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Catching Waves on a Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Buying Second Hand Shortboards

For surfers looking to shred without breaking the bank, second hand shortboards offer an accessible and sustainable way to enter the world of high-performance surfing. Whether you’re a beginner transitioning from a longboard or an experienced surfer seeking a backup board, the used market can be a treasure trove of deals. This guide will navigate you through the process of finding the perfect second hand shortboard, ensuring you get the most wave-riding potential for your money.

Why Choose a Second Hand Shortboard?

There are several compelling reasons to consider a second hand shortboard:

Cost Savings: New shortboards can be expensive, often costing upwards of $600 or more. Second hand shortboards can be found for significantly less, allowing you to save money or invest in other surfing essentials like a quality wetsuit or travel gear.
Experimentation: Trying out different shapes and sizes of shortboards can be costly if buying new. The used market allows you to experiment with various board designs without a huge financial commitment. You might discover a hidden gem that perfectly suits your style.
Sustainability: Buying used reduces the demand for new board production, minimizing the environmental impact associated with manufacturing and shipping. Choosing a second hand shortboard is a more eco-friendly option.
Availability: Some older board models, particularly those from renowned shapers, can be highly sought after and only available on the used market.

Where to Find Second Hand Shortboards

The hunt for the perfect second hand shortboard can take you to various locations:

Local Surf Shops: Many surf shops have a consignment section or a bulletin board where people list their used boards. This is a great place to find boards and get advice from knowledgeable staff.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay are popular platforms for buying and selling used surfboards. Be sure to carefully examine photos and descriptions, and ask questions before committing to a purchase.
Online Surfboard Specific Marketplaces: Websites like SidelineSwap, OfferUp, and dedicated surfboard resale sites offer a curated selection of used surfboards.
Surf Swaps and Garage Sales: Keep an eye out for local surf swaps or garage sales in coastal communities. These events can be a goldmine for finding deals on second hand shortboards.
Word of Mouth: Let your surfing friends know you’re in the market for a used shortboard. They might know someone who’s looking to sell.

What to Look for When Buying a Second Hand Shortboard

Before you hand over your cash, thoroughly inspect the board for any potential issues. Here’s what to look for:

Dings and Repairs

Dings are small cracks or punctures in the board’s fiberglass or epoxy resin. These can let water into the foam core, causing the board to become waterlogged and heavy. Carefully examine the board for dings, especially around the nose, tail, rails, and fin boxes. Minor dings can be easily repaired, but larger or multiple dings can indicate a more serious problem. Check the quality of any previous repairs. A poorly executed repair can be weaker than the original construction and prone to further damage. A well-repaired ding should be smooth, watertight, and properly color-matched. Consider the cost of ding repair when negotiating the price of a second hand shortboard.

Delamination

Delamination is when the fiberglass or epoxy resin separates from the foam core. This can create soft spots or bubbles on the board’s surface. Delamination is a serious issue that can significantly affect the board’s performance and durability. Check the board for delamination by pressing firmly on different areas. If you feel soft spots or hear a crackling sound, the board may be delaminated.

Yellowing

Yellowing of the board’s resin is a natural process that occurs over time due to sun exposure. While yellowing doesn’t necessarily affect the board’s performance, it can indicate that the board has been exposed to a lot of sun, which can weaken the resin. More importantly, check for even yellowing. Uneven yellowing may indicate that the board has been patched or repaired. These patched areas will be less yellowed than the original board. This can be a good way to spot potential problems that may be hidden.

Fin Boxes

The fin boxes are the slots where the fins are attached to the board. Make sure the fin boxes are securely attached and not cracked or damaged. Loose or damaged fin boxes can cause the fins to wobble, affecting the board’s control and stability. Try wiggling the fins in the fin boxes. If they move excessively, the fin boxes may need repair. Consider the cost of fin box repair when assessing the value of the second hand shortboard.

Rocker

Rocker refers to the curve of the board from nose to tail. The rocker affects the board’s maneuverability and paddling speed. Check the rocker by placing the board on a flat surface and observing the curve. Excessive rocker can make the board harder to paddle, while insufficient rocker can make it difficult to turn. A second hand shortboard should have a rocker that is appropriate for the type of waves you plan to surf. Understand the board’s rocker to make sure it’s a good fit for you.

Dimensions

The dimensions of a shortboard (length, width, and thickness) play a crucial role in its performance. Make sure the dimensions are appropriate for your skill level and the type of waves you plan to surf. A board that is too small may be difficult to paddle and catch waves, while a board that is too large may be difficult to maneuver. Consider your weight and height when choosing a second hand shortboard. Generally, shorter and thinner boards are more suitable for experienced surfers and larger waves, while longer and thicker boards are more forgiving for beginners and smaller waves.

Questions to Ask the Seller

Don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions about the board’s history and condition. Here are some key questions to consider:

How old is the board? This will give you an idea of how much wear and tear the board has experienced.
Has the board been repaired? If so, ask about the nature of the repairs and who performed them.
What type of waves has the board been surfed in? This will give you an idea of the board’s performance characteristics.
Why are you selling the board? The seller’s reason for selling may provide insights into the board’s condition or suitability.
What are the dimensions of the board? Confirm the dimensions to ensure they match your needs.

Negotiating the Price

Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price of a second hand shortboard. Research the market value of similar boards and point out any flaws or repairs needed. Be respectful and reasonable in your negotiations. Remember that the seller is likely looking to get a fair price for their board, but you should also aim to get a good deal. Consider offering a slightly lower price than what you’re willing to pay, and be prepared to meet in the middle. Cash is often a good negotiating tool. Be prepared to walk away if you can’t reach an agreement. There are plenty of other second hand shortboards out there waiting to be discovered.

The Importance of a Good Fit

Ultimately, the best second hand shortboard is one that fits your skill level, surfing style, and the type of waves you plan to surf. Don’t be afraid to try out different boards until you find the perfect match. A well-chosen second hand shortboard can provide years of surfing enjoyment without breaking the bank. Ensure the board has the appropriate volume for your weight and skill. Volume is measured in liters and indicates how well the board will float. A board with too little volume will be difficult to paddle and catch waves. Don’t rely solely on the advice of the seller or your friends. Take the time to research different board models and shapes to understand what will work best for you.

Conclusion

Buying a second hand shortboard is a smart way to save money, experiment with different board designs, and reduce your environmental impact. By following these tips and carefully inspecting the board, you can find a high-quality second hand shortboard that will help you progress your surfing and enjoy the waves. Remember to take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to negotiate. With a little patience and effort, you can find the perfect second hand shortboard to take your surfing to the next level. Good luck and happy surfing! And once you’ve found your perfect board, don’t forget to invest in a good leash and some quality wax to keep you safe and connected to your ride. [See also: Choosing the Right Surfboard Leash] Consider the type of waves you’ll be surfing when selecting a leash. Thicker leashes are better for larger waves, while thinner leashes are more suitable for smaller waves.