FIND THE PERFECT SURFBOARD VOLUME FOR YOU
NSP VOLUME CALCULATOR
Check out our volume recommendation chart and find the right surfboard volume based on your skill level, board type, height, and weight.Whether you’re just learning to paddle into waves or chasing performance lines, the NSP Volume Calculator helps you discover the volume that suits your surfing best. Choose from Shortboard, Fish, Midlength, or Longboard, then select your ability – Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced, or Pro, we have the perfect range that fits.
Surf Volume Calculator
Your Ability
Your Board
Your Height
Your Weight (lbs)
FAQ:LEARN MORE ABOUT SURFBOARD VOLUME
What is surfboard volume?
Volume is the total amount of space inside your board, measured in liters. It determines how buoyant the board is, how easily it floats, how easily it paddles and rides waves.
Two boards can have the same volume but feel very different in the water. For example, a Fish and a Funboard with the same volume will float similarly, but the Fish will feel wider, looser, and better in small waves, while the Funboard will feel longer, more stable, and smoother to paddle. Volume is just one factor — the board’s shape and design also have a major effect on how it performs.
Why is volume important?
The right volume makes paddling easier, helps you catch waves faster, and keeps the board stable under your weight. Too little volume can make paddling and staying balanced difficult, while too much volume can make turning slower and reduce responsiveness.
How do I know what volume I need?
Your ideal volume depends on your height, weight, skill level, and board type. Beginners usually need more volume for stability, while experienced and pro surfers often ride boards with less volume for better maneuverability.
How does skill level affect recommended volume?
•Beginner: More volume for stability and easier paddling
•Intermediate: Slightly less volume to improve control while staying forgiving
•Experienced: Balanced volume for performance and responsiveness
•Pro: Minimal volume for maximum speed and maneuverability
How does board type affect volume?
•Shortboard: Usually lower volume for speed and sharp turns
•Fish: Extra volume to stay buoyant in smaller or weaker waves
•Midlength: Balanced volume for easy paddling and smooth glide
•Longboard: Higher volume for stability, cruising, and nose riding
Even with the same volume, each board type will ride differently due to its shape and design.
Does wave size matter when choosing volume?
Yes. Bigger, faster waves often benefit from less volume for better control. Smaller, slower waves usually need more volume to maintain speed and stability.
What happens if I ride a board with the wrong volume?
•Too little volume → harder to paddle, less stability, missed waves
•Too much volume → slower turns, reduced responsiveness, harder to perform advanced maneuvers
Can I adjust the volume for personal preference?
Absolutely. The recommended range from the NSP Volume Calculator is a guideline — you can adjust slightly depending on whether you prefer more stability or more maneuverability.
Every surfer is different, and the right volume helps you ride with confidence and control. NSP has spent over two decades refining board shapes and designs so that each volume recommendation translates into real performance on the water. Explore the NSP range, match your ideal volume, and experience the difference a well-chosen board can make.
