Starboard Whopper or similar surf-SUP

[SUP-poser]

So I buckled my 10'0" X 34" 170L Whopper yesterday—in relatively small surf—while trying to paddle back out over a wave that had broken. I think that my feet weren't sufficiently far apart in a proper surf stance, and the board bounced off the whitewater and smacked into my chest really hard. When I had a look at the board after this blow, it had buckled, apparently the impact alone was too much for the Lite Tech construction. I've been surfing on the Whopper for about six years, so it's been beaten up a bit, but I was surprised that it didn't survive this (minor IMO) incident.

I believe my board was one of the early versions of the Whopper "Lite Tech." It had some minor issues (the deck pretty rapidly sank in slightly where I stood when paddling. Not a serious problem, but a sign that the deck skin was not very sturdy). Still, I loved its stability (I'm 6'2" and 70 years old) and began catching waves pretty consistently after buying it.

Currently available Whopper Variations; (Starlite, Limited, Lite, Blue Carbon, Rhino...):

https://sup.star-board.com/paddle-board/hard-paddle-board/whopper/

I guess I'd like to hear opinions on which of these would be a good compromise in price/durability/weight. I'm hoping to pay no more than $1500.00 with shipping to HI. I'd welcome any guidance from forum members, including information about alternative brands that might have the same sort of forgiving qualities that made it so practical for me to enjoy SUP-surfing.

[dietlin]

Would not double down on a brand that is not known for robust construction.

Jimmy Lewis pricing for HI might be less than shown on website.  Get the largest Destroyer MP.  It will be a step down in volume, but will be plenty stable, light weight, and strong. Disclaimer: I'm kinda a Jimmy Lewis fanboy.

[Dusk Patrol]

Hey - Starboard's Starlite construction is pretty good.  And it looks like from your link that the Whopper has been reshaped a bit. Since it's so stable you might consider the 9'x 33. Blue Planet on Oahu is a dealer and experienced shipper, so that would keep your costs down.

But Dietlin is a JL fanboy for good reason. The big 9'8 Destroyer MP is a great board. It's a real surf shape  but comfortable to make it kind of a go-to board.  Contact Jimmy himself and ask if you can come pick up a board on Maui. The price difference is real.        

[SUP-poser]

I'll check out the 9'8 Destroyer MP. Jimmy is actually a friend of a former schoolmate of mine who lives on Maui. I'm interested in the idea of downsizing slightly. I have a 9'5"X 32"X 170L Fanatic Allwave I took out yesterday. It has a "corky" unstable feel I can barely deal with, and a really rough deck pad I don't like. Might work well for someone heavier and shorter—I'm weighing about 195 pounds currently.

Thanks for the responses guys. It's a great help.

[sflinux]

Have you stopped by any repair shops to see about getting the Whopper repaired?
I would see if you can demo one of Terry Chung's PaddleSurfHawaii shaped boards.
You can't go wrong with a Jimmy Lewis board, I am also a fan.
I also agree with the Blue Planet board recommendation.  I am the same weight as you and enjoyed the Fun Stick, though the Turbo may be more appealing for you.
Also check out the beautiful boards at HYPR Hawaii.