Choosing the right bag for your longboard is more than just a purchase—it’s an investment in protecting your board and enhancing your surf lifestyle. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate surfer, selecting the right surfboard bag ensures your board stays safe from dings, UV rays, moisture, and travel damage.
This comprehensive guide breaks down all you need to know: surfboard bag types, sizing charts, material comparisons, and essential features. With real-world examples from FARO’s surfboard bag collection, you’ll gain clarity on what to buy and why.
Why Choosing the Right Longboard Bag Matters
Longboards are an investment—both financially and emotionally. They tend to be more delicate due to their length and shape, making them vulnerable during transport and storage. A properly selected surfboard bag:
- Prevents dings and pressure marks during car trips and flights
- Offers UV protection to reduce resin yellowing
- Adds waterproof protection during wet storage conditions
- Increases board longevity
With the right bag, you’ll surf more and worry less.
Surfboard Bag Types Explained
Before shopping, it’s essential to understand the various types of surfboard bags available. Each is built with a different use case in mind:
1. Day Bags
Designed for short commutes and local sessions. Lightweight and slim, they protect from sun, minor scratches, and dings.
2. Travel Bags
Heavier and more padded, these bags are ideal for flights and extended road trips. They often include extra storage, reinforced padding, and space for multiple boards.
3. Board Socks
Minimalist covers that protect from UV rays and light abrasions. Best for storage or short walks to the beach.
Explore a wide variety of bag types in the FARO surfboard bag collection.
Day Bag vs. Travel Bag: What’s the Difference?
When asking, “How do I choose a longboard surfboard bag?” one of the first decisions is between a day bag and a travel bag.
|
Feature |
Day Bag |
Travel Bag |
|
Padding |
Light (5mm–10mm) |
Heavy (10mm–20mm) |
|
Weight |
Lightweight |
Heavier due to extra padding |
|
Ideal Use |
Local transport, daily protection |
Long-distance travel, airline baggage |
|
Extra Storage |
Minimal |
Multiple compartments, fin slots |
|
Cost |
Budget-friendly |
Higher due to durability |
If you’re planning a surf trip by air, look into some of the best-rated surfboard travel bags reviewed by SurferToday to compare design, padding, and size flexibility across brands.
Bag Size Guide: How to Use the FARO Sizing Chart
Choosing the correct bag size is crucial. A bag too small won’t zip, and one too large will allow movement that can cause damage.
Use the FARO Sizing Chart to ensure a snug, secure fit. Most longboard bags range from 8’0” to 10’0”, with widths tailored to single-fin or wider templates.
Tips for Measuring Your Board:
- Measure tip to tail, including the leash plug or nose guard
- Consider your fin setup—removable or fixed
- Choose a bag equal to or longer than your board for comfortable padding
Find your ideal fit with the FARO sizing chart.
Materials: Canvas vs Padded vs Waterproof Linings
The material of your surfboard bag determines its durability, breathability, and overall protection.
Canvas Surfboard Bags
Durable, breathable, and eco-conscious. FARO’s signature waxed canvas bags provide rugged protection with a stylish finish. Ideal for surfers who value both aesthetics and function.
Padded Bags
Great for travel. These come with high-density foam layers that absorb shocks from transport or stacking.
Waterproof Linings
Essential in humid or wet environments. Bags with waterproof interiors prevent mold and moisture damage during storage.
Essential Features to Look For
When choosing a longboard surfboard bag, consider the following features:
- UV Protection: Prolongs the life of your board’s fiberglass and resin
- Ventilation: Prevents heat and moisture buildup inside the bag
- Heavy-Duty Zippers: Avoids breakage, even in sandy or salty environments
- Padded Nose & Tail: Extra protection for the board’s most vulnerable areas
- Shoulder Straps & Handles: Easier to carry long distances
- Internal Pockets: Handy for stashing fins, wax, or repair kits
See how FARO bags integrate these features to meet real surfer needs.
Eco-Friendly Options for Conscious Surfers
As the surfing community becomes more environmentally conscious, so do the products we choose. FARO bags are made with recycled and sustainable materials including:
- Packaging that avoids plastic
- Minimalist designs that reduce over-manufacturing
For surfers looking to reduce their environmental impact, FARO is a reliable brand leading the movement toward sustainable surf gear.
Learn more by following FARO on Instagram for product updates and eco-stories.
Board Sock Alternatives: When You Should or Shouldn’t Use One
Board socks are simple and lightweight but aren’t always sufficient for longboard protection.
Use a board sock when:
- You’re walking to a nearby beach
- You want UV protection in storage
-
You store boards indoors and want to prevent wax transfer
Avoid relying on a board sock when:
- Flying or long-distance driving
- Traveling with multiple boards
While they’re useful, board socks are not replacements for padded surfboard bags. FARO offers hybrid solutions for minimalists who still want more protection than a sock.
Final Thoughts
So, how do you choose a longboard surfboard bag? Start by understanding your usage needs—day trips vs global travel. Then factor in the material, padding, size, and features that best match your board and surfing lifestyle.
FARO surfboard bags stand out for their craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and thoughtful features. Whether you're commuting to your local break or planning a surf trip abroad, there's a bag that will protect your board—and your investment.
Browse the full collection at FARO to find a bag that meets your needs in style.
