caps wrote: ↑Sun Oct 14, 2018 3:02 pm
I'm looking to find a lightweight, versatile surfboard with inserts for the occasional storm ride.
I'm looking for the following characteristics: lightweight, surfing up to medium waves, inserts for big, stormy days at sea, decent upwind, travel easy, friendly to share with a beginner.
From the reads, I've come upon SS angry swallow, Naish skater, FW evo, Fone mitu, Doutone whip among many others. All for big moneyI know that many would probably work fine but just curious what others have found. Opinions encouraged and appreciated!
I think you're on the right track. The "blunt" tip type surfboards that are popular for strapless freestyle also tend to be better for smaller waves and conditions. I personally ride a FW Vanguard for conditions exactly like you mention above.
"Best" is a relative term... Best construction/materials vs. Best ride qualities. Ride quality is subjective, so I'll focus on construction and materials only. Without going custom made, and since you're preferring strap inserts and are looking for the "best" board for the conditions you state above, the "best" board that comes to mind is F-One's Slice Pro Series...
https://bayareakitesurf.com/outlet/?item=102396
Other than that, the boards you listed above and some others like RRD's COTAN and Cab's Squid Launcher or X-Breed would all be perfect. I'm sure several others are available from other brands since it's a popular shape.
If you're thinking a dedicated strapless (no inserts) surfboard or something to mod with stick-on straps, then definitely check out Firewire's Evo or Vanguard or possibly FCD's Blunt or DI's (DSD) Stallion. Many of the big brands are also offering dedicated strapless boards, so you have plenty of options there as well. I'd look for some 2017-18 models on closeout since most boards are only paint job changes per season.
Good luck!