A used surfboard would be the cheapest way to start surfing. But if you consider buying a secondhand one, you have to check it more closely. Looking at dents and destruction in advance prevents unnecessary incurred costs down the line. In this post, we highlight some necessary things to consider that will help you ensure a safe and enjoyable surfing experience.
Assessing the Overall Condition
First, try to see the entire board. Check for staining, bulging, or other signs. These signs can just as easily foreshadow prolonged water damage (or lousy repairs). Some of the blemishes would be minor scratches, but very extensive ones might mean more trouble. Any surface blemishes can be a sign that damage lurks beneath the fiberglass. Surfers looking to buy used surfboards at Pacific Beach often discover how inspecting dings and repairs ensures better performance in the water.
Inspecting Dings and Cracks
Hard objects, such as a metal door edge, usually cause these chips or dents. Look for these imperfections on your rails, nose, and tail. Even small surface cracks should be concerning. These gaps allow water to enter the foam heart of the board; with time this water will weaken and sink the board.
Checking for Water Damage
Spoilage, like discoloration or mushy spots, is caused by water infiltration. Slide your hands upon the board and press gently to feel for any spongy spots. Soft patches indicate that oil has gotten inside and soaked into the foam. Retention of moisture within the board leads to delamination (fiberglass separates from the core).
Reviewing Previous Repairs
Examine the areas that appear to have undergone repair. Good repairs should feel smooth to the touch and align with the surrounding surface. If the work done was not of good quality, the results might be felt: raised, rough, uneven, etc. Conflicting paint or resin could mean a rushed patch that won’t stand the heat.
Evaluating the Board’s Shape
Examine the board’s outline from its nose to its tail. If the board absorbed water or received some significant bumps with a hard object, then it can warp or twist. Lift the board to eye level and inspect the symmetry. This simplifies the code significantly. The board might not perform as it should in the water.
Examining the Fins and Boxes
And fins are critical for stability and maneuvering skills. Check for cracks or if the fin boxes may be a bit loose. Grasp the fins lightly with your hand and wiggle them. Hollow or moored fin boxes may need replacing and can be expensive (not to mention difficult) to fix properly.
The Leash Plug and Tail in Action
It should be noted that a secure leash plug is imperative for safety. Look for cracks or repairs near the plug area. The hits land on the tail end, which becomes chipped or dented through pressure. Verify that the tail is firm and free from water incursion or delamination.
Checking for Delamination
This is called delamination, where the fiberglass top moves slightly away from the foam below. Gently tap the board with a coin and pay attention to hollow sounds. The regions with this problem always have a softer or bubble-like feeling. The delaminated spots compromise the integrity of the board and can increase in size over time.
Inspecting the Deck and Bottom
For regular surfers, the deck on which they stand can also lose its shape and develop pressure dings. Check for dips or mushy spots that could spell trouble. Check the underside for any scratches, gouges, or repairs to the bottom of the board. These may relate to the way the board moves over water.
The Age of the Board
Single, old boards typically show more wear and tear. If you can, inquire about the history of the board. An older board with many repairs or serious areas of discoloration could be hiding trouble spots; however, if it is referred to as a “beater board,” it may still be a good option. If they don’t care for a board well, then newer boards could go after appearances.
Conclusion
When it comes to used surfboards, checking for dings and damage is the best way to prevent disappointment. Go over everything from the rails to the leash plug. Even superficial defects affect performance and safety, and deeper defects do as well. Take the appropriate steps so surfers can make smart plans and enjoy plenty of worry-free sessions on the waves.
