Hi Folks,

After a bit of advice please.

I'm new to SUP and have been out a few times on a borrowed board (on the ocean - Westernport Bay, Vic). I'm a ski instructor in a previous life and so have spent many years tanding in what feels a very natural SUP stance. I took to it pretty quickly and managed a few small waves within 15 mins. Needless to say I am hooked.

So that I can get out on flat days and play in the surf when its up I'm thinking a 10'6'' all rounder - happy to take advice on size too please.

However, main question is - should I stay clear of the cheaper on line imports (of which there seem to be so many) and save up a bit more cash and get a recognised 'brand'? It will get well used as I live on the coast and can get to the water in minutes - so I want something that will last. Pricing seems to vary from around $1000 for a package on the cheap to $1500+ for recognised brands?

Any comments / suggestions most welcome.

Cheers

Don

Welcome to the breeze.. How heavy are you Don.

Some of the cheaper, lesser known brands and deals on ebay ... are okay. I got one and it served me well - but you have been able to borrow a board to give it a try. I would suggest you do save up and get a recognized brand and dont short cut cause of price. My cheapie (Honu brand) was fine...but it lasted me about ten sessions, and my learning curve was steep - and now have lashed out and bought two Naish boards and put a Fanatic on layby - I am that hooked! As for what brand and model... I am sure you will get plenty of advice from others on here.. and I will bet that DavidJohn is going to suggest a Naish Nalu..... the length of which will depend on your weight. :D

Naish 10'6" Nalu depending on your height and weight. No matter how many boards i demo it, is my go to board for those flat days and piddly surf. Feels like a good long board on the right day with the right fin set up. I've ended up on the sand many times just enjoying the ride, not wanting to pull out of the wave.....

Thanks guys - thats really helpful. PS _ I'm 80kg on a bad day and 75kg on a good one :-) #beermakesyoufat

The Nalu 10 6 would be a very good all rounder at your weight.

I have the 11 4 and highly rate the board...the 10 6 is going to be more lively in the surf. Longboard feel!