There’s nothing quite like the thrill of riding your first wave. For many kids, bodyboarding is that perfect introduction to ocean fun, offering an exciting, accessible way to enjoy the beach. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best body boards for kids that are both safe and super fun?
We know you want to set your little wave riders up for success, whether they’re just splashing at the shore or starting to catch bigger waves. That’s why we’ve dived deep into the world of boogie boards, bringing you a hand-picked selection of top contenders. From durable designs built for adventure to inflatable options perfect for travel, we’re here to help you find the ideal board for your child’s next beach day. Let’s get them out there, making memories!
Our Top Picks: The Best Body Boards for Kids
Here are our top recommendations, designed to bring smiles and excitement to your child’s next ocean adventure.
1. CONTOUR SURF Reed Body Board 33 Inches Bodyboard
If you’re looking for a bodyboard that grows with your child’s skill, the CONTOUR SURF Reed is a fantastic choice. It’s built with impressive durability and advanced features that usually you’d find on adult boards, making it perfect for kids who are ready to take on more serious waves or those who want a board that will last for years. The thoughtful design ensures great control and speed, letting them really feel like a pro out on the water.
Key Features:
- Stable and easy to ride for all wave conditions, ideal for beginners to intermediate.
- Ultra-strong lightweight EPS core with weather-resistant FRP stringer for buoyancy and flexibility.
- Durable heat-lamination process prevents bubbles and deformation, enhancing sturdiness.
- IXPE deck designed for speed, comfort, and impact resistance.
- HDPE Slick Bottom with plastic mesh, dual channels, crescent tail, and 60/40 rail for superior speed and control.
- Includes a stainless steel, double-swivel coiled bodyboard leash.
Pros:
- High-quality construction for excellent durability and longevity.
- Advanced design features enhance speed, control, and maneuverability.
- Suitable for a wide range of skill levels, offering room for growth.
- Leash included for convenience and safety.
- Resistant to bubbling and fading due to heat-lamination.
Cons:
- Might be overkill for very young children just splashing in shallow water.
- At 33 inches, check size compatibility for smaller kids.
User Impressions: Parents love how robust this board feels, often noting that it withstands a lot of abuse from active kids. Many comment on how quickly their children gained confidence and skill due to the board’s stability and speed, praising its ‘pro-level’ feel.
2. Bo-Toys Body Board Lightweight with EPS Core (Blue, 33-INCH)
The Bo-Toys Body Board is a brilliant all-rounder, offering a great blend of performance and value for aspiring young surfers. Its lightweight design means kids can easily carry it to the water, while the robust construction stands up to energetic play. It’s a fantastic entry point for kids eager to experience the thrill of wave riding, providing both maneuverability and stability.
Key Features:
- Lightweight EPS core for easy handling and buoyancy.
- Heat lamination technology for impact strength and durability.
- HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) super slick bottom with channels and a crescent tail for speed.
- 60/40 rails for enhanced maneuverability and skill development.
- Includes a pro-quality leash with a wristband to keep the board close.
- Compact and water-resistant for all wave conditions.
- Available in stylish, bright colors.
Pros:
- Excellent balance of lightweight design and durable construction.
- Good maneuverability for learning new tricks and turns.
- Comes with a useful leash for security.
- Vibrant colors are appealing to kids.
- Strong focus on customer satisfaction with prompt support.
Cons:
- While durable, it might not have the same advanced stringer system as higher-end boards.
- 33-inch size might be on the larger side for very small children.
User Impressions: Customers frequently mention the fantastic value for money this board offers. Kids love the bright colors and how easy it is to carry, while parents appreciate its resilience after countless hours of fun at the beach.
3. Barbie™ Signature 36in Bodyboard by Wavestorm
For the fashion-forward little surfer, the Barbie™ Signature Bodyboard by Wavestorm is a dream come true! Beyond its eye-catching graphic design, this board offers solid performance for beginners, making it one of the more stylish best body boards for kids. It’s built for fun and durability, ensuring that those vibrant colors last, even under the bright sun.
Key Features:
- Molded Foam Core for lightweight buoyancy and easy handling.
- High-Density Slick Bottom provides speed and rigidity on the water.
- Graphic Foam Top Deck Layering (WBS-IXL) with UV inhibitors to protect vibrant colors.
Pros:
- Iconic Barbie design is a huge hit with fans.
- UV inhibitors help maintain the board’s vibrant appearance over time.
- Good entry-level performance for young riders.
- Lightweight and easy for kids to manage.
Cons:
- Lacks advanced features like channels or a stringer found on more performance-oriented boards.
- Does not explicitly state if a leash is included (often sold separately with Wavestorm products).
User Impressions: This board is a huge hit for its aesthetic appeal! Kids adore the Barbie graphics, and parents appreciate the quality construction that holds up well. It’s often highlighted as a great first bodyboard that brings extra excitement to beach trips.
4. 2 Pack Inflatable Boogie Boards for Beach
If portability and convenience are your top priorities, this 2-pack of inflatable boogie boards is a game-changer. Perfect for family vacations or quick trips to the pool, these blow-up surfboards offer a soft, safe, and super fun way for kids to enjoy the water. They’re also fantastic for helping younger children get comfortable with swimming and catching small waves.
Key Features:
- Set of two inflatable kids’ boogie boards, great for siblings or friends.
- Made from easy-to-inflate PVC, folds into a compact size for travel.
- Suitable for kids ages 8 and older, also useful as a pool float.
- Features 2 sturdy handles on each board for a secure grip.
- Bright red and blue wave designs.
- Can be used as a swim board or kickboard for learning to swim.
Pros:
- Extremely portable and easy to store, ideal for travel.
- Great value with two boards included in one pack.
- Soft and safe for beginners, reducing impact concerns.
- Handles provide excellent grip and security for kids.
- Versatile for various water activities: beach, pool, lake, water slides.
Cons:
- Less rigid and performant than traditional foam bodyboards for serious wave riding.
- Requires inflation, which can be an extra step.
- Durability might be less than solid foam boards if frequently used in rough conditions.
User Impressions: Families rave about how easy these are to pack for trips. Kids love the bright colors and the feeling of floating, and parents appreciate the added safety of the handles. They’re often recommended as excellent pool toys or for gentle wave play.
5. JAMBO Inflatable Surf Body Board with Handles
The JAMBO Inflatable Surf Body Board takes the concept of inflatable fun to the next level with a focus on enhanced durability and vibrant design. Made from thicker, stronger materials, this isn’t your average pool float. It’s engineered to withstand more rigorous play, making it a reliable option for kids who love to splash and play in various water settings, from the pool to gentle lake waves.
Key Features:
- Thicker and stronger Nylon material with industrial-grade PVC for enhanced durability.
- Patent-pending, bright colorful design stands out.
- Versatile for use at the pool, lake, or with a lawn water slide.
- Long-lasting construction with thick welding at seams and stronger handles.
- Great tool for teaching kids to swim (29 x 24 inches).
- Customer satisfaction guaranteed.
Pros:
- Superior durability for an inflatable board, designed to last.
- Vibrant, eye-catching design.
- Stronger handles provide a more secure grip.
- Excellent for learning basic swimming skills and water confidence.
- Highly portable and easy to store.
Cons:
- Still won’t offer the same performance on large waves as a solid EPS core board.
- Requires inflation before use.
- Smaller size might be outgrown quickly for rapidly growing or older children.
User Impressions: Reviewers frequently highlight the impressive robustness of the JAMBO board, noting it feels much sturdier than other inflatables. Parents appreciate the quality and that it holds up well, while kids are drawn to its bright colors and comfortable grip.
6. THURSO SURF Quill 42” Bodyboard Body Boards
For families looking for a high-performance board that can be used by both kids and adults, the THURSO SURF Quill 42” Bodyboard is an excellent investment. This board isn’t just for kids; its larger size and advanced features make it versatile for older children, teens, and even lighter adults. It’s designed for serious wave riding, offering stability, flexibility, and control that’ll make every ride exciting.
Key Features:
- Stable and easy to ride for all wave conditions, suitable for kids and adults (up to 210 lbs).
- Ultra-strong lightweight EPS core with weather-resistant FRP stringer for buoyancy and flexibility.
- Durable heat-lamination process for sturdiness and resistance to bubbles/deformation.
- IXPE deck designed for speed, comfort, and impact resistance.
- HDPE Slick Bottom with plastic mesh, dual channels, crescent tail, and 60/40 rail for superior speed and control.
- Unique printing technology gives a premium wood grain look.
- Equipped with a stainless steel double-swivel coiled bodyboard leash.
Pros:
- High-performance features suitable for growing kids and adults alike.
- Exceptional durability ensures years of enjoyment.
- Advanced design elements enhance speed, control, and maneuverability.
- Stylish wood grain aesthetic.
- Includes a high-quality leash.
Cons:
- At 42 inches, it might be too large and unwieldy for very young or small children.
- Higher price point due to advanced features and larger size.
User Impressions: Many users praise the THURSO SURF Quill for its impressive quality and performance, often stating it feels like a professional-grade board. Families love that it can be shared, and kids (especially older ones) appreciate the speed and control it offers on the waves.
7. Goplus 41”/37”/33” Lightweight Body Board for Beach
The Goplus Lightweight Body Board stands out for its versatility in size, allowing you to pick the perfect fit for your child, ensuring they have the best body boards for kids tailored to them. Offering a blend of strong buoyancy, durable materials, and dynamic design, it’s crafted to deliver a wonderful and exciting surfing experience across various water environments. Whether it’s the beach, river, or water park, this board promises long-lasting fun.
Key Features:
- Available in multiple sizes (41”, 37”, 33”) to suit different riders.
- XPE deck surface for good impact resistance and durability.
- EPS core is weather resistant, waterproof, and shock absorbing.
- High-density polyethylene slick bottom adds stiffness, increases speed, projection, and flexibility.
- Dynamic design with 60/40 rails, rear channels, and a crescent tail for all wave types.
- Strong buoyancy and lightweight for easy carrying and long-term use.
- Helps relax and exercise back and abdomen muscles.
Pros:
- Multiple size options ensure a perfect fit for various ages and sizes.
- Excellent material combination for durability, buoyancy, and performance.
- Dynamic design enhances control and speed on waves.
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Vibrant patterns and colors make it appealing.
Cons:
- The features are repeated twice in the product description which might lead to confusion but the product itself is solid.
- The 41” might be too big for very young children.
User Impressions: Customers often highlight the Goplus board’s sturdy feel and its ability to withstand regular use. Parents appreciate the range of sizes, making it easier to find an appropriate board for their child, and kids love how fast and fun it is to ride.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kids’ Body Boards
Picking the right gear can sometimes feel like a puzzle. Here are some common questions parents ask when looking for the best body boards for kids.
Q1: What’s the right size body board for my child?
A: A good rule of thumb is that the body board should reach your child’s belly button when standing upright. For very young or small children, a board that reaches between their chest and belly button is often ideal. For more advanced or older kids, a slightly longer board can offer more speed and stability. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended age and weight limits.
Q2: Do kids’ body boards need a leash?
A: Absolutely, yes! A leash is a crucial safety feature. It keeps the board attached to your child’s wrist or bicep, preventing it from floating away in the waves or getting lost. This is especially important for younger children or those just learning, as it saves them from having to chase after their board and keeps them safer in the water.
Q3: What’s the difference between an EPS core and other materials?
A: EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) is a common, lightweight, and buoyant core material found in many kids’ body boards. It offers good performance and is generally affordable. Other cores might include PE (Polyethylene) for more flexibility or PP (Polypropylene) for maximum stiffness and speed, often found in higher-end boards. For kids, EPS cores strike a great balance of performance and durability.
Q4: Are inflatable body boards good for kids?
A: Inflatable body boards can be great, especially for younger kids, learning to swim, or for convenience. They’re usually softer, highly portable, and easier to store. However, they typically don’t offer the same rigidity or performance on larger waves as traditional foam-core boards. For casual fun, pool use, or small, gentle waves, they’re fantastic!
Q5: How do I take care of a body board?
A: To keep your body board in top shape, always rinse it with fresh water after use to remove salt, sand, and chlorine. Dry it completely before storing it in a cool, shaded place, away from direct sunlight or excessive heat (like a hot car), which can delaminate or warp the board. If it has a leash, ensure it’s not tangled or stretched when stored.
Q6: What age can kids start bodyboarding?
A: Kids can typically start bodyboarding as soon as they are comfortable in the water and can follow basic instructions, often around 3-4 years old in very shallow, gentle waves. Adult supervision is always essential, regardless of age or skill level. As they grow, they can move to slightly larger boards and more challenging wave conditions.
Q7: What safety tips should I follow for kids bodyboarding?
A: Always supervise children closely. Ensure they wear a properly fitting life vest or buoyancy aid if they are not strong swimmers or are in deeper water. Teach them to always use their leash. Choose a beach with calm conditions and lifeguards if possible. Educate them about rip currents and how to be safe around waves. Start in shallow water and gradually progress as their confidence and skills grow.
Ready for Wave-Riding Adventures?
Choosing the best body boards for kids means finding that sweet spot between safety, durability, and pure, unadulterated fun. We hope this guide has made your decision a little easier, giving you the confidence to pick out the perfect ride for your child’s beach escapades.
No matter which body board you choose from our list, remember that the most important ingredient for a fantastic beach day is your child’s smile and their safety. So grab a board, hit the waves, and watch your little ones fall in love with the ocean. Happy bodyboarding!