What Size Cabrinha Method Surfboard Should an 85kg Rider Choose ?
Your complete sizing guide for strapless surfing, big air and kite surf performance
If you weigh around 85 kg and you're choosing a Cabrinha Method surfboard, size selection makes a huge difference to your performance.
The right size affects:
- Early planing in light wind
- Upwind efficiency
- Stability on strapless landings
- Pop and responsiveness for airs
- Control in waves and chop
Below is a detailed breakdown of which size works best for an 85kg rider — based on wind strength, skill level and riding style.
Understanding Cabrinha Method Sizes
The Cabrinha Method is designed as a high-performance strapless freestyle and wave board, with progressive volume distribution, a fast rocker line, and a compact outline for control and pop.
Available Sizes
- 4’10″ x 17.6″ x 1.9″ — 18.5L
- 5’0″ x 18.1″ x 2.0″ — 20.7L
- 5’4″ x 18.6″ x 2.1″ — 23.7L
For an 85kg rider, volume is the key metric. As a general guide, most intermediate riders around this weight are comfortable between 20–23 litres, depending on wind and ability.
Best Cabrinha Method Size for 85kg Riders
5’0″ — The Sweet Spot (Most Popular Choice)
For most 85kg riders, the 5’0″ (20.7L) is the ideal balance.
- Planes efficiently from around 14–15 knots
- Strong upwind drive without feeling bulky
- Stable enough for strapless landings
- Still reactive and playful for freestyle tricks
This size suits riders who split their sessions between waves and strapless freestyle. It’s the safest and most versatile choice if you ride mixed UK-style conditions.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced riders in 15–25 knots.
5’4″ — Lightwind Power & Stability
If you often ride in lighter winds or want maximum forgiveness, the 5’4″ (23.7L) gives noticeable extra support.
- Earlier planing (typically 12–18 knots)
- Easier waterstarts in marginal wind
- More stable through chop and slower rotations
- Confidence booster for progressing riders
At 85kg, this size helps keep momentum when the wind drops and makes strapless transitions less technical.
Best for: Lightwind sessions, progressing riders, or heavier 85kg+ riders.
4’10″ — Maximum Pop & Strong Wind Performance
The 4’10″ (18.5L) is the smallest and most aggressive option.
- Fast, reactive rail-to-rail feel
- Explosive pop for strapless airs
- Best when you’re properly powered (typically 20+ knots)
- More technical for strapless landings
At 85kg, this board requires solid technique. It will not plane as early as the larger sizes, but it feels lighter and more responsive once powered.
Best for: Advanced riders, strong wind, big air strapless sessions.
Quick Sizing Summary for 85kg Riders
| Rider Profile | Recommended Size | Why | Typical Wind Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-round 85kg rider | 5’0″ | Best balance of early planing, control and pop | 15–25 knots |
| Light wind / choppy water | 5’4″ | Extra volume for float and forgiveness | 12–18 knots |
| Advanced / powered freestyle | 4’10″ | Most reactive, playful and explosive | 20+ knots |
How Wind & Conditions Affect Your Choice
Board size is never just about weight. Consider:
- Wind strength: bigger boards help in sub-15 knot sessions.
- Water state: choppy UK conditions favour a touch more volume.
- Skill level: smaller boards demand cleaner technique for waterstarts and landings.
- Riding focus: waves = control; freestyle = pop and swing weight.
If you regularly ride variable wind, sizing slightly up gives more consistency across sessions.
Final Recommendation
If you're 85kg and unsure, choose the 5’0″ Cabrinha Method. It delivers the widest performance window and works in the most conditions.
Size up to the 5’4″ for lightwind confidence. Size down to the 4’10″ if you're experienced and chasing powered strapless performance.
Explore available models here:
Shop Cabrinha Method Surfboards
Pro Tip: If you’re between sizes and progressing quickly, err slightly larger. It expands your usable wind range and improves session frequency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 20.7L enough volume for an 85kg rider?
Yes. For intermediate to advanced riders, 20.7L (5’0″) provides strong early planing while maintaining responsiveness. In lighter winds under ~14 knots, the 23.7L version may feel easier and more consistent.
Will the 4’10″ work for an 85kg beginner?
It’s possible, but not recommended. The lower volume demands better kite control and board skills for waterstarts and strapless landings. Most 85kg beginners progress faster on the 5’0″ or 5’4″.
Does board size affect pop for strapless airs?
Yes. Smaller boards feel lighter and more explosive once powered, while slightly larger boards give extra stability and forgiveness on landings—especially in chop.
What wind range is ideal for each size?
5’4″: 12–18 knots
5’0″: 15–25 knots
4’10″: 20+ knots
Still Unsure? Contact Our Team
If you're close to 85kg but unsure between sizes, get in touch. We ride and test this gear in real UK conditions and can help you choose based on your local spot, wind range and riding level.