Bodyboard

Tom Morey invented the bodyboard in 1971. Since then, the bodyboard has established itself as an essential piece of equipment for riding waves, being both accessible to beginners and high-performance for experienced riders. Today, it appeals for its versatility and its ability to offer a unique riding experience, whether in small conditions or powerful waves.

At Bodyboard Center, we offer a wide selection of bodyboards, carefully chosen from the best brands on the market. Our aim is to provide reliable, high-performance models suitable for all levels. Our team of enthusiasts is also on hand to offer you prompt advice.

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Buy your bodyboard from the best brands

Bodyboard Center offers a wide selection of bodyboards, available in various sizes, shapes, colours and materials. Whether you practise prone, drop knee or stand-up bodyboarding, or are looking for a versatile board, you’ll find a model to suit your style. We also offer inflatable boards for added convenience, ideal for travelling or occasional use. Choosing a bodyboard should not be taken lightly. A simple difference in size, the wrong choice of materials or an unsuitable shape can completely change your experience. A well-chosen board, on the other hand, will allow you to progress more quickly, catch more waves and enjoy greater comfort in all conditions.

Choosing the right size

The size of your bodyboard is essential for ensuring comfort, speed and control in the water. A board that is too small will lack buoyancy and tire you out quickly whilst paddling. Conversely, a board that is too large will be harder to handle and limit your responsiveness during manoeuvres.

Size chart by weight and height

This guide helps you easily choose the right bodyboard based on your build. If you’re torn between two sizes, we recommend choosing based on your skill level and the conditions you’ll be riding in. A slightly larger board will offer more stability, whilst a shorter board will provide greater manoeuvrability.

A rider measuring 1m72 and weighing 68 kg should opt for a 41-inch bodyboard to achieve a good balance between speed, control and comfort. A beginner may choose a slightly larger size to make learning easier and improve stability.

Understanding the materials

The materials used in a board play a key role in its performance. They influence the board’s stiffness, flex, durability and behaviour depending on water temperature and surfing conditions.

PE Polyethylene

PE is a flexible material that offers excellent comfort and good control. It is particularly suited to cold water as it retains its flex. This type of bodyboard is often recommended for beginners or riders looking for a smooth, forgiving ride.

PP Polypropylene

PP is stiffer and lighter than PE. It offers greater speed and responsiveness, making it the preferred choice for experienced riders. It performs particularly well in warm water and powerful waves.

NRG

NRG offers an excellent balance between flex and rigidity. It provides good responsiveness whilst maintaining a certain level of comfort. It is a versatile choice for intermediate to advanced riders.

The choice of material depends on your ability, your surfing style and the water temperature. A good bodyboard suited to these criteria will allow you to maximise your performance and enjoyment in the waves.

Shapes and designs

The shape of a bodyboard directly influences its manoeuvrability, speed and behaviour in the wave. It is therefore essential to choose a model suited to your riding style.

Wide boards with good volume offer greater stability and make catching waves easier. They allow you to progress quickly with confidence.

Boards for tubes

Narrower boards allow you to gain speed and improve control in hollow waves. They are ideal for powerful conditions.

Boards for drop knee

Boards designed for drop knee have a specific shape offering greater stability and better control in this position.

PP Polypropylene

PP is stiffer and lighter than PE. It offers greater speed and responsiveness, making it the preferred choice for experienced riders. It performs particularly well in warm water and powerful waves.

NRG

NRG offers an excellent balance between flex and rigidity. It allows for
Manoeuvrable boards
Shorter, more responsive boards make it easier to string together tricks and spins. They are ideal for dynamic surfing.

The best brands of bodyboard

We select only brands renowned for the quality and performance of their bodyboards. Pride Bodyboards stands out for its innovation, NMD Bodyboards for its reliability, Stealth Bodyboards for its excellent value for money, Versus Bodyboards for its high-end models, and Found Bodyboards for its modern, high-performance designs. These brands are used by many professional riders and guarantee a high standard of quality for all bodyboarders.

Essential accessories for your bodyboard

To get the most out of your bodyboard, certain pieces of equipment are essential. Fins improve propulsion and make catching waves easier. A leash is essential for safety and prevents you from losing your board. A wetsuit keeps you warm and allows you to extend your sessions. Finally, wax improves grip and control on the board.

Expert advice from Bodyboard Center

A good-quality bodyboard can last between 5 and 10 years if properly maintained. Investing in a good model helps you progress more quickly and enhances your riding experience. Your choice of bodyboard should match your skill level and your riding style. A board that suits you will help you get the most out of every session. Rinse your board with fresh water after every session, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and store it in a dry place to extend its lifespan.