If you’re looking to surf Rockaway this summer, we have some options for you! We asked Solid Surfboards founder and head shaper, Dan O’Hara, what his recommendations are. You should pick a surfboard based on ability level as well as type of waves you intend to surf. Seasons bring different types of weather, and along with it different types of waves. The east coast generally gets very flat in the summer, but it’s the best time of year to be at the beach, so here are some suggestions to help you plan accordingly!
The Stealthfish: Best Shortboard to Surf Rockaway
Summer months will have even the most dedicated shortboard surfers opting for bigger boards or even taking the time to work on their logging. But if you won’t get on a board bigger than 6’6″ even if someone paid you, we have the best summer choice for you. The Stealthfish is for that day in the summer when the waves are decent enough to take out a shortboard. It’s also able to hold its own in more powerful fall or winter waves so you can use this board all year around.
The Diamond Jig: Best Mid-length
Mid-lengths (longer than a shortboard, not quite as long as a longboard) are an increasingly popular choice for intermediate and even experienced surfers. A longer board gives you more opportunities to sit out the back rather than scrambling around looking for an inside peak while dodging foamies. And for people who are not experienced loggers, it’s easier to maneuver (both on the wave and in crowded streets or on the subway) than a longboard.
The LOG: Best Longboard
Let’s face it, summer is longboard season. Even if you prefer shortboards, you’ll be happy to have a log when it’s sweltering hot and the waves are 1 foot but clean. It’s a great way to stay in the water, stay paddle fit, and appreciate another side of surfing. If you don’t have much experience surfing, longboards are a great place to start. The large surface area and high volume make them stable and easy to paddle and pop up on.
