Hi John,
Here’s a brief general rundown, feel free to probe me for more info if you think I have it.
How often do you surf?
East Coast - so when there is surf (translation - not nearly enough, hardly ever any surf!)
When the swell is down fly fishing is the best option I’ve found <<
What kind of conditions do you find yourself in most?
Beach break and jetties into shallow sandbars - often steep, quick and closing out. Would like to get into the wave sooner then later but I don’t want a 10 foot log (yet). The other half of the time its mushy.
Specs. for your board: 8.0"x16.5"x21.5"x15.0"x 2.875+
cause you’ll have good paddle power and be able to ride very small surf <<
How do you want the board to perform?
Trim and turn.
put a bayne box in the center and rail fins located like you’d place them on a thruster cluster. This way you can experiment with fin sizes – Lokbox if you must but it’s my last choice <<
Do you feel you need a board with a center fin?
Thought single or 2+1 w/. Lokbox sides. Not opposed to a quad (have a RNF Q. now). NO thruster set-up, though!
Quad is an option but from what you’re telling 2+1 will probably suit your style better <<
Do you want a light, midweight, or heavy board? Classic weight foam and 7.5oz Volan would be preferred.
Heavy boards in small surf will most always do better with a center fin. You can always surf it as a single. This can be a very good option in some conditions <<
How do you want the board to maneuver?
Pretty well
How vertically will you surf?
Just roller coaster turns - no Bonga Perkins moves! Will you surf much very juicey conditions?
See above
If you want to have a washy feel in the board and do a little tail sliding you can always up the rail fin size and down size the center or move it forward <<
Will you surf in strong off shore or side shore winds a lot?
Yes, unfortunately (see above)
A heavy glass job will serve you well here <<
Answers to questions like these will help tell what type of board will serve your needs best.
6’ and 180lbs and wear 5 & 6 mil suits
As far as rocker, bottom contours, wide point placement, foil, and rail shape are concerned I would discuss these in detail with the local shaper you choose.
For the record i have more than a couple boards in my quiver. One of them is an 8’0" Freeline with a 2+1 setup that John Mel calls a “Speed Platter” I’ve had a much fun on it as any board I’ve surfed.
No Worries, Rich