Hello all, my first post, could not find anything in the archive on this subject.
I’m looking for info on the important details when choosing/shaping a board for strong offshore winds and semi weak waves?
My main boards are 6’0x18’75x2,25 square (<5ft) 6’8x18,5x2-3/8" (round pin) (6-8ft)
This means I’m often forced to use the 6’8 when waves are 4ft with strong offshore. I’d like a middle board that turns better than the 6’8 but paddles way better than the 6’0 (that totally wears me out when it get’s choppy)
I was thinking maybe a 6’3x18,25x2-3/8 round tail with a little added rocker, the round tail for not have the tail “catch” chops in the bottomturn (like a square) and I’ve experienced that you can get away with extra rocker when you get choppy faces under the board?
My experience from surfing with a fish (6’3x19,25) in these conditions, is that it’s great in takeoff, goes way too fast to the bottom and is pretty jumpy on the face (maybe the wings)
Also, a little rolled V up front is a great way to even things out. A panel V gets caught in the chop.
A foil that requires you to paddle up a little farther up on the board lessens the chance of wind grabbing the nose. Speaking of noses, narrow as you’re comfortable with.
I started surfing late in life in Ventura and with my poor eyesight I finally began wearing prescription goggles. My current pair is tinted and polarized. I can take the bright sun all day.
Best thing is one Easter Sunday I got smacked by my own board and only required 3 stitches in my eyelid. The goggles probably saved my eye socket. Also, they are covered under my insurance!
