Bodyboard Size Chart: Find Your Perfect Board Length (2026)
The right bodyboard length makes catching waves easier. Here's a simple chart by height and weight, plus what else to check.
How to Size a Bodyboard
The easiest check: stand the bodyboard on its tail in front of you. The nose should reach roughly your belly button. Then adjust for your weight: heavier riders need more length and volume to float and catch waves, lighter riders can go shorter for control. Use the charts below as a starting point.
Bodyboard Size by Height
| Rider Height | Board Length |
|---|---|
| Under 4'6" | About 33–36" |
| About 4'6"–5' | About 36–38" |
| About 5'–5'4" | About 38–40" |
| About 5'4"–5'8" | About 40–41" |
| About 5'8"–6' | About 41–42.5" |
| About 6'–6'3" | About 42.5–44" |
| Over 6'3" | About 44–46" |
Bodyboard Size by Weight
| Rider Weight | Board Length |
|---|---|
| Under 90 lb | About 33–37" |
| About 90–130 lb | About 37–39" |
| About 130–160 lb | About 39–41" |
| About 160–190 lb | About 41–42.5" |
| About 190–220 lb | About 42.5–44" |
| Over 220 lb | About 44–46" |
If height and weight point to different sizes, lean toward the weight-based size, especially if you're heavier for your height.
Other Things to Check
Core
| Core | Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Polypropylene (PP) | Light, stiff, durable | Warm water, performance |
| Polyethylene (PE) | Flexible, heavier | Cold water |
| EPS foam | Light, affordable | Casual beach use |
Tail Shape
- Crescent tail: grips the wave; popular all-round choice.
- Bat tail: adds lift; suits heavier riders and softer waves.
Bottom Skin
Slick bottoms (like HDPE or Surlyn) are faster and more responsive than plain foam bottoms.
Boards by Size
Wavestorm 40" (Kids and Lighter Riders)
An affordable 40-inch foam board for casual beach fun and kids.
Check Price on AmazonMorey Mach 12 MDS (42.5")
A 42.5-inch board with an embedded fiberglass stringer and a coil leash, suitable for all skill levels.
Check Price on AmazonMorey Big Kahuna (44")
A 44-inch board for taller riders who need more length and float.
Check Price on AmazonBody Glove Big Tuna (45")
A 45-inch board for tall and heavier riders, with extra volume for catching waves.
Check Price on AmazonLearn the basics in how to bodyboard and compare boards in best bodyboards. Prefer the shoreline? See how to skimboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size bodyboard I need?
Stand the board on its tail; it should reach roughly your belly button. Use the chart and adjust for your weight.
Should a heavier person get a longer bodyboard?
Yes. Heavier riders need more volume to float and catch waves, so size up an inch or two.
What size bodyboard for a child?
Kids usually ride boards around 33 to 37 inches, depending on height.
What is the best bodyboard core?
Polypropylene (PP) is light and durable, polyethylene (PE) is flexible and good in cold water, and EPS foam is common in budget boards.
Crescent or bat tail?
Crescent tails grip the wave and are popular for prone riding; bat tails add lift and suit heavier riders and softer waves.