I can get a very good deal on a brand new Naish Hokua 8'10" with a yellow/white rail and a bamboo deck (2011 model???) and I wonder how this board compares to the more recent boards such as the 9'0".
I am 85 kg (187 lbs) 1.87m(6'1") and paddle a Starboard Pocket Rocket which I will keep for choppier conditions.
I am looking for a fast board for the really nice windless days,waves 2ft and higher. I don't mind to struggle a bit at first but not all the time.
Would it be smarter to get the 9'0" which I will have to wait for and is much more expensive?Is the 2012 9'0" a much better choice and more stable with its concave deck and ¾" more width and perhaps faster as well?
I've ridden both and I don't find the 8'10 all that slow - the new 9'0 is great especially for heavier riders but both are quite sensitive to fin size and placement.
Center fin shouldn't be bigger than 5.5inch and needs to be well forward in box, then the boards light up.
I'd say the 8'10 really shines in slightly bigger or more powerful waves were the 9'0 is perhaps more all-round. 9'0 is bigger (volume and width) and combined with concave deck a bit more stable.
I have the 9'0" which is a terrific board. You will love it. I also just bought the 8'5" which surfs unreal and is surprisingly stable for it's and my size. Go the 9'0"
Swanie, what is your weight? I,m 90kg and paddled the 8.5 but found it just a tiny litlle bit too small so still in doubt to go for a 9.0 or something slightly bigger as a compliment to my Starboard8.10
went to the 9 and still loving it.
