Pretty much any skim board will work fine for what you describe- I have used 5$ ones from reject shop and been able to ride upwind pretty easy. Really you want one with enough volume and length you will pay a little more. Obviously the foam ones would be a little better but more pricey.

If your going to be riding flat water though I would recommend getting a wakeskate easier to do tricks with etc than a skate and the upwind is almost as good. I ride an airush skate but I'm sure there are a lot of other good skates out there. Something to consider

liquid force twin skim is fun both flat water and kickers/waves.

^what kind of skate? most of them don't go upwind too well, but are great for downwinders or overpowered fun

Check out the Mark shinn video of him riding the waterbird,looks awsome , and a challenge.