In big wave surfing spots, including Hawaii’s North Shore or Durban, South Africa, inexperienced body boarders might consider smaller waves over their head in terms of riding. But most surf riders agree that small waves are typically in the range of 1 to 3 feet. Bodyboard competitions aren't called off because the waves are small. Many body boarders’ find ways to make the most of small waves.
Peaks
Watching the waves build and break for a few minutes tells you what type of break is rolling in at the time. If the waves are peaking in places, you can catch some right or left slides off the peak and roll out over the top. The ride might be slower than a 6-foot face, but peaks on the incoming tide usually have some push and you could get a momentary speed rush. Depending on the contour of the ocean bottom, the waves might peak on the outside during low tide. Storm surf is usually sloppy in terms of shape or consistency, but you can get quick rides in succession and maybe hit one peak right after another.
Closeout
You’re not likely to find many body boarders in the water when a big swell is pushing and the break is closing out. Other than a pounding, the only thing you might accomplish is getting sand in your wetsuit or possibly snapping the bodyboard in half. But a small closeout presents opportunities you don’t get with peaks. Instead of taking off at the top of a swell like you do when riding the faces, you take off just behind the swell and ride atop the foam as the wave breaks. Once you get the timing of the closeout, that is how long the waves are holding shape, you can do spins and kick out without going over the falls.
Consistent Swells
In bigger waves and small, consistent swells allow you to work on new tricks and techniques. In a consistent swell, the waves peak and break at regular intervals, allowing you to set up anywhere you like. You can slide right or left on one face, kick out before the wave breaks and set up for the next face. You might find that consistent small waves get you into bodyboarding to the degree where your creativity emerges.
Observations
Any time that you can bodyboard is a good time. Small waves break in shallow water and getting back out is easier than in bigger surf. Even small waves that are cresting on a reef or a sandy ledge in deeper water allow you to ride without concern for pounding foam. You might not find long rights or lefts that are typical in bigger breaks, but short rides are fun. On certain days, you might have enough fun to hold you over until a bigger swell shows up.
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