Skimboarding is a fabulous new sport that mixes the thrill and balance of surfing with the speed of gliding. It uses a board that is specially designed to glide across the surface of water. Skimboarders run on the beach and drop the board onto the thin wash of the water left by waves and glide as far as the water takes them.

The board looks a lot like a small, lightweight surfboard. Depending on the location and tricks that are being done, the board may be designed completely flat or with a slight curve. Deciding on the board that will meet your needs will depend on where you are going to use it and the feel of the board in your hand.

If you are further inland, you will want an Inland board that is made of wood. The board is great for grinding rails and moving on rocks and shells. It takes a lot of abuse and is great for rough surfaces. However, it is the heaviest of the boards that are made.

When you are going to skimboard into the surf, the "Foamie" will give you the lift and buoyancy that you need to be able to ride and greatly resembles a lightweight surfboard. These boards require practice and skill because they do have a tendency to pop up and fly on any wind currents when you are using them. These boards dent very easily and are easily damaged if they are used in an area where there are rocks, shells, etc.

Competitors and experienced skimmers enjoy using high-performance boards that are specially designed for speed and movement. These boards have a Kevlar, carbon and fiberglass coating over a foam core like surfboards. These boards are stunning and many are designed especially for the user. They are usually glazed with polyester or epoxy resin and are extremely durable.

People who are just starting to look into the sport will find skimboarding is a fun sport that gives you a great feeling of freedom and movement. When you are deciding on the skimboard to start with, talking to people who are skimming in the location where you will be will help you to find out what boards work best in that area.