While I wouldn't reccomend this board for massive or very choppy surf, it absolutely ripped the waves I rode with speed and precision. Its three (moveble and removeable)fins gave the board great maneuverability while the epoxy and graphite construction gave peace of mind that there was very little danger of dingage. Having not ridden a longboard in a while, I was both impressed and delighted by the performance of the 8'6" longboard from New Surf Project. Both of these boards are available through the Global Surf Industries website.
Next I tested the Betty Series model from New Surf Project. This is one fine piece of machinery. In fact, I was a bit intimidated by its sheer beauty. The purple flowers and pink stiping, however, absolutely floored my daughter who proclaimed it her property and forbade me from riding it until she did. At six years old, my daughter already knows a good board when she sees it. Once I got my hands on the fashionable and functional funshape, I was glad I did.
The whole concept of the funshape is that the board is wide and rounded for catching waves easily but still short enough to allow loads of mobility. The Betty board delivers on the funshape promise in that I caught almost evey wave for which I paddled and was delighted by the quick turning capability. The rounded nose not only helps prevent nose-dives but also gives opportunity for nose-riding. These features alone would give me reason to reccomend this board, but when you factor in the stylish airbrush and seeminly indestructable epoxy construction, I find the Betty Board from New Surf Project a good investment for beginners. But again, the weight would be a drawback for advanced surfers
The Whole Deal
Available at Global Surf Industries online, all three boards I rode performed well. Their sound construction and professionally finished look mixed with their quick and simple ordering and delivery should give many a reason to look toward the computer screen when they are considering a new board in the future. Remember, while I tried these boards from GSI, there are literally limitless companies out there to browse.Aloha and Keep Surfing.
