Volume trade off for Allstar

[PtBobSup]

I took the 2014 carbon Allstar out for a spin yesterday.  The 14x 26.5 version. I have been paddling the 28 Open Ocean so I did notice the stability change.  I don't think that will be an issue.  It was fairly windy and choppy and I didn't go in. 

I really like how much easier it is to get over the paddle on the narrow boards.  My only concern is the volume.   I am decent size 215 and wonder if the 26.5 is going to be ok. 

I am most excited about how light the carbon boards are.  So much easier to move around. 

Off to give it another try right now.  Love to hear if anyone has a thought. 

[DavidJohn]

I took the 2014 carbon Allstar out for a spin yesterday.  The 14x 26.5 version. I have been paddling the 28 Open Ocean so I did notice the stability change.  I don't think that will be an issue.  It was fairly windy and choppy and I didn't go in. 

I really like how much easier it is to get over the paddle on the narrow boards.  My only concern is the volume.   I am decent size 215 and wonder if the 26.5 is going to be ok. 

I am most excited about how light the carbon boards are.  So much easier to move around. 

Off to give it another try right now.  Love to hear if anyone has a thought.

I have friends with both.. I'm about your weight and I defiantly would choose the 28 over the 26.5 .. unless you're only going to use it in very calm conditions.

[PtBobSup]

Thanks DJ. I was out in 20 knots and chop yesterday and it is not going to be a balance issue.  Today was quite calm except for some leftover from yesterday and boat wake.   I was surprised how much water I could hear exiting the tail.  Not saying this is bad, just different. So I am thinking I may be sinking the board a bit deeper than it wants to be.  I really like paddling the narrow boards but I am believing that 28 is probably the right width. 

[Easy Rider]

^^^ Move forward on the board 6" to 8" - - it will make a difference.

[PtBobSup]

I think that just answered my question.  Thanks.  Moving forward really buried the bow. I know it is wave piercing but I am pretty sure not in flat water.  The additional volume will probably sort that out.

[DavidJohn]

I think that just answered my question.  Thanks.  Moving forward really buried the bow. I know it is wave piercing but I am pretty sure not in flat water.  The additional volume will probably sort that out.

You can see it working in this vid.

[TredAvonPaddler]

I am riding the 2014 carbon 14x26.5 Allstar this year and I am loving it in chop. This has to be the most forgiving board I have ever ridden in chop. I took it out in the ocean several times and was able to maintain pace with some very fast paddlers. In my humble opinion, I would go with the 26.5 and practice on it on rough days. It may take a little work but you will gain more stability and feel comfortable in all conditions. I am 5-10 215 right now but hope to be around 190-195 for race season. Right now, as I am well over 200, I am so glad I am narrower than 28. I wish I could handle the 25.5 but that is pushing it. If you put your time in you will definitely be glad you got the 26.5!

[robon]

I am riding the 2014 carbon 14x26.5 Allstar this year and I am loving it in chop. This has to be the most forgiving board I have ever ridden in chop. I took it out in the ocean several times and was able to maintain pace with some very fast paddlers. In my humble opinion, I would go with the 26.5 and practice on it on rough days. It may take a little work but you will gain more stability and feel comfortable in all conditions. I am 5-10 215 right now but hope to be around 190-195 for race season. Right now, as I am well over 200, I am so glad I am narrower than 28. I wish I could handle the 25.5 but that is pushing it. If you put your time in you will definitely be glad you got the 26.5!

Interesting comment. Just weighed myself at the gym yesterday and I'm 215 and also 5'10", so it's good to know there are some narrower boards that do well in rough conditions for those over 200. When my cardio is going, I'm around 200 and If I ever get into racing I will try to go as narrow as possible. My interests these days are in touring, so I will stick with the extra width for now.

[PtBobSup]

Went with the 28.  I am not and never will be near the front off the pack so I decided that there was really no point in pushing it.  I figure the extra 1.5" will only serve to make the rough days more enjoyable.  Picked it up last night.  First race is tonight.  So far my favorite thing about a carbon board is how easy it is to put on the roof of the van.  That is worth the upcharge to me.  Seems kind of lame but I think I am old enough to not have to care about being lame.

[DavidJohn]

Went with the 28.  I am not and never will be near the front off the pack so I decided that there was really no point in pushing it.  I figure the extra 1.5" will only serve to make the rough days more enjoyable.  Picked it up last night.  First race is tonight.  So far my favorite thing about a carbon board is how easy it is to put on the roof of the van.  That is worth the upcharge to me.  Seems kind of lame but I think I am old enough to not have to care about being lame.

Good choice.. congrats.