The 3 best bodyboards 2024?

Alongside surfboards, bodyboards are probably the most popular board for surfing. They are very beginner-friendly and you progress quickly. Ideal for anyone who wants to try out a new sport on their next beach vacation.

This is how bodyboarding really works:

BeyondSurfing shows you a reviewed list of the most popular bodyboards at 2024 and explains which features you need to look out for when buying.

In a hurry? Our bodyboard favorite:

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These are the top 3 bodyboards in 2024

Best bodyboard for children

1. COSTWAY Bodyboard

Summary

The COSTWAY bodyboard is a beginner’s bodyboard. The materials used are of a lower quality than those used for bodyboards in a higher price range.

The easy-care XPE surface guarantees good impact resistance and durability. In addition, the HDPE base makes the BOard easier to maneuver.

The board is equipped with a leash. However, as this only consists of one line, it should be replaced with a higher quality leash.

Product details

Size: 104 x 51 x 6 cm | Tail: Crescent Tail | Deck: HDPE, XPE

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FAQ

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Best inexpensive bodyboard

2. Schildkröt kickboard swimming bodyboard M

Summary

The Schildkröt bodyboard is best suited for beginners who are looking for an inexpensive bodyboard to get started. Leash and leash plug are already included and do not need to be attached separately.

The core is made of EPS. Although the material is cheaper than polyester, it still has very good buoyancy and flex properties. A good compromise for people who don’t want to spend a lot of money straight away.

The EPS core is also very robust. This makes the bodyboard very durable. Smaller knocks, bumps and impacts can be absorbed without any problems.

The materials used here are of a lower quality than those used for bodyboards in higher price categories. Nevertheless, the quality and workmanship is more than adequate for beginners. However, if you are really ambitious, you should go for a higher-quality bodyboard.

Product details

Size: 69 x 45 cm | Tail: Crescent Tail | Deck: Nylon

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Best high quality bodyboard

3. sniper cluster PE bodyboard

Summary

The Sniper bodyboard is the highest quality bodyboard in the range. Its materials make it very robust and very suitable for advanced users.

The core is made of polyethylene and the board has two stringers. These ensure good stability of the bodyboard and guarantee the necessary flex.

There are two channels on the underside of the HD. The tail is a crescent tail. This gives the bodyboard a good grip in the wave and makes it easy to control.

The only disadvantage is the high price. However, if you review the bodyboard against other high-quality bodyboards, the price is quite normal and more than justified.

Product details

Size: 36 inch | Tail: Crescent Tail | Deck: N/A

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Highlight

Bonus: Churchill Makapuu

The classic among bodyboard fins

Summary

The Churchill Makapuu is the classic among bodyboard fins. And since you should always use fins when bodyboarding, they should not be missing from your selection.

The fins are made of rubber and are shaped like the tail fin of a dolphin. There is a hole on the underside through which the water can drain.

Customer ratings

Bestsellers: The most popular bodyboards

(**Last update 2024-09-16)

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Buying bodyboards:
How to make the right decision

The range on the bodyboard market is huge and the many different shapes and materials can be confusing at first glance.

But things are getting better:

BeyondSurfing shows you all the important information to help you choose the right bodyboard.

What many people don’t know:

If the bodyboard does not match the characteristics of its owner, the fun of the sport quickly turns into frustration.

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Important bodyboard features and differences?

When buying a bodyboard, you should definitely pay attention to the following features and characteristics:

• Size
• Core
• Stringer
• Deck
• Slick
• Shape

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Bodyboard size

Which bodyboard size is the right one?

Size plays an important role in choosing the right bodyboard. The length of the bodyboard is particularly important. How long it needs to be depends on the bodyboarder’s height and weight.

Why is size important?

• A bodyboard that is too big: If the bodyboard is too big, you will hit the bodyboard with your legs when you move around in the water. This leads to problems when paddling out and paddling onto the wave. The bodyboard is also much more difficult to control.
• A bodyboard that is too small: A bodyboard that is too small has too little buoyancy in relation to the weight of the rider. This makes it more difficult to move forward in the water, and waves are much harder to paddle into.

What role do large or small waves play in the selection?

• Big waves: If you want to bodyboard big waves with a lot of power, a small board is recommended. This means that more of your body is in the water and the bodyboard is easier to control.
• Small waves: A larger bodyboard is more suitable for small waves. The increased buoyancy makes it easier to catch waves and the bodyboard is more stable in the water.

Remember: the right size plays a decisive role in the water. Be careful not to buy a bodyboard that is too big or too small.

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Bodyboard Core

Which bodyboard core is the best?

The core is the core of the bodyboard. It forms the base and the other parts of the bodyboard are positioned around it. The material of the core has a big impact on how the board behaves in the water.

The water temperature, the type of waves and body size all play a role for the core. Most cores consist of either:

1. Polypropylene (PP for short) or
2. Polyethylene (PE for short)
3. Mix of PP and PE

1. polypropylene core

A PP core is very rigid. The bodyboard therefore changes its shape less in the wave, which is also referred to as less flex.

PP loses flex in cold water (below 21°C). This makes the board extremely stiff and the rides can become uncomfortable or even uncontrollable.

The material is also lightweight and robust. That’s why bodyboards made from this material are fast on the wave and give you extra speed after turns.

Conclusion: Don’t be fooled by the many advantages of PP! Despite its durability, PP cores are only suitable for European waters to a limited extent.

2. polyethylene core

A PE core is characterized by its high flex. This core makes the bodyboard bendable and adapts better to the shape of the wave. This gives you more control over the board and makes it easier to maneuver.

The comparatively high weight and the fact that it is less robust and therefore less durable speak against this type of core.

Conclusion: PE cores perform better in cold water and are therefore more suitable for most European surf regions.

3. core-mix construction methods

In addition to the classic core – which is made of either PE or PP – there are other construction methods. These usually consist of a core mix and differ mainly in the manufacturing process:

• Dual cores (3D cores)

  This is a core that consists of two parts. Instead of using just one of the conventional materials, both are used here.

  The best of both worlds:

  Thanks to the mixture of PE and PP, the board is robust and delivers good performance. The two materials are laid on top of each other in a sandwich construction. The PE makes the bodyboard flexible and the PP in the core ensures that the bodyboard is stable and stays that way for a long time.

• Low Density PP Cores

  This is a core made of PP with a lower density. The bodyboard is therefore less stiff and can therefore be used well in cold and warm water.

• EPS Core

  An EPS (Expanded Polystyrene Core) is mainly found in children’s and beginner bodyboards. The material is cheaper, but still has an acceptable buoyancy and flex.

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Bodyboard Stringer

Are bodyboard stringers necessary?

The stringer is located in the middle of the core. This consists of one or more tubes and is therefore something like the spine of the bodyboard. Usually made of carbon or fiberglass, the stringer reinforces the bodyboard.

What is the stringer important for?

A bodyboard with a stringer is highly recommended for unbroken green waves.

What exactly does a bodyboard stringer do?

1. This makes paddling on the board more stable and significantly improves the performance of the board.
2. The board deforms less easily and retains its flex better when surfing waves.

How many stringers are there in a bodyboard?

Normally there is one stringer in the middle of the core, but there are also bodyboards with two or more stringers. More stringers make the bodyboard even more stable. The disadvantage is that this also makes it heavier and more sluggish on the shaft.

The trend is towards three stringers:

One long one in the middle and two shorter ones to the side. This keeps the rear part of the bodyboard particularly stable, while the flex is higher from the elbows than towards the tail.

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Bodyboard deck (top side)

Which bodyboard deck is the best?

The deck is the top of the bodyboard, i.e. the part you lie on. The deck is normally made of PE, the same material that is used in the core.

Good to know:

PE is soft, so dents can form on the top of the bodyboard over a short period of time. But don’t worry, this is completely normal. Some bodyboarders even like it when there is a hollow for the elbows, for example.

The alternative to PE decks:

Crosslink Decks! The density of such decks is lower, the surface absorbs less water, but is stiffer. You also need more wax to ensure a good grip on the bodyboard. Crosslink decks are usually found on cheaper bodyboards.

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Bodyboard slick (underside)

Which bodyboard slick is the best?

The slick is the underside of the board, i.e. the part that has direct contact with the water. Two materials are used in particular:

1. Surlyn slicks

   Surlyn slicks are the most commonly used. The bodyboard reacts well with these slicks. The material is flexible but quickly returns to its original shape after being bent.

   Surlyn also makes the board faster, durable and robust. This prevents damage to the underside of the board.

2. HDPE slicks

   HDPE is mostly used for beginner boards as it is cheaper than Surlyn. The look is similar, but the material is less robust.

   HDPE undersides are therefore more suitable for lightweight people, as they exert less pressure on the board and the material is therefore less stressed.

Conclusion: HDPE slicks are the right choice for those who don’t want to invest a lot and want to try out the bodyboard first. If you want to have fun for more than just one vacation, Surlyn slicks are the way to go.

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Bodyboard Shape

Which bodyboard shape is the best?
The shape of the bodyboard is referred to as the shape. Four factors play an important role here:

1. Tail
2. Nose
3. Rails
4. Channels and contours

1. the tail

The tail is the rear end of the bodyboard and has an influence on the stability, speed and maneuverability of the bodyboard.

The two most common forms are the crescent tail and the bat tail.

Crescent Tail

The crescent tail is the most widely used bodyboard tail:

• U-shaped
• Most frequently used
• Good for children and beginners
• Good for large waves and tubes
• Ensures good maneuverability

The U-shape means that a large part of the body is in the water, which provides more control on the wave.

The best:

This tail not only makes the board easier to control, the shape also makes it easier to place your hips correctly on the bodyboard.
The crescent tail is also used in large waves and tubes. Thanks to its shape, it has a good grip in the shaft and pressure can be easily built up on the rail.

Is a crescent tail beginner-friendly?

Yes! The Crescent Tail is beginner-friendly and therefore also suitable for beginners and children. It is easy to maneuver and offers comfort when lying on the board.

Bat Tail

The Bat Tail is shaped like the wings of a bat and is particularly suitable for bodyboarders with a higher body weight and small waves:

• Bat shape
• Good for heavier bodyboarders
• Good for small waves
• Ensures speed
• Ensures less drag

The back of the bodyboard is higher in the water due to the tail and the flow resistance is reduced. This makes the board faster and easier to maneuver.

But beware:

In large waves, the board is less easy to control and becomes more unstable!

2. the nose

The nose is the front part of the bodyboard and influences the maneuverability of the bodyboard.

A wide nose:

• Makes the board more stable.
• Ensures that the board glides better.
• Is 11-13 inches wide (approx. 28-33cm).

A narrow nose:

• Is more maneuverable.
• Reduces the flow resistance.
• Provides a looser ride.

What are nose bulbs?

The board can also be equipped with nose bulbs on the nose. These are bulges at the corners of the nose that make it easier to hold on to your board.

Nose bulbs are a good feature for both beginners and advanced riders. This makes it easier to grip and control the bodyboard. Even hard drops are easier to master.

3. the rails

The rails are the two outer edges of the bodyboard. They are tapered and consist of two parts. The lower part “the rail” and the upper part “the chime”.

The ratio of the two parts determines how stable the bodyboard is in the wave and how well you can detach the rail from the wave to perform a maneuver.

The most common rail ratios are 60/40 (rail/chime) and 50/50.

60/40 Rails

• 60% of the rail is in the water and 40% above water.
• Provide more control.
• Good for big waves.
• Are the most common.

50/50 Rails

• 50% of the rail is in the water and 50% above water.
• Ensure more speed.
• Make the bodyboard more maneuverable.

4. channels and contours

These are two extras. You won’t find channels and contours on every bodyboard, but they can be very useful if you want more control or stability.

Channels

Channels are two shallow channels that run along the underside of the bodyboard. Water swirls around in them, making the board slower but easier to control. Channels work in a similar way to fins on a surfboard.

A special form is the concave:

A large channel with a camber in the middle that increases the speed of the board. This makes the board faster and even easier to control.

Contours

Contours are bulges on the top of the bodyboard. This increases comfort when lying on the board. They also help you to control the bodyboard better and position your elbows correctly.

Contours are also useful when you need to hold on tight to your bodyboard, for example when duckdiving or doing hard drops.

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Well-known brands and manufacturers

There are many bodyboard manufacturers and brands. The most important and best-known brands include: Osprey, Pride, Morey, NMD, Gul, Waimea.

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Bodyboard tests by Consumer Reports and Öko Test

Unfortunately, there are currently no tests available from Consumer Reports or Öko Test.

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Riding styles for bodyboarding

Did you know? Bodyboarding is not only possible when lying down! There are three different riding styles. Everyone has to find out for themselves which one suits them best:

• Prone

  Prone refers to the classic way of lying on the bodyboard. The stomach lies on the top of the bodyboard, the front hand grips the corner of the bodyboard and the back hand grips the side.

• Drop Knee

  Drop knee bodyboarding involves surfing in a half-kneeling position on the bodyboard. The front foot stands on the front of the deck, while the back knee stands on the rear end.

  The whole thing comes pretty close to surfing on a surfboard, but it’s not easy. Because the bodyboard has no fins like a surfboard, tricks such as 360° turns are possible.

• Stand Up

  As the name suggests, you stand completely on the bodyboard. Neither knee touches the board permanently. This style is the most unpopular, difficult to master and is reminiscent of real surfing.

Basically, all three riding styles can be surfed with (almost) every bodyboard.

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Bodyboard accessories and care:
This is part of bodyboarding

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Bodyboard fins

You can’t do without boddyboard fins!
Bodyboard fins (also called fins) are necessary to have the best bodyboarding experience.

Why fins?

Here are the most important reasons why bodyboard fins are indispensable:

• You can move faster in the water with them.
• It is easier to dive through waves.
• Waves are easier to paddle on.
• Help to control the rails.
• Protect against sharp stones.

Diving fins vs. bodyboard fins

Diving fins can also be used for the first bodyboard attempts. However, as these are longer and are not designed to build up speed quickly, they should only be used for the first 1-2 bodyboarding attempts.

Bodyboard fins are shorter and a leg kick can be executed faster than with diving fins. They also differ in their symmetry. Diving fins are usually symmetrical at the tip, while bodyboard fins are asymmetrical.

How should fins fit?

Fins that are too small or too large can make bodyboarding a real pain. If the following criteria are met, you can be sure that the fins fit correctly.

• The fins are tight, but not too tight.
• No uncomfortable pressure on toes, foot or heel.
• No cramps in the foot during bodyboarding.
• The tab on the heel sits firmly and painlessly.
• The fins do not wobble and are not loose.

Note: Fins should fit comfortably and not cause pain! But don’t expect the comfort of a well-fitting sneaker.

Do you have cramps and/or pain in your feet after or during bodyboarding?

This is most likely due to the fins being too tight! It is therefore better to buy a new pair instead of struggling with every session.

Fins extras that make your life easier

1. Fin Socks

If it’s too cold in the water or the fins don’t quite fit, Fin Socks are the right solution!

Fin socks are neoprene socks that are worn under the fin. In winter they protect against the cold and in summer against sore spots when the rubber of the fin rubs against the foot.

” See also BeyondSurfing’s big neoprene socks comparison.

2. flipper slippers

Flipper Slippers are similar to Fin Socks. The difference is that the heel area is free. This protects only the part of the foot that could rub against the fin.

As Flipper slippers are lighter than conventional neoprene socks, they are preferred by many bodyboarders in summer.

3. fin tethers

Most bodyboarders wouldn’t go into the water without a leash because who wants to lose their board? The same applies to fins! Fin Tethers are there to prevent this from happening.

Fin Tethers are attached to the fin and above the ankle. This means that the fin does not get lost, even if it should slip off the foot.

4. heel shields

Heel shields are attached to the strap of the fin, which holds the heel in the fin. They ensure that the skin on the heel is not chafed. In addition, heel straps that are slightly too wide can be made to fit.

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Bodyboard Leash

If you save on the leash, you pay twice.

Losing your bodyboard in the water can quickly become uncomfortable depending on the wind and wave conditions. That’s why bodyboarders always use a leash on the board.

The bodyboard leash consists of the following parts:

1. Leash plug and string

   The leash plug is inserted into the bodyboard. A cord (= the string) is attached to it, to which the leash itself is then attached.

2. Arm or wrist closure

   The other end of the leash is attached either to the arm or wrist. It consists of a neoprene-padded strap that is fastened with a Velcro fastener.

3. Plastic cord

   A plastic strap connects the bodyboard to the person. There are so-called coils at both ends. These ensure that the leash does not get tangled up in itself.

How to attach the leash plug?

After you have bought a new bodyboard, you must first attach the leash plug to the bodyboard. You can either ask your trusted surf store for help or simply do it yourself:

1. Finding the right position

   First you need to find the right position for the leash plug. This is located between 15-20 cm below the nose. Measure up!

   If the bodyboard has a stringer, this is indicated by a sticker on the underside of the bodyboard.

   Important: The leash plug must never be pushed through the stringer, otherwise it will break.

2. Using the leash plug

   Now use a screwdriver or drill to drill through the underside towards the top at the marking. As soon as you are close to the deck, i.e. the top, you stop.

   Then find the place where the hole should be on the deck. Now heat the screwdriver with a lighter and press it gently through the deck into the hole.

   Finally, the two parts of the leash plug are put together from above and below and screwed into each other.

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Other bodyboard accessories

What other accessories are needed for bodyboarding?

Surf wax

To get an even better grip on the bodyboard you should apply surf wax. A large amount of wax is applied to the area where the hands and arms lie on the board. A small amount of wax is used for the area on which the upper body lies.

Bodyboard bag

If you love your bodyboard, you should treat it well. A bodyboard bag protects the bodyboard from the sun and other environmental influences. It’s also great for transporting. Wax and towel also fit comfortably in the bag.

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Bodyboard care

The right bodyboard and bodyboard fin care

To ensure that your bodyboard and fins last as long as possible, the following points should always be observed after use:

1. Rinsing

   The fins and the bodyboard should be rinsed with clear water after bodyboarding. This prevents the material from being attacked by salt water.

2. Store correctly

   Fins and board should always be stored correctly. This means that the fins must not be bent, otherwise they will quickly become deformed. The board should be stored as freely as possible so that no pressure points or similar occur.

3. Protect from the cold

   Cold is not good for the rubber of the fins. Cellars and garages are therefore not a good place to store them in winter.

4. Avoid direct sunlight

   Never store your board and fins in the sun. UV radiation attacks the material and makes it brittle and susceptible to damage over time.

5. Caution in the water

   You should be careful when leaving the water. This is especially true if there are sharp rocks or a coral reef on the seabed. Both can damage the fins.

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FAQ: Frequently asked questions and answers

What is a bodyboard?

A bodyboard is a piece of water sports equipment that allows you to surf a wave while lying down.

How does bodyboarding work?

The wave is paddled to while lying on the bodyboard, then the wave is ridden to the left or right.

Where can you bodyboard?

Wherever there are waves.

Which bodyboard size is the right one?

This depends on your body weight and height. You can find more detailed information ” here.

Where can I buy a bodyboard?

On the Internet (e.g. on Amazon) or in a surf store.

What should I look out for in bodyboard fins?

The fins must fit as snugly as possible. They should neither pinch nor be loose. You can find out more ” here in the buying guide.

Is a bodyboard a toy?

No, a bodyboard is different from toys for children. It is a piece of sports equipment, made for surfing waves.

Are there also inflatable bodyboards?

Yes, there is. In terms of performance, however, they do not (yet) come close to normal bodyboards.

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