Types of Surfboards Explained: A Guide to Choosing the Right Second Hand Board for Every Surfer

Choosing the right surfboard can be tricky, especially with so many options available - whether you’re seeking used surfboards, looking to buy second-hand surfboards, or browsing the Board Exchange warehouse. Here’s a full guide to the most common types of surfboards, including specialised shapes for every skill level and wave type. For your convenience, each section includes a link to our current stock so you can explore available boards straight away.

 

Softboard:

Softboards are the launchpad for most surfers: maximum float, foam tops for safety, and stability galore. They come in all sizes, but for learning, go bigger—right board size accelerates progress and helps cement good habits. Learn the pop-up sequence (push-up, rear foot first) for safe, fluid stands. Softboards are forgiving on wipeouts and brilliant for kids, families, and fun summer conditions; their durability makes them a smart choice for a second-hand buy.

 Shop softboards: [View Softboards Stock]

 

Soft Performance:

Soft performance boards combine the easygoing vibe of softboards with sharper rails, more refined outlines, and advanced fin setups.These boards are constructed like a traditional hardtop or shortboard, featuring an internal structure and shape designed for responsiveness, but are coated with a layer of EVA foam for extra safety and comfort. This results in a board that blends the sturdiness and feel of a hardboard with the forgiving, soft exterior of a foam board. Great for progressing riders who want more from their soft top, or advanced surfers seeking stress-free fun in mellow waves.

Shop soft performance boards: [View Soft Performance Surfboards Stock]

 

Mid-length:

Mid-lengths (6’6”–8'0”) are excellent for unlocking more waves and boosting your confidence. Their generous float and wider outline offer superb paddling and easy wave-catching, while still allowing for smooth, stylish turns. They’re great for progressing beyond a softboard and suit intermediates to advanced riders wanting laidback fun. Mid-lengths perform in a huge variety of conditions, from mellow point breaks to punchy beach breaks. The perfect “do-it-all” board—and an ideal candidate for a quality second-hand surfboard

Shop mid-lengths: [View Mid-Length Surfboards Stock]

 

Malibus:

Malibus are ideal surfboards for beginner or intermediate surfers looking for stability and ease when paddling and catching waves. They have greater length and volume, providing balance and helping build confidence in the early stages of surfing. Perfect for learning and progressing with safety and flow.

Malibus perform well in small to medium surf and help newer surfers find rhythm and flow without rushing progression. They’re also ideal for intermediate riders wanting to keep things smooth and relaxed.

Within this category, Mini-Malibus are a popular variation: smaller and more manoeuvrable versions. Mini-Malibus maintain much of the stability and user-friendliness of classic Malibus but feature slightly thinner rails and a more compact shape, making them better suited for lighter surfers or those progressing from softboards who want easier turning and more playful rides.

Shop Malibus: [View Malibus Surfboards Stock]

 

Hardtop:

Hardtop boards (fibreglass or epoxy layups) deliver pure feedback and crisp control. They’re lighter and more responsive compared to a softboard. They are typically the second phase and board of a surfer, after the softboard -built for surfers wanting to push their technique. Hard-tops require a bit more skill to manage and have a higher risk of injury during collisions. However, hard-top surfboards are much more responsive than soft-tops and allow for more complex (and fun) maneuvers. Hardtops are the most widely ridden option by progressing intermediates.

Shop hardtops: [View Hardtop Surfboards Stock]

 

Shortboard:

Shortboards are engineered for sharp turns, critical manoeuvres, and vertical surfing. Best for intermediate to expert surfers, shortboards require quick pop-ups and precise footwork for balance and speed down the line. Learn to “pump” for extra speed and keep your knees bent for stability. Focus on foot placement, back foot near the tail for control, front foot to drive through sections. Shortboards thrive in punchy, more powerful surf - build skills progressively for best results.

Shop shortboards: [View Shortboards Stock]

 

Quad:

Quad setups have four fins maximising speed, drive, and grip, especially when waves get steeper. Quads can feel turbo-charged down the line, offering a mix between the looseness of a twin and the control of a thruster. They particularly shine in hollow, fast conditions, but can still suit softer waves with the right template. Experiment with fin placement for different feelings (more drive vs more pivot) [How to choose surf fins set] and discover a whole new dimension to your surfing.

Shop Quad boards: [View Quad Surfboards Stock]

 

Twin fins:

Twin fins (two-finned boards, often with wide swallow/fish tails) deliver blinding speed and a fluid, skatey feel, particularly in clean, playful waves. The reduced drag means you accelerate quickly and carve big, stylish arcs. Twins excel in small to medium surf but can be less controlled in choppy conditions. For added drive, try keel fins or experiment with different fin templates for your wave style. Embrace the classic lines—they’re brilliant for breaking out of your routine and adding creativity to your sessions.

Browse twin fins: [Twin Fin Surfboards Stock]

 

Grom Boards:

Grom boards are scaled for younger, lighter surfers (roughly 0.3–0.6m taller than the child). They offer stability for learning but enough performance for progression. Choose tail shape based on skill—square/squash tails add lift and stability, swallow tails suit advanced groms aiming for dynamic turns. Prioritise manageable width, volume, and a forgiving rocker so kids can paddle and pop up confidently. These boards are perfect for building confidence.

Shop Grom Boards: [View Grom Boards Stock]

Longboard:

Longboards (8–10ft+) are all about flow, stability, and classic style. Ideal for small and rolling surf, the extra length lets you “walk the nose,” hang ten, and maximise wave count. These boards suit all levels - develop your cross-stepping, master trim, and enjoy the most laidback or most stylish surfing of your life. Longboards are perfect for older surfers, beginners, or anyone who enjoys traditional lines.

Shop Longboards: [View Longboards Stock]

 

Single Fin:

Single fins hark back to surfing’s golden age - one large central fin means drawn-out turns, soul-arch carves, and a focus on trim and line. Single fins suit classic longboards and retro-inspired shapes, encouraging smooth, deliberate movement over quick direction changes. Perfect for exploring traditional surfing style and building fundamental technique.

Shop Single Fins: [View Single Fin Surfboards Stock]

 

Step-up:

Step-up surfboards are designed for those days when the waves turn punchier and require something beefier than your everyday shortboard. They generally measure 2-4 inches longer than your normal board, with a sleeker outline and just enough extra volume to give added paddle power and control. Step-ups balance speed, drive, and hold on steeper take-offs, essential for committed surfers who want to push their limits when the swell’s up.

Shop Step-Ups: [View Step-Up Surfboards Stock]

 

 

Whether you’re searching for a new or second-hand surfboard, Board Exchange makes it easy to find your next favourite board. Visit our stock for up-to-date listings on all types - perfect for everyone from absolute beginners to seasoned pros!