Table of Contents

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Used Longboard Surfboards

Finding the perfect wave often starts with the perfect board. For many surfers, especially beginners and those who appreciate a smooth, gliding ride, the longboard is the go-to choice. However, new longboard surfboards can be a significant investment. This is where the used market comes in. Buying used longboard surfboards can be a smart and economical way to get into surfing or add to your quiver. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of what to look for when purchasing used longboard surfboards, ensuring you find a board that suits your needs and budget.

Why Choose a Longboard?

Before diving into the specifics of buying used, let’s quickly recap why longboards are so popular:

Stability: Longboards offer exceptional stability, making them ideal for beginners.
Paddle Power: Their length provides ample surface area, making paddling easier and allowing you to catch waves with less effort.
Versatility: While known for mellow cruising, longboards can also be used for more advanced maneuvers like noseriding and carving.
Wave Catching: They excel in smaller, weaker waves, making them perfect for those less-than-epic surf days.

The Advantages of Buying Used Longboard Surfboards

Opting for used longboard surfboards offers several key benefits:

Cost Savings: The most obvious advantage is the lower price. You can often find a quality used longboard for a fraction of the cost of a new one.
Depreciation: Like cars, surfboards depreciate quickly. Let someone else take the initial hit, and you can benefit from a significantly reduced price.
Sustainability: Buying used is an environmentally friendly choice. It reduces the demand for new board production, which consumes resources and generates waste.
Variety: The used market offers a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and brands, allowing you to experiment and find the perfect fit.

Where to Find Used Longboard Surfboards

There are several avenues to explore when searching for used longboard surfboards:

Local Surf Shops: Many surf shops have a consignment section where people can sell their used boards. This is a great place to find boards that have been inspected and are generally in good condition.
Online Marketplaces: Websites like Craigslist, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace are popular platforms for buying and selling used surfboards. Be sure to exercise caution and thoroughly inspect the board before purchasing.
Surfboard Forums and Groups: Online forums and social media groups dedicated to surfing often have classifieds sections where members can buy and sell gear.
Surf Swaps and Flea Markets: Keep an eye out for local surf swaps or flea markets, where you can find a wide selection of used boards at competitive prices.
Word of Mouth: Ask your surfing friends or local surf instructors if they know of anyone selling a used longboard. Personal recommendations can be invaluable.

What to Look for When Inspecting a Used Longboard

Thorough inspection is crucial when buying used longboard surfboards. Here’s what to look for:

Dings and Cracks

Carefully examine the entire board for dings and cracks, especially around the rails, nose, and tail. Even small dings can let water in and damage the foam core. Minor dings can be easily repaired, but larger cracks may indicate structural damage. Check for discoloration around dings which could indicate water damage to the foam.

Delamination

Delamination occurs when the fiberglass layers separate from the foam core. This can be identified by soft spots or bubbles under the fiberglass. Delamination can weaken the board and make it more susceptible to damage. Light delamination on the deck is common on used longboard surfboards and can be repaired, but avoid boards with extensive delamination.

Fin Boxes

Check the fin boxes to ensure they are securely attached and not cracked or damaged. Loose or damaged fin boxes can affect the board’s performance and make it difficult to install fins. A professional repair can be costly.

Foam Condition

The foam core should be firm and responsive. Avoid boards with soft spots or areas that feel waterlogged. Check around the nose and tail, as these are common areas for water to penetrate. Look for yellowing, which can indicate the board has been exposed to excessive sunlight and may be brittle.

Rocker

Rocker refers to the curve of the board from nose to tail. Make sure the rocker is consistent and doesn’t have any unusual bends or kinks. Excessive rocker can make the board harder to paddle and catch waves.

Weight

The board should feel relatively lightweight for its size. A heavy board may indicate water damage or excessive repairs. Compare the weight to other used longboard surfboards of similar dimensions to get a sense of what’s normal.

Repairs

Look closely at any previous repairs. Well-done repairs can extend the life of the board, but poorly executed repairs may indicate underlying problems. Ask the seller about the history of the repairs and who performed them.

Questions to Ask the Seller

Don’t hesitate to ask the seller questions about the board’s history and condition:

How old is the board?
How often was it used?
Has it had any repairs? If so, what kind and who did them?
Are there any dings or cracks that haven’t been repaired?
Why are you selling it?
What are the dimensions of the board (length, width, thickness)?

Negotiating the Price

The price of used longboard surfboards can vary depending on the condition, brand, and age of the board. Research similar boards online to get an idea of the market value. Be prepared to negotiate, especially if you find any flaws during your inspection. Point out any dings, cracks, or repairs and explain how they affect the value of the board. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the seller is unwilling to negotiate or if you’re not comfortable with the price.

Essential Gear to Consider

When purchasing a used longboard surfboard, also consider these essential accessories:

Leash: A leash is crucial for keeping your board attached to you in the water.
Fins: Make sure the board comes with fins that are appropriate for your skill level and surfing style.
Wax: Apply wax to the deck of the board to provide traction and prevent slipping.
Board Bag: A board bag will protect your board from dings and scratches during transport and storage.
Ding Repair Kit: A basic ding repair kit will allow you to fix minor dings and prevent water damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when buying used longboard surfboards:

Not inspecting the board thoroughly: Take your time and carefully examine the board for any signs of damage or wear.
Ignoring soft spots: Soft spots indicate delamination or water damage, which can significantly weaken the board.
Overlooking fin box damage: Damaged fin boxes can be costly to repair and affect the board’s performance.
Not asking questions: Don’t be afraid to ask the seller questions about the board’s history and condition.
Paying too much: Research the market value of similar boards and be prepared to negotiate.

Caring for Your Used Longboard

Once you’ve purchased your used longboard surfboard, proper care is essential to prolong its life:

Rinse the board with fresh water after each use: This will remove salt and sand, which can damage the board over time.
Store the board in a cool, dry place: Avoid leaving the board in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as this can cause delamination.
Repair dings promptly: Even small dings can let water in and damage the foam core.
Use a board bag during transport and storage: This will protect the board from dings and scratches.
Regularly check the board for any signs of damage: Early detection can prevent minor problems from becoming major repairs.

The Joy of Riding a Longboard

Buying a used longboard surfboard can be a fantastic way to experience the joy of surfing without breaking the bank. With careful inspection, a little research, and some negotiation, you can find a quality board that will provide years of fun in the waves. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a stable platform to learn on or an experienced surfer seeking a smooth, gliding ride, a longboard can be a valuable addition to your surf arsenal. Happy surfing!

[See also: Beginner’s Guide to Longboard Surfing]

[See also: How to Repair a Surfboard Ding]