How to buy a used surfboard

Buying a used surfboard can be a great way to save money but can also be a daunting task. This article will cover the basics of purchasing a used surfboard, and will give you the knowledge you need to get a surfboard at a great bargain.

1st step when buying a used surfboard is to be honest with your ability and choose the right board for your ability. If you are a beginner you are better off looking for a surfboard that is longer with more volume such as a funboard or longboard. A board like this will be more stable and will enable you to catch waves easier and balance on the board while still learning the ropes of catching waves. Buying the wrong surfboard can be frustrating and will end up costing you more money in the long run and might even make you give up on surfing all together.

If you already know the type of used surfboard you want to purchase the next step is to start the hunt and analyze the surfboards condition. Most used surfboards will show signs of use, some more than others. It is crucial to inspect the surfboard for potential problems that could end up costing more in ding repair than the surfboard is worth. Below are some common problems with used surfboards. The list below will cover the basics so you are ready to make an educated choice when buying a used surfboard.

Pressure Denting: These are small dents usually on the deck of the surfboard. Pressure dents are to be expected with most used surfboards and will happen quickly after even minimal use. Unless the pressure denting is severe these are nothing to be concerned with. If the surfboard is severely dented on the top or the bottom you will want to check for cracks through the glass around the stringer and for any delaminating.

Delaminating: Delaminating is a symptom in surfboards where the fiberglass separates from the foam causing a bubble or soft spot where the fiberglass can be pushed up and down. If not repaired properly delaminating will spread over time making the surfboard weaker and more susceptible to breaking. A delaminating ding repair can run anywhere from $50 to over $150 depending on how big the delam is.

Chips and Cracks: While not always possible with used surfboards it is best to try and find a used surfboard  that is water tight. You will want to inspect the board for any chips and cracks in the glass. If you can feel a crack with your finger nail chances are water is seeping into the foam of the surfboard. These types of repairs can run $35 and up.

Discoloration or Waterlogged: You will want to check the surfboard for signs of yellowed foam or brown spots. This is a sign of water damage and if the board isn't repaired can lead to delaminating and decreased buoyancy of the board.

Broken Fins and Fin Boxes: Broken and cracked fin boxes and loose fins are common with used surfboards and can be expensive to fix. If the surfboard has glassed on permanently attached fins you should inspect each fin, make sure there are no cracks around the base and that the fin is not loose. If the surfboard uses an FCS or Future fin box make sure there are no cracks around the box and that all screws still work and are not stripped. Fin repairs start at about $50 per box. A used surfboard with 3 bad fins could cost over $150 to fix.

Buckled Surfboards: The final thing to check for on a surfboard are stress cracks or creases that run perpendicular to the stringer. Stress cracks or creases that are severe can indicate a hard impact to the board and most likely have weakened the board. A long crease usually around the nose or mid section of the board can be a sign that a board is ready to snap. A broken surfboard can cost over $150 to repair.

 

 

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