Best Shortboards of 2026

Jason Kiser Avatar
Jason Kiser
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Shortboards are a popular choice for surfers who want to ride the waves with speed and agility. These surfboards are typically less than 7 feet long and have a pointed nose and narrow tail, allowing for quick turns and maneuvers. Shortboards are designed for experienced surfers who have mastered the art of catching and riding waves. They require a lot of skill and balance to use effectively, but once mastered, they can provide an exhilarating surfing experience. Shortboards are available in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit different surfing styles and preferences.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

EASYGO 4'10" Beginner Softboard Surfboard Cover #TOP 1
EASYGO 4'10" Beginner Softboard Surfboard
ftb score rating icon 9.9
THURSO SURF Lancer 5'10" Fish Soft Top Surfboard Cover #TOP 2
THURSO SURF Lancer 5'10" Fish Soft Top Surfboard
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Own The Wave Clawstrike 4’3 Kids Soft Top Surfboard Cover #TOP 3
Own The Wave Clawstrike 4’3 Kids Soft Top Surfboard
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Shortboards

#TOP 1

EASYGO 4'10" Beginner Softboard Surfboard

EASYGO PRODUCTS
Blue
4'10"
EASYGO 4'10" Beginner Softboard Surfboard Cover
4'10" FUNBOARD Beginner Learning Softboard Surfboard Foam - Includes (2) Fins and a 6’ Foot Leash - Crocodile Skin Top Surface for Grip. Kids and Teenagers Blue

The EASYGO Beginner Softboard is a great choice if you’re just starting to surf. Its 4'10" size is perfect for kids and teens up to 100 pounds, making it easier for you to learn on small to medium waves. The unique crocodile skin texture on top gives you extra grip without needing messy surf wax, helping you stay steady on the board. Plus, its wide and buoyant shape keeps you balanced and floating well, so you can focus on riding waves without worrying about tipping over. With removable fins and a leash included, this board is both practical and fun for beginners.

What We Like
Beginner-friendly size
Crocodile skin grip
Stable, buoyant shape
Removable fins
Includes leash
#TOP 2

THURSO SURF Lancer 5'10" Fish Soft Top Surfboard

TS-S-L-510
Blue
Lancer 5'10
THURSO SURF Lancer 5'10" Fish Soft Top Surfboard Cover
THURSO SURF Lancer 5'10'' Soft Top Foam Surfboard Fish Surf board for Kids & Adults Includes Twin Fins Double Swivel Leash EPS Core IXPE Deck HDPE Slick Bottom Non-Slip Deck Grip - Perfect for Surfing

The THURSO SURF Lancer 5'10" Fish Soft Top Surfboard is a great choice for kids and beginners looking to learn how to surf. It's lightweight and buoyant with a high-density EPS core, HDPE slick bottom, and IXPE deck. The board is designed with a focus on stability and glide, and comes with twin fins and a 6' double stainless steel swivel leash. Customers have been pleased with the board's performance and durability, making it a great choice for those just starting out.

What We Like
Lightweight and buoyant with a high-density EPS core
HDPE slick bottom and IXPE deck for maximum performance
Twin fins and 6' double stainless steel swivel leash included
Stable and easy to ride for beginners
Highly durable and great performance
#TOP 3

Own The Wave Clawstrike 4’3 Kids Soft Top Surfboard

BPS
Blue
51 Inch
Own The Wave Clawstrike 4’3 Kids Soft Top Surfboard Cover
Own The Wave New Zealand ‘Clawstrike’ 4’3ft Soft Top Surfboard for Kids Beginner Lightweight Hybrid Foam Surf Board with Carry Bag Made from Recycled Plastics

The Own The Wave Clawstrike Surfboard is designed to make learning to surf fun and easy for kids. Its 51-inch length and wide shape provide a stable surface, helping young surfers balance and stand up with confidence. The soft top and extra volume add buoyancy, making paddling smoother and safer. This board is versatile too—it can convert into a bodyboard or kneeboard by removing the soft fins, giving you multiple ways to enjoy the water. Plus, it comes with a grippy deck, soft fins, a surf leash, and a lightweight carry bag made from recycled plastics, making it convenient and safe for beginners.

What We Like
Stable beginner-friendly design
Versatile 3-in-1 use
Soft, safe materials
Lightweight and portable
Includes leash and carry bag
#TOP 4

Rock-It 4'10" DA Wizard Surfboard

Black
4'10 x 19.5
Rock-It 4'10" DA Wizard Surfboard Cover
Rock-It DA Wizard Performance Soft Top Surfboard, 4’10” / 39L Foam Surfboard for Ocean, Wave Pool, River Surfing and More with 2+1 fin System and Reinforced Deck and Rails Developed in Hawaii (Black)

The Rock-It Mini Surfboard is designed for various surfing environments, including ocean waves, wave pools, and rivers. Its dimensions of 4'10" in length and 19.5" in width, combined with a volume of 39 liters, make it manageable and agile for surfers of all levels. The 2+1 fin system enhances stability and maneuverability, allowing you to ride with confidence. With two wooden stringers and a UV-resistant soft top, this board is built for durability, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of surfing. Enjoy a reliable and high-performance experience on this versatile surfboard.

What We Like
Versatile for multiple environments
Durable construction
Stable and maneuverable design
Lightweight and agile
#TOP 5

CONTOUR SURF Kunpeng 5'8'' Epoxy Shortboard

White
5 ft 8
CONTOUR SURF Kunpeng 5'8'' Epoxy Shortboard Cover
CONTOUR SURF Kunpeng 5'8'' Epoxy Shortboard Surfboard with Fins and Leash | High-Performance Fish Surfboard for Intermediate to Advanced Surfers | EPS Core, Wood Stringer, Carbon Reinforced

The CONTOUR SURF Kunpeng Board is built to give you speed and precise control, making it ideal for riding waves from waist to shoulder height. Its EPS core combined with a wood stringer keeps the board light but strong, allowing you to perform sharp turns and smooth carves easily. The board’s carbon-reinforced fiberglass construction adds extra stiffness, helping you stay stable even in challenging wave sections. Plus, the epoxy finish protects the board from dings and sun damage, so you can enjoy it for many surf sessions without worry. This board balances performance with durability, perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers.

What We Like
Lightweight EPS core
Strong wood stringer
Carbon-reinforced fiberglass
Durable epoxy finish
Designed for fast turns
#TOP 6

Rock-It CHUB 4'10" Kids Soft Top Surfboard

CHUB
Blue
Rock-It CHUB 4'10" Kids Soft Top Surfboard Cover
Rock-It 4'10" CHUB Soft Top Surfboard, Kids Surfboard, Mini Surfboard, Innovative Design Easy to Paddle and Maneuverable Small Surfboard and Beginner Surfboard (Blue)

The Rock-It CHUB Kids Surfboard is a great choice if you're looking for a fun and easy-to-use board for young surfers. Its twin-fin design and buoyant shape make paddling and maneuvering simple, so you can enjoy catching waves with confidence. The board is stable and glides smoothly, making it ideal for beginners who want a comfortable ride. Plus, it’s built to last with eco-friendly materials, including water-resistant stringers and a soft top that doesn’t need wax. This means you get a durable, low-maintenance board that’s gentle on the environment and perfect for learning and growing your surfing skills.

What We Like
Easy to paddle
Stable and smooth glide
Durable eco-friendly materials
No wax needed
Supports up to 150 lbs
#TOP 7

Pacifico Clara Surfboard Wall Decor

Pacifico
yellow
Pacifico Clara Surfboard Wall Decor Cover
Pacifico Clara Surfboard -Indoor Use Only_AB

The Pacifico Clara Surfboard is a stylish indoor wall decoration featuring a high-quality image of the Pacifico Clara surfboard laminated directly onto the board. Measuring a large 47 inches by 11 inches, it makes a bold statement in any room. It comes with hanging hardware, so you can easily mount it on your wall without hassle. Proudly made in the USA, this surfboard is designed exclusively for indoor use, making it a perfect piece for surf enthusiasts who want to showcase their passion safely inside their home or office. The Pacifico Clara Surfboard combines eye-catching design with easy installation and quality craftsmanship.

What We Like
High-resolution laminated image
Large size for impact
Included hanging hardware
Made in the USA
#TOP 8

Waterkids 5'6 Surfboard

Waterkids 5'6 Surfboard Cover
Waterkids 'Reef' Kids Surfboard & Leash, Perfect for Learning How to Surf, Made for Kids, 5'6ft Classic Fish Shape Beginner, Soft Top Foam, Easy to Catch Waves

The Waterkids 5'6 Surfboard is the perfect beginner surfboard for kids who want to learn how to surf. With its classic fish shape and soft top material, this surfboard provides maximum safety and durability. The 5'6 size is specifically designed for kids and allows for easy wave-catching and progression. Made with high-quality materials, this surfboard is just as good as any adult soft top surfboard. The superior lightweight Dura-Soft construction ensures strength and longevity, making it ideal for young surfers. As an American-owned brand, Waterkids is dedicated to providing the best possible surfboards for kids. Get your kids started on their surfing journey with the Waterkids Kids Surfboard!

What We Like
Safe and durable
Designed for kids
High-quality construction
#TOP 9

Bloo Tide 6' Swallow Tail Soft Surfboard

Americana
Bloo Tide 6' Swallow Tail Soft Surfboard Cover
Foam Bloo Tide 6’ Swallow Tail Soft Surfboard

The Bloo Tide Soft Surfboard is a lightweight and portable choice for surfers. Measuring 6 feet long, it offers a comfortable size that’s easy to handle in the water. Its width and thickness provide stability and buoyancy, making it great for riders of various skill levels. Weighing just over 8 pounds, you can easily carry it to the beach without much effort. Plus, it comes with a simple leg leash and a set of three fins, giving you the essentials to start surfing right away.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Easy to carry
Comes with leash and fins
Stable size and shape
#TOP 10

California Board Company 5' Surfboard

white with graphic
California Board Company 5' Surfboard Cover
California Board Company CBC Surfboard, 5-Feet x 8-Inch, Assorted

The California Board Company Surfboard is designed for an enjoyable surfing experience. Its high-density EPS foam core provides excellent buoyancy and stability, making it easier for you to ride the waves. The board features a vibrant graphic deck and bottom, adding style to your surf sessions. An attached traction pad ensures you have a secure grip while riding, enhancing your control. Plus, the new fin system with three blue fins included helps improve maneuverability in the water. This surfboard is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers looking to enhance their performance.

What We Like
Lightweight design
Vibrant graphics
Secure grip
Improved maneuverability
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Shortboards to Meet Your Needs

What is a Shortboard?

A shortboard is a type of surfboard that is typically shorter and narrower than the traditional longboard. It is designed to be used in smaller, more powerful waves and is popular among surfers of all levels. Generally, the shorter and narrower shape of the board allows for more speed and maneuverability.

Benefits of Using a Shortboard

Shortboards offer a variety of benefits over traditional longboards. One of the most obvious benefits is the increased speed and maneuverability offered by the shorter and narrower design. Additionally, shortboards generally have more performance-oriented construction and design features, such as concaves, channels, and fins. This allows them to be better suited for smaller, more powerful waves and make them better for performing tricks.

Choosing the Right Shortboard

When choosing a shortboard, there are several factors to consider. First, think about the type of waves you typically surf. If you usually surf in small, powerful waves, then a shortboard may be the best option for you. If you usually surf in bigger, less powerful waves, then a longboard may be a better option.

Next, consider the size and shape of the shortboard. The size of the board should be appropriate for your height, weight, and skill level. Generally, if you're a beginner, then a bigger board is better. If you're an experienced surfer, then a smaller board may be more suitable. Additionally, the shape of the board should be based on the type of waves you usually surf. For example, if you typically surf in small, powerful waves, then a "fish" shape may be the best choice.

Finally, consider the construction and design features of the board. Look for features that will make the board better suited for the type of waves you usually surf. For example, if you're looking for a board for small, powerful waves, then look for features such as concaves, channels, and fins.

Conclusion

Choosing the right shortboard is an important decision for any surfer. When making your selection, consider the type of waves you usually surf, the size and shape of the board, and the construction and design features of the board. With the right shortboard, you can take your surfing performance to the next level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can a beginner ride a shortboard?

No, beginners should not ride shortboards. Shortboards are not suitable for beginners as they have a steep learning curve and can slow down progression. It may take months or even years for beginners to catch their first real waves on a shortboard.

2. Are shortboards hard to ride?

Yes, shortboards are harder to ride compared to boards with more volume. Shortboards have less buoyancy and stability, making it challenging to maintain balance. It requires mental adjustment and practice to adapt to the body placement and stability of a shortboard.

3. What is easier, a longboard or a shortboard?

Riding a longboard is generally easier compared to a shortboard. Longboards have more forgiving characteristics such as length, width, and volume, making it easier for beginners to progress from beginner to intermediate levels.

4. Why am I struggling to catch waves on a shortboard?

Catching waves on a shortboard requires more paddling power and precise positioning. Shortboards require harder paddling to gain momentum, and the margin for error is lower. Accurate positioning is crucial to successfully catch waves on a shortboard.

5. Can a beginner ride a 7-foot surfboard?

Yes, beginners can ride a 7-foot surfboard. The size of the surfboard depends on factors like height, weight, and experience level. A 7-foot surfboard provides enough volume to float on waves and offers stability, making it suitable for beginners to learn and improve their surfing skills.

6. Is a fish easier than a shortboard?

Fish surfboards are easier to ride than shortboards for those progressing beyond the beginner level. Fish surfboards are thicker and provide better paddling ease, making them suitable for smaller and calmer waters.

7. Do pro surfers use shortboards?

Yes, most professional surfers prefer shortboards as their weapon of choice. Professional surfers have the skill and experience to surf different boards in various conditions. Shortboards are a popular choice among professional surfers due to their performance capabilities.

Editor's Notes

During our shortboard research, we found 24 shortboard products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,786 customer reviews through our big data system to write the shortboards list. We found that most customers choose shortboards with an average price of $226.51.

The shortboards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of shortboards, including EASYGO PRODUCTS, THURSO SURF, BPS, Rock It, CONTOUR SURF. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Jason Kiser Avatar

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.