Why have to get a new board? Let some other kook pay for the depreciation and grab a second hand bargain so you can thrash it and experiment and build a quiver of boards!?

Yes, at the current prices of boards - especially the top spec ones - buying new has to be a last resort. In fact, here in the UK I can actually buy custom boards cheaper than top spec production boards from the big brands. And then you can get exactly what you want. There something really satisfying paddling a bargain board that you know is better than someone else's who has paid mega-bucks for theirs. How many people buy their cars new? It doesn't make financial sense.

Sounds like a plan. Let us know how it goes.

My latest purchase was a custom.