OH MAN AM I GLAD YOU GUYS EXIST! Over the past month the resources here have helped me learn BIG TIME about serious surfboard dynamics. I’m pumped about designing and shaping my first board, but before I start I’d like to get some advice.
The main trait I am looking for is speed. I am not a ripper or shredder, so high manouverability and flickability are traits I am not interested in. Instead, I like smooth, down-the-line, in trim, workable speed. The board will be primarily ridden at Topanga (point break) in North LA (girlfriend just moved up there) and the Trestles area (rock reef, beach break) in Orange/SD Counties, with an occasional Malibu jaunt.
I’ve got some ideas of my own concerning shape, rocker, and rails, but figure since you have experience, I’d ask for suggestions.
So, considering the things I want, what are some recommendations you might give me?
Rocker is going to be key important. Existing big name buiders, Takayama, Stewart, Murphy, Yater, G&S, all of the names have long boards that fly straight, Skip Fry in San Diego specialises in straight line gliders. Examples of what you'll be trying for are all over the place. Better start figuring out how to measure or "take off" rocker from existig shapes so you've got a starting point; thats a common need among builders and much gets written about how to do it here on Swaylocks.
Thanks for the suggestions. No plans for making a wooden alaia–maybe I’ll glass a couple pieces of cardboard an see how that rides
Here are some screenshots of what I’m considering building. I don’t know what kind of fin setup to use, but a 5-fin bonzer setup sounds tasty.
The rails are down in the rear quarter, and gently round out to 50/50 in the nose. The nose rocker is round 3" so I don’t dig catching the wave, but after that it flattens out.
Would a single-to-double concave help this board in point type surf?
I am REALLY open to suggestions and wisdom… I have experience on longboards, shorter single fins, and my 7’2" takayama egg w/ thruster setup.
