WHY SHOULD I LEARN ON A FISH?
Simply put; Rock-It Surf started with the idea that a 5-6' fish shape is actually a better first surfboard for the majority of young learners than the 8' foam logs that are often recommended.
Why is that? Most kids in the 7-13 age range start learning at a surf school where they get their bearings on an 8' foam board. After learning to stand up and ride straight, it doesn't take long for many kids to yearn for a little bit of progression.
And a foam 6' fish shaped surfboard does exactly that. Our Rock-It Albert model still has 50L of volume, which is as much as an 8' fiberglass board, so it has plenty of float to provide stability. Yet the smaller size makes paddling out easier, while still being able to get into waves easily. It also provides you with a smaller profile capability to learn how to ride down the line, do turns, etc.
In short, it provides plenty of stability, with more room for progression, and is easier on the budget and on carrying down the beach, etc.
Here is how the renowned San Diego Surfing School describes the fish:
"the fish surfboard shape is admired for its versatility and maneuverability. Often the board of choice for summertime waves, the fish surfboard works well on those summer swells which are often met with relaxed, less powerful, laid back waves. This is because of the unique fish design with a wider, shorter and thicker anatomical structure providing more volume to keep you floating on top of the wave-making it easier for you to paddle and maneuver into the perfect position for the next wave.
The fish is great for beginners and also super fun for intermediate and advanced surfers for both smaller days and slightly larger swells, thus being coined a “fun” board. It keeps you floating on top of the water for an overall fun experience."
This is what progression looks like to start, on a 6' Albert Fish:
...And the progression can continue, as shown by world big wave champ Grant "Twiggy" Baker below.
The bottom line is with a 6' Albert Fish from Rock-It, you get a board that is perfect for kids to learn on, but also allows them to expand their skill level exponentially, and at a great value