Transition to a Shortboard

In the beginning your surfing journey, most surfers start out on a longboard. For beginners, a longboard is perfect for building confidence in the water. In setting your foundational surfing skills, riding a longboard will provide you more stability, give you an easier time catching waves, and an easier time staying up!

But there comes a time in every surfer’s journey where they are ready to take it to the next level – to advance to a shortboard! On a shortboard, you will have the ability to surf bigger, faster waves, have more maneuverability, and push yourself to become a better surfer.

In light of our Intro to Shortboarding Retreat coming up soon (March 31 - April 6, 2025!), we have consulted with the pros for some advice in making the jump from long to shortboard. In a recent Instagram video, Rob Underwood, lead surfing coach, introduced himself and shared some highlights to look forward to on our retreats, covering the fundamentals of surfing and the technical skills needed to ride a shortboard. 

As a lifelong surfer, Rob is here to share his experiences and what will be covered in our Intro to Shortboarding Retreat.

First thing to know, neither board is ‘better’ or ‘worse’. They are used for different functions! Based on what type of surfing you are going for, smooth rides or sharp tricks, the longboard and shortboard both have their advantages. As most surfers advance, they aim to shorten their board and fine tune their skills and tricks.

Choosing the right board for you is very important. Just like how every human body is different, every board is different! Surfboards can vary in volume, width, shape, and size, and so choosing the equipment that fits your needs will be key in achieving your goals. Rob will use his expertise to assess you, your skills, and help you make the right choice for your next board!

Once you’ve got your board, it’s time to hit the water! First things first – you’ve got to expect a learning curve. Learning a new skill takes time, be patient and kind with yourself. Rob will cover how to paddle on your shortboard more effectively, getting you past the break faster, work on your timing, nail your duck dive, and guide you on where to position yourself in the lineup to optimize your chances of catching a killer wave. 

Throughout the retreat, there will be a heavy focus on perfecting your pop up. On a smaller board with less stability, your pop up will have to be quicker and tighter! Once you're up and moving, adjusting your stance will also be key in dominating a shorter board. While we understand this sounds like a lot to remember, Rob will be with you every step of the way – coaching you, supporting you, and making sure you have a successful experience!

All of this information and more will be covered in our Intro to Shortboarding Surf x Yoga Retreat, running March 31 - April 6, 2025. If riding a shortboard isn’t your vibe, be sure to check out our All Levels Surf x Yoga Retreat, March 24 - 30, 2025! Both retreats will be led by Rob Underwood, with Cici Smith instructing the yoga and mobility workshops, and will take place in the beautiful Malibu Popoyo Eco Resort in Popoyo, Nicaragua. 

For more information visit our website to join the waitlist today. These retreats will be an experience you won’t want to miss out on! 

Keep practicing! 

the Koh Collective