If you’re getting serious about wakesurfing, or just trying to figure out why one board feels so different from another, you’ve probably come across two terms over and over: surf-style and skim-style wakesurf boards.

These aren’t just marketing labels. The difference between a surf and skim board can completely change the way you ride. Whether you’re chasing down big carves or throwing technical tricks, understanding the right board style for your goals is key to unlocking performance on the water.

Let’s break it down.

What Is a Surf-Style Wakesurf Board?

Surf-style boards are designed to feel like, you guessed it, traditional surfboards. They’re typically:

• Thicker and longer
• More buoyant
• Equipped with larger or multiple fins
• Shaped with more pronounced rocker

That extra volume keeps you higher on the water, giving you more push from the wave and a ride that feels stable and powerful. If you're the kind of rider who loves driving bottom turns, pumping down the line, or popping off the lip for airs, this is your style.

Best For:

• Riders who love carving and aggressive turns
• Surfers crossing over into wakesurfing
• Beginners who want extra forgiveness and stability
  

Examples of Surf-Style Boards:

• Smith Board Co. Surge – A performance surf-style board designed for clean lines and big air
• Smith Board Co. Apex – Great for riders progressing into aggressive, fast riding
• Liquid Force Primo – A solid surf-style board with a wide tail for push and drive

What Is a Skim-Style Wakesurf Board?

Skim-style boards sit on the opposite end of the spectrum. They're thinner, flatter, and built for technical, skate-inspired tricks. Most feature:

• Minimal rocker
• Less buoyancy
• Small or even no fins
• A symmetrical or near-symmetrical outline

They sit lower in the water and feel looser underfoot, perfect for riders who like to get creative. If you're working on spins, shuvs, or quick transitions, skim boards give you the agility and responsiveness you need.

Best For:

• Technical riders focused on spins and shuv-its
• Lightweight or experienced riders
• Anyone who wants a playful, freestyle feel behind the boat
  

Examples of Skim-Style Boards:

• Smith Board Co. Impulse – Built for fast spins, smooth landings, and next-level tricks
• Smith Board Co. Paradox – A responsive board for advanced riders looking for precision
• Phase Five Diamond – A staple skim board used by some of the sport's top riders

So… Which One’s Better?

That all depends on your riding style.

At Smith Board Co., we define performance as a mix of speed, air, and agility. Surf-style boards lean into speed and control, they’re perfect if you're trying to drive hard turns or launch off the lip. Skim-style boards favor agility and creativity, ideal for spinning and playing around on the wave.

If you're new to the sport or coming from a traditional surf background, you’ll likely feel right at home on a surf-style board. If you're starting to experiment with 360s, reverts, or switch stance riding, a skim-style board may be the next step in your progression.

Quick Comparison: Surf vs. Skim

Still Not Sure? We Got You.

Not everyone fits neatly into one category. That’s where hybrid boards and quiver building come in. Some riders choose boards based on the day’s wave conditions or their current riding goals. Others want one board that does it all.

We design both surf and skim-style wakesurf boards, each engineered with performance-first design to help you ride your way.

Need help deciding?

Take the quiz or talk to our team. We'll help you find the right match based on your skill level, goals, and where you want to take your riding next.