I was wondering if any of you more experienced guys could give me some advice on which way to go with my next board. I am currently riding a 12'6 Surftect Bark. Its a great board for the flatwater or BOP style paddling but not the best for downwind and ocean paddling. Im keen to make the move to a 14 footer but will keep the 12'6 as well. Id like a 14ft board for downwinding and longer ocean paddles.
You will love the 14' size in rough water and for down-winders etc.. You have a few to choose from now but my favorite is the 14' Glide.. The AST version would have to be by far the cheapest 14 out there and a bargain price IMO.. The Starboard Open Ocean is well worth checking out and the 14' Fanatic is also very good.. btw .. Naish have a new 14' Glide due out next week that has a slightly different rocker and rails and if it's an improvement of the current 14 it must be very good.. I've heard it is.. Where are you?.. Can you demo boards where you are?
Seems to be more races with the 12'6 class. But if you are after a lifestyle board go the 14' Naish Glide. The new one is out this week and is supposed to be great. If you want to save a few dollars the old one is a great downwind board. I have one for sale. Cheap and in great condition. It is the white one not the AST.
The 12'6 and 14 Hobies & Fanatics would suit your height & weight real well but DO yourself a favour an check out the DC14 as well - user "AA" has one in demo at Balmoral boards.
Some 12'6" ers can match nicely with the 14's. If you want a good bop, ocean and downwind board then you could also look at the sic 12'6" or the starboard race 12'6"x27.5". These boards are proven fast but still fine to race at spsc club style events. Both great fun to surf, particularly the sic. Key is to demo many. Sam.
