Our Top Pick:
Wavemaster Pro Bodyboard by Beach Mall (Adults)
★★★★★
Best Value:
Premium Bodyboard for Adults by Woowave
★★★★★
Editor’s Choice:
Premium Bodyboard for Kids by Woowave
★★★★★
Bodyboarding is a skill that is honed through a lot of practice and requires the person to lie prone, and riding the wave towards the shore. As this is a specialized sport, it requires the correct equipment with lots of practice to perform flawlessly. However, there are different criteria, which enable one brand to perform better than the rest.
To understand the nuances of the equipment for bodyboarding, we have compiled a list of the best bodyboards for kids and adults, with the five most popular for children as well as for adults, so that you can buy nothing but the best for yourself and your family.
| Table: Best Bodyboards for Kids and Adults in 2023 | |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Price |
| #1 Wavemaster Pro Bodyboard by Beach Mall (Adults) | Check Price » |
| #2 Premium Bodyboard for Adults by Woowave | Check Price » |
| #3 Premium Bodyboard for Kids by Woowave | Check Price » |
| #4 Premium Bodyboard for Beginners by South Bay Board Co. (Adults) | Check Price » |
| #5 Light Bodyboard by Goplus (Kids) | Check Price » |
| #6 Beach Attack Bodyboard by Own the Wave (Kids) | Check Price » |
| #7 Mako Inflatable Bodyboard by Driftsun (Adults) | Check Price » |
| #8 Bodyboard for Kids and Teens by Gymax | Check Price » |
| #9 Mach 7 by Morey (Adults) | Check Price » |
| #10 Shred Slade by Wave Bandit (Kids) | Check Price » |
Best Bodyboards for Kids and Adults Reviews
#1. Wavemaster Pro Bodyboard by Beach Mall (Adults)
Wavemaster Pro Bodyboard by Beach Mall for adults is a fantastic board for optimal performance in the water. It performs extremely well in rough waters, and the best aspect of it is that it does have bubbles from extensive use. Although it has a superior performance like most boards within the same price range, it is recommended for moderate use and not extensive.
Product Specs
- Material: EPS closed-cell core, soft foam topped deck, HDPE slick bottom
- Product weight: 2.6 lbs
- Weight capacity: 180 lbs
- Height capacity: 72 inches ( 6 feet)
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 42 x 22 x 2 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
Although light, this product is very strong and reliable, cutting through the water smoothly and safely. It is comfortable to use, and come with premium quality expensive leash; the grooved slot at the bottom of the board ensures that it works well in rough waters and has an improved hold on the wave.
Pros
- Streamlined for flexibility, optimal maneuverability, and flawless performance
- The board comes equipped with a leash
- Rides the waves well and is mostly used by drop-knee and prone boarders
- EPS core with strong celled polymer chain foam ensures sturdiness in water
- Grooved slots at the bottom of the board to minimize turbulence and keep the board close to the body.
- It can be used effectively in cold, as well as warm waters without any damage to the board.
Cons
- The deck is made from polystyrene
Tip: The HDPE slick bottom enables the board to remain stiff and move at high speeds; it also protects the core of the board from water damage.
Info alert: This board has been primarily designed, keeping in mind various positions like prone and drop-knee boarding.
#2. Premium Bodyboard for Adults (42-inch) by Woowave
This superior bodyboard by Woowave ensures safe and hassle-free bodyboarding for adults. The large-sized 42-inch board is made from durable material to enable a fulfilling bodyboarding experience for adults. It comes with extremely resilient coiled wrist leash made from durable urethane cord and coiled so that it does not entangle in water. It is lightweight and easy to carry, making it an ideal choice as one of the best bodyboards for kids and adults for avid boarders.
Product Specs
- Material: EPS Core, HDPE Slick Bottom
- Leash Length: 5.5 mm
- Maximum weight capacity: 85 kg (188 lbs)
- Maximum height: 5 feet 9 inches (165 – 175 cm)
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 41 x 20 x 1.96 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This product by Woowave is designed for speed and resilience in water. The bodyboards come in a variety of colors, making it highly attractive, and also increase the visibility from the shore. The lightweight board has been streamlined for durability and comes with quality assurance from the brand.
Pros
- Equipped with extra-strong urethane wrist cord, coiled to avoid entanglements in water
- Lightweight and durable, and great for all types of water conditions
- It is very well-designed and offers many options for bright colors
- Woowave offers optimum quality assurance and will replace the product if damaged within a year.
- The wrist leash comes with ultra-soft material to ensure comfort while in the water
Cons
- Not recommended to be towed with a boat
Tip: This product is well-suited for all water conditions and can handle high speeds well.
Info alert: Money-back guarantee within a year for any defects or damage to the boards; free replacement by the company, makes this highly desirable as a product.
#3. Premium Bodyboard for Kids (33/36-inch) by Woowave
This Premium Bodyboard for kids by Woowave belongs to the same series as the one above, although the sizes are different for different heights and body weights for the kids. These boards are very light and easy to transport, which is why it is the perfect bodyboard for children.
Product Specs
- Material: EPS Core, HDPE Slick Bottom
- Leash Length: 5.5 mm
- Maximum weight capacity: 28 kg (65 lbs) 55 kg (120 lbs)
- Maximum height: 4 feet (60 – 120 cm)
- 5 feet 7 inches (120 – 170 cm)
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 33 x 20 x 1.96 inches 36x 20 x 1.96 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
Woowave has created this superior bodyboard that is easy and comfortable to use, especially for children that are keen to learn. The colorful boards are uniquely designed to ensure the utmost security in the water. The lightweight design makes it easy to transport, without hassle. There are two sizes, the 33- and the 37-inch boards, which are well suited for children.
Pros
- No cord entanglements in water with an extra-strong urethane coiled wrist cord
- Well-suited for all water conditions, due to its superior durability and agility
- Comes in a wide variety of colors
- Great warranty for the boards, ensuring the utmost quality assurance from the manufacturing company.
- Ultra-soft cuff material for the cord, to ensure comfort while in the water
Cons
- Not recommended for surfing
Tip: This light and durable product can handle all water conditions with ease.
Info alert: The brand offers free replacement with a money-back guarantee within a year for any defective or damaged boards, making this as a much-sought-after product for avid bodyboarders.
#4. Premium Bodyboard for Beginners by South Bay Board Co. (Adults)
Premium Bodyboard for Beginners by South Bay Board Co. has been designed by surfers with extensive experience; this has only ensured a highly streamlined product based on the understanding of the complications that can arise from a badly designed board. This is why this board is premium quality and completely streamlined for efficient performance in the water.
Product Specs
- Material: EPS closed-cell core, soft foam topped deck, HDPE slick bottom
- Product weight: 2 lbs
- Weight capacity: 200 lbs
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 42 x 23 x 4 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
The board has been designed and manufactured by experts in the field for accuracy and high performance. The body has been hand-sanded for the right feel and smoothness, and children can spend hours in the ocean without trouble.
Pros
- HDPE slick bottom with diamond mesh netting for protection against heavy impact damage and enhanced flexibility of the board
- The top deck has custom foam, which has been painted in stripes for improved aesthetic appeal
- The board comes equipped with a leash
- Classic design with a crescent tail for superior performance in water
- Improved quality of the hard-edged rails on the sides, for easy cut a smooth path in the waves
- High buoyancy and super fast, secure action
Cons
- The board can bend, with very rough usage on the beach
- Not meant for very frequent use
Tip: The board comes equipped with a pre-installed leash plug and a raised kicker; it also has a wax-free EVA traction deck pad for a comfortable time in the water.
Info alert: The product comes with a 30-day guarantee, and can be changed with the same packing and bubble wrap. In the case of manufacturing defects or damaged goods, the company will replace the product free of cost.
#5. Light Bodyboard by Goplus (Kids)
This amazing board from Goplus for kids is sturdy and efficient, riding the waves with ease. It is priced reasonably, making it an affordable option, and is well suited for children above the age of ten. It is customized for different positions such as the drop-knee or lying prone, and even standing.
Product Specs
- Material: EPS, XPE, HEPE
- Colors: Blue shark, green coconut palm, blue starfish
- Product weight: 1.5 lbs
- Weight capacity: 89 lbs
- Height capacity: 4 feet
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 33 x 19 x 2.36 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
This Goplus board is a practical solution for children above the age of ten and wants to use it in rough water. It is customized to be used in various positions comfortably and is light and flexible for easy movement with the waves. It is streamlined of various types of activities in water, and its affordability makes it a highly desirable addition for bodyboarding.
Pros
- Well suited to various types of water sports
- Premium quality leash designer for improving stability and safety
- Equipped with rear channels and conventional crescent tail design for accurate tracking and enhanced maneuverability
- EPS core with strong celled polymer chain foam ensures sturdiness in water
- Strong weight capacity with excellent buoyancy
Cons
- The leash should be sturdier as it is prone to breaking
- The board can develop a bubble on the top, although will be still functional
Tip: This board is for children above the age of 10.
Info alert: The board can be used in rivers, sea, beaches, and pools.
#6. Beach Attack Bodyboard by Own the Wave (Kids)
Beach Attack Pack by Own the Wave is light and durable bodyboard, which comes with a sturdy leash and swim fin tethers. This is a packaged deal with a single bodyboard, one leash, and two fin savers. The bottom is slick to enable speed and consistency while in the water. It also has various options for colors, which is perfect for children.
Product Specs
- Material: EPS core with rear channels, slick bottom coating
- Weight capacity: 65 lbs (29 kg)
- Height capacity: 4 feet (1.25 m)
- Board size: 33 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
Practical, convenient, and affordable are the best words to describe the board. With high performance in the water, this is product enables children and adults to try various positions, without hassle. The ultra-durable leash is of premium quality and offers stability in water for superior performance.
Pros
- Equipped with a premium coiled leash for enhanced stability
- The company provides a full refund or replacement, if unhappy with its performance within the first year
- Durable and strong core for high buoyancy and speed
- The design enables riders to have proper control
- Priced well, for affordability
Cons
- May develop foam top surface problems with extended use
Tip: This board is for children; however, the same series has ones for adults, with a board size of 41 inches, making it one of the best bodyboards for kids and adults.
Info alert: The board does not come with a bag for safe transportation.
#7. Mako Inflatable Bodyboard by Driftsun (Adults)
This inflatable bodyboard by Driftsun is an inflatable type, which ensures superior portability; however, there is no reason to get worried, as these are near to indestructible, and as solid and rigid as any other bodyboard made from the usual materials, without carrying the extra weight they bear.
Product Specs
- Material: 1000D Reinforced Drop Stitch PVC
- Maximum pressure: 15 psi (single bar)
- Maximum weight capacity: 102 kg (220 lbs)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 42 x 25 x 4 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
If you are looking for one of the toughest, yet portable bodyboard, then look no further. This Driftsun product is extremely durable and as rigid as one made from normal materials. Not just that, it is well suited to rough usage and very durable. It does not rip or tear easily and also comes with a warranty for any problems. It comes along with a transportation strap, and inflation pump and
Pros
- RigidAir Drop technology enabling it to be as solid as a rigid board
- Superior portability as the inflatable can be packed small enough to comfortably carry
- The XPE foam deck gives firm support for proper grip, without chafing
- Equipped with a dual flex-fin, cutting through the waves, without breaking or chipping
- Equipped with Sure-Lock high-pressure inflation valve, to ensure that it never deflates on water
Cons
- Not recommended it be towed with a boat
Tip: This is an inflatable product, which means that it can be inflated in the boat if required. Do not inflate and tow it behind as a safety measure.
Info alert: Driftsun provides a one-year warranty on manufacturing, craftsmanship, and assembly of the product.
#8. Bodyboard for kids and teens by Gymax
This bodyboard for kids and teens by Gymax is one of the top-rated products that is well suited for kids, teens, and young adults. This board has a superior design, enabling to perform superbly with extra control, ultimate maneuverability, with improved strength and higher speeds. This board is ideal for children and teens with an extra-strong harness to secure to the wrist or the ankle for stability in the water.
Product Specs
- Material: EPS Core, HDPE Slick Bottom, & IXPE deck
- Maximum weight capacity: 170 lbs
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 42 x 17 x 3 inches
- Product weight: 2 lbs
Why We Recommend This Product
This Gymax bodyboard is one of the top-rated bodyboards in terms of agility, flexibility in the water, and is also well priced for its impressive performance. This product is ideal to use for kids and young teenagers due to its extremely stable and safe performance in the water, along with the ease of transportation and movement with the board, making it an easy accessory to carry to the beach without hassle.
Pros
- IXPE deck for improved impact strength and resilience
- The board can be used for all types of water, in the sea, as well as the pool
- HDPE Slick bottom coating to enable enhanced speeds, projection, and flexibility
- Leash resilience has been scientifically improved upon, thereby providing enhanced security and stability in the water
Cons
- The board will perform better with more buoyancy
Tip: Light and durable with the premium IXPE deck for the best performance.
Info alert: This bodyboard may be used for snow sledding, although it may be more difficult to maneuver and play with.
#9. Mach 7 by Morey (Adults)
Mach 7 by Morey for adults is one of the top-grade bodyboards available in the market. This brand was the first to manufacture boogie boards, as they were called, and although much has changed since the inception of the company, the quality of the products has not wavered at all.
Product Specs
- Material: Dow Core high density closed cell polyethylene, 8 Lb TC8 polyethylene top skin deck & HDPE
- Stringer: Dual composite carbon
- Maximum weight capacity: 180 lbs
- Height capacity: 5 feet 9 inches – 6 feet
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 42 x 22 x 0.75 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
If you are looking for the classic design, to be able to bodyboard, safely, then this Mach 7 is the best option. It comes equipped with a sturdy stringer for stability and resilience in water. This bodyboard sports the classic design, as was released in 1971, with a few modifications to ensure that the product quality has been improved, through years of experience by the company.
Pros
- Power Rod stringer provides durability and reinforced strength
- The board can be used for all types of water, in the sea, as well as the pool
- Equipped with HDPE Slick bottom coating allowing superior speeds sturdy and flexibility in water
Cons
- The manufacturing quality can be improved
Tip: All types of leash can fit this design, although it is recommended to get a bicep leash rather than one for the wrist.
Info alert: A leash can be added and should be attached about seven inches from the back of the nose and approximately an inch from the sides, whether the left or the right.
#10. Shred Slade by Wave Bandit (Kids)
The Shred Slade by Wave Magic is a fantastic bodyboard for kids. The smaller size suits well and is equipped with high-density slick bottom, to ensure smoothness and durability, without compromising the quality of the product. This product is can be used effectively for several activities, such as bodyboarding, surfing, skimboarding, and much more, making it a highly sought-after product for its durability and design.
Product Specs
- Material: HDPE slick bottom for superior movements in the water
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 37 x 16 x 2.25 inches
Why We Recommend This Product
The Shred Slade Mini has been designed for children and is perfect for kids under the age of 10. It is light and only kids below the age of 10 should go skimboarding. These are small and sleek and do not come with fins. For security and safety, it comes equipped with a leash with a plug attachment for convenience.
Pros
- Streamlined for kid-friendly use, and superior safety
- The bottom of the board is slick bottomed, ensuring the longevity of the product
- The boards come equipped with a leash of stability and convenience
Cons
- Although manufactured for various types of boarding, it should only be used to bodyboard for safety reasons
Tip: The board does not come with fins, which have to be bought separately and are advisable for added security in water.
Info alert: Stickers work well for this product, but only on the slick bottom of the board.
Buying Guide for the Best Bodyboards for Kids and Adults
Several factors go into buying the best board for yourself and the children. The main factors are mentioned below for a clear understanding.
Weight and Height
The length of the board is crucial as with the wrong sixes, they are prone to accidents. Larger bodyboards perform better on smaller waves and smaller boards work better in bigger waves. If the board is short, movement becomes slower and cumbersome.
Materials
Foam core and plastic slicked (Surlyn) bottoms are the most common materials used for the construction; polypropylene foam and Dow polyethylene, are the most popular materials for the boards.
Stringer
Stringer is used to strengthening the core with a tube running under the board, acting like a proper spine for the board, improving the stability.
Tails
Most stable and fast movement boards have a wider tail; the narrower tailed boards are great for flexibility and maneuvering.
Rails and angles
Straight rails are preferable, as it gives the rider optimal control of the boards; steep rails are not ideal as they can create higher resistance, making it difficult to turn or decrease speed. So, look at rails and angles based on your choice and ability to use them to your advantage.
Thickness
The thickness impacts the maneuverability and the buoyancy of the board. Thinner boards have less buoyancy but have increased flexibility of movements; thicker boards offer more speed but affect the rail-to-rail riding. Thicker boards perform better at higher speed, and thinner ones are better flexibility and movement.
Our Verdict
Therefore, several aspects must be considered before buying the best bodyboards for kids and adults as they affect the safety and performance of the board. We recommend the Mako Inflatable Bodyboard Package by Driftsun for Adults, which has repeatedly impressed customers with its durability (RigidAir Drop technology) and high performance with dual flex-fin technology. It is easy to transport and inflate, making it convenient to carry. The Sure-Lock high-pressure inflation valve ensures that there is no drop in pressure once in the water. The bodyboard is excellent and sturdy with an XPE foam deck and three handles for a firm grip in the water. It is safe to use, whether you are an experienced or a novice bodyboarder.
Make sure to check out our best towable tubes for boats article, if you enjoy fun activities on the water.
Remember to protect yourself and your kids from the sun when you’re out on the water. See our recommended UV Shirts here.
Check out our guide to the 10 best fishing float tubes here.
Updated: October 27, 2022
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