I surfed a fair amount in the 60s and then quit for 30 years. When I got back into it a few years ago, I bought a modern 9’6" single. It was interesting to feel, all at once, the effects of so many design differences. It was like the board was teaching me what had been going on during the interim. But, one thing sort of puzzles me. My recollection is that the 60s style boards liked to find a higher line on a wave. Do I remember correctly? If so, what would be the cause? More weight, softer rails, flatter rocker, what? I am missing a certain high on the wall feeling that I can’t quite put my finger on.
interesting question. tsimpson- i wasnt around to remember those boards- however; may i take a guess? could it have been the fin-/ were the fins the old laminated wood fins that had extensive base as well as tip area? my reason tells me that a rudder that big would have little ‘releasing capability’.-i might be completely off the mark - some older gentlemen here would surley have your answer.
You may have purchased one of the new high performance longboards. Flatter bottoms, harder rails. The older boards with 50 50 rails and a nice roll in the bottom in the front third were great in the pocket. That rail softness and belly caused drag which in return “drug” the front of the board up higher on the wave. aloha, tom
Not knowing what you are riding now-just off the top of my head I would say rocker and rails -little or no doubt what your riding now has thinner (more tapered) rails as well as a considerable more rocker-the softer (and fatter rails of the past always held to the top of the wave much more than even todays so called 50-50 rails -also the flat rocker with just bottom and rail roll for grace contributeted to that same effect—throw in a big ol fin with a 8-9 " base and the only thing that kept the board on the wave was body wieght–it was all lift --take out an old 60’s longboard and you’ll see even the fastest ones feel like theres an air lift under them.
I would only add that tail rails now are usually hard and low. Makes a big difference in acceleration and control.