Differences between Skim and Regular Boad

I mentioned in another post I was looking for a new board and was asked if I was looking for a skim style. What are the differences between regular boards and skim style?

Skim boards are usually smaller than surf style boards. I ride a Phase Five Prop which is a skim board. It is 4'6" long and thin in width, with one small fin on the rear. It breaks loose for spins very easily compared to a surf style with large fins. I really like the loose feeling of the Prop. I have noticed when I ride a bigger wave, like my friends Avalanche I like to put on a Rainbow surf fin that is a little deeper. It gives me a little more control but still breaks loose fairly easy.

To me they are opposites. You can really see the differences if you watch youtube videos of pros. Different set of tricks etc... I have buddies that prefer skim and some that prefer surf. I prefer surf Skim feels like skateboarding to me and I suck at skateboarding!



Skim: Drew Daniello

Surf: Chase Hazen or James Walker