Rail Shield

[appleguy2k]

Hi,
I'm about to buy my first board (10'6 Jimmy Styks in bamboo) and was wondering if you guys would recommend getting the Rail Shield protection. It's an extra $50. I tried to google it but couldn't find any reviews or info. Here's the website of the guy that I will be purchasing from:

http://shakaboards.com/

[surfcowboy]

It's called Rail Tape in other circles. Seems like a good idea, $50 is a little more than it costs normally, but if they're installing it, and you don't want to, that sounds totally fair for the trouble.

I've heard of guys buying it from auto parts places. It's used to stop rock chips on spoilers and such. Also, tape your paddle edge and you can stop a lot of chops. (there are tons of posts here about it, search mastic tape)

[EastFL]

I used a run of clear duct tape down the rails of my first board.  About $5 and really easy to put on.  I ended up removing it after a couple months.

[Easy Rider]

As Surfcowboy said - it is a good idea for starting out - and great when you let all your friends try the board.