Understanding surfboard volume is crucial for choosing the right board, but it's often misunderstood or over-complicated. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what volume means, how it affects your surfing, and how to choose the right volume for your needs - without getting lost in complex calculations.

Written by
nanazero Editorial Team

nanazero Editorial Team - A specialized team of surfboard experts. Working with surf influencers worldwide to track the latest trends and technologies. Our diverse team includes surfboard design and manufacturing specialists, dedicated to providing valuable information to surfers of all levels.

Expert Review
East-Surfer

@higashisacom - With over 20 years of surfing experience and 15+ years of blogging. Ambassador for the Australian scientific surfing method "Correct Surf," sharing methods for improving surfing skills scientifically. Involved in surfboard design and development for beginners to intermediate surfers. Instagram: 35,000 followers, YouTube: 17,000 subscribers.

What is Surfboard Volume?

Surfer riding a wave, demonstrating the importance of proper board volume

The right board volume helps you catch waves more easily and perform better

Think of volume as your board's "floatiness." Measured in liters (L), it represents how much space your surfboard takes up - or more simply, how much foam is in your board. While surfboard length and width are easy to see, volume gives you a more complete picture of how a board will feel in the water. For more on basic surfboard design, check out our complete beginner's guide.

Quick Tip: Think of volume like a boat's buoyancy - more volume means more float and easier paddling, but it might also mean less maneuverability. Finding the right balance is key.

Why Volume Matters

Volume affects three crucial aspects of your surfing:

  • Paddle Power: Higher volume means easier paddling and better wave catching ability
  • Stability: More volume generally provides more stability when standing up
  • Maneuverability: Lower volume allows for easier turns and more responsive performance

Understanding Volume Recommendations

Important Note: Most volume charts and calculators are based on competitive shortboard surfing standards. If you're surfing for fun or riding different board types, these numbers should be considered general guidelines rather than strict rules.

How to Calculate Your Ideal Volume

Surfer performing a turn, showing the relationship between volume and maneuverability

Finding your ideal volume balance is key to progressing in your surfing

Skill Level Definitions

  • First Timer: Learning to paddle, finding balance and stability
  • Beginner: Starting to catch waves, working on takeoffs and basic turns
  • Intermediate: Consistent takeoffs and cutbacks
  • Advanced: Performing reentries, snaps, and carving maneuvers
  • Expert/Pro: High-performance surfing, advanced maneuvers
Skill Level Volume Multiplier Example (70kg/154lbs surfer)
First Timer 0.70 49.2L
Beginner 0.52 36.9L
Intermediate 0.44 30.8L
Advanced 0.37 25.8L
Expert/Pro 0.35 24.6L

Beyond the Numbers: Important Considerations

Volume recommendations should be adjusted based on several key factors:

  • Height: Taller surfers might need additional volume for better weight distribution
  • Physical Fitness: Better paddling strength might allow for less volume
  • Age: Older surfers often benefit from extra volume for easier paddling
  • Surfing Goals: Recreational surfers typically enjoy more volume than competitive surfers
  • Wave Type: Different conditions might require different volumes

Volume Guidelines by Board Type

Shortboards

While traditional volume calculations work well for shortboards, recreational surfers might want to add 2-4 liters to these numbers. 

Mid-lengths

Mid-length boards like our WOOD SKIN MID02 typically carry more volume than shortboards. Focus less on strict volume calculations and more on how the board feels under your arm.

Longboards

For longboards, overall length and design characteristics often matter more than specific volume numbers. Our EPS Longboards LOG02 series demonstrates how volume distribution can enhance traditional longboard characteristics.

Common Volume Myths

Myth #1: Lower Volume = Better Performance

Reality: The best performance comes from riding a volume that matches your skill level and surfing goals. Many recreational surfers actually perform better with slightly more volume than competition standards suggest.

Myth #2: Volume Charts Are Universal Rules

Reality: Volume recommendations are guidelines based primarily on competitive shortboard surfing. Your ideal volume might differ significantly based on your age, fitness, and surfing goals.

Making Your Final Decision

When choosing your board's volume:

  • Consider your honest skill level and surfing goals
  • Think about your local wave conditions
  • Factor in your age and fitness level
  • Remember that having fun is more important than following strict volume rules
Ready to find your perfect board?
Browse our complete surfboard collection, where each board's volume and characteristics are clearly listed to help you make an informed choice. Need personalized recommendations? Our team is here to help you find the perfect match for your surfing journey.
November 24, 2024
Tags: surfboard