What’s the difference between a bodyboard and a Boogie Board?
A Boogie Board is the same as a body board – the only difference is the brand name. Typically boogie boards are cheaper than body boards – usually attracting people that are just starting to get into wave riding. Bodyboarding is also referred to as Boogieboarding due to the invention of the Boogie Board by Tom Morey in 1971. The average bodyboard consists of a short, rectangular piece of hydrodynamic foam. Bodyboarders typically use swim fins for additional propulsion and control while riding a breaking wave.The difference between boogie boarding and surfing is that bodyboarding does not require you to stand up, making each “surf” less dangerous, especially if you do not have your core balance worked out.If you don’t wax your snowboard, you’ll start to notice several things happen over time; reduced overall performance of your board, namely agility and speed, and a shorter lifespan.Do All Bodyboards Need Waxing? Not every bodyboard demands wax. Typically, those with sleek, glossy surfaces or boards featuring PE (Polyethylene) cores can use a bit of waxing for an extra grip. The addition of wax helps keep the rider securely in place, particularly in warmer water scenarios.The wax in the bodyboard has the same function as in the surfboards, that is, avoid slipping in the grip of the bugi or when surfing a wave. But it is also necessary to perform maneuvers, for example, it will make it easier for us to hold the board well when we receive any of these maneuvers .
What to look for when buying a bodyboard?
Size is the most important element to consider when choosing a new bodyboard. Both height and weight will make a difference to your performance. Even half an inch the wrong way can affect your ability to catch waves and make manoeuvres. Your body size, riding experience, and the types of waves you will be riding are the three key factors to consider when choosing a bodyboard. Be sure to check out our sizing section below to figure out which size bodyboard will best fit your needs.Bodyboard size depends on your height, weight and skill level. As a general guideline, beginners should sekect a bodyboard that reaches their belly button while standing. Intermediate and advanced riders may prefer a slightly shorter board for increased maneuvrability.Are bigger bodyboards better? Bigger bodyboards are not necessarily better; it depends on your size, weight, and skill level. Larger boards offer more buoyancy and stability but can be less manoeuvrable.As it does not require standing up, beginners often find it more accessible. Lying prone on the board, they can quickly get a feel for the wave’s movement and power. Though simpler at the outset, bodyboarding still offers depth in technique and skill progression, ensuring ongoing challenges and growth for enthusiasts.
Are wooden bodyboards better?
Wooden bellyboards have been a fixture on beaches from long before the advent of the bodyboard. And as well as being super fun to ride they don’t present a hazard to marine ecosystem health (the same can’t be said for disposable polysterene bodyboards). While bodyboarding may offer an easier initial learning curve, both sports have their unique challenges, joys, and intricacies. The surfer vs bodyboard debate is less about which is easier and more about individual preferences.Over time, “boogie board” became a widely used term for all wave-riding boards, especially those designed for casual beachgoers and kids. A bodyboard, on the other hand, is the correct term for the sport and the board itself.Wooden bodyboards are also a great option as they are durable and easily repurposed into other fun things such as skimboards. Any board that is a bit more expensive will typically be a more solid structure and is more likely to be something you want to take home with you.Over time, “boogie board” became a widely used term for all wave-riding boards, especially those designed for casual beachgoers and kids. A bodyboard, on the other hand, is the correct term for the sport and the board itself.
How to shop for a bodyboard?
If you’re riding is mostly bigger waves, consider a bodyboard on the shorter end of your optimal size range. If you are a more of an advanced rider consider a shorter board for maneuverability. If you are a beginner, aim for a longer board in your size range. Bodyboarding is a fantastic workout that helps you improve your cardiovascular health, muscular strength, and endurance.Bodyboarding has a much easier learning curve than surfing and is physically less demanding, partly because you’re prone instead of required to “pop up” into your surf stance and balance standing on a board on a moving wave.In our latest video, bodyboarding legend Jay Reale shares essential tips on how to sit on your bodyboard with ease and balance! Whether you’re resting between waves or prepping for the next set, mastering this skill is key for all riders.Approaching bodyboarding as a beginner Hold the front part of the board, also known as the nose, with your hands, keeping your arms flexed. Your abdomen should rest on the back part of the board, known as the tail. The paddling motion towards the waves is done with your arms and legs.
Are bigger bodyboards better?
Bigger bodyboards are not necessarily better; it depends on your size, weight, and skill level. Larger boards offer more buoyancy and stability but can be less manoeuvrable. Surfing is much more difficult for the beginner to get to the point where you’re catching waves and noticing improvement overall in how you’re doing with it than bodyboarding is. Without the required time and practice dedicated to surfing, you will often find yourself on a plateau in your progression.Bodyboarding is one of the most accessible surf sports. It’s a fantastically fun way to enjoy the waves, but can be dangerous if you’re not properly prepared. Check out our expert advice and safety tips.While bodyboarding may offer an easier initial learning curve, both sports have their unique challenges, joys, and intricacies. The surfer vs bodyboard debate is less about which is easier and more about individual preferences.Depending on what core construction you opt for, it can be the difference between you progressing quickly in the sport or it could hinder your progress. Bodyboard cores are made of foam and the different types are suitable for different conditions and affect the performance of the board in different ways.Bodyboarding is not only a fun and exciting activity, but it also has numerous mental and physical health benefits. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving your mood and physical fitness, bodyboarding is an excellent way to take care of both your mind and body.