You can’t surf on a skimboard, but here are 5 ways to have fun with one

by Joost Nusselder | Last Updated:  16.04.2022
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You might be able to get a little buoyancy on a skimboard, but can you really surf on one?

Skimboards are typically associated with a different type of surf adventure- one where the waves are small, or non-existent. You can enjoy the feeling of gliding over watery surfaces without any waves.

Here are 5 ways to have fun with a skimboard, even if you can’t surf on it.

Can you surf on a skimboard

A lot of people think that because skimboards are smaller and lighter than traditional surfboards, they must be easier to use. But in reality, the opposite is often true.

Skimboarding is its own unique activity that takes some time and practice to master. But once you get the hang of it, skimboarding can be a blast!

There are two main types of skimboards: those made for wave riding, and those made for flatland tricks. Wave-riding boards are usually longer and wider than flatland boards, and they have a concave bottom that helps you stay on top of the waves.

But even those designed for the waves can’t stay afloat long, especially with you on them.

They only float with momentum, meaning you have to have speed to make them skim on top of water.

As soon as you lose speed, they will sink. They really aren’t designed to be able to surf waves as a surfboard can.

That being said, pro’s use skimboards to ride some pretty big waves, even if it isn’t exactly surfing.

Don’t let that discourage you though. Skimboarding is its own sport and has its own advantages!

5 ways to have fun with a skimboard

  1. Skim on flat ground, wet sand, or shallow water and perform some basic tricks you remember from your skateboarding days
  2. Find some gentle waves that are fun to ride up and down and skim towards them from the beach
  3. Make an obstacle course in the sand or shallow water with things to jump over, under, or around
  4. Race friends to see who can skim the farthest
  5. Have a contest to see who can do the coolest trick

Conclusion

Skimboarding is a unique activity that takes some time and practice to master. But once you get the hang of it, skimboarding can be a blast!

Also read: if you’re looking to buy a skimboard, check out these top choices

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Kauai Surf Report is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new sports with everything surfing at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2019 to help loyal readers with surfing and water sporting tips.