About
Founded in 2005 as the first 100% online shop dedicated to used surfboards, USEDSURF has grown into the world's largest used surfboard retailer, now anchored by a brick-and-mortar store in San Clemente, California. At any given time, shoppers can browse over 800 used and new surfboards across all shapes, volumes, and skill levels — from shortboards and fish to longboards and everything in between. Beyond buying and selling, USEDSURF offers unique services that set it apart. The Board Search Program lets customers describe their ideal board, and staff actively monitor daily inventory updates to alert them when a match arrives. The Fin Demo Program — the largest in the world with over 200 sets — lets surfers try up to 5 fin sets for just $5 at the San Clemente location, with the fee credited toward any fin purchase. Sellers can consign boards at a competitive 27% rate, take advantage of the Buy-Back Program, or use the Buy Try Decide service before committing. USEDSURF also stocks a comprehensive selection of accessories including leashes, traction pads, board bags, wax, wetsuits, sunscreen, helmets, and sunglasses. Their blog and YouTube channel, led by the in-house Fin Guru, provide educational content on surfboard selection, fin tuning, and surf technique — making USEDSURF a go-to resource for surfers of all experience levels.
Key Features
- Board Search Program: Staff monitor daily inventory updates on your behalf and alert you when a board matching your preferred style, size, and volume becomes available.
- World's Largest Fin Demo Program: Try up to 5 sets of fins from 200+ available FCS and Futures options for just $5, with that fee credited toward your fin purchase at the San Clemente store.
- Consignment & Buy-Back Services: Sell your surfboard on consignment at a 27% rate, or take advantage of the Buy-Back Program when upgrading to a new board.
- Massive Inventory: Over 800 used and new surfboards in stock at any given time, spanning all shapes, styles, and volume ranges for every skill level.
- Educational Content & Expert Guidance: In-house Fin Guru blog, YouTube channel (USEDSURF TV), and Surf101 resources help surfers understand board shapes, fin setups, and gear selection.
Use Cases
- A beginner surfer looking for an affordable, high-volume used longboard to learn on without spending full retail price.
- An experienced surfer wanting to test multiple fin configurations before committing to a purchase using the in-store Fin Demo Program.
- A surfer looking to sell an old board quickly through a trusted consignment service with strong online and social media visibility.
- A gift buyer searching for surfboard accessories like leashes, traction pads, or board bags through a specialist retailer.
- A surf enthusiast seeking expert educational content on board shapes, fin templates, and equipment selection via USEDSURF's blog and YouTube channel.
Pros
- Unmatched selection: 800+ boards in stock daily across all categories makes it easy to find the right board for any surfer, budget, or skill level.
- Try before you buy: The Fin Demo Program removes the guesswork from fin selection — a rare and valuable service in the surf industry.
- Full-service selling options: Consignment, Buy-Back, and Buy Try Decide programs give sellers and buyers flexible, low-risk paths to transact.
- Established trust since 2005: Nearly two decades of operation as the original dedicated used surfboard platform gives buyers and sellers confidence in the marketplace.
Cons
- Fin Demo is in-store only: The Fin Demo Program is limited to the physical San Clemente, CA location, making it inaccessible for surfers outside Southern California.
- Highly niche market: The platform is exclusively focused on surfing, so it offers no value to buyers or sellers outside the surf community.
- Condition transparency varies: As a used goods marketplace, board condition can vary widely and may require direct inquiry or in-person inspection before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Board Search Program work?
You submit the type, size, and volume of surfboard you're looking for, and USEDSURF staff monitor their daily inventory updates. When a matching board arrives, they notify you so you can act quickly before it sells.
How does the Fin Demo Program work?
For $5 at the San Clemente store, you can try up to 5 different sets of fins (from over 200 FCS and Futures options) in your own board. When you decide which fins to buy, the $5 demo fee is credited toward your purchase.
What is the consignment rate for selling my surfboard?
USEDSURF charges a 27% consignment rate when they sell your board on your behalf. They handle daily Instagram updates and online listings to help move boards quickly.
Can I buy and return a board if it doesn't work for me?
USEDSURF offers a 'Buy Try Decide' service and a Buy-Back Program, giving buyers options to try boards and return or trade them in under applicable terms.
Where is USEDSURF located?
USEDSURF's physical store is located near the San Clemente Pier in San Clemente, California. They also operate a full online store at usedsurf.com with inventory updated daily.
