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Best High Volume Shortboards for Every Skill Level

Whether you're a seasoned shredder looking to catch more waves or an intermediate surfer transitioning from a funboard, high volume shortboards offer the best of both worlds: paddle power and performance. These boards combine maneuverability with enough foam underfoot to help you catch waves earlier and ride with confidence—even when conditions are less than perfect.

In this guide, we break down the best high volume shortboards across various shapes and skill levels to help you find your perfect match.

What is a High Volume Shortboard?

Volume in surfboards is measured in liters and refers to how much space the board occupies. A high volume shortboard typically packs extra foam (usually 30L–40L or more) into a compact shape, increasing buoyancy, paddle speed, and wave-catching ability without compromising too much on performance.

Why Choose a High Volume Shortboard?

  • Easier paddle-in and wave catching

  • Better floatation in weaker waves

  • More stability for improving surfers

  • Increased versatility across conditions

Best High Volume Shortboards

1. Channel Islands CI Mid Twin+

  • Volume Range: 34L – 45L

  • Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

  • Why It's Great: The Mid Twin+ blends modern shortboard performance with the paddle power of a mid-length. This board flies down the line and handles rail turns with surprising grace thanks to its twin fin setup and added width through the chest.

2. Lost Puddle Jumper HP

  • Volume Range: 32L – 42L

  • Skill Level: Beginner to Advanced

  • Why It's Great: A high-performance take on Lost’s iconic groveler, the Puddle Jumper HP offers extra foam up front with a pulled-in tail for more control. It’s great in knee-high mush and shoulder-high punchy waves alike.

3. Firewire Seaside by Rob Machado

  • Volume Range: 33L – 46L

  • Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

  • Why It's Great: Designed with fun and flow in mind, the Seaside is a quad-fin marvel that turns flat days into playgrounds. The wide outline, low entry rocker, and lightweight Helium construction make it ideal for small-to-medium surf.

4. JS Black Baron

  • Volume Range: 32L – 43L

  • Skill Level: Intermediate+

  • Why It's Great: The Black Baron excels in poor conditions and rewards front-footed surfers. With a flatter rocker and high-volume outline, it combines retro twin vibes with modern responsiveness.

5. Pyzel Gremlin

  • Volume Range: 30L – 40L

  • Skill Level: Intermediate to Pro

  • Why It's Great: This compact board with a wide nose and tail is all about down-the-line speed. It shines in waist-to-head-high surf and is ideal for surfers transitioning from mid-lengths or longboards to shorter craft.

Tips for Choosing the Right High Volume Shortboard

  • Volume = Confidence: Don’t be afraid to size up in volume if you’re struggling with wave count or stability.

  • Match to Conditions: If you surf mostly smaller, mushier waves, look for boards with flatter rockers and wider outlines.

  • Think About Fin Setups: Quads and twins often suit high volume boards well, giving more speed and flow in small surf.

  • Construction Matters: EPS or epoxy constructions tend to offer more buoyancy and durability for high volume shortboards.

Final Thoughts

High volume Solid Surfboards open the door to more waves, more fun, and faster progression—especially for surfers who don’t live at perfect reef breaks. Whether you're chasing down summer slop or just want a more forgiving shortboard, these boards prove you don't need to sacrifice volume for performance.

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