February 12

Hello guys, I'm Álvaro from Peru, and I started learning to surf 8 months ago. I usually surfed twice a month, but now I'm in the Gold Coast practicing three times a week. However, I'm struggling to improve.

I think I'm pretty bad, and maybe I can't get better because I'm using this board to practice. The reason is that my car is a Suzuki Alto, a small one, so I can't bring my other board, which is a 6'10"—though maybe it's still not long enough. Anyway, I'm not sure how to improve with what I have since I can't make any changes for now. I'm living in Surfers Paradise. Do you have any suggestions on how to get better using this board?

P.S. If anyone is living near Surfers or in the Gold Coast, is also learning, or wants a Padawan, let's connect! 🤙🏻

14
Sorted by
February 13

The shape and the wings on that board suggest it's made for turning. Although the rocker doesn't seem that extreme.

In any case it's probably not the easiest board to learn on. Made to turn also means less stable, which is what you're looking for initially.

Could be worth having a look at the choose the right board section to help you figure out what would suit you.

If a different board is not an option for you my first suggestion would be to focus on understanding positioning. A smaller more aggressive board requires better positioning to take off. i.e. as close to the peak of the wave as possible, where the power is. Make understanding and reading waves your priority.

That said, expect to struggle. If you can get on a bigger, longer, wider, more forgiving board, I would highly recommend that.

Hope that helps.

5
February 13

More detail will help: (1) what are you struggling with (2) what are the conditions you’re surfing in (3) height, weight and fitness level and (4) board dimensions?

2
February 13

Swing past OMBE in Currumbin

1
February 13

First question is can you fit roof bars etc?

Alternatively, is there somewhere you can hire a board to try out?

You can also try chatting with others in the line up and ask what they're riding and maybe swap for a few waves.

Of course if you're on the Gold Coast, you're not far from OMBE HQ 👍

1
February 20

Roof racks cost a fraction of a board, and most cars can have then fitted. Plenty of roof rack suppliers/installers around. A few hundred bucks and you’re sorted. Any length board you want then .