The website is finally up for this design by Steve Morgan. hicconverter.com Interesting. A concept type idea, a subtle refinement of things already done. Might have something here that is valid, maybe not. Reducing drag while allowing easy turning certainly is a goal of modern design, while not getting too far into the bizare, whacky, or downright dangerous (gemini). At least better than that gawdawful fat penguin.
Looks like an interesting concept…Not too way out.
Aloha Tubedog, In regard to previous responses…The Converter Websight gives credit to Jeff Alexander regarding “The Vent” one of the 3 primary Components of The Converter> in Fact Jeff will receive a royalty payment from HIC for each Converter built. I believe that Jeff’s Gemeni design is a very valid and credible surfboard design. The sad thing is that Jeff and his croanies are their worst enemies in promoting the Gemeni… The Converter was never intended to be the next big thing. It just began as a single board that a few friends tried and dug it and a small chain reaction started. That’s all. If anyone is actually interested, my shaping career extends over 30 years including a six year partnership with Gary Linden and an 8 year partnership with Dick Brewer. No doubt I have skipped a generation as far as any worthy promotion goes, however I have never stopped building boards. It is was I was created to do. Mahalo, Steve Morgan, Molokai-Hawaii
Aloha Steve- Molokai is a favorite place of mine. I’d like to put a Converter through a few loops sometime in the next few months. Do you have any demo models in laying around Honolulu? There is a good chance I’d want one after working out the volume issues. I normally ride about a 6’5 x 18.62 x 2.4 rounpin in good head high waves.
There are a few demos out at Makaha and a few on Molokai, however none matching those specs. If you come to Molokai, Gaia Waits is riding a board very close to that size. I am sure he would let you catch a few waves. Mahalo, Steve
Then have you been making more of them in funboard or longboard length? Does the design lend itself to shortboards?
The Converter bottom seems to adapt well to most board designs with certain modifications being made. My answer was in line with your question regarding test models available in Honolulu. The only test model currently in the shop is 6’1" x 18 1/2 x 2 3/8.
I’d try a 6’1 demo. Is it on Molokai or Oahu? The more I think of your design the better I like it.
On Oahu