VIC
528 posts
What's the difference between the ride of a surfboard designed for kiteboarding to one that is designed for the surf?
Right now I'm riding an oldish strapless surfboard, thinking of maybe getting a new board or just using a newer surfboard and using that for the waves too.
I know it depends on a few things just looking for a generalish response :).
QLD
2060 posts
No difference. All comes down to foot skills, balance, etc. Any board can be used for kite surfing. I've seen guys ride on esky lids even (yes the real ones).
VIC
960 posts
I think some Kiteboard developed directional boards are 'made for kiting' and are reinforced to dent less easily should you accidentally think you're on a twintip and try and jump on them.
From everything I've seen, it's generally a bad idea to jump a directional. There 100s of pseudo directionals out there that try and bridge the gap between twin tip and surf.
I'd recommend reading some of Ben Wilsons' blogs and websites about it. I'm pretty sure he uses a surf surfboard, not kitesurfboard (although does sell them!).
95 posts
The type of rails and the amount of rocker will effect, greatly, how well the board goes up wind. If you want to kite and paddle into waves with one board there will be compromises. I enjoy traveling with one board and being ready for what ever conditions I get, so I have a surf board that I can kite. It depends on what you want to do, but in my experience, you just have to experiment. And, yes, kite board are generally more durable.
VIC
528 posts
Thanks for the info guys, I think I'll just get a new Surfboard mines held up pretty well and yeah I'd rather travel with the one board.
