bodyboards

Bodyboards are small, buoyant boards used for riding waves in a prone or occasionally standing position. They are designed to float and be maneuvered by the rider using body weight, fins, and board controls. The rider lies face-down for most maneuvers, but drop-knee stances and other variations are common.

Most bodyboards have a foam core laminated with a deck on top and a slick bottom. Core materials include closed-cell polystyrene or polypropylene foams, which provide buoyancy and stiffness. The deck is usually foam or cushioned EVA, and the bottom slick is a durable plastic such as Surlyn or high-density polyethylene. Many boards include a stringer for added rigidity and channels along the bottom to improve traction.

Boards range in length from roughly 33 to 42 inches for adults, with widths typically 16 to 20 inches. Tail shapes vary, with crescent tails and bat tails being common; these affect lift and maneuverability. Some boards include vented or contoured channels, and various artwork and graphics are common.

Bodyboarding is practiced in surf zones worldwide and includes both recreational riding and competition. Riders typically wear a wetsuit in cold water; a leash attaches the board to the ankle to prevent losing it. Procedures include takeoffs, rides, and aerial maneuvers.

The modern bodyboard originated in the 1960s-1970s in Hawaii and the United States, popularized by Tom Morey who introduced the first mass-produced bodyboard in 1971. Since then, its design has evolved with lighter materials and improved slicks, catering to beginners and advanced riders.

Bodyboarding features regional and international events and professional tours. It has dedicated communities in regions such as Hawaii, California, Australia, and parts of Europe, with manufacturers and riders contributing to the sport’s development.