Is this your first time using a bodysurfing handboard? If so, you need to make sure you wear it correctly in order for it to work properly. I created this simple hand placement guide so you don’t look like a kook!
How do you put on a bodysurfing handboard? Here is how to wear it correctly:
- Loosen strap (if applicable)
- Point the nose of board away from you
- Have the topside of board facing up
- Slide your fingers (excluding the thumb) under the strap until your hand is over the center of the board
- Place your thumb outside of the hand strap
- Re-tighten the hand strap for a snug fit
It is very important to wear your handboard correctly for the best possible riding experience. I know some of this may seem like common sense but if you are a complete newbie, this guide will be a helpful resource so you can look like you know what you are doing!
Which side of the board to place your hand?
Your hand is to be placed on the top side (or deck) of the handboard. This is the side that the handstrap is located.
The underside of the board is where you DO NOT want to place your hand. I know this is probably obvious but placing your hand on the underside while using your handboard will prove to be unsuccessful. The handstrap will create drag and make catching waves very difficult. The bottom surface contour is designed for the water, not your hand.
Which direction should a bodysurfing handboard face while using?
The nose of your handboard should always face away from you when using it. This is the part of your board that comes to a rounded point at one end. When wearing your handboard, you always want to make sure this end points towards the shore while you bodysurf.
The tail end should be facing towards your body. This is the end of the board opposite the nose. The design of the tail end may differ by the board brand. It may look like a fishtail, be rounded, or come to a point.
Do not wear your handboard with the tail end pointed towards the shore while bodysurfing. This is the incorrect way to wear it. It is not designed to be used like this and will impact your bodysurfing performance.
Where to place your hand & fingers?
When you put on your handboard, you want to place your palm over the center of the board. This is the ideal position for your hand so you can experience maximum lift and maintain your balance.
Your fingers should be placed under and through the handstrap. Make sure they remain comfortably spread apart. This will help you to stabilize your body while you ride a wave.
Do not place your thumb under the handstrap with the rest of your fingers. Instead, your thumb should be placed to the side of the strap like in the image above on the right. This will make your grip more comfortable and functional.
Adjust the handstrap to fit your hand
In order to fit your hand under the handstrap, you will have to loosen it. You will need to undo the velcro and then adjust it to provide enough clearance for your hand to slide underneath.
Slide your hand under the strap until the purlicue of your hand rests against the handstrap. This is the area between your thumb and forefinger. This will place your hand in the ideal location over the center of the board.
Once your hand is placed underneath the strap, re-velcro for a snug fit. Push down on top of the velcro strap to ensure a secured interlocking of the fabric.
Related Questions:
How tight should the handstrap be?
You want the handstrap to be snug so it does not slip from your hand but not so tight that it cuts off circulation. However, I found that it is difficult to overtighten the handstrap yourself so you won’t have to worry about stopping blood flow to your hand.
Which hand to use?
Use whichever hand you feel comfortable. To help you make a decision, check out my article on how to determine which hand to use.
Are all handstraps designed the same?
Each brand may have a slightly different design. You should be able to adjust most straps to secure your hand comfortably to the top of the board.
What to do if my hand is too big?
Your hands would have to be fairly large in order to not fit on the handboard. However, if your hands are large then get the Wedge or Phish handboard because these provide the most surface area. You can also cup your hand slightly in order to fit your fingers on the deck if you find them stretching over the edge.
What to do if my hand is too small?
Handboards should fit small hands. My hands are not that large and I am still able to use my board without any issues.
If you still feel that your hand is too small, remember to keep your fingers spread apart and place your other hand on top. This will provide extra support and control. Also, get a bicep leash if you are worried about your handboard slipping from your hand.