Board size. Been discussed throughout various topics, just wanted to refine it. Is definitely a point of controversy. What is easier to get up on. A corky board of say 10L over body weight, a neutral volume equal to body weight, or 10L under so it semi sinks. Keen to hear what is most peoples experience and preference.
In my opinion after a year of winging in sketchy, gusty inconsistent winds and choppy harbour, with no wave assistance for starting.
Under 20 knots
+10L easy as you can balance in chop and don't need the wind to assist standing and you'll get more time winging
+0L more challenging to stand and not as stable
-10L hardest to get going
Over 20 knots -10L is all you need
I have 95L for under 20 knots and 56L for over and am 105kg and 6"3 tall.
I chose -10L as most of the wind in local spot is very gusty and typical is 15-20 knots.
If you are a beginner +10L is all you need.
More volume and bigger board is a disadvantage in 20+knots, so you need two boards I believe or compromise either low end or high end by your decision
Currently on a 125L 5'8 board and am finding looking for lower volume. I tip the scales at about 100 kegs. Thinking of 90L being the next move.
My thoughts are you can't ask too much of one board. Otherwise you have a board that tries to hard and ends up doing nothing that well. Probably why most have two boards in the end. So think north kiter is pretty bang on with his synopsis. I've got a 60L which is 15-17 litres under and with stink bud can get going in 13-15 if wind is consistent. If it's not I'm stuck watching everyone else. If anything I will be adding a neutral botany board - like 75L in the end.
although will try a bigger foil first.
