1)  Fit

When you first buy your surfboard get out the measuring tape and accurately measure the length and width of your board. If you have a fish or wider board make sure you take a lot of notice of the width.  If it has extra width you need a surfboard cover with extra width to accommodate it.

Do you have a pointed nose or a round nose?  While technically you can put a round nose board into a pointed nose board bag, it is far from ideal and can leave the nose flapping around in the wind when it's on top of the car.  This will most likely drive you crazy.

In general bags do not stretch so if in doubt get a surfboard bag a couple of inches bigger than your board.  A lot of surfers like to throw a small towel in their bag so this allows you to do just that!

2) Zippers

The zipper on a board bag is one of the most important aspects of the cover.  If it's metal...don't buy it!  Yes a bit of WD40 and teflon may prolong the inevitable for a few weeks, I've even heard soaking it in Coca-Cola can help?  Who knew! 

But, eventually that sucker is going to rust, break and cause you all sorts of drama.  Be on the look out for non-corrosive zips, your bag will last longer and save you lots of money in the long run.

3) Pockets

A small but essential little add on to a great board bag.  Chucking your wax straight in with your surfboard will more than likely end in a sticky, messy disaster.  Make sure your new bag has a wax pocket with some velcro to keep it nice and contained should any extreme heat conditions be encountered.

Whatever cover you decide to buy make sure you get it asap after you buy your board or the slightest little bump and scratch could have you crying in your cereal, or worse...buying a new board!