Is there are a general rule for choosing the most appropriate size of board for allround flat water freeride sailing. For example volume should be equall to body weight or volume should be about 10 litres more than body weight etc.
I hope this question makes sense?

Thanks for the tips. I'm trying to clear out space in the garage. I have a 93L and a 103L so I am trying to work out if I really need both or are they a bit of doubling up. By the way I weigh 80kg.

Sell the lot Hawkie and get some wave gear

I KNOW I don't need all nine boards in my garage..

Maybe I need a smaller garage?

It also pays to remember that volume isn't the only consideration. It's only really relevant when you're wondering whether you'll float or not.

Width and shape are what we really need to compare when figuring out whether a board is suitable for the job in mind. Volume is a poor indicator.

As an example, I have a 220 litre bic Melody (old plastic longboard) and a 230 litre starboard Start. There's only 10 litres difference between them, but they are COMPLETELY different shapes, and have entirely different specialties.

You'll float on either board, so if you really have to choose then it comes down to the most common conditions and which board is most suitable most of the time.

Or, as has been suggested, just keep all of them (guilty!!) and get a new one as well.

Maybe it's easier to just figure out a better way to store them in order to make better use of the space in the garage!

keep the flow, magic board

I've thought about this alot since I am about 100kg so my weight does have a big impact. My conclusion now after going through having multiple boards and sails for everything is that volume isn't really that big of a factor, as was said previously board shape is fairly critical. Now, I only ever ride an 85l board with a 4.5, 5.3 or 5.8. Then again I never go out if its less than 20 knots. For me I am running weight minus 15 litres, which for the average 80kg guy would suggest a 65litre board. If people are planing on 5.5 to 6.0 I am also planing on my 5.8. Volume is 100% of the float equation if you are not moving but once you start moving the push of the water against the board has more of an influence on wether you are sinking or floating. The faster you go the higher you float until you are planing. Once you are up and planing volume is irrelevant and frankly I am always happier on a smaller board than a bigger once up and running. I do sometimes have to wait for a bigger gust to get up and go but once up which is at least 80% of the time in 20k+ I am way happier than when I used to run bigger boards. I'd rather trade off a bit more of a wait to plane for a better planing experience than the other way around. So, I'd go the smaller board.

akhawk said...

Notwal, Do you mean do I find the flow more fun?

Yep.

I mainly use the flow with my 5.2 and my 5.8. I also have a 6.9 but I haven't used this sail with the flow only the ride. If the wind is that marginal I'm probably going to indulge in my new passion and get the sup out instead!