Surfboard design is all about fluid dynamics, not color, look or style. When you’re buying a surfboard you’re choosing the plank that will suit you best. You’re interested in getting a very good surfboard for your level of experience and/or for a determined type of wave. The flow of water is the science behind surfboard shaping and manufacturing.

When shapers design their models, they often know what they’re doing. There areseveral variables which take part in the “construction” of a good surfboard model. The type of blank that is used, the quality of the fiberglass and resins, the knowledge of the shaper are very important issues, but there’s more. Surfboard design also involves the outline . The overall design of the board has profound impact of the wave riding performance. A rounder template will force you to longer curves and more laid-back surf. Width and length are very important issues. You have to choose between 18” and 24 inches of width. Wider boards offer more fluctuation and are the perfect choice for very small fat waves. With narrower surfboards you can test you take-off skills in deep, hollow waves.

Link:
The effects of surfboard design in wave performance

surfing, surfing today