Choosing the best brand of bodyboard isn’t an easy task. The main reason is, there are many alternatives available on the market today. Especially if you’re relatively new to the world of riding waves. You must have a lot of basic questions like, “Which board is good? Why do I need this feature? Why is the brand so popular?” But don’t worry because, in this article, we’ll reveal some of the best bodyboard brands available around. We’ll discuss thoroughly, which are the best boogie boards based on build quality, performance, price, and so on. So, are you ready? Let’s jump straight to it then!
How to Choose The Best Brand of Bodyboard
Before we start the journey of looking for the best brand of bodyboard, it would be a good idea if we know in advance about what qualities a boogie board should have. Thus, it’ll be easier for us to determine whether a brand/board stands out from the crowd and deserves a spot on this prestigious list. So without further ado, here are some factors that must be considered before choosing the best bodyboard brands.
Size
A good boogie board is a board that has a relative size according to the user’s body proportions. Therefore, make sure you only choose the best brand of bodyboard that provides a variety of sizes. This will be very crucial, especially for surfers with a more generous build. A little tip: you can stand on the plank and measure the relative distance between the nose board and your head. Also, don’t forget to be diligent about reading product reviews, because there are quite a few boards that are marketed with the wrong size standards (smaller, two sizes bigger, and so on).
Riding Style
Depending on how you approach the waves, you’ll experience a different performance on each board. In the tails section, for example, you’ll find several different configurations. The 60/40 setup will give you more stability, but less control and drive. It’ll be perfect for beginners or someone that’s relatively new to bodyboarding. As for the more pro riders, the 50/50 setup would be more desirable, as it offers an additional boost for agility and maneuverability. So, choose the best bodyboard brands that suit your needs and abilities. If possible, consult with someone more experienced with catching waves, before making a purchase.
Construction & Freebies
Another thing that shouldn’t be overlooked in choosing the best brand of bodyboard is the quality of construction and material. Most boogie boards are designed to use a durable and lightweight EPS foam core. It’s a popular material for its durability and affordability. However, it won’t be difficult to find brands that use newer core materials, although they’ll also charge a higher price. Also note whether the board features a slick bottom, as this reduces drag significantly while on the water. Furthermore, the presence of freebies or extras also deserves to be considered when you choose the best bodyboard brands. Especially if you want to make the most of your budget.
Morey – Morey Mach 7
13
Morey is probably one of the names that instantly snatch your mind when we talk about the best brand of bodyboard. The manufacturer of surfing gears was founded by legendary Tom Morey, who is claimed by many sources to invent what we now know as the boogie board. Since its introduction in 1970, Morey’s boards have continued to become more and more popular among surfers. It is no wonder that his name and brand also continue to gain respect from the entire community.
Morey has now become a name you associate with toughness and performance. They continue to shell out some of the best boogie boards on the market. And one of their proudest creations is none other than the Morey Mach 7. This is a board up to 42 inches long, suitable for all different body proportions. The bottom features HDPE aka high-density polyethylene slick bottom and channels to ensure you glide above the water surface without significant interruptions. To reinforce the construction, the folks at Morey used solid and sturdy power rod stringers.
The Morey Mach 7 would be an ideal choice for any surfer weighing 160-180lbs, with a height between 5.9-6ft. This board is also packed with minimalist but appealing graphics, dominated by bright yellow/orange colors – making it easy to spot in open water. Unfortunately, they don’t include any freebies in the package. With that being said, Morey is one of the best bodyboard brands which still continues strongly to this day.
What We Love
Extra-wide dimensions which make it suitable for almost any rider.
Pros:
- HDPE slick bottom
- Power Rod Stringers
- Appealing graphics
- Extra-wide dimensions
Cons:
- Not packed with any freebies
Buy on:
Catch Surf – Catch Surf Odysea Classic PRO
12
It’s no exaggeration to call Tom Morey one of the godfathers of the surfing industry. Turns out that he’s directly involved in two best bodyboard brands at once! Apart from the Morey we mentioned earlier, the genius has also made connections with Catch Surf – a company based in San Clemente, California. The duo started working together in 2007, creating what the surfing community has become known as a ‘soft board’. As the name suggests, this is a hybrid surfing gear that offers the best of both soft and hard surfboards.
One of the best creations they’ve spawned is Catch Surf Odysea Classic Pro. It has dimensions up to 42 inches wide, giving more space to work on. Meanwhile, the tail has a crescent shape, which is specifically designed to provide better balance and agility. Furthermore, the bottoms feature HDPE slick material, which is standard on most boogie boards. It’ll be very useful to minimize friction with the water surface, which in turn will give a boost to speed and acceleration. And for the core, Catch Surf uses Polypropylene or PP material which is relatively newer than the usual EPS foam.
Catch Surf Odysea Classic Pro is available in three size variations, from 36 to 45-inches. The package includes a free leash, so you can keep your board close at hand after a big bomb or wipeout. Overall, Catch Surf is the best brand of bodyboard that lives up to its reputation. They’re capable of producing some of the most incredible boards, which will turn an ordinary day at the beach into a thrilling and memorable experience!
What We Love
A board that’s suitable for beginners as it provides more stability.
Pros:
- Crescent tail
- HDPE slick bottom
- PP construction
- One stringer
Cons:
- Not suitable for more advanced surfers
Buy on:
BZ – BZ T-10 Bodyboard
11
Morey’s legacy in the surfing world continues as we talk about BZ. Some of you may know that BZ stands for Bobby Szabad, the owner. But did you know that Bobby was an employee of Morey? Not only that, but he also used to be one of the regular surfers for Morey’s first team and gained quite a reputation for his skill at riding waves. And once he felt he got enough thrill out of the ocean, Bobby decided to start his own company and produce some high-performance boards. This is where BZ started its journey as the best brand of bodyboard.
At first glance, the boards from BZ aren’t much different from other boogie boards. But upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that their products often come with innovative designs. One of their work that has received the most praise is the BZ T-10 Bodyboard. This is a tough bodyboard with exceptional construction and top performance. For the core, they use a lightweight polyethylene material. Meanwhile, at the bottom, HDPE is still become the main component. Furthermore, the sturdy bottom and its channels will allow for a smooth ride. Apart from that, we also like the fact that this board can withstand weights of up to 180 lbs.
BZ T-10 Bodyboard is available in two color and size variations. You may pick between the 40-inch or 42-inch type, depending on your skills and body proportions. Overall, BZ is one of the best bodyboard brands that you can trust. They rarely produce disappointing gear and that’s why their reputation hasn’t tarnished since their introduction in 1988.
What We Love
Exceptional design and incredible performance.
Pros:
- HDPE slick bottom
- PP core
- Crescent tail
- Available in two sizes
Cons:
- Doesn’t feature any leash plug
Buy on:
Custom X – Custom X Titan
10
Here comes another brand that started its origin from Morey. Custom X is a surfing gear manufacturer started by Debbie Colwell. Just like Bobby Szabad, she was also one of Morey’s employees. With more than 11 years of experience in the wave riding industry, Debbie then decided to start her own business in 1987. It was at this time that she began to put her energy and mind into creating Custom X, the best brand of bodyboard which is now a guarantee for high quality and performance in the surfing community.
When it comes to the best, Custom X Titan is considered by many to be one of Custom X’s greatest masterpieces. This board seems to illustrate how Custom X knows how to make a boogie board that’s enjoyable for both elite surfers and casual riders. Titan carries a core made of polyethylene material. It’s then reinforced with stringers to give the board additional toughness and pace. Depending on the size you pick, you’ll get between one or two stringers for extra support. Furthermore, for the tails, they use the 60/40 configuration. This should help the board to bite the waves and maintain a tight line in tougher waves.
Titan also features construction and shape that supports both prone and drop-knee bodyboarding styles. The rails provide all the stability and support you need for an exceptional wave riding session. To conclude, the Custom X truly deserves to be featured among the list of best bodyboard brands. Make sure to check out their product if you can.
What We Love
Provides an enjoyable experience for both advanced surfers and beginners.
Pros:
- Polyethylene core
- 60/40 rails
- Stringers
- Crescent tail
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a leash plug
Buy on:
Science – Mike Stewart Science Bodyboard Pipe (CU)
9
Science is also the best brand of bodyboard that’s often mentioned among the surfing community. It was created by none other than Mike Stewart, a bodyboarder who has won no less than nine world titles. With his vision and experience in the world of riding waves, Mike has succeeded in building the best brand of bodyboard with products that can satisfy both elite riders and beginners. He proudly uses what he calls ‘real-time innovation’. It’s a system that ensures all boards produced are thoroughly tested and perform well on the water, up to the champion’s standards. It’s no wonder that Science gear is often associated with high-level performance and second-to-none quality.
One of the valid proofs of their ability to build boards with excellent performance is the Mike Stewart Science Bodyboard Pipe. It’s a solid boogie board, with one stringer, crescent tail, and HDPE bottom. You’re guaranteed responsive control and sharp turns, even in bigger waves. Furthermore, for the core, they use the highest grade polyethylene core material. This will guarantee the greatest degree of durability, so your board won’t tear so easily under a lot of pressure.
Some did report the hard plastic center lining was shifted slightly, making the screw fitting a little difficult. But this isn’t a major issue. You can even exchange it for a new one, as Science provides a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee. Overall, Mike Stewart’s brainchild is one of the most trustworthy best bodyboard brands on the market. If you haven’t had a bodyboard until now, this one won’t disappoint.
What We Love
Designed by bodyboarders with multiple world titles.
Pros:
- HDPE bottom
- Crescent tail
- Stringer
- PE core
Cons:
- Screw fitting is a little tough
Pride Bodyboards – Pride Bodyboard Guru PP (CU)
8
Up until now, the surfing scene in the United States has been dominated by local brands. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that there aren’t names from other continents that manage to come up with great products. Let us introduce you to Pride Bodyboards. This is the best brand of bodyboard from Europe. Their history dates back to the ’90s by the owner, Imanol Arrizabalaga. He’s passionate about wave riding and aspires to deliver an exciting experience on the ocean through his handcrafted boards. And to date, Pride Bodyboards have become one of the largest best bodyboard brands specializing in home-made gear.
One of their best selling products is Pride Bodyboards Guru PP. This board features a carbon fiber stringer and Animal PP to provide great flexibility in a variety of wave conditions. To make sure you get smooth slides, they use the Surlyn bottom. This component will allow board travel in straight lines, without much of the interruption that occurs from friction between the board surface and water. Meanwhile, for extra reinforcement, there’s the SDC technology, aka Single to Double Concave. This should keep the board intact despite the tougher conditions at sea.
Unfortunately, Pride Bodyboards Guru PP is now a rare item on the market. When it’s available, it’s likely to sell out quickly. This should give you a little insight into why many consider Pride Bodyboards as one of the best bodyboard brands on the market. So the next time you see one of their products wild, make sure not to waste the opportunity not to buy it!
What We Love
Ability to adapt to various wave conditions.
Pros:
- SDC single to double concave
- Animal PP
- Carbon fiber stringers
- Surlyn bottom
Cons:
- Leash not included
Hubboards – Hubboards Hubb Quad Core Sci-Five BT Bodyboard (CU)
7
Hubboards is one of the names responsible for the rapid development of the bodyboard industry in the United States in recent years. Founded in 2013, this company is relatively new. But that doesn’t mean they’re far behind the other names who have already settled on the scene. This Vista, California-based brand was founded by the duo Jeff and Dave Hubbard. With extensive experience in the world of wave riding, the two surfers have managed to create some of the most refined and technologically advanced boards available on the market. To date, Hubboards has become the best brand of bodyboard that earns high respect from both beginners and more experienced surfers.
If you ask Jeff and Dave Hubbard what creations they are most proud of, they’ll likely answer the Hubboards Hubb Quad Core Sci-Five BT. This is a boogie board specifically designed for elite surfers. The material they use is really high quality. The suspension is made with a double mesh, while the structure contains layered cores to ensure maximum durability. Furthermore, the lower surface uses what they call the Sci-Five concave bottom. This guarantees better pace, responsiveness, and control, thanks to five hydrodynamic channels that lift the tail.
To summarize, Hubboards is one of the best bodyboard brands that come up with great boards for professionals. They truly excel in terms of design and quality of materials. If you’re planning to shell out a lot of money for your next bodyboard, Hubboards products are an excellent alternative.
What We Love
Specifically designed for surfers with more advanced experience
Pros:
- Sci-Five concave bottom
- Double mesh suspension
- Layered core
- Available in three sizes
Cons:
- Not very enjoyable for beginners
Hardy Shapes – Hardy Shapes Modern Kinetic PP (404)
6
If you’ve surfed in Australia, you’ll know that Hardy Shapes is one of the most recognizable names on the down under. This is the best brand of bodyboard created by Ryan Hardy and Todd Quigley. Both of them have more than two decades of experience and a passion for extreme sports, particularly wave riding. A former professional surfer, Hardy was in charge of specs and master design. Meanwhile, Quigley, a veteran shaper, embodies Hardy’s vision in a construction that’s durable and capable of providing excellent performance. This deadly combination then produces some of the best bodyboards you can find on the market.
One of them is Hardy Shapes Modern Kinetic PP. This is a solid board that features a CFT stringer and ergonomic contours. It’s also packed with nose bulbs and 60/40 rails to provide speed and acceleration. Meanwhile, the Surlyn bottom with the mesh will ensure you can glide smoothly in most wave conditions. Offered at a price of around 300 bucks, it’s no wonder this cool bodyboard immediately became a hit among the surfing community. That’s why now its existence is quite difficult to find. If anything, it’s hard to find them in mint condition or the right price tag.
In conclusion, if you’re an advanced surfer, Hardy Shapes is one of the best bodyboard brands that won’t let you down. They have a line-up of products made from high-quality materials and specifically crafted to deliver superb performance on the oceans. Don’t miss the chance to have it if you happen to stumble upon one of their gear!
What We Love
Solid construction with CFT stringers and ergonomic contours.
Pros:
- CFT stringers
- Ergonomic contours
- Surlyn bottom
- Nose bulbs
Cons:
- Less forgiving for first time surfers
Buy on:
No. 6 – No. 6 Bodyboards Deuce CT (404)
5
It’s no exaggeration to call California the surfing capital of the United States. There are tons of surf gear companies based here and No. 6 is one of them. This best brand of bodyboard started its operations in Irvine in 2002. It all started with a mission to help local shops meet the high demand for bodyboards. And after several years of innovation and development, No. 6 has now become one of the best bodyboard brands in America or even the world! Their products are known to be superior in terms of construction, especially the stringers and cores.
One of the valid proofs of No. 6’s excellent build-quality is the No. 6 Deuce CT Bodyboards. This gear is made using a mixture of a polypropylene core molded with a two times carbon fiber stringer set and an X filament mesh layer. It sounds so sophisticated, but the point is you’ll get a board that’s really sturdy and tough in facing various extreme conditions. Meanwhile, the bottom uses the Surly slick to let you cut through waves at a quick and constant pace. And not much different from most bodyboards on the market, they also include standard features such as nose bulbs, crescent tail, and channels.
Apart from that, the variety of styles and appearance is also one of the reasons why we’ve included No. 6 among the best bodyboard brands. Deuce CT Bodyboards are available in a wide selection of models, colors, and combos. You can even pick the ‘fatty’ type with a leash that goes on the bicep! If you haven’t decided which bodyboard to bring for your next summer vacation, products from No. 6 would be an awesome choice.
What We Love
Board with super-durable construction.
Pros:
- Polypropylene core
- Carbon fiber stringers
- Crescent tails
- Nose bulb
Cons:
- Not many reviews online to see how others doing with the product
NMD – NMD Chris Wonton Taloa PP (CU)
4
If you’re ready to commit a little more to bodyboarding, NMD would be a great choice. This New Zealand based brand started the business by offering a great range of custom bodyboards. Words then spread quickly among surfers and suddenly, NMD has become one of the best bodyboard brands offering boards with the ultimate experience and performance. The key to their success is research. NMD doesn’t hesitate to work closely with the most talented riders in the scene. This gave them lots of valuable feedback and improved their products even better.
One of NMD’s most beloved products is NMD Chris Wonton Taloa PP. This board is designed with the help of Chris Wonton, one of the best DK riders and stand up bodyboarders who can show you great rails in all types and wave conditions. He then collaborates with the best shapers at NMD to create a board that gives you an excellent wave-riding experience. Packed with a PP core, this cool gear also features two stringers and channels for extra reinforcement. The double rails provide responsive control. Meanwhile, Surlyn Slick allows riders to glide around without much drag.
To conclude, NMD is the best brand of bodyboard that excels in innovation. They continue to thrive by gathering positive input from real people with real experiences on the ocean. That’s why you can expect unmatched quality every time you buy an NMD product.
What We Love
A surfing gear designed with great input from professionals.
Pros:
- Two stringers
- PP core
- Double rails
- Surlyn slick
Cons:
- There’s no leash plug
Empire – Empire Bodyboards Andre Botha PP (CU)
3
We always love brands that embrace all surfers and Empire is one of them. This surfing gear manufacturer runs its business from San Clemente, California. Since first operating in 2005, Empire has been committed to providing all types of gear for both professionals and newbies to bodyboarding. As a result, they’re now one of the most familiar names to bodyboarders. They’ve even managed to partner with some of the most notable names in the surfing world, which has catapulted their popularity in the industry.
One proof of this beneficial collaboration is Empire Bodyboards Andre Botha PP. As the name suggests, this board was designed with the help of the two-time world champion of the same name. As a result, you get a board with an excellent projection, optimal board recoil, and excellent response. Anyone who considers himself or herself as an advanced or professional bodyboarder will find a great experience with this gear. And the best part is, you can own one for less than 300 bucks!
Overall, Empire is the best brand of bodyboard that won’t disappoint in the performance department. Their products are offered at quite affordable prices and come with well-made construction. And for those who’re just discovering bodyboarding for the first time, don’t worry. Empire also has a lot of gear that’s more straightforward and easier to manage for novice riders.
What We Love
A bodyboard that is very responsive and well-built.
Pros:
- Optimal recoil board
- Affordable
- Excellent response
- Kinetic PP core
Cons:
- Not suitable for first-time bodyboarders
VS Bodyboards – VS Bodyboards Free Motion
2
Short for Versus Project, VS Bodyboards is the best brand of bodyboard that started in 2006. They’re made up of some of the best shapers in the industry and the most amazingly talented bodyboarders ever. This extraordinary combination results in the most technologically superior boards capable of delivering optimal performance, especially for elite riders. Furthermore, their products are always on the latest innovation – specifically designed to accommodate the most difficult tricks and movements that require high accuracy.
VS Bodyboards itself is a sister company of NMD, so don’t be surprised if you see a cross between materials and designs. One of the best examples of VS products is VS Bodyboards Dave Winchester PP. This board features a Wi-Fly Quad design made using high-tech construction to deliver unmatched performance on the water. At the heart of the board, you will find the PFS 3 Core which is the NMD signature. In this unique material, a lightweight strong vertical beam is positioned in a straight line from nose to tail. This is intended to provide much better balance and control.
The basic design of VS Bodyboards also allows for a more versatile surfing experience. You can take the board for big airs or deep tube rides, and still get roughly the same performance. This is also possible thanks to the addition of the Kinetic PP core with CFT stringers, a combination that creates a dynamic surfing gear. Overall, VS Bodyboards is one of the best bodyboard brands worth considering, especially if you’re looking for a hardcore and fun bodyboarding experience.
What We Love
A board that carries a dynamic design and offers high versatility.
Pros:
- PFS 3 Core
- Wi-Fly Quad
- CFT Stringers
- Kinetic PP core
Cons:
- Leash not included
Buy on:
Own The Wave – Own The Wave Beach Attack Pack
1
Own The Wave is the best brand of bodyboard which is quite popular among beginner surfers, mainly because of their affordable products. Their boards aren’t marketed as high-tech gear or designed by notable names in the world of surfing. Own The Wave is more aimed at a market that requires basic stuff that works well, lasts long enough, and provides fun moments on the beach. Compared to other best bodyboard brands on this list, Own The Wave board costs up to 100 bucks cheaper!
One example is Own The Wave ‘Beach Attack Pack’. It’s a lightweight board and comes in a variety of bright colors, making it easy to spot when out in open water. The package includes fin tethers to store your valuable fins, so they don’t get lost easily. Furthermore, the main construction is made of the popular EPS core and slick bottom materials. As for size, the Beach Attack Pack is available between 33-inch and 41-inch types and can withstand loads of up to 188lbs.
In conclusion, if you’re a first-time bodyboarder and looking for an affordable and effective board, go with Own The Wave. Their boards aren’t packed with fancy, cutting-edge tech, but you’ll get a fun level of buoyancy and drive. They’re also more forgiving than boards designed for professionals, allowing you to gain confidence more quickly when you’re out on the water. It’s also perfect to pair with some of our recommended surf gear, such as 13 best surfboard leashes or 13 best wetsuits for surfing!
What We Love
A board that is affordable and just works well.
Pros:
- EPS core
- Slick bottom
- Affordable
- Coiled leash included
Cons:
- Need a special storage method to prevent air pressure build up
Buy on:
