I get this question all of the time. Usually in reference to someone with a wavestorm that wants to go shorter. While there is no right answer here are my recommendations.

• Can you easily catch waves?
• Can you easily ride down the line?
• Can you turn the board?
• Do you know the rules of surfing?

If you answer yes to ALL 4 of those, yes you are most likely ready to get that next board. If you are still falling when you stand up, cant ride down the line, having the nose go into the water, cant turn, etc. then please keep practicing with your current board and at beginner spots.