the types of boards that are better suited for those new to surfing. Beginner surfboards are generally larger, wider, and more stable. These characteristics make them easier to balance on and more forgiving when you fall—something that’s inevitable in the early stages of learning to surf. On the other hand, a “gun” surfboard’s narrowness and length require a high level of skill and experience to control, making it a poor choice for someone just starting out at San Diego Surf School.
“Gun” Surfboards Are Not for Beginners: Why They Are Difficult to Control
Controlling a “gun” surfboard requires a great deal of skill. Because they’re designed to handle high speeds on large waves, they respond differently than typical beginner boards. The narrowness of the board means that balancing is harder, and beginners may struggle to catch waves at all. Even experienced surfers can have difficulty controlling a “gun” in smaller waves, so trying to use one without experience can be extremely frustrating and dangerous. For those learning to surf, it’s better to start with a board that offers more stability and ease of use.
The Learning Curve: How “Gun” Surfboards Slow Progress
Learning to surf can be challenging, and it’s important to set yourself up for success by using the right board. “Gun” surfboards are not for beginners because they significantly slow the learning process. Instead of focusing on learning the basics of paddling, popping up, and catching smaller waves, a beginner using a “gun” board will spend more time struggling to stay upright and catch the right wave. At San Diego Surf School, we focus on teaching our students on boards that provide the best foundation for long-term success. Trying to master the basics on a “gun” surfboard can be frustrating and may deter beginners from continuing their surf lessons.
What Is the Best Board for Beginners?
If you’re new to surfing, the best type of board to start with is a soft-top longboard or a mini-mal. These boards are wide, stable, and forgiving, making them easier to balance on and paddle out to the waves. Soft-top boards are also designed to help you catch smaller waves, which is ideal for a beginner surfer. They offer much more buoyancy and control compared to the narrow, performance-oriented design of a “gun” surfboard. At San Diego Surf School, we make sure our students are equipped with the right boards to make their learning experience as smooth as possible.
“Gun” Surfboards Are Not for Beginners: A Lesson in Surf Safety
Surfing is an exhilarating sport, but it can also be dangerous, especially when using the wrong equipment. When you’re just starting out, safety should always be a priority. “Gun” surfboards are not for beginners because they are built for large waves, which can be dangerous to inexperienced surfers. Using a board that is too advanced can lead to frustration, injury, or even worse. It’s essential to stick with boards that suit your skill level until you’re ready to move on to more challenging equipment. Always take surf lessons from a qualified instructor who understands the importance of proper equipment and safety.
The Bottom Line: Start with the Right Board
Ultimately, “gun” surfboards are not for beginners. They are designed for advanced surfers who have years of experience riding big waves. If you’re just starting out, choosing the right board is essential for both your safety and your progression in the sport. At San Diego Surf School, we provide our students with the proper boards that match their skill level, allowing them to focus on learning the basics and enjoying the surf. By starting with a board that’s tailored to your needs, you can build your skills gradually and set yourself up for a lifetime of successful surfing.