Standup Zone Forum
Stand Up Paddle => Gear Talk => Topic started by: Noo Noo on May 21, 2019, 09:29:40 AM
-
Hi All
After a little advice. I'm considering a new SUP basically because the mood takes me but also to try and get more from the conditions I have here in the UK.
I'm currently riding a 9'8" JP Fusion (2017 I think) and I'm a beginner in the surf, weight is currently 85kgs and that will need to come down. I flat paddle this ok and the wave count is slowly but surely starting to come along but conditions at my local beaches are truly awful. Being unable to select my SUP days is also near impossible so my progress is frustratingly slow. I try to get out when I can and can encounter anything from flat clam to conditions where I'm kicking myself for not bringing my kite surfing gear.
The waves are often small, blown out mush that are basically a real mess and the sea state is often really choppy as well. I'm finding that the Fusion can turn quick enough to get on them when it's like this but isn't fast enough to actually catch them. I struggle with the chop but that's more of a me issue but the board needs a wave that's pretty decent to get going.
My head says stick with the Fusion and just keep at it and I will, but I don't see the harm in asking round to see what other people suggest as future options. UK doesn't have the greatest SUP market sadly. Starboard are here, JP are here, RRD, Naish, Fanatic and that's really about it.
Cheers all
-
There's nothing wrong with considering a new board (or actually buying a new one)!
Other brands that I've seen available here in the UK also include: Jimmy Lewis, Infinity, Sunova. Gong are also look promising but demos would require a trip to France!
Enjoy the research!
-
Jobe too. Not seen much Jimmy Lewis mind or Infinity.
Diolch SupCymru
-
Croeso!
Have a look at Surfs-sup watersports and northshore sup and surf. The suphut is also very good.
-
Loco are another UK brand
-
I surf the UK south coast, so the conditions you describe are what I’ve been surfing for several decades, and SUPing for 12 years.
There are lots of boards you *could* use, but not so many that really shine in these conditions. Most have too much volume: in choppy crap a board that has plenty of planing area, decent length, but is low volume, works well. So do gun-shape boards, as long as the volume is low. Low volume boards are a lot more stable for their size, and don’t get blown around as much in windy mush. They also surf better. As an example, I recently bought a Hypr Nalu Hawaii 12-6 170L gun, and have been out several times in windy small mush, catching everything while those around me catch nothing. Small performance SUPs are pointless in small windy slow-wave mush: you’ll never get enough power from the wave to use the board’s potential. So it’s wishful silliness to go for a Kai Lenny type board.
Hypr Nalu Hawaii have a UK distributor/retailer. There are several boards in the range that would probably suit you. They are all quite thin, but not too narrow, and tend to have a fairly low rocker which makes them easy to paddle into mushy waves.
Buying SUPs in the UK is all about timing and contacts. UK retailers do not tend to hold much stock (if any), so you often have to order in advance and wait for a shipment to arrive. But it’s usually worth the wait.
Gong are a bargain, and you just order straight from France, and it appears on your doorstep. Redwood Paddle are another French brand that it’s easy to buy in the UK.
There are also retailers/distributors for e.g. Jimmy Lewis, Starboard, JP Australia, Naish, Fanatic, Quattro, RRD, f-one, Mistral, SIC, Surftech etc, plus a lot of local brands such as Snell Brothers Surf, Neptune, Mellow Wave, Loco, Fatstick etc etc. So there’s quite a lot to choose from once you start doing a bit of digging.
-
Many thanks Area 10. I can relate to a lot of what you say. I'm in North Wales and shops selling SUP's are few and far between so you're relying on reviews, opinions and of course manufacturer bumph to a certain degree. And your point on timing etc. is exactly right. Even if you identify the board you're after there's no guarantee you'll find one or get it in any hurry. But even then there is still a considerable choice.
I guess I need some help with a direction. What type of boards or what boards should I be looking at? My inexperience does not help matters in this regard at all. I can only really report on the struggles that I've had. I'll take note of your thoughts on board shape etc.
In my struggles thus far I've had
a) Fanatic Allwave 8'10" which was okish but again really struggled in chop etc. and nowhere near quick enough in the mush
b) 11'2" Starboard Widepoint. This was ok apart from being huge. Didn't get a lot of chance to use it before it delamed on me and resulted in a several month battle getting my money back.
c) Now the JP Fusion.
-
try UK based (West Sussex) SBS boards-
https://sbsboards.com/
-
Cheers
Is there any in the range that you would recommend?
-
Noo Noo
I've ridden the JP Fusion 9'8 Extensively and it's is a very good board but needs a bit of a wave to push it!
In your case I would seriously concider
Fanatic AllWave 9'4
Starboard Wide point or Whopper 9'5
Either of these board will be a big improvement in everyday surf for you
Have fun
JimK
Extreme Windsurfing
-
Huge thanks for the suggestions JimK
That is my basic and very inexperienced view on the Fusion too. It takes a fair bit of effort to get it going.
Slightly surprised at he Allwave. I found that a little stubborn too and pretty unpleasant in the chop when I had the 8' 10". I'd probably find it a bit better now however with the greater experience.
I do have a soft spot for the Widepoint, so I'm happy you made that suggestion. Despite the weight of it, I couldn't fault the board at that time. It was the delam issue that put me off Starboard for some time although my stance has softened a bit with time.
-
Noo Noo
8'10 is the older wider nose (not good in heavy chop) plus 8'10 is to short
The NEW AllWave VCT's are less clunky, faster while still being super stable.
The 2 Starboards are good options too but NOBODY makes a board as well as FANATIC I've been dealing with them for 26 yrs (selling tons of them both SUP & Windsurfers) I can't remember the last Warranty request...Maybe Creek's 8'10 (like 6 or 7 years ago???) handle leak and they replaced the entire board and changed their construction.
Good Luck
JimK
Extreme Windsurfing
-
@Area10 what can you tell me about the Hypr Nalu Hele, Malolo and Pono please.
There's very info little out there. They certainly look like very nice boards and the underside looks pretty unique
-
@Area10 what can you tell me about the Hypr Nalu Hele, Malolo and Pono please.
There's very info little out there. They certainly look like very nice boards and the underside looks pretty unique
Yes, they are pretty much a unique design. I was initially sceptical, to be frank. But now I’m not: just as the owner Ian Foo claims, these are fast boards.
I’m no expert in their board range - I only know the gun - so I’d suggest that you go and demo their boards if you can (the UK distributor is based in Poole). Google “Hypr Nalu Hawaii UK ”. His own board is a lovely looking 9-3 Malolo (I think). That, or the 10-3 version, in particular look like they’d be great boards for UK conditions, and I’m thinking about ordering one.
Gotta love this vid:
https://youtu.be/iQtiVV_39ZU
Personally. I’m not a great fan of the All Wave in our conditions: short, fat, high volume boards tend to be a bit corky and hard to control in windy mush. The Widepoint is more fun, but is perhaps not very special, aimed at an all-round market. I’ve been extremely disappointed with the paintwork of both the Naish and Fanatic surf SUPs I’ve bought recently: they have chipped like crazy. Whereas I paid literally half the price for two Gong boards and they have not chipped at all, and seem to be generally better made. IMO the big brands are mostly ripping us off in terms of build quality for the buck, especially for the most expensive construction versions.
But these are only my opinions. Others are no doubt available, especially from those who sell the boards.
I have no connection whatsoever to any of the brands I have mentioned (or any other brand). I’m just an ordinary punter who pays full cost for his boards.
Hope this helps.
-
Thanks again
Yes it does help. Demo's are nightmare. Poole is probably a good 5hr drive (on a good run) so not really an option unless I end up heading down that way for some reason or other. Couriers wont carry them either. God knows how the shops manage to ship boards. Thankfully I'm in no rush.
I've had a look at the Gong website too. Interesting stuff there too but again wider information is a little harder to come by.
To be honest it's a bit like poking round in the dark. You know there's a light switch out there somewhere but.............
-
Yeah, I sympathise. My advice is to get to try as many boards as you can, whether you intend to buy them if not (eg. borrow friends’ boards, demo etc) just to build up a database in your head of what works for you. And buy secondhand if possible, and accept that this is a journey - what you like now will likely not be what you want most in a years’ time as you progress. I’ve been through literally dozens of boards over the last 12 years. A few I regret selling, actually: I didn’t appreciate at the time how good they were. But that’s just the way it goes.
But sometimes you just have to make a decision based on the best information you have at the time. You are never going to be able to try every board that interests you, in your home conditions.
The Gong boards are advanced designs, excellent construction (if you stick to the 2018 and 2019 boards), and a bargain price. You can’t really go wrong with them, tbh. I have the 11ft NFA and 12-6 Perv. Both really excellent. I’ve also had several Gong boards in the past, and they have all been high performers. Again, the shaper Patrice tries not to put more volume and thickness in than is absolutely required, and he’s not a small guy himself so there is usually plenty of stability for the size. I’d quite like to get a Gong Zero...
https://youtu.be/lhMAyov9PIA
-
i find i usually have too many boards in play, vs too few sessions in which to really get a feel for differences
so many variables (incl fins, too), and too few waves ridden to gather more than basic understanding of differences
that's why i may buy a point break---completely different than the rest of my quiver, and potentially of huge utility in circumstances where the rest of my quiver wont shine so much
and i have no $$ fear of buying boards and blowing boards out, but it's a PITA---since my quiver is very filled in for my sweet spot boards, it may be time to buy something different that has unique quiver value
the vids confirm-----and btwn rbgar, creek and bert berger there is some serious shape and surf wisdom
hmmmmm
-
i think you've posted in the wrong thread Eastbound. :D
-
in case youre not joking:
i thought the thread was about the consideration of new board purchases--with some worry that it might be a bad idea
so i shared how ive been dealing with my quiver and a purchase i am considering
no different than other posts
whatever---onward
-
Sorry, I wasn't joking. I thought you had meant to post in the Point break thread as you mentioned that board. I must admit it does look like an interesting option. Sorry again, no offence was intended and I honestly feel I could benefit from any advice going.
I feel I'm in a pretty dangerous place right now. My kite surfing experience has taught me that there's no such thing as a one board quiver. In that instance there's no such thing as a one kite quiver, despite what the manufacturers will tell you. I'm also at that stage where I know that something isn't right but I'm full aware that I dont really have the experience or ability to really identify a way forward. Get it wrong and I've blown money on a board that will have limited use and value to me.
There's part of me that's saying I should just knuckle down with the Fusion, get out more and hone my skills on that board. The other side is that I'm coming to realise that I'm not able to cherry pick days with the best conditions and I'll ultimately want some thing that can maximise what I have, which is more often than not the messiest, chopiest, and often very small beach breaks you can imagine.
-
Well, it sounds like you are either going to have to travel and demo, or you are going to have to use your best judgement. Once that new board itch worms it’s way into your head it’s really difficult to shake off :)
I currently have 21 SUP boards. And more paddles than that. Does that answer your question about one-board quivers? :)
-
Lol ;D ;D
That's almost a board for every day of the month!! And yes the worm is in deep.
It certainly does look like I'll have to start travelling or d some real digging. Both probably.
-
Lol ;D ;D
That's almost a board for every day of the month!! And yes the worm is in deep.
It certainly does look like I'll have to start travelling or d some real digging. Both probably.
If you have the cash, take a road trip to Poole and check out the Hypr Nalu Hawaii boards. They are very special IMO.
-
Time thanks to work is the issue.
Should really think about a career change to be honest. What I'm doing now is stupid.
Might be able to convince the missus that we should go a for a little camping holiday down that way.
I'd prefer to head to South Wales or Devon / Cornwall though, if you can avoid the crowds
-
Time thanks to work is the issue.
Should really think about a career change to be honest. What I'm doing now is stupid.
Might be able to convince the missus that we should go a for a little camping holiday down that way.
I'd prefer to head to South Wales or Devon / Cornwall though, if you can avoid the crowds
Sometimes the UK distributors make deliveries around the UK, so if you are lucky you can meet up with them nearer to your home.
Your work situation sounds tough.
And yes, I’d mostly prefer to head to Cornwall too. Although there are some really lovely places to SUP, camp, and visit, in Dorset. Just don’t expect sizeable or consistent surf, unless you happen to get lucky with big K-Bay, in which case you’ll need to put your big boy pants on, and try not to snap your board or take a fin off on the flagstone reef.
-
Yet more digging round and thinking done over the weekend before I realised that there's no real easy solution for this. So I'm wondering if its time to step back and rethink my approach here.
Obviously one board isn't going to cut it long term, never was, never will. So with that in mind why not look at putting together (over time) a 2 -3 board quiver that will cover a broader spectrum of the conditions I typically face rather than my current set up which was a friendly board to SUP surf but not ideally suited to the conditions.
So with that in mind what are people's thoughts on say a 10' 10'6" long board style SUP which will pick up pretty much everything in the calmer weather and a great board to muck around on - something like a Naish Nalu, Sunova Style, Starboard Longboard etc.
Then down the line look at a shorter board better suited to the wind blown mess - Gong Mob etc.
Thoughts anyone?
-
Noo Noo, You're on the right track now....I think. If you want to catch more waves, a longer board will help. That being said, weight matters a lot. What construction is your Fusion?
A few years ago I was a JP rep for a brief time. They gave me a large quiver of boards to let folks demo and I ended up having two Fusions, both 9'2", one was AST and one was Pro construction. Here's the big takeaway; if they were both primer grey and you did the "taste test"(on water comparo), you wouldn't even think the shapes were related! The difference in the way the two boards paddled and surfed was enormous. Those first paddle strokes get a light board moving, the board jumps forward, and you're on the wave. Heck, I've even noticed shoulder fatigue after paddling heavier boards. I had a couple of the Wood JP's too, they sit in price, and in weight, right between the AST and the PRO. Weight really matter, and unfortunately, you usually get what you pay for.
Another wave catching experiment happened one day while a group of friends and I were Grovelling at an off shore wave a couple of years back. There was no good wave to be found, and we were left with this outer bar that would stand a wave up, break, then spill into deep water. Everyone grabbed their longest, biggest, and mostly old boards and paddled out, except me, I grabbed an Uli inflatable. I had bought it to travel with and it was the biggest board I had, it was a 9' Lopez. Once out there I realized that the Uli at 9' was picking up waves as easily as the other guys 10'6" and 11' old boards. Weight surely played a huge role, but I was still surprised.
Anyway,I was just talking about this with a friend the other day, so the subject is fresh on my mind. If I were going to recommend a board for you to catch waves, and still have it be fun to surf I would suggest the Infinity New Deal 10'x31". Infinity makes good shapes, and I don't know of a lighter or higher quality construction on the market. I have no affiliation with Infinity, but I do own one of their carbon boards, and I have not seen better construction. Second to that I might have a look at the Flight Hawaii carbon boards, they are good, and light, but not as light as the Infinty's.
-
3 board quiver sounds good. My boards range from a 10'8 JL Hanalei to an 8'6 Super Frank Lean. My 10'8 tends to be my go to board so getting a longer sup is a good shout.
I've not seen the Gong boards in the flesh but you could get a 10ft NFA (I really like the look of it-could be tempted with it myself if funds allowed!) AND a shorter Gong eg the Mob that you mentioned or the Karmen for the same price as one premium brand SUP?!
-
Noo Noo, You're on the right track now....I think. If you want to catch more waves, a longer board will help. That being said, weight matters a lot. What construction is your Fusion?
A few years ago I was a JP rep for a brief time. They gave me a large quiver of boards to let folks demo and I ended up having two Fusions, both 9'2", one was AST and one was Pro construction. Here's the big takeaway; if they were both primer grey and you did the "taste test"(on water comparo), you wouldn't even think the shapes were related! The difference in the way the two boards paddled and surfed was enormous. Those first paddle strokes get a light board moving, the board jumps forward, and you're on the wave. Heck, I've even noticed shoulder fatigue after paddling heavier boards. I had a couple of the Wood JP's too, they sit in price, and in weight, right between the AST and the PRO. Weight really matter, and unfortunately, you usually get what you pay for.
Another wave catching experiment happened one day while a group of friends and I were Grovelling at an off shore wave a couple of years back. There was no good wave to be found, and we were left with this outer bar that would stand a wave up, break, then spill into deep water. Everyone grabbed their longest, biggest, and mostly old boards and paddled out, except me, I grabbed an Uli inflatable. I had bought it to travel with and it was the biggest board I had, it was a 9' Lopez. Once out there I realized that the Uli at 9' was picking up waves as easily as the other guys 10'6" and 11' old boards. Weight surely played a huge role, but I was still surprised.
Anyway,I was just talking about this with a friend the other day, so the subject is fresh on my mind. If I were going to recommend a board for you to catch waves, and still have it be fun to surf I would suggest the Infinity New Deal 10'x31". Infinity makes good shapes, and I don't know of a lighter or higher quality construction on the market. I have no affiliation with Infinity, but I do own one of their carbon boards, and I have not seen better construction. Second to that I might have a look at the Flight Hawaii carbon boards, they are good, and light, but not as light as the Infinty's.
Many thanks for your input. I've been a bit lost and swamped with info before I had a little moment of clarity (I think) so every little bit helps. Thanks
My Fusion is the AST one. It's ok but just doesn't cover enough conditions when I get my opportunity to get out and that's not helping me progress. So, to me it kind of feels like the right board in the wrong place. If I lived in Devon / Cornwall where the surf is far cleaner then it would be fine. Here in North Wales it's not great unless I travel. There are some good spots after a drive but its far easier for me to head to my local beaches 20 minutes down the road which comes at the cost of really poor surf. I am relying on the camping trips to provide me with access to the good stuff.
I'll Look into Infinity thanks
3 board quiver sounds good. My boards range from a 10'8 JL Hanalei to an 8'6 Super Frank Lean. My 10'8 tends to be my go to board so getting a longer sup is a good shout.
I've not seen the Gong boards in the flesh but you could get a 10ft NFA (I really like the look of it-could be tempted with it myself if funds allowed!) AND a shorter Gong eg the Mob that you mentioned or the Karmen for the same price as one premium brand SUP?!
SUPCymru your timing is impeccable.
I have literally been looking at Jimmy Lewis boards this very second and had got it down to the Black and Blue or the Hanalei as possible options. What can you tell me about the Hanalei please.
Gong NFA is a good shout too thanks
-
The Hanalei is a great board in terms of construction with a weight of approx 10kg (in the standard construction), quality of deck pad and newer ledge handle, but is also a very versatile board. It's more than happy to paddle flat water but is great fun in the surf. I surf at Aberafan year round which means that it copes with a real mix of conditions and handles chop well (even at 29'' wide). For reference I'm 85kg and 5'8" and have been SUPing for about 8 years (but only to a low intermediate standard-more time on the water is needed!).
Hope this helps!
Pob lwc!
-
It does, but it has also added another board to my list ;D
Actually its no bad thing as I'm actually looking at a specific shape and style now rather than being all over the place as I have been.
The Black and Blue Machine sounds like an interesting board. I would probably go with the 10'2" but from what I've read it's a very dedicated nose rider. It's slow but still manages to pick up waves very easy, even small ankle slappers. That might be a good thing begin with and who wouldn't want to learn how to nose ride?It's also a little wider than the Hanalei.
-
Pretty sure Jimmy Lewis is going to release a new size in his Destroyer model. It will be 9’8 x 31.75 x 160 L.
It might fit your needs. If do you could connect with JL about including it in a shipment to Europe.
https://jimmylewisboards.com.au/collections/surf-sups/products/jl-destroyer-sup-new
Separate topic: There is a great previous Zone thread on the Black & Blue Machine.
https://www.standupzone.com/forum/index.php/topic,26422.0.html
-
Pretty sure Jimmy Lewis is going to release a new size in his Destroyer model. It will be 9’8 x 31.75 x 160 L.
It might fit your needs. If do you could connect with JL about including it in a shipment to Europe.
https://jimmylewisboards.com.au/collections/surf-sups/products/jl-destroyer-sup-new
Separate topic: There is a great previous Zone thread on the Black & Blue Machine.
https://www.standupzone.com/forum/index.php/topic,26422.0.html
Cheers. I have been reading that very thread. Some really interesting stuff that has both whetted my appetite and raised some concerns. I'm a bit worried that it could be too technical to begin with, especially if the only option is the one with the concaved scoop in the front.
To make matters worse. So far I've only found two retailers in the UK that stock Jimmy Lewis SUPS. So while I'm not nailed on in saying I would like a Jimmy Lewis XYZ I may not have any choice in the matter. Neither of the suppliers have the Destroyer either.
-
Looking back on your initial post, I see you're on a Fusion, which I believe has very similar dims as the Destroyer I mention... so... scratch that idea...
I imagine to get the nose riding value out of a B&B Machine, one would need clean waves to play around on, practice walking the board, etc. It would certainly catch waves, but then, would you be happy having to make pivot turns? Or would you want a board that could carve a bit more readily? All that said, people who have B&Bs seem to really enjoy the specialized experience the board offers.
-
I'm UK-based and thinking of selling my 9'5 Striker, PM me if you want to know more. Thanks.
-
Looking back on your initial post, I see you're on a Fusion, which I believe has very similar dims as the Destroyer I mention... so... scratch that idea...
I imagine to get the nose riding value out of a B&B Machine, one would need clean waves to play around on, practice walking the board, etc. It would certainly catch waves, but then, would you be happy having to make pivot turns? Or would you want a board that could carve a bit more readily? All that said, people who have B&Bs seem to really enjoy the specialized experience the board offers.
Yes you're probably right on the Destroyer.
I'm not sure about the B&B's performance range yet I'm still trying to find as much info on it as I can. But it's got my interest. The size looks about right, it can supposedly work in a range of water conditions and then it offers something a little different that can make a small wave day (which are very common for me) interesting. Maybe it is too technical to begin with? I dont know yet other than from what I've read about the rail shape etc. Plus I can see that having to physically learn to step forwards to turn it and keep it moving rather than just shifting your body weight would also be a huge step. Perhaps too big.
I'm going to call the Jimmy Lewis supplier tomorrow for a chat. Then I'll see if it makes my list I guess.
I like the look of the Infinity New Deal as well. They offer two 10' options but the might be pushing my budget. That's another area I'll need to weigh up.
I'm UK-based and thinking of selling my 9'5 Striker, PM me if you want to know more. Thanks.
I'll give it some thought thanks
-
FYI the New Deal, with its slightly dome deck, light weight and thinnish rails, is a relatively unstable board if that is a consideration. My experience is of the 9'6, not the 10'. I love it but would love it more if more stable.
-
FYI the New Deal, with its slightly dome deck, light weight and thinnish rails, is a relatively unstable board if that is a consideration. My experience is of the 9'6, not the 10'. I love it but would love it more if more stable.
Thanks for this. I wasn't aware of this although I hadn't done a massive amount of research on them. More of just a cursory look over.
It seems a lot the specific long board designs are heading this way. About 9'6", thin rails etc. specifically aimed at the more advanced rider.
-
Did you just use "new board" and "bad idea" in the same sentence???? :o
-
Did you just use "new board" and "bad idea" in the same sentence???? :o
:) :) :)
I would think that the JL Striker would be worth a good look. And if you get a New Deal, to get the bigger sizes. But the only problem with the New Deal is that it is quite expensive in the UK.
Longboard shapes with wide noses can be a bit irritating in choppy windy mush, or strong offshore winds, or where you have a long paddle out through lines of whitewater. They work better for cleanish conditions, where they can be huge fun. Sadly, there aren’t many brands these days who make surf SUPs that are fairly long, and also have a pointy nose, which is what would be ideal for many average riders at average UK surf spots.
-
Did you just use "new board" and "bad idea" in the same sentence???? :o
Yes, guilty. :-\
Perhaps I should elaborate.
Good idea to me, bad idea to missus / bank manager
Although there is a part of me that says I should hone my skills on the Fusion.
Did you just use "new board" and "bad idea" in the same sentence???? :o
:) :) :)
I would think that the JL Striker would be worth a good look. And if you get a New Deal, to get the bigger sizes. But the only problem with the New Deal is that it is quite expensive in the UK.
Longboard shapes with wide noses can be a bit irritating in choppy windy mush, or strong offshore winds, or where you have a long paddle out through lines of whitewater. They work better for cleanish conditions, where they can be huge fun. Sadly, there aren’t many brands these days who make surf SUPs that are fairly long, and also have a pointy nose, which is what would be ideal for many average riders at average UK surf spots.
The New Deal is likely to be out of budget I think. We'll have to see. I haven't set myself a top end figure yet as I will quite happily wait a little longer if I feel a particular board / construction will be worth the wait.
reminds me of a session I had a little while back. 1hr+ drive to a surf beach where 3 foot was forecast. 3 foot was about right but I should have looked a little deeper. Strong 15kn on shore breeze basically resulted in a day where I was owned. Waves pounding from all directions and no clear sets at all. Still no complaints, I got wet, learned a little bit etc. There were a few prone surfers out that had a similar experience. No one was surfing that day. big lesson was I should have gone elsewhere.
My concern with the Striker is the similarities to the Fusion that I already have, dimension wise anyway. I haven't looked it up any further than that yet. I will do.
RE pointy noses, I haven't ruled out a Hanelei yet. That is firmly on the list.
-
Hi Noo Noo,
I have been following your thread with interest.
It's always refreshing to get involved conversations, by folks new to SUP surfing, because it brings up a lot of issues and challenges that come with learning this awesome sport. Hopefully, this is where the Zone shines the best.
You have gotten a lot of great info and ideas.
I am the spokesman for Sunova on the Zone (Sunova is a proud Zone sponsor)
To me, it was important to read many of your replies to find out what might benefit your quest, because everyone experiences SUP differently.
My advice to new SUPsters is make it easy on yourself, so that you can progress more quickly and enjoy all the stages along the way.
Whatever board you get should be something that will grow with you, as you improve.
Sunova's mostly tend to be performance orientated and have thin foiled rails that sit low in the water and can be tippy for new paddlers.
Some models perform so well, that a new SUPster can get a fairly large one, that will be stable and have great performance.
Boards like the Speeed and Creek work very well in all conditions and can provide reasonable stability for a Newbie in a larger size.
After reading all of your responses and thoughts, my best recommendation is the 9'5 the ONE, in the affordable ECO construction.
It is a very versatile and capable board, both in surf and flat-water
The 9'5 x 32" ONE, is light and extremely well built for a "price point" board
Main feature that should help in your conditions:
Fairly flat rocker for easy paddling and surfing speed in low power, wonky conditions.
Enough nose lift to work in chop
little known fact: it is one of the best selling boards from Sunova, because it is well appreciated by newer SUPster, for it's ease, performance and versatility. It is well loved by very small women and larger men... all on the size same board.
I surfed my 9'5 for one entire winter, while waiting for my first Creek model to arrive. I still take it out from time to time.
I weigh 107 kg + winter gear.
It is extremely stable in chop and wind, paddles great and surfs very well.... in small or larger surf.
Sunova is available to you in the UK.
Contact my friend Julius Bull at Standup Paddleboarder, UK (Cornwall)
http://www.standuppaddleboarder.co.uk/?fbclid=IwAR1Qmyr3erU0Cv42rApsFLY-UIJE1NvSGgIsuo0pyKXGfsK9BD3Jihoq-90
Discussion is good, but hard to put into context from user to user, without a mutual reference point....
so, many years ago, I endeavored to do thorough video reviews of boards that include all the info to help buyers make sense of what they hear...
Long before I became associated with Sunova.
These videos are designed for the viewer to take what they see and apply it to their particular situation.
I try to be as absolutely honest and complete as possible, regardless of affiliation.
Click my Youtube Channel link (below the post) to see any of my 100+ videos about many boards and brands.
Here is one of the many videos I have made of "the ONE"
It's long, because details are important to me.... and there are details from start to finish.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0n39Hh2_64o&t=290s
Note:
although I am completely in love with the 12' Point Break.... I do not think it's the perfect match for small choppy surf.
-
My mid-sized board is a 9'2 Sunova Speeed which is a very good board for sup surfing when conditions are clean but also when there's some chop too. It's taken some time to get used to it as it definitely has a different feel to my JL boards but I really enjoy surfing it and it's fun to choose between boards in the quiver!
Creek, is Julius still importing Sunovas as his website and social media has gone quiet?
Noo noo, Matt at the suphut seems to getting involved with sunova so could be worth a phone call if Sunovas are of interest?
-
I'm glad you've decided to chip in Sup as I've been looking at the Sunova range with a little bit of drooling to be honest. They are stunning boards to look at but again I've been a bit stuck on which would be best suited. So many thanks.
My one concern, and I say this without knowing or understanding anything about the performance of the board is that the outline looks very similar to the Fusion that I already have. The 9'5" has pretty much the same length and width and carries just a few more litres in volume. I might look a the 10' however but would really need to understand the performance differences. So I'll be certainly checking out your videos and anything else I can find.
There is a temptation to look at something completely different to maximise what I can do which is where the longer boards under consideration were coming from.
Would the Sunova ONE be different enough?
My mid-sized board is a 9'2 Sunova Speeed which is a very good board for sup surfing when conditions are clean but also when there's some chop too. It's taken some time to get used to it as it definitely has a different feel to my JL boards but I really enjoy surfing it and it's fun to choose between boards in the quiver!
Creek, is Julius still importing Sunovas as his website and social media has gone quiet?
Noo noo, Matt at the suphut seems to getting involved with sunova so could be worth a phone call if Sunovas are of interest?
Thanks again supcymru.
I have noted some funny issues with the www.standuppaddleboarder.co.uk website. I have also dropped them an email a short time ago. That's quiet too.
Looked at the SPEEED as an option given that it is a very quick board and thought that would help through a broader range of conditions. This is quite likely to be wrong. Plus clean conditions are pretty rare on my local breaks. I know a few wider afield but dont get the chance to visit them that much.
-
Hi Noo Noo,
I appreciate the concern about "is it enough of a change?"
My considerations were this:
I assumed that your initial choice of the 9'8 was made because of where you saw yourself going in this sport.
The particular rocker wasn't as easy as you wished in your conditions.
Speed paddling into... and on waves, was unsatisfactory.
Stability was also an issue.
My though was:
The ONE has an entirely different rocker... and one that works well in low power conditions.
It's paddling speed is good as well.
Flatter rockers are also more stable that heavy rocker.
The extra inch in width is fairly significant, from a stability standpoint, and the ONE rails are a nice balance between enough volume, but feeling not "corky"
If that seems like it works for you, it keeps you in the same "performance arena" as the Fusion, in terms of dimensions.
If your experience on the Fusion leaves you thinking that it wasn't even close to a proper comfort level, then you could certainly go wider or longer.
If you want to PM me with a detailed account of where you are in the journey, I'd be happy to deep dive with you and see if we can't come up with a good direction for you.... regardless of brand or model considerations. Finding a solid base to begin make this experience so much more fun.
-
SMIK also has UK distribution. They make some very stable longboards.
I also own a New Deal 9'6" x 31" and it is not the most stable platform. The stepped elliptical tail makes for great carving, but is not as stable as
my 9'2" SMIK Hipster MiniMal which is also narrower at 30.5".
Bottom contours, planshape, many factors go into stability.
Supboarder the mag has a great discussion on stability. Well worth checking out IMO.
-
I also own a New Deal 9'6" x 31" and it is not the most stable platform. [...] not as stable as
my 9'2" SMIK Hipster MiniMal which is also narrower at 30.5".
Mr. B, so relieved it’s not just me ;D
Mr. NN - The Fusion is a great board. (I rented one for a few days.) And one that you will probably want to keep in your quiver as you suggest. In your search, consider a mistake (misstep?) I have made - getting a new board not materially different from an existing quiver board. It just complicates things : )
-
Noo Noo, I just went to the beginning of this thread.
Supboarder the Mag had a great review of the board in English waters.
Your comment on difficulty catching waves sounds like it COULD be a technique issue.
As a kiter it sounds like balance is not an issue.
A lot of the boards being discussed, including two I mentioned, are not different enough than the 9'8" JP.
As a guy who spent BILLIONS on boards I wish someone had suggested to ride my 9'8" Hobie and learn how to catch waves.
SuptheMag has a lot of vids on technique that are useful. Are you taking off straight? Angled?
Pressing on the nose to get in? Paddling hard?
High or low cadence? Et cetera et cetera!
Another board similar to the JP would make no difference.
A much longer board could help, but if the art of paddling to catch waves hasn't been attended to you might be dissatisfied..
-
Hi Noo Noo,
If you want to PM me with a detailed account of where you are in the journey, I'd be happy to deep dive with you and see if we can't come up with a good direction for you.... regardless of brand or model considerations. Finding a solid base to begin make this experience so much more fun.
many thanks again Sup, many good and very valid points. I'll drop you a PM
SMIK also has UK distribution. They make some very stable longboards.
I also own a New Deal 9'6" x 31" and it is not the most stable platform. The stepped elliptical tail makes for great carving, but is not as stable as
my 9'2" SMIK Hipster MiniMal which is also narrower at 30.5".
Bottom contours, planshape, many factors go into stability.
Supboarder the mag has a great discussion on stability. Well worth checking out IMO.
Yes and thanks. I'll look SMIK up.
Agreed on Supboarder. Outside of real world discussions, to me Supboarder is the best source of information out there. Only issue I have is, that they have access to fantastic beaches and surf. I don't so much which is a huge part of my difficulties I guess. I'm trying to learn in probably the worst possible conditions to try that. They range from nothing through to mess. Good stuff is by luck more than judgement right now. I have work to thank for that.
Noo Noo, I just went to the beginning of this thread.
Supboarder the Mag had a great review of the board in English waters.
Your comment on difficulty catching waves sounds like it COULD be a technique issue.
As a kiter it sounds like balance is not an issue.
A lot of the boards being discussed, including two I mentioned, are not different enough than the 9'8" JP.
As a guy who spent BILLIONS on boards I wish someone had suggested to ride my 9'8" Hobie and learn how to catch waves.
SuptheMag has a lot of vids on technique that are useful. Are you taking off straight? Angled?
Pressing on the nose to get in? Paddling hard?
High or low cadence? Et cetera et cetera!
Another board similar to the JP would make no difference.
A much longer board could help, but if the art of paddling to catch waves hasn't been attended to you might be dissatisfied..
You make very valid points and I've watched all the vids, several times and still refer back to them. The Fusion was bought primarily off their review combined with a load of researching etc. There is part of me that says I need to knuckle down and simply get out more which is where the title of this thread comes from really. I know full well that the organic matter trying to stand on the lump of foam and glass fibre is the weak point in my set up. But my conditions are not good. I've had great times flat water paddling with seas that are like glass but when the surf lifts a little conditions quickly become unfavourable. I cannot remember a single day that I could turn round and say that it was a good learning day. I certainly do need to get out more, a lot more and that is a lifestyle issue that I really need to address but I also want to explore all my options to maximise my chances. Even if it means taking a little step backwards, before coming forward again.
-
Look, I SUP the kind of crap conditions (actually, probably even more crap) all the time - maybe 4 times a week on average. And I can tell you this:
1. Your JP board is actually pretty good. But it’s probably not optimal for where you are at the moment and those conditions.
2. There’s no point getting a similar board.
3. There is a point in getting one that will make life easier for you, and paddling more fun.
4. I have a big 11ft 6” x 31” JP Longboard that I loan to friends, and sometimes use myself just for fun in crap, small conditions. It’s heavy, but it is super stable, can catch anything, and you could have a picnic on it. I can also use it when I act as a pilot for a local open water swimming team, and can fish off it too. It is cheap, durable, stable and fun. Every SUPer should have some kind of big barge like this in their quiver. They are a lot of fun. Once waves get to head high the sheer volume gets intimidating, but for small mushy crap it makes thing FUN.
5. There are lots of boards like that. Pretty much all brands have one. I saw a picture on FB yesterday of the Hypr Nalu Hawaii UK distributor heading out to surf at Staunton in 1-2ft onshore dribble. What was he using? A great big 11ft x 32” 5” thick “barge” as his friend called it. So, this guy SUPs for a living and has a whole range of boards he could have used. What did he take? A nice big stable *long* board that will catch anything and make life easy.
6. I have already described the characteristics of the board that will give you more fun, and will help you progress. Most of all, get something LONGER. Longer boards catch waves easier, all other things being equal. They are also more stable for their width - although width principally determines stability, length does too.
7. If you can find a used bigger board for sale, then try that. It could be a good investment. People tend to hold onto these kinds of big all-round boards because they are so useful. But they do come up quite regularly on the UK used SUP Facebook pages. You can usually find something in the 400-700 GBP range.
8. I, like so many people, owned a 11ft Jimmy Lewis Cruise Control early in my SUP journey. It was a bit of a lump to surf tbh (the tail is a bit wide) but it was great for all-round paddling fun. Be wary of people recommending boards that are too small: they are the ones you see who look good walking in the beach with their board, but in crappy conditions are just standing or sitting there in the water catching NOTHING and looking miserable. Learn from their mistakes: they have let their ego and lack of realism run away with them. Truly awful paddling conditions need particular boards, just as double-overhead clean pipeline does. (But not the same boards!).
9. Most people from overseas will probably never have tried to surf conditions as crappy as you. I got sent a video by the owner of a brand recently where he described the surf conditions (in Hawaii) as choppy and messy. It would literally have been the best day of the year if we had conditions like that where I SUP! :)
Hope this helps. Hold onto that JP if you can. It’s probably just not the right board for you right now. And start looking for something longer, and preferably secondhand. Then if conditions are going to be clean and a decent size then take the JP. If they are going to be total onshore messy small crap, take your “shitty conditions board”. That is exactly what the more experienced of us do. The key thing is to get out there and have fun.
Hope this helps!
-
Area 10
I yield
Yours is certainly the only advice to follow on this forum.
-
Look, I SUP the kind of crap conditions (actually, probably even more crap) all the time - maybe 4 times a week on average. And I can tell you this:
1. Your JP board is actually pretty good. But it’s probably not optimal for where you are at the moment and those conditions.
2. There’s no point getting a similar board.
3. There is a point in getting one that will make life easier for you, and paddling more fun.
4. I have a big 11ft 6” x 31” JP Longboard that I loan to friends, and sometimes use myself just for fun in crap, small conditions. It’s heavy, but it is super stable, can catch anything, and you could have a picnic on it. I can also use it when I act as a pilot for a local open water swimming team, and can fish off it too. It is cheap, durable, stable and fun. Every SUPer should have some kind of big barge like this in their quiver. They are a lot of fun. Once waves get to head high the sheer volume gets intimidating, but for small mushy crap it makes thing FUN.
5. There are lots of boards like that. Pretty much all brands have one. I saw a picture on FB yesterday of the Hypr Nalu Hawaii UK distributor heading out to surf at Staunton in 1-2ft onshore dribble. What was he using? A great big 11ft x 32” 5” thick “barge” as his friend called it. So, this guy SUPs for a living and has a whole range of boards he could have used. What did he take? A nice big stable *long* board that will catch anything and make life easy.
6. I have already described the characteristics of the board that will give you more fun, and will help you progress. Most of all, get something LONGER. Longer boards catch waves easier, all other things being equal. They are also more stable for their width - although width principally determines stability, length does too.
7. If you can find a used bigger board for sale, then try that. It could be a good investment. People tend to hold onto these kinds of big all-round boards because they are so useful. But they do come up quite regularly on the UK used SUP Facebook pages. You can usually find something in the 400-700 GBP range.
8. I, like so many people, owned a 11ft Jimmy Lewis Cruise Control early in my SUP journey. It was a bit of a lump to surf tbh (the tail is a bit wide) but it was great for all-round paddling fun. Be wary of people recommending boards that are too small: they are the ones you see who look good walking in the beach with their board, but in crappy conditions are just standing or sitting there in the water catching NOTHING and looking miserable. Learn from their mistakes: they have let their ego and lack of realism run away with them. Truly awful paddling conditions need particular boards, just as double-overhead clean pipeline does. (But not the same boards!).
9. Most people from overseas will probably never have tried to surf conditions as crappy as you. I got sent a video by the owner of a brand recently where he described the surf conditions (in Hawaii) as choppy and messy. It would literally have been the best day of the year if we had conditions like that where I SUP! :)
Hope this helps. Hold onto that JP if you can. It’s probably just not the right board for you right now. And start looking for something longer, and preferably secondhand. Then if conditions are going to be clean and a decent size then take the JP. If they are going to be total onshore messy small crap, take your “shitty conditions board”. That is exactly what the more experienced of us do. The key thing is to get out there and have fun.
Hope this helps!
A huge amount because I think you're probably bang on. The Fusion is fine but
a) I'm not getting out enough
b) Conditions are garbage
c) For UK stuff, away from access to the best surf beaches you should have a barge to cover every other set of conditions.
Very true on the video's. They always show conditions which would be heaven. There's only one I've seen showing what I see is this one below, and they are still better than normal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8sP25OlBuY
-
@ Noo Noo
Those wave conditions in the video are a lot better than the one's I usually encounter on Galveston Island. At the time of this posting, take a look at our wave conditions today down on the island.
The webcam is for the 43rd Street Webcam. It is a camera which you can control. The camera control is on the bottom right of the window. The different camera positions are in the upper right hand corner of the window. Take a look at the different positions. My favorite is the 43rd Street Jetty. You can control the camera for one minute of time if no one else is controlling it first.
And this webcam does not require Flash. Just HTML5.
https://www.galveston.com/surfvideocam/
-
@ Noo Noo
Those wave conditions in the video are a lot better than the one's I usually encounter on Galveston Island. At the time of this posting, take a look at our wave conditions today down on the island.
The webcam is for the 43rd Street Webcam. It is a camera which you can control. The camera control is on the bottom right of the window. The different camera positions are in the upper right hand corner of the window. Take a look at the different positions. My favorite is the 43rd Street Jetty. You can control the camera for one minute of time if no one else is controlling it first.
And this webcam does not require Flash. Just HTML5.
Hi Galviston. The sea state looked pretty familiar to be honest, except the weather looked far brighter. Pretty messed up, lots of chop and no real shape to it. Even worse when the wind picks up I guess
Worth noting that no one really surfs these local beaches of mine either. Perhaps one but I've never seen anyone. One is very popular with the kite surfers though as its a cracking beach for that.
-
@ Noo Noo
Those wave conditions in the video are a lot better than the one's I usually encounter on Galveston Island. At the time of this posting, take a look at our wave conditions today down on the island.
The webcam is for the 43rd Street Webcam. It is a camera which you can control. The camera control is on the bottom right of the window. The different camera positions are in the upper right hand corner of the window. Take a look at the different positions. My favorite is the 43rd Street Jetty. You can control the camera for one minute of time if no one else is controlling it first.
And this webcam does not require Flash. Just HTML5.
Hi Galviston. The sea state looked pretty familiar to be honest, except the weather looked far brighter. Pretty messed up, lots of chop and no real shape to it. Even worse when the wind picks up I guess
Worth noting that no one really surfs these local beaches of mine either. Perhaps one but I've never seen anyone. One is very popular with the kite surfers though as its a cracking beach for that.
I Note Night Wing got a long board (but not too wide) pretty big volume for those conditions:
SUP Sports One World: 11'1" x 30" x 4.5" @ 173 Liters
-
Looks like a nice board but sadly not available in the UK
-
Blue Planet Surf lists a European distributor:
https://www.blueplanetsup.eu/
main website:
https://www.blueplanetsurf.com/
-
Um only appears to be Blue Planet stuff unless I've missed something
-
No - that's it. Just Blue Planet. Just another option. Separately, another tack you can take is to get a board that may be stuck in your head (like the Black & Blue Machine?) with the understanding going in that you can always sell it. Join Mr. Big's billion dollar board club.
-
Got you
Cheers
-
...another thought on a big,stable, wave catching machine while remaining on budget is a Fanatic Fly 10'6"x31 180 liter. We bought one in 2009 as a beginner board, and it has been every novice's favorite board since. We've had many friends come into the sport, buy boards and prefer the old Fly. When I was a JP rep and had some of their "big" board for demo purposes, still everyone preferred the 10'6" Fanatic Fly. It's a good shape for what it is.
-
Yes, the Fly is nice. I have had an absolute hoot on one of the early 11ft ones too (2015? 2016?) before they made their 11ft boards ridiculously wide. It was 11’0x32” maybe? It was a huge stable floaty beast but a lot of fun in smaller crappy conditions. Don’t go bigger than the 10-6 in the 2019 range, though.
-
...another thought on a big,stable, wave catching machine while remaining on budget is a Fanatic Fly 10'6"x31 180 liter. We bought one in 2009 as a beginner board, and it has been every novice's favorite board since. We've had many friends come into the sport, buy boards and prefer the old Fly. When I was a JP rep and had some of their "big" board for demo purposes, still everyone preferred the 10'6" Fanatic Fly. It's a good shape for what it is.
Yes, the Fly is nice. I have had an absolute hoot on one of the early 11ft ones too (2015? 2016?) before they made their 11ft boards ridiculously wide. It was 11’0x32” maybe? It was a huge stable floaty beast but a lot of fun in smaller crappy conditions. Don’t go bigger than the 10-6 in the 2019 range, though.
Yes a good shout. Another to the possibles list. Don't know a huge amount about them but they could be an option for sure.
Another that could be the Loco Inca perhaps?
-
Guys
The Fanatic FLY is a good board lots of my customers still use it. The 11'6 is only 33" 256L Doubt you need that. 10'6 is the most popular size and a nice all around board that catches waves like a magnet! If you are looking at the 10'6 size and you are looking for real performance the STYLEMASTER 10'6 X 31"
Has almost all the stability of the fly and about 35% more performance turning and on the nose. And at least here in USA they cost the same as the FLY.
just another thought!
JimK
Extreme Windsurfing
-
Guys
The Fanatic FLY is a good board lots of my customers still use it. The 11'6 is only 33" 256L Doubt you need that. 10'6 is the most popular size and a nice all around board that catches waves like a magnet! If you are looking at the 10'6 size and you are looking for real performance the STYLEMASTER 10'6 X 31"
Has almost all the stability of the fly and about 35% more performance turning and on the nose. And at least here in USA they cost the same as the FLY.
just another thought!
JimK
Extreme Windsurfing
Thanks Jim
I did have a quick look at at the Fly just now and did notice that they also make the Stylemaster in that longer length now. I caught my eye.
Decisions are not getting any easier!! ;D ;D ;D
But I really appreciate all the thoughts and comments. I do need to be pointed in the right direction from time to time.
-
Hi All
Just thought an update would be worthwhile just to say where I'm at. Sadly I'm typing this as I'm working (again) on a Sunday afternoon. This remains an issue.
My current thinking is the Fusion stays for now and will get used for those days where conditions will suit it. I am however considering a larger boat that will cope with the poor slack conditions that prevail this part of the world, particularly in he Summer and also allow for development of my skills during the choppy wind blown days that I also encounter. Plus having a family board is no bad thing either right?
So boards that have a similar outline to the Fusion are out but also probably the short squarer shapes that also excel in the small slack surf. I'm no where near the level required for one of them. Maybe one day.
So thus far I'm basically producing lists of boards that seem to fit the bill and are available here in the UK. The list is not finalized by any means and I'm still open to suggestions.
So here's my list so far
Fanatic Fly 10' 6"
Fanatic Stylemaster 10' 6"
Jimmy Lewis Hanelei 10'8"
Jimmy Lewis Black and Blue Machine (it's on the list out of pure intrigue more than anything else) 10' 2"
Hypr Nalu Malolo or Hele.
Loco Inca 11'
Naish Nalu 10' 6"
JP Hybrid - 10'8" which seems to be something completely different again but might be moving too far away from the surfing side.
I'm scouring round for suggestions and info so anything anyone can add is always welcome. I'm still looking round at what Sunova, Starboard and even RRD have around and what will be suited.
-
FWIW, IMO:
Scratch the Stylemaster. It’s a superb board (I have the 10ft one) but it’s a high performance, low volume longboard with thin rails, fairly flat rocker and spoon nose for noseriding, and these features don’t make it ideal for mucking about in windy choppy crap.
The 11ft or 11-4 Naish would probably be more fun for you than the 10-6 Nalu (I have one of those too).
The longer versions of the Hypr boards would be awesome for what you want, and you might just did you can surf them better than your Fusion in clean surf too.
Black and Blue Machine is a highly specialised board. Leave it to those who know exactly what they want.
The biggest size Hanalei would be OK. The others aren’t particularly stable in chop for their size.
JP Hybrid: avoid. The compromise in it’s surf ability due to nose weight is not worth the minimal gain in it’s paddling ability. You’d be better off with one of their longboards if you have to have something from the JP range.
I’m quite sure that the Sunova rep (Supthecreek) will be along any minute to sell you one of theirs, so I don’t need to say anything about that. Just DON’T go short and wide, and DO get something different from your Fusion. Personally, I’d probably get a Point Break. But you might not feel confident enough yet to surf a 12ft board. But one day you’ll realise that these longish gun-type boards are the most versatile you can get. I have both the Hypr Nalu Hawaii 12-6 and 11-6 guns, and they are truly awesome.
There are also the usual boards from Starboard, like the Drive, but I have a tough time recommending Starboards because my experiences with their race board construction quality have been an expensive lesson in frustration. Brands like Gong make Starboard seem like a total rip-off IMO.
You’d probably also find that the SIC Saber would do what you want it to do.
Hope this helps.
-
Cheers again Area10
I'm also reluctant to go with Starboard to be honest. I have a friend that swears by them but I had one of their models delaminate on me and I had and awful time going through the warranty claim with them. To finish it all off I had to cut the board in half and what I saw didn't fill me with much joy at all. I felt the level of construction was pretty poor, even though it was their bottom level of construction at the time there was naff all in it.
Agree on the JL B&B machine. I'm intrigued by it but not enough to go all out on one at this stage of my Sup surfing development.
The Stylemaster is tempting as of all the boards I've listed the Fly and Stylemaster are available at the best price but as you rightly say I am concerned that it might be a step too far at this stage.
-
The Stylemaster has a slightly domed deck which can a bit annoying in chop. It needs it, to get the rails so thin, for performance, but there is a price to be paid.
Mine also chips if you so much as look at it. Aaaaargh!!!
-
I have seen somewhere about the paint chipping thing with Fanatics. Cant say I noticed it with the Allwave I had, but it is obviously a thing.
I wish I could get somewhere to try both to be honest.
I looked at Gong but the biggest board they seem to do at the moment is the 10' NFA.
JP Longboard looks like a possible option. I need to look into it more. I'm not a huge fan of their AST construction though. Chips and stuff far too easily for my liking. Much like your Fanatics maybe?
Loco also have a good deal on an ex demo Inca which is encouraging purely from that perspective. The size appears good at 11' x 30.5" and 160L but it's a bit slim pickings on the info side again.
-
My JP longboard hasn’t chipped. So far. Despite being used by friends. But I did rail tape it from new.
I don’t know anything about the Loco. It’s a good price, and the dimensions seem about right. But how much does it weigh? Is the rocker maybe a bit flat for choppy conditions surfing? (However, flatter rocker boards do get into waves more easily.)
It’s a shame that Gong aren’t selling any of their 11ft NFAs right now. I have one, and it is an excellent board at a totally bargain price. Which is probably exactly why there aren’t any available any more... You could ask them when they next expect some in? At the price they sell them, and the excellent construction, it’s kinda a no-brainer: A SUP retailer of another brand recently said to me “I just don’t know how they do them so cheap”. And they are high-performance shapes, not beginner barges. Performance, excellent construction, and bargain price: it’s a kinda SUP owners’ dream, isn’t it? I have the 12-6 Gong Perv as well, and it’s amazing how well it surfs. It’s made many a crappy choppy windy session fun for me. It cost me 600 pounds GBP delivered! (I got one in the end of year sale.) Rock solid full wood sandwich construction with carbon-Kevlar rails. For 600, delivered... it’s surprisingly fast as a flat water tourer too, given that it is a surf-type shape. It actually surfs better than several 11ft surf SUPs I’ve tried. I’ve even thought about buying the 10-6 version in the new full PVC sandwich bombproof construction... it would probably surf really well and get into waves easily. But I’ve already bought 2 new SUPs this year already :)
-
My JP longboard hasn’t chipped. So far. Despite being used by friends. But I did rail tape it from new.
I don’t know anything about the Loco. It’s a good price, and the dimensions seem about right. But how much does it weigh? Is the rocker maybe a bit flat for choppy conditions surfing? (However, flatter rocker boards do get into waves more easily.)
It’s a shame that Gong aren’t selling any of their 11ft NFAs right now. I have one, and it is an excellent board at a totally bargain price. Which is probably exactly why there aren’t any available any more... You could ask them when they next expect some in? At the price they sell them, and the excellent construction, it’s kinda a no-brainer: A SUP retailer of another brand recently said to me “I just don’t know how they do them so cheap”. And they are high-performance shapes, not beginner barges. Performance, excellent construction, and bargain price: it’s a kinda SUP owners’ dream, isn’t it? I have the 12-6 Gong Perv as well, and it’s amazing how well it surfs. It’s made many a crappy choppy windy session fun for me. It cost me 600 pounds GBP delivered! (I got one in the end of year sale.) Rock solid full wood sandwich construction with carbon-Kevlar rails. For 600, delivered... it’s surprisingly fast as a flat water tourer too, given that it is a surf-type shape. It actually surfs better than several 11ft surf SUPs I’ve tried. I’ve even thought about buying the 10-6 version in the new full PVC sandwich bombproof construction... it would probably surf really well and get into waves easily. But I’ve already bought 2 new SUPs this year already :)
My JP has a couple of scratches and that was taped from new. It's the untaped bits but I am a bit clumsy at times.
I'm not sure that Gong actually make anything longer than 10' now. There's absolutely nothing on their website about them. And that's the only reason why I've not looked at them any further.
RE the Loco, it's pretty flat I believe but does have a little kick front and back but pearling is a possible issue. That's based on the 2017 model though. They might have tweaked things since then as suggested in another review I've seen.
QUOTE
"The Inca has a low rocker nose that aids early entry into waves – it also helps the Inca track well. Worth keeping in mind, however, is to accurately locate the paddling sweet spot as too far forward will result in its nose burying. Same when taking off on steeper waves.
Glide is admirable. There’s a fair bit of tail kick – designed to lock into swell faces – which will require some unsticking. A few deep and powerful paddle strokes will see riders right. With a high stroke cadence SUPers can pick up waves early and the Inca accelerates progressively. A deep concave runs through the hull of the Inca, which helps when cross stepping, while a larger central fin and tail hold in the pocket well."
-
Area 10 said:
"I’m quite sure that the Sunova rep (Supthecreek) will be along any minute to sell you one of theirs, so I don’t need to say anything about that."
It pleases me to pay the Zone sponsorship fee, so that you have a platform to dispense your sage advice.
-
Starboard does have resale value, so if a nice used one crossed your path ...
A10’s Naish 11’ suggestion is a good thought. It has a good surf reputation.
-
Area 10 said:
"I’m quite sure that the Sunova rep (Supthecreek) will be along any minute to sell you one of theirs, so I don’t need to say anything about that."
It pleases me to pay the Zone sponsorship fee, so that you have a platform to dispense your sage advice.
I see, so it irks you that you have to pay money to post here but I don’t. Well that is because I do not earn a living selling boards. If people like me didn’t spend our own time, free of charge, posting to this forum then it would be nothing except one big infomercial and you would no longer have a platform for your own sage advice because no-one would bother visiting it. So you need people like me. And there are far fewer of us these days than there used to be.
It is also interesting that you have focussed on that aspect of what I said, and not this bit that followed it: “Personally, I’d probably get a Point Break. But you might not feel confident enough yet to surf a 12ft board. But one day you’ll realise that these longish gun-type boards are the most versatile you can get“.
So, let’s see if I have got this right: I recommend your latest board, which was developed out of a zoner custom order, and has received a huge amount of publicity here, and you decide instead to focus on a perceived slight instead? How very like your idol, Donald Trump, who happens to be over in the UK at the moment. Indeed, my wife can’t get to her work in a hospital because his entourage has taken over a large portion of the city she works in and closed a load of roads, ahead of his visit. And by incredible coincidence I’ve got the same problem today getting to my own workplace, 100 miles from my wife’s, because Trump is meeting the Queen at Buckingham Palace and I have to pass it to get to my workplace. All this hoopla is detracting from what is supposed to be a celebration of the brave soldiers who died fighting for the rights and democratic principles that the orange buffoon tramples all over.
So I suggest that we all work to make Sunova great again!
-
It’s a shame that Gong aren’t selling any of their 11ft NFAs right now. I have one, and it is an excellent board at a totally bargain price. Which is probably exactly why there aren’t any available any more... You could ask them when they next expect some in? At the price they sell them, and the excellent construction, it’s kinda a no-brainer: A SUP retailer of another brand recently said to me “I just don’t know how they do them so cheap”. And they are high-performance shapes, not beginner barges. Performance, excellent construction, and bargain price: it’s a kinda SUP owners’ dream, isn’t it? I have the 12-6 Gong Perv as well, and it’s amazing how well it surfs. It’s made many a crappy choppy windy session fun for me. It cost me 600 pounds GBP delivered! (I got one in the end of year sale.) Rock solid full wood sandwich construction with carbon-Kevlar rails. For 600, delivered... it’s surprisingly fast as a flat water tourer too, given that it is a surf-type shape. It actually surfs better than several 11ft surf SUPs I’ve tried. I’ve even thought about buying the 10-6 version in the new full PVC sandwich bombproof construction... it would probably surf really well and get into waves easily. But I’ve already bought 2 new SUPs this year already :)
Just thought I'd focus on this bit if I may, to get the thread back on track.
No 11' NFA's at the moment but I have sent them a message this morning. Same with the 10'6" Perv's.
Forgive me if I'm slightly confused but the Perv is labelled as their cruiser board with some surfing ability / basically a real mix. How is this different to the JP Hybrid which you advised to avoid. I'm just trying to figure out the difference or what makes one a better option than the other, especially as you own one of them. On paper they appear very similar apart from the Gong being far lower in volume
Starboard does have resale value, so if a nice used one crossed your path ...
A10’s Naish 11’ suggestion is a good thought. It has a good surf reputation.
Agreed that the Starboards do have a good following and are easier to sell later. But I'm certainly no fan of their bottom level construction.
Only seen and heard good things about the Naish. Any second hand one's sell very quickly too and they don't come up that often.
-
Thought I'd keep this thread going as I'm still looking round, getting confused, changing my mind, going back through this thread etc etc.
Updated list is:
JP hanalei 10'8" - I am a bit concerned with the width on this though - only 29"
JP longboard - 10' 6"
Fanatic Fly 10' 6"
Hypr Nalu - take your pick there
Loco Inca 11' - Price is good
Naish Nalu 11' or so. There's so many to choose from!!
I've also found this which looks an extremely interesting shape and there is always part of me that likes the quirky
https://www.nahskwell-sup.com/en/boards/fluid/
Anyone know anything about this board? As usual its slim pickings
They also do a Longboard which I can get a decent price - 10'6" 29" wide (tad narrow perhaps) 142L. This one could be a bit too performance orientated again.
Gong do not do an 11' NFA anymore. 10' is their longest which might still be enough. There is also the 10'6" Perv pr larger but finding stuff out is again proving awkward.
-
@ Noo Noo
Let me start off by saying, "I do not always run with the pack and there are times I do not follow conventional wisdom". This statement has served me well many times.
Now, I think you should choose a board for those wave height and conditions of waves you're going to encounter where you normally do most of your sup surfing combined with your own weight.
Speaking just for myself, most of the wave heights and wave conditions I find on the upper Texas coast, the waves are wind driven and they are usually between 1'-3' in height. So the performance type of boards where the boards are low volume and the riders weigh considerately more than the liters of the board they're riding does not go well.
So a board with a length of 10'6", they are usually between 160-165 liters of volume. If the waves of the day are around 1.5' in height and a guy weighing 180 pounds, he will find this board isn't going to be the best for these wave height because this wave height is not going to generate enough dynamic lift for him to get a nice long ride.
But if a 10'6" board is between 180-190 liters of volume, he will absolutely enjoy the ride (glide) because the 180-190 liters of volume will be better for him.
So with that said, I'm looking at a guest board for two of my friends. One of them is 170 pounds and the other is 190 pounds. For the wave conditions I normally run into down on the upper Texas coast, I'm looking at two boards now.
One of them is a Blue Planet "Duke" model and it's specs are 10'5" x 32" x 4.5" @ 190 liters with 5 fin boxes. The link to it is below.
https://www.blueplanetsurf.com/105-x-32-duke-2019.html
The other board is an Australian made board company named ECS. The model I ran across is the EVO and it's specs are 10'6" x 32.5" x 4.5" @ 180 liters with 3 fin boxes. The link to it is below.
https://ecsboards-australia.com/collections/sup-boards/products/evo-blue
And I have two videos for it.
https://vimeo.com/203940460
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdxS71heVlk
ECS does have a few US distributors and one of them is SoBe Surf at the link below.
https://sobesurf.com/shop/
Both the Duke and the EVO would be good flat water paddlers as well as sup surfers, in my opinion, for me and my two friends.
You seem to be leaning towards a 10'6" board length so the comments above from me is just "food for thought".
-
You mention Nahskwell, the parent company makes the sealion series. Available in Europe. I own a 8'3 and 9' sealion. Both great to surf in crap conditions. (they windsurf well also) And very forgiving. Only 29.5" wide but super wide fish tail makes it stable to stand on. The new 8'6 wings would be an option that gets you foiling if you ever go that route. JP
-
Thanks for the input.
Your logic seems sound and I have in fact been looking at anything 10' 10'6" and over to honest although I do admit there is a bit of length snobbery going on which I do need to shake off. Volume wise I haven't been too bothered unless it starts dipping below 150L as that starts to indicate that a board is a real performance machine and not for someone at my level.
Dealing with chop is an issue so stability is key as well as getting enough glide onto, what is normally a really messy wave. Thinking about it there's very little point in me getting a board that will thrive in head and half clean waves. A) I'm unlikely to see those conditions and B) I'd probably drown.
So I'm looking for some kind of Utopia board I guess. Super stable in chop, good glide, and a board I can grow with and not have to sell on in a year or so.
The big problem I have now is actually finding some useful information on each of the above boards. It's a tough ask. A demo would be great but far from practical. Information on boards seems to be really thin on the ground as far as real world thoughts and discussions and even in some cases proper reviews.
-
You mention Nahskwell, the parent company makes the sealion series. Available in Europe. I own a 8'3 and 9' sealion. Both great to surf in crap conditions. (they windsurf well also) And very forgiving. Only 29.5" wide but super wide fish tail makes it stable to stand on. The new 8'6 wings would be an option that gets you foiling if you ever go that route. JP
Thanks for the suggestion. I've seen these but simply discounted them thinking they were for advanced surfers. No harm in looking into them but as a kitesurfer any thoughts of windsurfing is a big no no. ;)
-
@ Noo Noo
Just to give you something how I think when I'm doing research for sups.
Speaking just for myself and looking into getting a third board; not a guest board, just a board for me, I'd be looking at a production made board between 10'-10'6". For the conditions I usually find on the upper Texas coast with it's smallish waves which is dictated by wind speed, for a production made board, I'd be looking at two boards.
One board is the Blue Planet "Duke" and which it's specs again are 10'5" x 32" x 4.5" @ 190 liters with 5 fin boxes. The link again is below.
https://www.blueplanetsurf.com/105-x-32-duke-2019.html
There are no videos of it however so I have had to find it's predecessor named the Nirvana 10'5". The Duke is a tweak of the Nirvana and I was able to find one video of the Nirvana, so I can actually see it. Not the best video since the guy never showed the Nirvana on it's edge, but "beggars can't be choosers" as they say. The link to the Nirvana is below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L0Yd4Es_0RM
But the Duke is one of a few different models in the Waikiki series so I can get a look at a smaller model in this video and it will give me the general shape of the Duke.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8V8bLpyA93M
The second board would be another Blue Planet board named the "Easy" and it's specs are 10'2" x 32" x 4.5" @ 181 liters with 5 fin boxes. The link to it is below.
https://www.blueplanetsurf.com/102-x-32-easy-2019.html
And I was able to find two videos where the Easy can be seen. The videos are listed below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3ZBIugQid8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuMD1dGdGNc
For me, the better glide for flat water paddling is going to be the Duke. And I think both boards, Duke and Easy, will be good for sup surfing for where I go and the waves I usually encounter.
BTW, I'm a big fan of 5 fin boxes because any waves, no matter their wave height and the wind conditions which produced the wave, the 5 fin boxes will cover just about anything I will run into on the upper Texas coast wave wise from 1'-7' waves being generated from 7 mph-30 mph wind speeds.
Like I said previously. Choose a board that you can use for flat water paddling which will give you a good glide and will be good for sup surfing in the wave height and wave conditions you will "usually" encounter.