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. What is the difference between bodyboard and boogie boarding? The term boogie boarding comes from Morey, coining the bodyboards “Boogie Boards”. Bodyboarding is name for the sport itself but in essence, there is no difference between the two. Boogie Boards” were invented on July 7, 1971 by Tom Morey.Bodyboarding is a great way to improve muscle strength throughout the body. Using your arms to paddle out and kicking with fins builds lean muscle in the arms and legs. The paddling motion is a strenuous workout for the legs and glutes. The ride itself works out another group of muscles, the core.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.One of the reasons why (some) surfers (still) hate bodyboarders is because boogie boarders ride anything – even a closeout wave. Fortunately, times are changing, and the oldest and fiercest rivalry in the history of boardsports is fading away.
How should a bodyboard fit?
Select your estimated height and weight from the dropdown below to find the bodyboard size recommended for you. As a rule of thumb, your ideal bodyboard should reach from your knees up to your chin when held out in front of you. Bodyboard sizing is determined on height & weight. A rough guide is for your board to be from your chin to your knee or about an inch below your belly buttom if it’s next to you standing on the ground.Bodyboard sizing is determined on height & weight. A rough guide is for your board to be from your chin to your knee or about an inch below your belly buttom if it’s next to you standing on the ground.Height: The top of the bodyboard should typically reach between your belly button and chest when standing upright next to the board. The board should be proportional to your body size for optimal control and speed. Weight: Your body weight is also an important factor when selecting the correct board.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.
How to pick 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. Suggested Sizing Generally bigger boards are faster, but not as easy to control, and generally suited to smaller waves and beginners. On the other hand smaller boards are a bit harder to generate speed, however, have greater control and are ideal for bigger waves and more advanced riders.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.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.A 6-foot surfboard is generally not recommended for beginners. These boards typically have less volume, making them harder to paddle, less stable, and more difficult to catch waves with.Longboards are a popular choice for beginners because they are the easiest to ride from day one. Drop through boards are even more friendly to beginners because they lower the ride height for extra stability and easier pushing. When choosing longboard size, it is important to keep your own size in mind.
What is the best material for bodyboards?
PP, (Polypropylene), is the ultimate core material for bodyboarding. PP cores offer a lightweight and high-performance experience. With 100% waterproof properties, it remains lightweight throughout the board’s lifespan. PE versus PP PE is the most common core used in bodyboards, especially in the cooler waters of UK and northern Europe. Despite being significantly heavier than PP, it has far more flex which offers more control. PP cores are preferred by warm water riders.PE cores will take more flex before they buckle, but tend to be a bit heavier than EPS cored boards. Their denser core also makes them a little less buoyant and more suitable for use in colder/cool water rather than hotter warm/ tropical water.
Are bigger bodyboards better?
Beginners should opt for slightly larger boards for additional stability and ease of wave catching. Intermediate and advanced riders might prefer a board closer to the recommended size or even slightly smaller for better manoeuvrability. 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.Bodyboard sizing is determined on height & weight. A rough guide is for your board to be from your chin to your knee or about an inch below your belly buttom if it’s next to you standing on the ground.General Fit: When standing, the board should reach from the ground to your belly button or from your chin to your knees. Wave Conditions: For smaller, weaker waves: Choose a slightly larger board for more float and easier paddling. For bigger, more powerful waves: Opt for a slightly smaller board for better control.