As surfers age, physical ability, endurance, and recovery time naturally change. These shifts often influence board choice and wave selection. For many surfers, especially those moving out of their high-performance shortboard years, midlength surfboards provide a practical alternative that balances paddle efficiency, control, and maneuverability. This article explains what midlength surfboards are, why they suit aging surfers, and how their design characteristics help reduce effort while maintaining performance. What Is a Midlength Surfboard? A midlength surfboard generally measures between 6’6” and 8’0” in length. It sits between a shortboard and a longboard in both size and performance characteristics. Common Design Features Increased volume for buoyancy Longer rail line for smoother turns Moderate rocker for early wave entry Fin setups such as single fin, 2+1, or thruster These features make midlengths easier to paddle and more stable than shortboards, while remaining more maneuve...
Let’s be honest, most of us didn’t buy our first longboard because of the tail shape. We picked it because it looked good, felt stable, or someone at the shop said, “Yeah, this one’s solid.” But after a few sessions, you start noticing things. Maybe the board feels fast but hard to turn. Or stable, but kind of boring. That’s usually when the tail shape starts to matter. Understanding Longboard Surfboard Tail Shapes helps explain why your board feels the way it does and what might work better for you. Once you get it, choosing a longboard becomes way less confusing and a lot more fun. Why the Tail of a Longboard Matters So Much The tail is where the wave lets go of your board. It controls how water flows off the back, which directly affects how your board: Holds speed Turns (or doesn’t) Feels stable under your feet Reacts when the wave gets steeper If the tail doesn’t match your waves or your style, the board can feel awkward or unpredictable. The right tail shape, though, mak...