Q&A for How to Boogie Board

To boogie board safely, first, ensure there is a lifeguard present for added safety. Additionally, check the area for any potential hazards, such as rocks or debris in the water. Swim out to where waves are breaking and aim to catch a wave at the opportune moment. As the wave approaches, swim towards the shore, aligning yourself to catch it. Once caught, ride the wave back towards shore, mirroring the technique used on a surfboard.

It will be easier than with an actual surfboard, but not as easy as it would be with a boogie board that's the right size for you. You're probably going to have trouble staying on it too, which surf wax could help with. Still, you'd have a much easier time with a board that's the right size.

Nothing really, you will just go further towards the shore.

No, the boogie boards are not meant for standing. They cannot support a lot of weight in one area, which is why you lay out flat on them.

If you're a beginner, going in up to your belly button should be enough. However, there are exceptions, such as if you're more experienced in body boarding. Every case is different, so you decide what feels safe.

It is always best to use a boogie board with a strap. If you fall off, the board will be there for you to get another wave without having to chase it, and the board is a flotation aid which is always helpful to have near.

Most surf shops sell boogie boards, or some sports shops that sell swimwear will sell them too.

No. People of all ages ride boogie boards. Just don't go out in 5 feet waves if you're just starting out, check the surf forecast before getting in the water.

No. The wave would push you out further. Try hopping over the wave and riding the crest. If that doesn't work for you, just hold your board in the air and wait.

You can try, but they are not easy to sit on like a surfboard.

Generally boogie boards do not have fins. Instead they have channels which help keep the board steady along the face of the wave.

The textured side faces up. The slick side makes it easy to slide on the sand, whereas the other side would slow you down. You can usually tell which side is up, since the board is curved upwards.

Either way is fine. Most people run out and paddle when it gets hard to run.

You really need waves to successfully boogie board. Otherwise you're basically just laying on the board in a pool. Some water parks have wave pools, though.

You should most definitely stick with modern street slang and even the stereotypical "surfer dude" slang! Using words like "gnarly", "totally tubular" and phrases such as "right on, dude!". Will help you fit right on in with the rest of the boogie board crowd.

Unless you are swimming in an area that's heavily infested with sharks, then it's not something you really need to worry about.

Usually your string is long enough for you to paddle; if not, you can always buy a new one at a local pool or surf shop.

You don't necessarily have to know how to swim, but it would certainly be easier and safer if you did.

Yes, it's definitely possible.

No, you don't have to, but it might be useful.

It depends on where you purchase them, but you could get a really good boogie board for between $80 and $150.

No, it doesn't. A curly strap keeps it from getting tangled, and will stretch out if needed.

Not usually. Look online before going to the beach to see if a shop near you carries it.

You should avoid swimming near the undertow, as it is extremely dangerous. Choose a calmer spot to boogie board to avoid injury.

Yes, you can do this, it is just a little harder to steer and keep in control.

It really depends on how much you try. Don’t push yourself too much, although it’s not really that hard, if you spend a whole day at the beach, try just simply going to the water and doing what suits you. Go into the water till it reaches your upper thighs to your hips and wait for a good wave to come a good distance away. Then wade forward a little and wait for the wave to come while lying down, stomach face down on your board, with your feet in the water and the rest of your body on the board. When the wave comes, scoot up and let the wave do it’s thing. When you start off ,stay closer to the shore though.