Naish 14 Glide AST vs Carbon

[LBatBeach]

I have read the various threads on this topic.  Especially informative was the lighter vs heavier thread.  Aside from the $ difference, are there other reasons NOT to go Carbon on a Naish Glide 14.  Durability, effect of heat on the board, etc.  I intend to use  my new Glide as an all around touring board with emphasis on down winders in 15 knots east coast US thermal ocean winds.  Thanks guys.

[DavidJohn]

I've used both and I normally recommend the AST because of its bargain price and it feels the same once on the water but if you can afford the extra get the carbon (like I have) because it also comes with a board bag and that little bit of less weight just might save you from a back injury when lifting it onto the roof of your car and when storing it at home.

They are both the same yellow/white color these days with the AST having a yellow bottom and the carbon having a white bottom.

DJ

[LBatBeach]

Thanks DJ

You seem to be the Glide man so I appreciate your advice.  I may at some point do some racing so if I can afford it, perhaps I should go Carbon.

That said, there is another scenario I am hoping you or others can help me consider.  I have windsurfed and kited the shoals off of our main inlet (south side of Indian River Inlet Delaware) for years.  Only once have I seen anyone ride it on just a board.  And that was 20 years ago during a big off shore huricane swell. 

However, every time we get a nor easter, that shoal either really peaks up or full on breaks.  One of my main motivators for getting a glide would be to slip out along the jetty and paddle slightly down wind and out to the shoals.  Once out there, it would be incredible to catch the long swells that peak up over the shallows.  The paddel out would only be 200-300 yards.  Then after riding a swell, you would have to circle around and do it again.

So most of the paddling would be in windy cross on conditions in very disturbed seas.

In those conditions would the slightly heavier AST be an advantage?  Thinking that maybe its weight would help it track better.

What do you all think?

[DavidJohn]

In those conditions would the slightly heavier AST be an advantage?  Thinking that maybe its weight would help it track better.

What do you all think?

No.. I don't think so.. I don't think the weight difference is enough to notice any difference at all once on the water.

DJ