10 McTavish Review

[TomKat]

I got my 10 McTavish last week.

 Just to give you some background on my abilities, etc, I've been surfing short and longboard for over 40 years (Ouch! did I really just say that!?!). I've won several East Coast championships in each. I am 5'10" and about 170lbs. I had only paddled on SUPs about six times over two years until about three months ago.

About 2-3 months ago I started paddling the BOTE Board 12' on flat water a few times a week. About a week. It’s designed for fishing and works well for that. About a month ago I took it out in the surf and figured out how to catch waves. Rode it in chest high surf for two days in Cape Hatteras. Then back home a few days later I got to ride a 11’6” Takayama Surftech in waves ranging from knee to shoulder high.  So over the next few weeks I got the hang of SUP surfing.

Next I got my own SUP, the 10 McTavish. The board is a little tippy when not moving or in tight chop. But after a few sessions it quickly became more stable to me.  What really surprised me was how easy it caught waves! I have it rigged with the stock four fin set up. I will try the 2+1 in bigger stuff. But so far I rode it in ankle to waist high and clean waves and it was super fun. I have also ridden it in knee to stomach high chop and it seems to perform well.  I have read in older posts that the handle is not in the right place, mine seems fine. The traction pad is smooth but not slippery to me. I’d prefer more texture but it works. 

It nose rides well, cuts back well, and can easily pump it down the line. Paddling out and going through white water does not seem to be a problem.  I will post more after riding it in bigger waves.

I’d like to thank the guys who have helped me while getting into SUP surfing, Dan G., Mark N., Joel F., and Randy at Heritage. Having people help with trying out equipment before spending $1000 or more is essential.

Stand Up Zone has also been great Thanks!

TommmyO

[sideshore]

TommyO is in the house! We are now officially legitimate! 

[bean]

I've been riding the 10' McT as a quad since October in NJ surf with about 30 lbs on you and a much less impressive surfing resume.  But I could not agree more, including your comment about the traction pad.  And yes they did fix the handle issue.  I had one of the last off balance models for about 2 weeks while waiting for them to send me a brand new one.  Top notch service in my book and I'm not an "affiliate". 

[TomKat]

Bean,
Glad to hear it. I have a friend who has a 10'10 Walden who probably weighs 175 and is a "decent" surfer who is scared to get one. I'm hoping he will try mine this weekend and then decide.

[bean]

Excellent, forecast looks good for tomorrow am, 3’ glass.