One of the only requirements for a person wanting to become a surfer is to get their hands on a surfboard. New name brand boards can not only be expensive, but also difficult to get accustomed to for a beginner. Along with tens of thousands of beginners, many experienced surfers are also currently in the market for a used surfboard. Here are a few things you should know in order to maximize your valuable dollars. There is a big difference between a used surfboard and a junk surfboard. A junk surfboard will be chipped, cracked or have the outer shell compromised in some very noticeable way. It is important to stay away from junk surfboards and use your gut feeling about the condition of the board while you are shopping. A good used board will have a few signs of use and be broken in nicely. If the prior owner was a skilled surfer that took good care of his or her equipment, the purchase might end up being much better for you than a model fresh off a factory line. Deciding on where to look for a used surfboard is also an important choice in the process of buying one. Be wary of the typical surf shop that has a small collection of used boards set against a wall that is surrounded by overpriced clothing and trinkets. While it may seem convenient and easy to just grab a used board at the same place you by your shorts and a few bumper stickers, wise folks venture into areas that have shops focused entirely on selling new and used boards to make their purchase. It is also a smart move to examine what materials a used board that you might purchase is comprised of. If you are unable to tell, a store manager or employee should be able to fill you in on the specifics. By getting an idea of the make and build of a used surfboard, you can make an educated guess at how long it will last you, and thus decide if you are willing to plunk down the cash.