Hanging in the middle is not easy. As the mind is demanding more features, while the body has its limitations and requires practice. To reach the pro level in no time, we have selected some of the best surfboards for intermediate surfers.
They are perfect to meet the needs of surfing when you head up from the beginner’s level and will soon enter an expert level.
What We Cover
- Best Surfboards for Intermediate Surfers
- Best Intermediate Surfboards Reviews
- What Surfboard Should an Intermediate Surfer Get?
- How Many Liters for an Intermediate Surfer?
- How Many Hours of Surfing Do You Need to Be an Intermediate?
- What is an Intermediate Skill Level?
- What is the Difference Between Beginner and Intermediate Surfers?
Best Surfboards for Intermediate Surfers
| #1. Bing Collector 7’10 | Check Price |
| #2. Arakawa Holy Moli 7’4 | Check Price |
| #3. Album Surf Moonstone 7’0 | Check Price |
| #4. Firewire Greedy Beaver Volcanic 6’10 | Check Price |
| #5. Torq Mod Fun V+ TET 7’4 | Check Price |
Best Intermediate Surfboards Reviews
#1. Bing Collector 7’10 x 22 5/16 x 3 Surfboard
This mid-length hybrid board is made using PU to give you all the latest features to enjoy with a traditional feel. It’s design and rounded pin tail make it highly stable, consistent, and easier to ride.
What do we like most about this product?
The best part of this board is its unique mini-nose rider shape that makes it collect; that’s why it is called Collector. It is ideal for diverse riding styles and makes it one of the most versatile boards out there.
Pros
- Highly responsive
- Very durable as polyurethane foam blank is covered with polyester resin
- Perfect for all kinds of riders, specially intermediate riders
- 4 + 1 fin box configuration making it highly versatile; you can use it as a single fin, 2+1 combo, or quad
Cons
- A bit heavier
- Cost a little more than others
- Less buoyant than epoxy boards
Summary
When you need full drive with maximum control, this Surfboard can be the best choice. With a wide range of fin configurations, you can take its maneuverability to a whole new level. Overall, this Bing Surfboard is made to make you surf right.
#2. Arakawa Holy Moli 7’4 x 21 ½ x 3 Surfboard
This surfboard has the perfect mid-length with PU/ Murray glassing, giving it strength and functionality. The bottom contour having a slight single concave to vee and the rounded tail make it a bomb combination for all kinds of riding styles.
What do we like most about this product?
The board size is less to swing but pronounced enough to tackle waves with power. Alongside, this surfboard is fun to ride and offers excellent maneuverability.
Pros
- Modern hybrid design perfect for all kinds of conditions
- PU construction with Murray glassing that adds extra durability and strength and makes the surfboard last longer
- Tri-quad fin configuration so you can use it the way you like
- Market compatible price
Cons
- Perfect for all but not exclusive to experts; mostly do best for intermediate surfers
- Very stable and strong but less buoyant due to its construction material
Summary
Arakawa Holy Moli is a highly responsive and flexible board that can greatly augment your surfing experience. It is made from high-quality material that makes it long-lasting and very maneuverable. Altogether, with this surfboard, you can easily ride in any situation and perform the way you like.
#3. Album Surf Moonstone 7’0 x 20 ¾ x 2 ⅘ Surfboard
With this beautiful name, Moonstone, this surfboard gives you the perfect power, strength, and style combination. It’s ideal for every intermediate surfer who is heading towards betterment. It has a rounded tail and Pu/ Poly construction.
What do we like most about this product?
What’s best about the board is its size. The mid-length long fishboard has no extra width. It gives you more paddle power with unmatchable speed. The board is easy to handle at higher speeds.
Pros
- The versatile shape makes it narrower than most surfboards but ideal for maneuverability with length and thickness.
- Early speed and amazing paddle power to give ample performance without hindrance every time
- Early speed
- Extraordinary paddle power
- Good wave handling offering ample maneuverability
Cons
- Not ideal for beginners
- Prone to damage if used roughly
- Thicker rails don’t allow good hold at a faster speed if you are a newbie
Summary
This version comes from Album’s most popular UTF fish, but it has the edge of its length. This board, overall, is sturdy, powerful, and has the capacity to easily tackle different wave conditions. It is an amazing board when adding more versatility to your surfing.
#4. Firewire Greedy Beaver Volcanic 6’10 x 21 ¾ x 2 ⅜ Surfboard
In this hybrid mid-length surfboard, everything is special. It uses volcanic construction that takes it to another level of strength and power. The basalt fibers used in its making are made by crushing and washing basalt rock at 1,500°C. It has a rounded tail with a tri-quad fin configuration and paulownia rails.
What do we like most about this product?
The best thing about this board is its construction. The Basalt fiber can withstand high temperatures. It has higher oxidation and radiation resistance. Also, it can easily tackle weather harshness and remain as good as new for a longer period of time.
Pros
- Volcanic construction that is more eco-friendly than any other surfboard building material
- Perfect for all riding levels, from beginners to pro
- Whether there are weak, standard, or optimum waves, it works best in all conditions
- Amazing design with tri-quad fin set
- Highly durable
Cons
- An expensive board
Summary
With the Volcanic construction and perfect design, you can slay the waves like a pro with this surfboard. The technology used in its making can let it stand tough in harsh weather or altered conditions. On the whole, this board is worth trying as it takes you to an exotic surfing experience.
#5. Torq Mod Fun V+ TET 7’4 x 22 x 3 Surfboard
It’s a high-volume wide board with a mid-length and allows you to enjoy the turning ability of a shorter board and the stability and paddling of a longer one. Whether you are a pro or just beginning, this board fulfills all your needs as a surfer. The construction is unique with Torq-Epoxy technology.
What do we like most about this product?
The special construction takes it one step ahead of the general epoxy construction. This technology gives the combination of a lightweight EPS core with epoxy resin and biaxial fiberglass cloth. The torq composite is extracted from a single aluminum block using precision cut. The combination provides top-edged performance with highly responsive flex alongside unmatchable strength and durability.
Pros
- High-quality construction
- High volume improves the wave-catching ability
- The bottom contours and rocker are designed to make the board more playful and fun
- Perfect for all kinds of riders
- Cheaper in price than other models
Cons
- Thruster fin configuration is the hardest system to ride when you are using it for the first time
- At slower waves, more pumping is required to generate speed
Summary
Altogether, this surfboard is a perfect mid-length board for all kinds of surfers. It is agile and powerful and lets you have the best surfing experience at the most affordable price.
What Surfboard Should an Intermediate Surfer Get?
As an intermediate surfer, you have likely developed some skills and experience in the water. When choosing a surfboard, there are a few factors to consider, such as your weight, height, surfing ability, and the types of waves you typically ride. Here are some general recommendations:
Shape: Look for a surfboard with a shape that suits your skill level and the type of waves you ride. A good option for intermediates is a “funboard” or a hybrid shape that combines elements of both longboards and shortboards. These boards offer stability and maneuverability, making them versatile for a range of conditions.
Size: The size of the surfboard depends on your weight and skill level. Generally, a board between 7 and 8 feet long is suitable for most intermediate surfers. However, taller or heavier surfers may opt for longer boards, while lighter individuals might prefer shorter ones.
Volume: Pay attention to the volume of the surfboard, which affects its buoyancy and stability. A higher volume board provides better flotation, making it easier to paddle and catch waves. Aim for a board with enough volume to support your weight and skill level.
Fin Setup: Consider the fin setup that suits your preferences and the waves you surf. Most intermediate surfboards have a thruster setup (three fins) or a 2+1 setup (single fin with two smaller side fins). Thruster fins offer greater maneuverability, while a 2+1 setup provides more stability and control.
Consult with a Surf Shop: It’s a good idea to visit a local surf shop or speak with experienced surfers in your area. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on the specific conditions and breaks in your region.
Remember, these are general guidelines, and personal preferences play a significant role in choosing a surfboard. Take your time, try out different boards if possible, and consider seeking advice from experienced surfers or professionals to find the best surfboard for your needs. Happy surfing!
How Many Liters for an Intermediate Surfer?
The ideal volume of a surfboard for an intermediate surfer can vary depending on factors such as weight, skill level, and the type of waves you typically ride. However, as a general guideline, intermediate surfers often look for a board with a volume that ranges between 30 to 35 liters.
Having the appropriate volume in your surfboard is important because it affects the board’s buoyancy, stability, and paddling performance. A higher volume board will provide more floatation, making it easier to paddle, catch waves, and maintain stability while riding.
To determine the right volume for you, it’s helpful to consider your weight, fitness level, and proficiency in the water. If you are on the lighter side, you might prefer a board with slightly less volume within the intermediate range. Conversely, if you are heavier or less experienced, opting for a board with slightly more volume can enhance your stability and ease of use.
Keep in mind that these volume ranges are general recommendations, and personal preference plays a crucial role in selecting the right board. If possible, it’s always beneficial to try out different boards with varying volumes to find the one that feels comfortable and suits your specific needs.
How Many Hours of Surfing Do You Need to Be an Intermediate?
The number of hours required to become an intermediate surfer can vary significantly depending on several factors, including your natural ability, dedication to practice, frequency of surfing sessions, and the quality of instruction or coaching you receive. It’s important to note that there isn’t a set number of hours that universally defines someone as an intermediate surfer.
That being said, it typically takes surfers several months to a couple of years of consistent practice to progress from a beginner to an intermediate level. Regular practice and exposure to different wave conditions allow you to develop fundamental skills, gain confidence in the water, and improve your wave selection, paddling, and maneuvering abilities.
It’s also worth mentioning that becoming an intermediate surfer is not solely determined by the number of hours you spend in the water. It’s a combination of developing a solid foundation of basic skills, understanding wave dynamics, honing your timing and technique, and gaining experience in various surf conditions.
Working with experienced surfers or instructors, attending surf schools or camps, and actively seeking feedback can help accelerate your progress. Ultimately, the journey to becoming an intermediate surfer is unique to each individual, and it’s important to enjoy the process while staying safe in the water.
What is an Intermediate Skill Level?
An intermediate skill level in surfing generally refers to a surfer who has progressed beyond the beginner stage and has acquired a certain level of proficiency and competence in riding waves. While there is no strict definition or universally agreed-upon criteria, here are some characteristics commonly associated with an intermediate surfer:
Wave Catching: Intermediate surfers have developed the ability to consistently paddle into and catch unbroken waves on their own. They have a good understanding of positioning and timing to catch waves effectively.
Wave Riding: Intermediate surfers are capable of riding waves along the face, performing basic turns, and maintaining control and balance while riding. They can generate speed and perform maneuvers such as trimming, bottom turns, and top turns.
Wave Selection: Intermediate surfers have a growing ability to read and choose suitable waves based on their skill level and conditions. They understand different types of waves and can select appropriate ones to ride.
Consistency: Intermediate surfers are able to demonstrate their skills consistently across different sessions and in various conditions. They have developed a certain level of comfort and adaptability in the water.
Ocean Awareness: Intermediate surfers possess a greater understanding of ocean dynamics, including currents, tides, and wave behavior. They can navigate through the lineup and maintain awareness of other surfers in the water.
Equipment Knowledge: Intermediate surfers have gained some knowledge about surfboard types, shapes, and sizes that suit their preferences and skill level. They can make informed decisions when choosing equipment.
It’s important to note that the transition from beginner to intermediate is a gradual process, and there is no fixed point where one can be considered fully intermediate. It’s a continuous journey of improvement, learning, and honing skills as surfers strive to reach higher levels of proficiency.
What is the Difference Between Beginner and Intermediate Surfers?
The difference between beginner and intermediate surfers lies in their level of skill, experience, and proficiency in riding waves. Here are some key distinctions:
Wave Catching: Beginner surfers often struggle with paddling and timing to catch waves consistently. Intermediate surfers have developed the ability to independently paddle into and catch unbroken waves.
Wave Riding: Beginners typically ride straight along the face of the wave without much control or maneuverability. Intermediate surfers have acquired the ability to perform basic turns, generate speed, and maintain control while riding.
Balance and Control: Beginners often have difficulty maintaining balance on the board and may fall frequently. Intermediate surfers have improved their balance and can ride waves with greater stability and control.
Wave Selection: Beginners may struggle with identifying suitable waves to ride and often catch smaller, less powerful waves. Intermediate surfers have a better understanding of wave types and can choose appropriate waves based on their skill level and conditions.
Consistency: Beginners’ skills can vary widely from session to session, and they may experience more inconsistent performance. Intermediate surfers demonstrate a more consistent level of skill and are able to replicate their abilities across different surf sessions.
Ocean Awareness: Beginner surfers may have limited knowledge of ocean dynamics, including currents, tides, and wave behavior. Intermediate surfers possess a greater understanding of these factors and can navigate through the lineup more effectively.
Equipment Knowledge: Beginners often rely on larger, more stable boards suited for learning. Intermediate surfers have gained some knowledge about different surfboard types, shapes, and sizes that suit their preferences and skill level.
It’s important to note that the transition from beginner to intermediate is a gradual process, and there is no specific point where one can be considered fully intermediate. These categories are fluid, and individuals may progress at different rates depending on their dedication, practice, and exposure to different surf conditions.
To is Surf and Kite Instructor, Surfboard Shaper. He share about His life in this blog. More about Him in About page.
