Skimboard Size Chart by Rider Weight (2026)
Skimboard size depends mostly on your weight. Here's a general chart and how to adjust for flatland or wave riding.
General Skimboard Size Chart
This general chart, adapted from Surfertoday's skimboard size chart, matches rider weight to board size. Brand charts vary, so always check the specific board's chart.
| Rider Weight (lb) | Size | Approx. Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
| Under 80 | XXS | 45" x 19" |
| 80–100 | XS | 48" x 19.25" |
| 100–140 | S | 51" x 19.75" |
| 120–160 | M | 52" x 20" |
| 140–180 | ML | 52.25" x 20.25" |
| 160–200 | L | 52.5" x 20.5" |
| 180–220 | XL | 53" x 20.75" |
| 200–240 | XXL | 54" x 21.5" |
Source: Surfertoday skimboard size chart. Ranges overlap; if you're between sizes, consider your style below.
Flatland vs Wave Riding
| Flatland | Wave | |
|---|---|---|
| Common material | Wood | Foam core with fiberglass or carbon |
| Shape | Wider templates help speed | Shapes for float and turning |
| Where | Thin water on flat sand | Shorebreak waves |
Materials
| Material | Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Heavier, sinks faster, durable | Flatland, beginners, rails |
| 100% foam | Very buoyant and soft | Kids and casual fun |
| Foam core with fiberglass/epoxy | Light and floaty, more fragile | Wave riding |
| Carbon | Light and stiff, premium | Experienced wave riders |
Shape, Rocker and Tail
- Rocker is the upward curve of the nose. More rocker helps in waves and shorebreak; flatter boards are faster across thin water.
- Flatland shapes are usually twin-tips for riding either direction. Wave boards are usually directional, more like surfboards.
- Tails: pintails feel balanced and smooth; square and swallow tails feel looser for tricks and turns.
Traction
Most wood and fiberglass boards need surf wax or traction pads so your feet don't slip. Some soft-top foam boards have built-in grip.
Sizing Tips
- Heavier riders need more surface area to plane.
- Lighter riders control smaller boards more easily.
- Kids should ride boards sized to their weight, not adult boards.
- Between sizes? Bigger for easier glides, smaller for tricks.
Kids' Skimboards
Choose a board sized to the child's weight, often in the smallest sizes on brand charts. Soft foam boards are forgiving and float well for young riders, while small wooden boards suit kids ready to try flatland skimming. Always supervise kids near the water.
Boards to Consider
Zap Wedge
A classic foam-core wave skimboard from Zap. Choose the size for your weight.
Check Price on AmazonDB Skimboards Standard
A 5-ply hard rock maple flatland board in DB's Streamline shape.
Check Price on AmazonMore: best skimboards and how to skimboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size skimboard do I need?
Mainly choose by weight: heavier riders need longer, wider boards. Check the maker's size chart for each model.
Should beginners get a bigger skimboard?
A board in your weight range is best; slightly larger boards glide more easily but are harder to maneuver.
Do flatland and wave boards size the same?
Not exactly. Wider templates help flatland speed; wave riders often choose foam-core boards for float.
What size skimboard for kids?
Smaller boards suited to their weight, often the XXS to S ranges on brand charts.
Do brands use the same sizes?
No. Charts vary by brand and model, so use the chart for the board you're buying.