Balance Board Safety Tips Every Rider Should Know

Balance boards are epic for building strength, improving coordination, and keeping your body surf ready year round. But like any piece of gear, you need to know how to use it safely if you want to avoid unwanted wipeouts. Whether you are a total beginner or a seasoned shredder, these safety tips will keep you on your feet and having fun.

1. Start Slow and Build Up

It can be tempting to hop on your board and start trying tricks straight away. But balance boards are like waves - you have to learn to read them before you can ride them well.

Tips:

• Begin with a lower roller height like our 5 cm or 8 cm before moving to the 10 cm or 15 cm

• We offer the biggest roller selection in the market with 5 cm, 8 cm, 10 cm and 15 cm options, plus a cork ball and dome

• Stand near a wall or counter for support until you find your footing

• Focus on simple balance holds before moving on to spins, jumps, or cross steps

2. Clear Your Space

Your living room might look big enough, but once that board starts moving you will need room to step off safely.

Tips:

• Make sure you have at least 2 metres of clear space in every direction

• Remove anything that could trip you up or break if you fall

• If you are outside, pick a flat surface away from slopes or uneven ground

3. Wear the Right Gear

You do not need a helmet for casual home use, but you do need clothes and shoes that let you move freely and grip the board well.

Tips:

• Bare feet or grippy shoes work best

• Avoid long loose pants that could catch under the board

• Tie back long hair so it does not block your vision

4. Respect the Roller

Your roller is the magic behind your board’s movement, but it can also shoot out from under you if you are not paying attention.

Tips:

• Always place the roller under the centre of the board before stepping on

• Step off to the side, not the front or back, to avoid the board tipping

• Keep pets and kids clear while you are riding

5. Know Your Limits

Balance board training is meant to challenge you, but pushing too hard too soon is a recipe for a sore backside.

Tips:

• If you feel tired, dizzy, or unsteady, take a break

• Work on new tricks in short bursts instead of long risky sessions

• Build up your strength and coordination gradually

6. Keep Your Board in Top Shape

A well maintained board is a safe board.

Tips:

• Check for cracks, chips, or loose grip before each session

• Store your board indoors away from moisture and direct sun

• Every Barefoot & Salty board is hand sanded and finished with water based varnish - no harsh chemicals, just solid quality

7. Made by Surfers for Surfers

This is the cheeky one, but it is true. Our boards are designed by people who actually ride waves, not by posers chasing a trend. We know what feels right under your feet and we build boards that give you that same stoke on land.

Stay Safe and Keep the Stoke Alive

Balance board training should be fun, challenging, and safe. Follow these tips and you will keep progressing without ending up in the wipeout reel. Grab your board, clear your space, and remember - it is all about balance, both on and off the board.