Buying Guide for the Best Bodyboard For Kids
Choosing the right bodyboard for kids makes all the difference in how much they’ll enjoy and progress at the beach. Since children have different needs than adults, it’s important to focus on features that make a bodyboard both safe and easy to use. Look for a board that matches your child’s size, skill level, and comfort, so that learning and having fun in the water comes naturally and stress-free.Board SizeBoard size refers to the length and width of the bodyboard. This feature is crucial because if the board is too big or too small for your child, it can be difficult to ride and less safe. Most kids’ boards range from around 33 to 37 inches in length. Shorter boards are easier for small children to handle, while longer boards provide a bit more stability for older or taller youngsters. To make the best choice, have your child stand the board upright in front of them—the top should reach roughly to their belly button. This allows them better control and ease of paddling.
Core MaterialCore material is what makes up the inside of the bodyboard and determines its buoyancy and flexibility. The two common types are EPS (expanded polystyrene) and PE (polyethylene). For kids, EPS is most common because it’s lightweight and floats well, making it easier for them to catch waves. PE is a bit heavier and more flexible but is usually found in higher-end boards for advanced riders. Choosing a lightweight EPS core for beginners or casual users is ideal, as it helps kids stay afloat and makes carrying the board to and from the water much easier.
Deck and Slick MaterialThe deck is the top of the board (where the child lies), and the slick is the bottom (which is in contact with the water). Most kids’ boards have a soft, grippy deck for comfort and a slick bottom (usually made from HDPE) for speed. The deck should provide cushioning to prevent rashes, while the slick helps the board glide over water. For most kids, a board with a comfortable, textured deck and a smooth but durable slick is the best combination for both comfort and fun.
LeashA leash is a strap that attaches the bodyboard to your child’s wrist or arm, preventing the board from getting lost in the waves. This is a very important safety feature for kids. There are two main types: wrist leashes and bicep leashes. For younger or smaller children, a wrist leash is usually easiest to use, while older kids or stronger swimmers might prefer a bicep leash for added flexibility. Always choose a board that comes with a leash or make sure to purchase one separately for safety reasons.
Shape and Tail DesignThe shape of a bodyboard, including its tail design, affects how it handles waves. For kids, most boards have a crescent tail because it provides good stability and control, which helps beginners feel more confident in the water. Other tail shapes are available but are better suited to more advanced riders. For a child just starting out or still building their skills, a board with a simple crescent tail is the way to go.
Weight LimitThis spec indicates how much weight the bodyboard can safely support. It's important because a board not designed for your child’s weight might not float properly or could break prematurely. Boards for kids usually list a weight range—for example, up to 50 lbs or 80 lbs. To pick the right one, check your child’s current weight and select a board that supports it comfortably, leaving room for a bit of growth.