ABC Surfboards 7'2 Big Bird Mini-Mal Dark Blue Surfboard

ABC Surfboards 7'2 Big Bird Mini-Mal Dark Blue Surfboard

The Big Bird Surfboard is designed for easy wave-catching and provides a stable surface for skill development. With a longboard nose and fuller tail, but trimmed down in the middle, it offers a proven template for smooth direction changes and early wave-catching ability.

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The flatter rocker with a slight upward curve in the nose prevents the board from diving on late take-offs. The wide and relatively short design, accompanied by a concave bottom, allows for effortless planing over flat sections, making the most out of less-than-ideal conditions.

So who is this board for?

The Big Bird Surfboard would make an ideal first hardboard for any new surfer. The 7'2 would suit an average sized adult or young teen. Keeping your wave count up in the early days of surfing is super important to allow you to hone your pop up and learn to ride waves. Whilst it is ideal for beginners, the Big Bird would also suit any surfer looking for an easy ride.

Single Fin and Side Bites are supplied with the board. All you need is a surf leash and a block of wax and you're good to rip.

DIMS:

• 7'2" x 21 1/2" x 2 5/8" // 56L

Why a Mini Mal for Beginners?

The Mini Mal surfboard is a popular choice for beginner and intermediate surfers. Its name comes from “Mini Malibu,” inspired by classic Malibu longboards. The board balances stability, maneuverability, and ease of use.

History of the Mini Mal Surfboard

Surfing dates back hundreds of years, originating in Polynesia. Traditional surfboards were large, heavy, and hard to control. The 1950s saw the rise of the Malibu longboard, popularized in California. Longboards were easier to ride but still bulky for some surfers.

In the 1960s and 1970s, surfboard design evolved rapidly. Shapers experimented with different materials and sizes. They aimed to make boards lighter, more responsive, and accessible. The Mini Mal was developed as a middle ground between longboards and shortboards.

By the 1990s, the Mini Mal became widely used in surf schools. Its stable shape and forgiving nature helped new surfers progress quickly. Today, it remains a go-to board for beginners worldwide.

Design and Features of a Mini Mal

A Mini Mal typically measures between 7 to 8 feet in length. This makes it shorter than a longboard but longer than a shortboard. The width is usually around 21 to 23 inches, providing ample surface area. This design helps with paddling and balance.

The board often features a rounded nose, which improves stability. The tail can be either rounded or slightly squared, allowing smooth turns. A Mini Mal usually has a soft or medium rocker, meaning a slight curve from nose to tail. This helps it glide over waves while remaining easy to control.

Mini Mals can be made from foam, fiberglass, or epoxy materials. Foam boards are ideal for beginners since they are soft and safer. Fiberglass and epoxy versions offer more performance and durability. Many Mini Mals have a thruster (three-fin) or single-fin setup. Thrusters provide more control, while single fins allow smoother turns.

Benefits of a Mini Mal for Beginners

One of the biggest advantages of a Mini Mal is its stability. The wide surface and balanced shape make it easier to stand up. New surfers can catch waves with more confidence.

The board’s buoyancy helps with paddling and wave-catching. A Mini Mal glides easily over the water, making paddling less tiring. This allows beginners to focus on technique instead of struggling with balance.

Mini Mals are also very forgiving. They don’t require perfect positioning to catch waves. A beginner can ride smaller waves without needing precise timing. The board also handles well in different wave conditions.

Another key benefit is versatility. While ideal for beginners, a Mini Mal can suit intermediate surfers too. It allows riders to practice turns, cross-stepping, and even small tricks. Some experienced surfers use Mini Mals for relaxed, fun sessions.

Durability is another advantage. Many Mini Mals are made from sturdy materials, reducing damage from falls. Foam versions minimize injury risk, making them perfect for surf schools.

The Mini Mal surfboard is a great choice for beginners. Its stability, ease of use, and versatility make learning enjoyable. With its rich history and functional design, it continues to be a favorite among surfers worldwide.