Bodyboarding, more commonly referred to as Boogieboarding among its participants, is a water sport in which the surfer uses the face and curl of a wave to propel them toward shore.
Bodyboard vs Boogie Board: What is the difference?
Boogie boards and bodyboards are the same!
The relationship can be compared to Kleenex and tissue or coke and cola.
The moniker for this activity was established by Tom Morey in 1971 when he invented what we now know as the “Boogie Board.”
People often use these boards when waves are small; however, those looking for more of a challenge will opt to bodyboard in bigger waves.
Also check out out guide to surfboard tail shapes explained.
Why is it called a boogie board?
The boogie board was invented in 1971 by Tom Morey.
Morey had already designed the board, but he needed a creative name for it.
After being inspired by the boogie-woogie music movement that was popular during WWI and WWII, Morey decided on the word “boogie” to reflect how soft and bouncy his board was.
The name “boogie board” quickly caught on, and it has been used to describe this type of board ever since.
Today, boogie boards are a popular choice for surfing beginners, as they are relatively easy to ride and provide a great deal of fun.
FAQs
Can adults use boogie boards?
Yes, boogie boarding is a sport all ages can enjoy.
Can you bodyboard without waves?
One option is to tow a bodyboarder behind a boat or jet ski.
This allows the rider to experience the sensation of riding on a wave without needing to wait for natural waves to form.
Another option is to use a man-made wave pool. Here, riders can catch a consistent wave that is generated by a machine.
This can be helpful for beginners who are still learning how to surf.
Do you need to wax a bodyboard?
Waxing your bodyboard in areas such as where you grip the board, along the rails, and in other strategic zones will give you a better chance of successfully riding waves.
Can you swim with a bodyboard?
Yes, bodyboarding can be a great way to enjoy swimming in the ocean.
As bodyboards are made from buoyant foam, they make perfect flotation devices for any body of water—from pools to oceans and beyond.
Can you stand up on a bodyboard?
If you're new to surfing, standing up on a bodyboard will undoubtedly take some time and effort to master.
But if you already know how to surf or drop-knee, then getting the hang of boogie boarding won't be as challenging.
Can you sit on a bodyboard?
Yes, bodyboarders can sit on their boards to gain more stability and control in the water.
Which is better for you: bodyboard or boogie board?
The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and goals. If you're a beginner looking to learn how to ride waves, then a bodyboard may be better.
Can you bodyboard without fins?
Yes, bodyboarding without fins is possible, but it will require additional effort to catch the wave.
Is it easier to surf or bodyboard?
It depends on the individual's experience level.
For those who have never surfed before, bodyboarding is likely to be easier as it requires less balance and coordination overall.
However, for more experienced surfers, bodyboarding will be a bit more challenging.
Ultimately, both bodyboarding and surfing offer great ways to enjoy the waves.
Can adults bodyboard?
Yes, bodyboarding is a sport that can be enjoyed by adults of all ages. If you're an adult looking for a fun and exciting way to get out onto the waves, bodyboarding is worth a try.
