Do I want a smaller board?

loudsubz · Criminal Joined: 10 Aug 2008 Posts: 77 City: Mississauga

Currently ride a 142 (I am 180 lbs). I am looking at new boards and have been told by a few mfgs I should go with the larger board, but I like a fast board that feels nimble and quick. How much more of an impact would my body take from going with say a 138 instead of a 142? I can fit in both ranges as the 138 will do 130-210 and the 142 does 160-250 lbs I think..

TAMELESSTGR · Newbie Joined: 20 Jul 2011 Posts: 41

I recently upgraded from a 139 to a 144. I am 6'2" 220lbs and I felt like my 139 was always splowing through the water. The weights of the two boards are comperable, but I have widened my stance a little bit. I've got 40 pounds on you, but I feel the larger board is helping me.

I also think what kind of water you ride on, meaning surface conditions, also plays a part. My lake often in choppy, it's only glass in the morning, and I feel like the larger board also helps me stay on top.

I would take a look at the surface area of boards you are looking at, if they are comperable than the shorter board may perform the same.