A bodysurfing handplane is still a relatively very new product and not many people are aware of its existence. But why do you need one?
what are the benefits of using a bodysurfing handboard?
It will improve your bodysurfing skills immediately by increasing speed, handle, and the length of your ride.
1) perfect alternative to a boogie board
2) very portable
3) convenient for travel
4) increase bodysurfing speed
5) ride waves further
6) increase lift
7) better positioning
8) longer barrel time
9) allows you to ride small waves easily
10) enables you to perform tricks easier
11) reduces drag and friction
12) improves control and maneuverability
13) easier to catch waves
14) prevents you from slipping down the face of the wave
15) switch directions effortlessly
16) allows you to quickly correct your line
17) ability to rise and fall in the pocket at will
These advantages will truly set you apart from the rest of the wave riders out there. Not only will a handplane make you look like a professional but also make your wave-riding experience more enjoyable.
The company SLYDE was the first to debut their handboard product on Shark Tank, which helped them gain popularity. This simple, little handplane instantly hooked Mark Cuban and Ashton Kutcher as investors so definitely make sure to check it out.
Convenience
These boards make for such an easy trip to the beach because of their size. They are very easy to pack and transport, which is super convenient especially if you are carrying other items to the beach like a cooler or chair. Also, they will fit in your car without hardly taking up any space!
Performance
Bodysurfing handboards allow you to bend water in a way that makes you feel superhuman. You will absolutely notice the improved speed, distance, and control while riding waves to shore.
The significant amount of lift a handplane provides is amazing. You can lift your body above the water for the ultimate riding experience. This minimizes drag and allows you to ride waves further and faster than you have ever ridden them before.
You will be able to effortlessly catch waves on end. Using a handplane provides the speed and buoyancy needed for more barrel time. Trust me, the more waves you catch, the happier you will be.
If your beach only rolls in small waves, no problem! Using a handboard will allow you to take advantage of even those tiny 1-footers! If your beach produces large waves then you will be able to carve them up easier than sticking a knife through butter.
Simply put, using a handboard for bodysurfing is far more fun than not using one. A handplane allows you to have more agility, speed, and endurance. The benefits I have listed above definitely make it worth the investment for your next trip to the beach.
why people don’t like using a handboard
Although a bodysurfing handboard seems like one of the best purchases you can make for your time spent in the ocean, there are some people who prefer not to use them. They say that using a handplane taints the purity of the art form. This does hold some validity since bodysurfing was intended for us to use what mother nature has given us.
Like I mentioned before, using a bodysurfing handplane is completely optional, which is why many think it is unnecessary.
Deciding whether or not to use a bodysurfing handboard depends upon your riding preference and comfort. You may try it and absolutely hate it. Using a handplane may make you feel uncomfortable while riding waves.
Wearing a
Using a handplane can be challenging for beginner bodysurfers. It may take some practice to get better but this should not be a reason that discourages you from getting a handboard. Just like most things in life, you need to practice in order to improve.
Some people may find handplanes to be too expensive. Your budget may dictate whether or not you can buy one. The higher-end bodysurfing handboards can cost upwards of $200. On the other hand, you can find some cheap boards for around $50. Read more about prices in my hand board budget guide.
Another reason why some people do not like using one is the potential for injury. Even though the risk of injury is minimal, there is the possibility of hurting yourself if you are not careful and remain aware of the ocean environment. If you are a beginner and decide to surf 7-foot waves then you are almost asking for an injury. I’d recommend starting with smaller waves and then progressing to larger ones as you feel more comfortable. It is important to know your surfing level and make the appropriate decisions so you do not get injured.
my final thoughts
Allow me to apologize in advance for all of the attention you will receive from fellow beachgoers and onlookers when you use a bodysurfing handboard. It will naturally drive curiosity from those relaxing on the beach and also fellow surfers. This attention will instantly make you the celebrity of your beach. I can’t tell you how many times people have approached me about this little surfboard.
A handplane is by far one of the best tools I have used for catching wave after wave with minimal effort. It will certainly leave you grinning ear-to-ear after each set. You will be riding smoother, faster, and farther than anyone else out on the open water. Your rise to stardom will cast a shadow over other surfers in your territory. So if you are interested in bodysurfing or have been doing it for a while, you should definitely try using a handboard to experience the significant difference it has on your wave-riding performance.