People surf as a way to stay fit, for the fun thrill of it, and for that sense of adventure.
Because of this popularity, it is understandable that surfing will have adapted through the methods used to surf and the equipment.
In this article, we will be looking at the electric surfboard, learning all about what it is and why you should adapt this piece of equipment into your surfing ventures.
What Is An Electric Surfboard?
An electric surfboard is an innovative product which is the face of the future.
With the traditional surfboard, it is gravity, buoyancy, and the surfer’s movements which glides the board along the water.
Electric surfboards, however, differ for they are powered by a lithium-ion battery.
This battery allows the board to glide along the water and waves smoothly and at a higher speed.
Although the electric surfboard may seem like a modern invention, the idea first came about decades ago in 1935.
During this year, a prototype was first made, the vision being to use the tool to help lifeguards at sea.
It was only in the year 2000 that this device was marketed to the public but was not successful until 10 years later.
Today, we are seeing more and more surfers taking an interest in the electric surfboard.
It has even been acknowledged that the electric surfboard is beneficial for those wanting to start learning to surf as it provides plenty of stability and you are more likely to stay balanced.
Electric Surfboards: Pros And Cons
With every product comes a number of pros and cons.
The electric surfboard is a great and new invention which has changed the shape of surfing, yet that is not to say that there are no negatives linked to the current device.
Below, we will be listing some of the positives and negatives that come with the electric surfboard.
Pros
- Noise – Many people are concerned with the sound that will be produced by the electric surfboard, however it is much quieter than other surfboards such as the petrol powered board, making it a great option.
- Plenty of options – Another positive about the electric surfboard is the number of options. Because of these options, surfers are not limited to one standard type and are given the choice of differing preferences which will benefit them whilst surfing.
Cons
- Weight – The electric surfboard is very heavy and this is due to the battery. This heaviness may restrict some people’s performance or make a person feel uncomfortable using the device.
- Expensive – Another negative about the electric surfboard is its price. As it is still a fairly niche product, the price is understandably high, but this can turn many customers away from the board.
Features Of An Electric Surfboard
If you are thinking about bringing the electric surfboard into your life, it is necessary to know of its features.
It is important to prepare yourself before going through with owning this board as it is not like your typical surfboard.
Once you have acknowledged these features, only then can you decide whether this is the right kind of board for you.
Speed
One major thing which should be acknowledged is the speed of the electric surfboard.
Whilst ordinary surfboards rely on the movements of the sea to glide, the electric surfboard uses power from a battery, and this allows extensive speed.
For motorized surfboards, you can see it reaching speeds as high as 40mph from the battery alone, and because of this it is advised not to use this board when in crowded spaces.
With speed also comes running time.
As it is powered by a battery, these surfboards need to be charged up and because of this, you do not have the freedom to spend hours at a time using the board.
Typically, you will be able to use this surfboard between 20 and 45 minutes before it has to be recharged.
With this said, however, this is all dependent on the type of electric surfboard and the model.
Cost
Another factor which should be highlighted is the cost.
As mentioned prior, electric surfboards are expensive so if you are thinking about purchasing one for yourself, it is important to understand the pricing.
All prices differ depending on the electric surfboard you choose, but on average you can be looking at between $5,000 and $10,000 (especially if you want an electric surfboard of great quality).
You may be wondering why exactly it costs so much but the answer is simple. With an ordinary surfboard you are simply paying for the board, the design, quality, and make.
With an electric surfboard you are purchasing all of the above plus the battery and motor power.
For advanced electric boards, you may also be paying for a Bluetooth remote control, GPS system, built-in storage space, and plenty more.
The electric surfboard is a very advanced system and because of all of the features, this means it comes with a high price.
Shape And Size
The electric surfboard comes in a variety of sizes – oval, squared classic. What is chosen should be based on the person’s weight, size and experience.
The shape and size of the board can also impact the way it moves in the water.
It’s important to test out the different shapes and sizes of the board to see if it is the right fit for you as you don’t want the board ruining your level of surfing.
New To Surfing? Here Is Why You Should Introduce This Sport Into Your Life
Surfing is a sport which many people love and others want to learn. With these new age electric surfboards, surfing has been made easy.
With an electric surfboard, you are granted with better stability and maximum power, allowing a person to glide seamlessly across the water.
If you are interested in the sport of surfing but need a push, take a look at our many reasons for picking up this as a hobby.
Better Balance
One core benefit of taking up surfing is how it betters your balance. When surfing, you need to know how to balance on the board to stop from toppling over.
Because of this, you will find that you are able to balance better, both in and out of the water.
Vitamin D
While surfing, you will be out in the sun for long periods of time and it is the sun which produces Vitamin D.
Vitamin D is great for the body, strengthening the bones and regulating calcium in the blood.
Tones The Body
Another reason to tackle surfing is because of how it tones the body.
Surfing, even with an electric surfboard, uses a lot of body strength and this will have an effect on the shape of your body.
When surfing, you will need to paddle and this means plenty of movement in your arms and legs.
As well as this, you will be working your core through balancing and when maneuvering the board.
Good For Skin And Hair
Did you know that salt water is a natural exfoliant? When surfing, there is no doubt that you will be getting wet whether that be from the water spraying as you surf or falling off your board.
This water, however, is very beneficial for your skin and hair as it works to naturally cleanse.
Saltwater is an ingredient used in many skincare products too, so you know it works even more in your favor.
Burns Calories
As previously mentioned, surfing is a great exercise as you are having to use your entire body to partake in the activity.
Alongside this, surfing also works to burn a lot of calories. Surfing sessions can take as long as you want them to, but a good session lasts between 30 minutes to 1 hour to be effective.
Of course, you can simply surf for the fun of it, but it is a great exercise too. Start surfing and watch those calories drop.
Surrounded By Nature
The last point on our list is being surrounded by nature.
Surfing is a fun activity for all to take part in (some even take their pets along with them to ride the waves!), but there is nothing that beats being surrounded by nature.
When surfing, you get to be embraced by the saltwater, kissed by the sun, and greeted by sea creatures of all different shapes and sizes.
This is also a great activity to take away any stress and brighten up your day.
Final Thoughts
In this article, we have explored everything there is to know about the electric surfboard.
Although it comes with both its positives and negatives, it is clear that there is plenty of good that comes from this innovative device.
It is fun, different, and a brilliant tool for beginners wanting to learn.
Purchase an electric surfboard today and watch your surfing experience change for the better.
