The energy gain from a larger board can be quickly lost if you need to paddle through the break. Larger boards are more difficult to duck dive and are dragged back further. When caught in turbulence they are also more difficult to hang onto. There are a lot of factors involved here so if you are sizing up you really need to work with an experienced designer. A difference of 3-4L also makes a huge difference in performance ….. for better or worse!
Very true! I'm always impressed when someone gets a midlength through a heavy beach break - I refuse to give up the ability to dive a board deep under. And doubly-true with hanging onto the board, I know someone with a torn bicep from trying to hold onto his longboard on a relatively small day.
The energy gain from a larger board can be quickly lost if you need to paddle through the break. Larger boards are more difficult to duck dive and are dragged back further. When caught in turbulence they are also more difficult to hang onto. There are a lot of factors involved here so if you are sizing up you really need to work with an experienced designer. A difference of 3-4L also makes a huge difference in performance ….. for better or worse!
Very true! I'm always impressed when someone gets a midlength through a heavy beach break - I refuse to give up the ability to dive a board deep under. And doubly-true with hanging onto the board, I know someone with a torn bicep from trying to hold onto his longboard on a relatively small day.