The first thing anyone asks when learning how to surf is, "How do I choose a surfboard"?
There are two main types of surfboards, longboards and shortboards.
Longboards, shown in the photo above by Dave Young, are usually around 9-12 feet long. They are thick, wide and much more stable and easier to get up on. Their bulk and length also make it easier to catch a wave and a lot easier to paddle.
Shortboards, shown in the photo to the left by Richard Masoner, range in height, but are usually anywhere from a few inches to a foot taller than the surfer. Shortboards are much harder to get up on, but they allow for maximum control and maneuverability.
Most beginning surfers start out on a longboard. I recommend starting out with a 10-12 foot foam top board. Soft top Wavestorm brand boards can be purchased for about $100 at Costco, and are also very easy to find used on sites like craigslist.
These boards are very stable and easy to get up on. They are also a very safe option for beginners. Most surf accidents happen when the surfer gets hit either by his own fiberglass board or another surfer's. With a soft foam board, you are much less likely to get injured even if the board smacks into you on a wave.
If you have access to a regular, hard top fiberglass (or epoxy) longboard that is also a good option, just make sure that you start out in tiny, gentle 1 to 3 foot waves.
Learning on a shortboard is not impossible, but it takes much more time and dedication. I actually learned on a 6'4 board. I struggled for a few weeks before I could get up and ride it. Many people who start out on a long board are able to get up on their first session.
Good Luck and Happy Surfing
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