IMHO this board is as good as any for learning, if not one of the better beginner boards around, so don't worry about it just go for it. Another 2c, I also reckon for the average weight bloke the 42 is the best of both worlds size as it will make learning easier being a bit bigger giving early planning with a smooth and forgiving ride but isn't too big to progress to intermediate free style and will always make a decent wave riding board for anyone. I'm sure you'll enjoy it.