Secondhand Surfboards
10 commentsThe cheapest option for buying a surfboard is a second hand board, and can be an excellent way to find a bargain. However, it's easy to pick a dog if you're not careful. First, bear in mind that if a board is extremely cheap, then it's probably not very good. You need to be really careful when shopping for a secondhand surfboard.
When buying any surfboard, you need to be realistic about the right board for you. Before you start looking, have a clear idea of the board you're after. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can concentrate on making the right choice of a secondhand board. Here are the main points to consider.
- We recommend that you see the board firsthand and check it out fully before buying. It's not such a great idea to buy one online without a guarantee of the condition.
- Check for dings and cracks. Any secondhand board will have a few dings on it and is not generally a problem. A heavily dinged or cracked board is a problem, however, and should not be bought no matter how cheap it seems!
- Give the board a thorough check, looking for discolouring to the foam or any other signs of water damage, delamination of the fibreglass, and any areas that will need attention if you buy the board.
- Check carefully around the fins, especially where the fins are attached to the board. If the fins are non-removable fins and show signs of cracking, the board should be avoided unless you are prepared to repair or replace them.
- Previous repairs are not necessarily a problem if they have been done correctly. Check that any repair completely covers the damaged area and that water is still not getting into the foam inner. (This will show as discolouration.)
- If the board you are looking at is covered with wax, make sure that you remove the wax before buying the board. Wax can hide a multitude of problems. If the person who is selling you the board will not let you clean it ("I'm about to go surfing on it" or some other excuse), then don't buy it.
- Take your time examining the board. It's very important that you check the board all over to ensure you're not buying a dud.
- Compare the cost of the secondhand board to a similar new board — is it really worth the savings? It might be better spending that little extra to get a new board you know you can rely on.
Now that you've checked it over, check it over again to make sure you didn't miss anything. If you have thoroughly checked the board over and it's in good condition, the price is right and, most importantly, the surfboard is the right surfboard for you - permission to buy!
We told you to clean that surf wax off!
Are you ready to buy? See the boards at our surfshop.
Where to Buy a Secondhand Board
There are three main options for buying a used surfboard. A surf shop is the best place as you get to see the board and have time to check it over. You may also have some comeback if there is a serious problem with it after you have bought it.
Another option is your free ads paper. Even if you live nowhere near the beach you might be surprised at how many boards appear in the listings. Buy the ads for your local area, and you'll be able to check the board out personally.
The third option is to buy online. There are plenty of places to find the right board in your area on the Internet. There are even sites specific to secondhand boards. We also have our own surf classifieds which are often worth a look. You can post a wanted ad with your board or gear requirements.
yiiir
Landed me a great buy a couple months back on Craigslist, best board Ive ever ripped on! There is tons of hidden treasures on craigslist, do your research though and ask tons of questions, you'll be surprised what you can score on!
I give this site a fair thumbs up!
What are some questions I should ask when buying a Craigslist board?
I'm 6'1" 190
Moderately experienced
And surfing south florida
Hey. I'm a beginner wanting to surf in South Florida, where do you find it best to surf?
Looking for a surfboard repair shop in the Chicago area.
Why not use the new Veryfier app to hire an independent third-party person to go out inspect and check the item before you purchase? It is really important that the inspection should be done by a 3rd party person who will give an honest review and report. Download the app at the Veryfier website or go to iTunes store.
after I buy a second hand bord how do I remove and apply new wax?
Awesome Post!
Thanks for sharing!