NSP 11'6"

[jnsnbch]

Looking for some input from those more experienced / knowledgable. I am 6'4" 214lbs. I am looking at getting a SUP to start off with. I have hunted the classifieds for something used here locally and have had no luck. I will mainly do alot of semiflat water paddling in the intercoastal. I also want to be able to put one of my kids on the front (<50lbs.) occasionally and hit up the local sandbar. I will do some small wave play time occasionally.

I have found the NSP with a quickblade paddle as a package for $1000. I have some previous surfing experience and also understand the concept of you get what you pay for as I have several thousand dollars invested in my other hobby (mtn biking)

I will probably upgrade this board in the near future with something more nimble and leave this for friends, my wife, and those days that I want to tandem with a child. How well are these constructed. NSP seems to be a decent company, but hopefully fome of you have some previous experience. I would love to get a Starboard, but brand new they are some $ and I am not quite sure which direction I am headed with this sport - cruise'n or surfing.

The goal is a decent all-around starter board.

[bean]

NSP's are a great bang for the buck, I can't imagine how you could go wrong.  At 6'4" you might see if they can do that package with an adjustable paddle, (if you intend for friends and family to also use it.)

[finsider]

I'm about the same size as you, and have ridden the 11'6 NSP a few times about a year  and half ago.  Great beginner board, a lot of rental places use them, and would work perfect for what you are looking to do. Ive paddled it around the mangrove tunnels in the intercoastal, and surfed some small beach break, and if by your name you're in jensen beach, FL, then ive used it in similar conditions just directly across the state from you.  Pretty stable board even for a beginner, and you will have no problem throwing a kid or dog on front (after getting your sea-legs of course)

[beaglebuddy]

I'm 6'5" 220# and I have the 11' X 31" NSP compared to the 11'6" X 33" you are looking at.
There boards are super stable because the are flat across the top with very thick rails, also not so much rocker.
That board is probably the most stable board you could find for that budget.
Yes, they are well constructed, they are used as rentals so that says a lot.
If I were you I would try to find a used one, first boards get beat to hell anyways.

[PW]

I am similar in size and have the 11' and the 11'6", great all around boards, good in the surf.

[Shark]

I'm a little smaller (6', 195) and tried both boards.  The 11'6 was almost too stable for me even as a beginner, felt like I was paddling a barge.  The 11' made me work a little more to stay balanced at first (especially in less than calm water) but now I have no problem on it.  At your size the 11'6 is probably better but demo both if possible.

[gorgebob]

I have a customer who is also 6'5" 220+ and he loves is 11'6" NSP. The new surfteck bags fits it as well.

[jnsnbch]

Thanks for all the input. How is the decking as far as non-slip. It is alittle less agressive than others. I will prob. go 11'6" since I don't see myself getting any lighter and my balance is already pretty spot on thanks to friends loaner boards, plus I want to take kids, coolers, etc. and have it for use by friends.

[joelt]

I am 200 lbs and have the NSP 11'6"
I am a beginner for sure though have Surfed and kitesurfed for years.
I am haveing a blast on it both on flat and in waves.
Have had it in overhead waves (not common in Texas) and was a little intimidated haveing such a big board but had a blast anyway and think I will get used to that.
I have been out on micro days where I was able to have long fun rides and just have a great afternoon when no one was bothering to come out at all.
My 100 lb dog goes on the flat with me
And my 7 year old daughter does as well (seporately)
I actually got her a small paddle and she helps paddle.
Loads of fun.
Joel

[beaglebuddy]

Nonskid decking is fine, you may have to rough it up after a while if it gets smoothed out where you stand or covered in suntan lotion. I would store it bottom up because I have seen the sun degrade the rubber after a while.

[jnsnbch]

In a stroke of good fortune, I may be able to pick up a Starboard 12' x 32" big easy, so maybe no NSP/ But thx for all the great info though.

[mike2jay1]

Go For I have a board that is the same dimensions as the Big Easy and I absolutely love it!