Luke Morris

Cobalt R5 Surf – Discover Boating Excellence

January 25, 2023by Luke Morris

Back in the day, surfing behind a sterndrive-powered boat was but a dream – it was dangerous and illegal and most places. If you wanted to wakesurf, you had to get an inboard or V-drive boat that safely tucked the propeller under the hull. One innovation changed that – the Cobalt R5 Surf Cobalt Boats came with a simple twist. That is to turn the propellers on the dual-screw sterndrive propulsion system a full 180 degrees to position them safely away from the surfer. It was a technology that blew up all the rules about wakesurfing. Who Are Cobalt Boats? Founded in 1968, Cobalt has inspired a sense of ownership equivalent to accomplishment. Cobalt Boats has been recognized as America’s boat-building experts. Their commitment to standard-setting performance and luxury continues to make it more than just a purchase but a destination. Cobalt Boats places a premium on meticulous construction and technical excellence in its design. They have built their reputation on quality instead of price. Buyer satisfaction has always been at the top of the list in all major categories. In July 2017, Cobalt Boats was acquired by its competitor Malibu Boats. This valued deal will have Malibu Boats maintain Cobalt Boat’s manufacturing operations in Neodesha, Kansas. Cobalt R5 Surf Reviewed The most important thing people love about Cobalt R5 Surf is how it allows sterndrive fans to experience the most popular watersport. One of its optional features, the Flip-Down Swim Step, is no longer just an option but a standard feature in this lineup. As the name suggests, a simple flip down the broad step recessed into the platform allows reentry from the water and is an effortless step for humans and pet passengers. This step is a great place to sit while immersed on warm summer days. Aside from the swim step, another great feature is the Sundeck Convertible Lounger. This lounger has its flip-up backrest set into the sun pad that creates a rumble seat for two people to sit facing aft with their feet on the swim platform. All of these, including the interiors, are designed exquisitely. The beautiful white, pleated upholstery supported by Varadense from padding accommodates up to 14 passengers. Plus, its Free Space Reclamation maximizes interior space by reducing the width of the gunwales. Performance Cobalt R5 Surf’s standard engine is a Volvo Penta 5.3L V-8 300. This engine draws from its forward-facing drive and large IPS Pod Drive systems scaled down to their inboard and outboard outdrives to create the first-ever forward-facing outdrive. This boat utilizes proprietary surf tabs bigger than the Forward Drive competition with a straightforward deployment through its integrated touch screen at its dash. Turn on the Performance Mode, and the surf tabs automatically deploy. It doesn’t matter whether the ballast is full or empty. The Performance Mode will help the boat get on the plane quickly. Handling The Forward Drive system offers more benefits, including the slightly forward boat’s pivot point. This position allows for faster and harder turns – to the point where drivers should take it easy for the first few attempts until they get the hang of it. It makes Cobalt R5 Surf exceptionally responsive during docking maneuvers. This responsiveness comes in handy against stiff crosswinds. Typically, most ski boats beat passengers up in a chop because of their flat-bottomed hulls – this is not a concern with the Cobalt R5 Surf. This boat’s extended running surface offers a sharp entry and 21 degrees of deadrise at the stern. This valuable feature of Volvo Penta is called the Power Trim Assist, which maintains the boat appropriately trimmed at all speeds. Uses While the name implies that Cobalt R5 is for surfing, it isn’t. The Cobalt R5 Surf is not limited to surfing only. With its 2,100 pounds of ballast spread over three hard tanks combined with the boat’s dry weight of 4,880 pounds, it has the immensity to plow up a decent surfing wake on either side. This power allows you to switch sides quickly without heeling far over because of the surf tabs. The wakes aren’t as massive and don’t have quite as much push as the wakes V-drive surf boats create. But, they are certainly large enough to get the job done efficiently. The Cobalt R5 Surf’s list of standard features is remarkable. Its Zero Off cruise control system is GPS-based for accuracy and is perfect for letting the driver set the speed, advance the throttle all the way and concentrate on steering. This boat also comes standard with a wake sports tower plus Samson board racks for surfboards and wakeboards. In addition, a screw-in pylon delivers a low tow point for an active day of tubing and slaloming. Lastly, Cobalt Boats introduces their patent-pending technology, Wave Control System, in the Cobalt R5 Surf. This technology automatically tunes the boat’s attitude for optimal surfing. It allows the pumping of huge waves and can take the variables out to perfection when used with Zero Off. Interior The insides of the Cobalt R5 Surf define the style and fashion of Cobalt Boats even more. Its interiors are refined with double-stitched leather, tilt steering, flush-mounted pop switches, stylish gauges, and a superior sound system. Its bow features a one-of-a-kind layout that offers a lounger seat on the port side and a captain-style seat on the starboard side, all with folding armrests for that comfortable seating. Conclusion Cobalt Boats speaks for itself. The company’s dedication to water sports gave us some of the most natural evolution in boats, including the Cobalt R5 Surf. Considering the existing and newly added features, we won’t be surprised just why a lot want to jump on it. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) Q: What is the Cobalt R5? A: The Cobalt R5 is a luxury bowrider boat manufactured by Cobalt Boats, a leading boat manufacturer in the United States. Q: How many people can the Cobalt R5 seat? A: The Cobalt R5 has a capacity of up to 16 people. Q: … Read more

What is Cymophobia? An In-Depth Look at the Phobia

January 15, 2023by Luke Morris

We have all experienced fear at some point in our lives, but when these fears begin to control us they can take over aspects of our lives and eventually turn into phobias. One such phobia is Cymophobia. Cymophobia is a fear of waves or wave-like motions which is closely related to Aquaphobia which is the fear of water. Below we are going to take a deeper look into Cymophobia, its symptoms, causes, and what you could do to combat this irrational fear. What Is a Phobia? According to the Harvard Heal Publishing by Harvard Medical School, a phobia is a “persistent, excessive, unrealistic fear of an object, person, animal, activity or situation”. A person with a phobia will go through life either painfully enduring the anxiety and distress that the phobia causes or doing what they can to avoid the triggering situation as much as possible. Phobias are very specific and can cause different levels of distress throughout an individual’s daily life. For example, a person with Cymophobia could live relatively anxiety-free if they live inland and away from large water bodies or rivers. On the other hand, a person suffering from Aquaphobia will go through their life with constant anxiety and distress as water is unavoidable. What Causes Phobias? Both genetic and environmental factors are believed to contribute to the start of a phobia, according to John Hopkins Medicine. In some cases, phobias can be linked to traumatic or extremely negative first experiences with an object or situation, however, mental health experts can’t confirm whether the first encounter is necessary, or if phobias could be triggered simply because the person is prone to them. What Is Cymophobia? As mentioned above, Cymophobia is the abnormal, irrational fear of waves, swell, and other wave-like motions. The level of anxiety caused by this fear will differ from person to person. For example, individuals suffering from a traumatic tsunami experience may only fear movement in the ocean and not waves caused in a swimming pool. On the other hand, if you suffer from a deep-rooted childhood trauma related to waves in a controlled environment such as a pool, you will likely fear the ocean as well. It should be noted, however, that Cymophobia and the exaggerated fear of waves shouldn’t be confused with a natural fear and caution experienced when surfing some of the world’s biggest waves. In short, fear is natural, but it is the panic that arises with fear that changes health caution into a dangerous anxiety-filled phobia. What Are the Symptoms of Cymophobia? As specific phobias are considered anxiety disorders, the main symptoms that can be expected are much the same as that of an anxiety attack. These symptoms include, but are not limited to: Feeling nervous, restless, or tense. Having a sense of impending danger or panic. Increased heart rate. Hyperventilation (rapid breathing). Sweating. Trembling and shaking. Feeling weak or tired. Individuals experiencing an attack of Cymophobia will likely feel some or all of the above sensations. In some cases, a person with Cymophobia could go into a panic attack if their phobia is triggered and they are not able to escape the situation. Apart from the anxiety symptoms above, a person facing an attack of Cymophobia could face vertigo, dizziness, and nausea It’s common for a person with cymophobia to make a huge effort to avoid contact with areas that may trigger a response. This, in the case of cymophobia, could be simply living away from large bodies of water. What Are the Causes of Cymophobia? The cause of a specific phobia will differ between each individual, but it is believed that a traumatic experience or even a strongly uncomfortable first encounter could trigger a phobia. In the case of cymophobia, this could be a near-drowning experience, getting caught in a rip current and panicking, being dumped by a wave much larger than you can handle, or simply from paddling out in waves too large and triggering your fear from what you see in front of you. Although there is no concrete evidence for how phobias such as cymophobia occur, it is a common belief that both a genetic background of mental illness and traumatic environmental stimuli (such as a tsunami) play a strong role. How Can I Treat Cymophobia? There is no specific treatment for cymophobia, however, there are different forms of treating specific phobias and anxiety as a whole. These treatments, when implemented over time, can help reduce the symptoms of cymophobia, and in some cases, overcome it altogether. *Please note that none of the following is medical advice. If you are concerned about your mental or physical health you should seek out an authorized medical practitioner. Exposure Therapy Exposure therapy is one of the most common forms of treatment for people suffering from phobias. In theory, the more a person is exposed to a situation or object they fear, the less they will be affected by it over time. In the case of cymophobia, a therapist might begin by showing you pictures of waves, progressing to the sound of waves, then to videos of waves, and eventually looking at the ocean from a distance while over time slowly moving closer. There is no guarantee that exposure therapy alone will help with the phobia, but it will aid in desensitizing you from your fear as you go through other necessary treatments such as breath control and relaxation techniques. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) CBT is another common form of treatment for those suffering from anxiety. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, in short, is a treatment that helps people to identify and change their destructive or disturbing thought patterns. These thought patterns often have a negative impact on the patient’s life, such as living by the coast and being in constant fear of a tsunami, even if the chances are 1 million to 1. By identifying these thought patterns, one can begin to find the route of their fears. Meditation and Mindfulness Practices Meditation has long held the claim to … Read more

Almond Surfboards Review | Epic Boards or Rip Off?

January 13, 2023by Luke Morris

Before you consider surfing, you should find an exceptional surfboard to hone your skills every time you surf. Even if you only surf to have a good time, a performing surfboard will push you to be a pro. However, determining which surfboard to buy is the challenge. There may be numerous options in the market, but you should check out Almond Surfboards to buy from the best brand. Quality has been this brand’s trademark. Plus, surfers prefer buying from its collection because it features unique styles with exceptional finishes. It’s not only performing but also stylish. Top 10 Best Almond Surfboards Reviewed Almond Surfboards is one of the top picks for performance, and it offers a variety of surfboards for surfers to choose which board is suitable for their skill levels. Here’s an Almond Surfboards review to know more about its collection. Almond Beach Chicken Fish Surfboard Almond Surf Thump Longboard Surfboard Almond Sandia Fish Surfboard Almond BBF Model Fish Surfboard Almond Special Recipe Fish Surfboard Almond Logistic Longboard Surfboard Almond Sea Kitten Fish Surfboard Almond Walks on Water Longboard Surfboard Almond Pinwheel Longboard Surfboards Almond Lumberjack Longboard Surfboard 1. Almond Beach Chicken Fish Surfboard Almond Surfboards doesn’t fail to satisfy every surfer with its exceptional collection. If you need a fish surfboard, you should consider buying the Beach Chicken Fish Surfboard. This surfboard is a masterpiece with Kevin Butler’s collaboration. It’s not a typical fish surfboard because it’s a stretched-out model of the Sandia Fish. It features a twin-keel tail, which helps a lot in accelerating the board’s movement despite any wave condition. Another edge of this surfboard is its unique style. It features chicken graphics, which makes it very appealing to a lot of surfers. Plus, it comes with a white-colored deck, which uses premium-quality materials to guarantee its sturdiness. Aside from that, this surfboard’s volume capacity is 49.6 liters, providing exceptional balance as you ride it or execute tricks. It’s also available in two sizes only, making it hassle-free for surfers to choose from. You can either choose 7 feet by length or 7 feet and 8 inches, which you can maneuver with ease. If you want further agility, you should install fins on your surfboard. Futures fins are advisable for its twin boxes. Plus, it comes with the set, making it favorable to newbies who get excited about receiving their first fish surfboard. 2. Almond Surf Thump Longboard Surfboard You’ll need a reliable surfboard if you want exceptional performance, and Almond Surfboards has everything you need. If you’re looking for a board that can provide you with an excellent surfing experience, you can never go wrong with the Surf Thump Longboard Surfboard. This surfboard features a classic style that most beginners admire. Aside from that, it’s available in different sizes, letting you choose the suitable one for your volume. The sizing ranges from 9 feet and 2 inches to 10 feet. When it comes to the recommended sizing, it’s best to pick a size between 9 feet and 8 inches or 9 feet and 2 inches long. For optimum performance, the advisable nose width is 17.75 inches, while the tail is 16.50 inches. Regardless if you’re a beginner or a professional, riding this surfboard is hassle-free. It provides exceptional maneuverability without compromising its paddling strength. Thanks to its thumbnail design, controlling it is more comfortable. Aside from that, this board gives smoother transitions, regardless of any wave condition. Also, it can be agile by installing some fins, such as Pin Fin or D-Fin. These are ideal for this surfboard. 3. Almond Sandia Fish Surfboard Almond offers some of the best fish surfboards, which is why many pros prefer this brand. If you need a top-performing board with full agility, you can never go wrong with the Sandia Fish Surfboard. The twin-fin style of this board lets it move with full acceleration. It comes with a meek yet appealing style in a single color. It also comes with a twin fin box, installing fins to make it more agile as you glide along small or big waves. Plus, you can install any without worrying whether it fits well or not. Durability is also one of the reasons why you should buy it. It uses high-quality materials, which makes it damage-resistant. Controlling and executing tricks with this board is more accessible because of its sizing. It’s available in four sizes, from 5 feet and 4 inches to 5 feet and 10 inches. Aside from that, the volume ranges from 31.6 liters to 36.9 liters, which you also need to consider if you want to maneuver it with ease. Another edge of this surfboard is the improved, streamlined nose, letting you ride the board smoothly despite various waves. It’s the best way how you can practice balancing, especially during crucial wave types. This board is best for intermediate to professional surfers. If you want to improve your surfing skills more, it’s best to buy a board that measures 5 feet and 2 inches or 6 feet and 4 inches in length. 4. Almond BBF Model Fish Surfboard If you want to enhance your skills effectively, the BBF Model Fish Surfboard or Big Bueno Fish by Almond is one of the most recommended fish surfboards for intermediate and professional surfers. What makes it favorable is its classy dual-colored design, which surfers find appealing. This board is exceptional as it comes with sturdy foam, making it hassle-free to control. It also features a similar paddling ability to an egg surfboard. Plus, it’s very responsive as it comes with a more rocker. If you want to boost your board while riding waves, installing fins is also an option. This board features a quad-fin set-up, and you can use Futures fins. Moreover, these are part of the set if you purchase one. This surfboard has a wide range of sizes. The shortest measures 6 feet at 38.06-liter volume, while the longest is 7 feet at 49.6 liters. It’s lengthier than the Sandia … Read more

Top 9 Best Mid-Length Surfboards (Chilli)

January 12, 2023by Luke Morris

Many people, especially the new surfers, go crazy about the one-board quiver. This board can handle different water conditions, whether it is a massive wave or knee-length ones. The one board quiver is not for the average surfer who has been using longboards or shortboards for a long time. Therefore, to meet both the longboard and shortboard users’ needs, the mid-length surfboards came into the picture. The modern designs of these boards can handle the waves no matter what the water condition is. Mid-length surfboards are commonly between seven to eight feet in length. Its performance is unique. If you are looking to experience its benefits, you need to buy one of the best mid-length surfboards. For a successful purchase, you need to know these best products and how to buy them. Top 9 Best Mid-Length Surfboards Reviewed Modern Falcon PU Modern Love Child PU Chilli Mid Strength TT South Bay Board Co Casper Creative Army Huevo PU South Bay Board Co 7’7 Elefante Salt Gypsy Mid Tide PU Creative Army Huevo SLX Modern Love Child XB #1. Modern Falcon PU Specifications: Length: 6’0, 6’4, 6’8, 7’0, 7’6, 8’0 Weight range: 110 pounds and above Volume (liter): 35, 39, 43, 47, 53, 60, Skill-level: beginner to advanced Wave height: one to six feet The Modern Falcon PU is a perfect choice if you want a step-down from a longboard without entirely transitioning to shortboards. It provides stability and buoyancy, making it one of the ideal surfboards for confident beginners and intermediate surfers. It has an attractive shape that affects its perfect performance. It has a broad point outline that is excellent for improved trim stability. This surfboard has a streamlined nose that provides a contemporary vibe. The Modern Falcon has a rocker that is excellent in providing better paddle speed and steep wave access. This product is the best choice if you are a beginner looking for a smooth transition from using a foamie to a more advanced surfboard type. #2. Modern Love Child PU Specifications: Length: 6’4, 6’8, 7’0, 7’6, 8’0 Weight range: 165 pounds and up Volume (liter): 43, 48, 53, 59, 67 Skill level: beginner to advanced Wave height: one to eight feet It has a generous surface area at the front and towards the tail has a tempered outline. It makes the Modern Love Child PU a versatile option for mid-length surfboard lovers. This product provides excellent paddling, adaptability, and maneuverability in almost any water condition. This surfboard provides an excellent way to catch the waves early because of its outline. The tapered shape at the tail and the low rocker make this product maneuverable and fast. The contour is a vee-double concave that adds to providing the surfers more control on this board. #3. Chilli Mid Strength TT Specifications: Length: 6’10, 7’2, 7’6, 8’0 Weight range: 165 pounds and above Volume (liter): 44, 50, 55, 60 Skill-level: beginner to intermediate Wave height: one to six feet James Chilli was a shortboard user until he had a knee injury. The Chili Mid Strength TT was the product of his passion when he wanted to find a board that allows comfortable paddling and catching waves without exerting much effort. This surfboard has a semi-full nose that makes paddling easier. It also has the type of rocker with the low-entry and medium-exit type feature that comfortably picks up the waves. It has a slight concave contour that aids the speed. It is ideal for older surfers who cannot perform on surfboards with much effort anymore. With this board, the surfers can catch waves and paddle without breaking a sweat. It also has excellent maneuverability that average surfers will also love. #4. South Bay Board Co Casper Specifications: Length: 6’8 Weight range: 70 to 200 pounds Volume (liter): 45 Skill level: beginner to advanced The South Bay Board Co Casper is a mid-length fun board with a round nose and swallow-like tail. It focuses on providing stability and maneuverability for smooth turns and comfortable paddling. Confident beginners may use this product because it is forgiving and user-friendly. If you are a beginner, this product allows you to carve the line comfortably. The Casper has hand-tapered rails that will enable you to catch waves quickly. The texture feels like a fingerprint, and you do not have to wax it. The bottom part has a construction made from bamboo and I-Beam stringer that gives a slight flex. #5. Creative Army Huevo PU Specifications: Length: 6’10, 7’6, 8’1, Weight range: 154 pounds and up Volume (liter): 44, 51, 59, Skill level: beginner to advanced Wave height: zero to six feet The Creative Army Huevo is a hybrid that has the features of a longboard and a shortboard. It has a full tail and a round nose that provides buoyancy and easy paddling. Its two-in-one fin makes this board responsive for maneuvering. Trimming and gliding work like a breeze because of its full outline with a slightly forward wide point at the center. Its slightly rolled vee contours make the transition from one rail to another work a piece of cake. The Creative Army mid-length surfboard is a versatile product to handle the knee-length waves to overhead-sized. #6. South Bay Board Co Elefante Specifications: Length: 7’7 Weight range: up to 250 pounds Volume (liter): 57 Skill level: beginner to advanced The South Bay Board Co Elefante provides classic hybrid mid-length style features with a broad chest and pulled tail. These characteristics allow the surfers to experience fast pop-ups and a loose feeling when taking on small waves. This product comes with a two-in-one fin. The company claims that it is one of the perfect funboards for summer, which beginners and advanced surfers can use in any water condition. #7. Salt Gypsy Mid Tide PU Specifications: Length: 6’4, 6’8, 7’0. 7’4 Weight range: Any Volume (liter): 37, 41, 46, 51 Skill level: beginner to advanced Wave height: one to five feet If you are looking for a mid-length surfboard that focuses on versatility, … Read more

Is Surfline Premium Worth It? | Everything You Need to Know

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Do you like watching the waves? In 2019, Surfline released the premium version of their app where you can watch HD live streams of your favorite surf spots on your phone. With this, you don’t need to wake up early in the morning to check the wave swells, only to end up going back home because the water’s flat or too unpredictable. Even when you’re not surfing, you still get to enjoy your favorite pastime. How awesome is that? To be honest, the Surfline Premium had a pretty smooth start — but not until 2020 happened. In this article, we’ll tell you all about it. We’ll also be discussing if the premium version is really worth your investment, along with the features that give it an edge over other forecasting websites. The History of Surfline Before we get into more details, we first want to briefly talk about the history and background of Surfline to help you understand their work and impact on the surfing world. Every day, thousands of surfers all over the United States go to Surfline’s website to check the waves, making it one of the leading forecast websites for fishing, boating, and surfing reports. But did you know that this company goes way back in the history of forecasting wave conditions? In 1985, Surfline started as a hotline number that surfers can call if they wanted to ask for surf reports and expected swell conditions in some of the surfing’s hottest spots. So how did they do it? As technology wasn’t too advanced during that time, the only way they can relay about the swell conditions is by hiring more than 50 surfers to travel and give reports from their location to the main central office of Surfline in Huntington Beach, California. Their first surf forecast ever recorded was from March 26, 1985, and because of its success, the 976-SURF became a trademark number that almost all surfers memorized during that time. In their first month of launching, Surfline received over 6,000 phone calls from surfers all over Southern California. The main highlight of the daily surf forecasts was the report of young surfer (also the current owner of this company) Sean Collins, who had an incredible skill of predicting the arrival of swells. Long after that, the company expanded its long-range forecasts to other states like Northern California, Florida, and Texas. Fast forward to 1995, Surfline.com launched, which offered free surf information through their online service. In 1996, Surfline hosted their first camera streaming of Huntington Beach, which gained them over 500,000 visitors a week. This breakthrough gave them an opportunity to make money from advertisements and membership fees, which they used to expand their research towards the technology that we have today. Surfline Premium Alright, so back to our main topic, folks. When the premium version was released, Surfline loyalists REALLY kicked up a fuss. The most popular surf forecasting website behind MagicSeaweed, CoastalWatch, and BuoyWeather faced a lot of backlash, and it’s mainly because of this — the HD cam that was free before can only be now accessed by premium members only. Let’s rewind things back a little bit. Before, surfers used to watch the waves through the Surfline app for free. See, they had to endure 15 painful seconds of commercials every time just so they could watch a 15-second preview of the wave or surf spot they wanted to check. If they wanted to watch a little longer, then they’d have to watch the ads all over again. Now, the advertisements are a little sacrifice they were all willing to take that time if that means they don’t have to drive several kilometers to check the day’s swells. But now that the everyday glimpse of their favorite spots is gone, some of the surfers who can’t afford to pay the premium membership are forced to check the waves the old-school way — by walking to get to the beach before dawn so that they can alert their friends if the surf’s on or if they should just keep sleeping. How much does Surfline Premium cost? This brings us to our second topic, which is the price you have to pay to get the premium. In its first year, the Surfline Premium’s membership fee per annum is priced at only $69.99, which is a pretty good value considering its features during that time. But in 2020 (in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic), they sent an email to all their customers about a 35% price increase on the membership fee upon its renewal. Others have read the silent notification, while some unfortunate ones just saw that the new price has already been automatically billed to their account. The price gouging caught everyone off-guard, and it really left a bad taste in the people’s mouths. Currently, the Surfline Premium is priced at $95.88 annually or $7.99 monthly, with the account accessible to one user only. So here’s the million-dollar question — Are the new features worth your money? Let’s find out. Premium Features HD Cameras This feature is the most possible reason why surfers will pay the premium cost because there’s no doubt that Surfline has the best camera network amongst all surf forecast websites. Even the app makes it easy to watch the waves in high definition! With over 500 cameras in different surf destinations globally, checking the local tides and breaks from your bed is now made possible. You can also watch the waves from surfing-banned locations during the pandemic and relive those moments when you get to surf on them. Our favorite, of course, is that the live streaming comes without the ads. Watch the video below for some of Surfline’s camera rewind highlights. Long-Range Reports When it comes to surfing forecasts, most websites have a lot of hits and misses, and that’s totally normal. As we all know, nature can be really brutal and unpredictable (especially when you’re on the east coast). That said, any surf reports … Read more

How to Get Up on a Wakeboard | Advice and Tips

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

As the Ski industry began to die in the mid-1990s the tow-boat industry began to fall with it until the popularization of wakeboarding which some consider being the savior of the tow-boat industry. Now with over 2 million wakeboarders in the U.S alone, it is clear that wakeboarding is here to stay. Getting up on a wakeboard can be tricky for new riders, but by correctly positioning your body, relaxing your arms, and bending your legs, you will be standing up in no time. As you are likely excited to dive into this new and exciting sport, it leaves the question: How do you get up on a wakeboard? Know Your Stance It is important to know which way you will be standing on your board before you enter the water. If you leave this until the boat has begun to tow you, you will not know which way to turn your wakeboard, and likely end up hitting the water. As with other side-on board sports such as skateboarding or surfing, you have two stance options: Regular or Goofy. A regular stance is one that positions the right foot at the tail of the board and left in the front. A goofy stance is the mirror image of regular as your back foot will now be at the tail of your board and your right foot at the nose. Should I Stand Regular or Goofy? The stance you take is entirely up to you, but most riders prefer to place their dominant foot at the back of their board. If you don’t know which foot is dominant you can take note of what foot you use first when climbing stairs, kicking a ball, or standing on a skateboard and see which stance feels the most stable. That being said, in some cases a right-dominated person may surf goofy, and vice versa. You should choose the stance that feels the most natural, and not the stance that “should be” correct. Body Position in the Water Once you have discovered your main stance it is important to understand the correct body position while in the water before being towed. If your starting position is off then getting up on the wakeboard will be significantly more challenging. When in the water you should be floating on your back with the wakeboard floating near the surface of the water parallel to the back of the boat. Your entire body should remain relaxed with your knees bent to your shoulders and hands holding the tow rope (palms facing down). Your arms should be in between your legs and kept straight but relaxed. Your heels should also be pushed slightly down to keep the top rail of the wakeboard out of the water. Different Types of Starts When it comes to different starts, there are two main options: Deepwater starts and dock starts. Each of these has its own advantages, but it is the ease of the deepwater start that has a strong contribution to the popularity of the sport, and the start that is recommended for beginners. Deep Water Start Deepwater starts are generally best for beginners as they can be gentler, and you won’t need a professional boat driver. For a deep water start, you will begin lying in the water at the back of the boat as described above. As the boat picks up speed, the momentum will pull you up and out of the water. Dock Start A dock start is slightly more tricky and requires great communication between the rider and the boat driver. You will also need a private dock and an uncrowded area to do this. A dock start can be done by sitting at the edge of the dock with your feet in the bindings. As the boat takes off it will pull you off the deck and onto the water. This can also be done from a standing position by jumping at the opportune moment, but this is past the scope of a new wakeboarder. How to Get Up on a Wakeboard For the purpose of making standing up as easy as possible, we will be discussing how to get up on a wakeboard by using a deep water start. This is because not everyone has access to a private dock and it’s often found to be easier than dock starts. 1. Secure Your Bindings Before you think of jumping into the water you need to make sure your foot bindings are secure. If your bindings are too loose you will not be able to properly control the board, and will likely come out of the bindings if you fall. Bindings that are too tight will hurt your feet and eventually lead to cramping. This takes a lot of the fun out of the sport as you’ll be constantly in pain. 2. Get In the Water Hop off the boat with the tow rope in one hand, or have someone pass it to you once you are in the water. Once you are in the water and holding the tow rope, simply float on your back (which should be easy with the aid of your life jacket) and wait for the boat to move away from you. Once the rope has no more slack you can use it to maintain your balance while floating. You should be lying on your back facing the stern of the boat with your wakeboard parallel to the back of the boat. 3. Secure the Handle Hold the handle of the tow rope with both hands, palms facing the water. The rope should be running between your legs and over the center of the wakeboard’s lip. It is important to keep the rope center so as to not be pulled to the side when the boat speeds up. It is dangerous to fix the tow rope to your board or body as you will be dragged behind the boat if you fall. You should avoid twisting the rope around your hands, … Read more

Softech Surfboards Review | Pros, Cons, and Expert Insights

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Selecting the ideal surfboard demands a difficult task between maximizing performance along with holding up well and staying at reasonable pricing. The surfers from all skill levels choose Softech Surfboards as their go-to option because of its outstanding reputation. People should evaluate whether Softech Surfboards live up to their marketing claims or exist only to create false expectations. The following comprehensive Softech Surfboards analysis reveals all necessary information that will help you reach an intelligent buying choice. Foam surfboards gained popularity because they are fun and easy to ride. They are ideal for smaller waves. Most importantly, they are safer for beginners and kids to use than hard-top boards. This is where Softech Surfboards put their focus on before creating the line for their high-performance series. They concentrated more on learner-friendly softboards. Now that they have their High-Performance Series, they are still committed to offering a range of boards designed for first-time riders for that help with easy wave catching and basic surfing skills development. Let’s take a rundown on Softech Surfboards and find out just why their name is making waves across the surfing scene. Softech Surfboards Review Company Background The mission that guided Softech Surfboards toward founding their company involved creating premium soft-top surfboards which serve all types of surfers between novices and veterans. Potential wave riders choose Softech Surfboards due to their combination of advanced design elements with durable components. While Softech Surfboards are said to have been founded by Australian surfer Tom Carroll, all of their boards are designed, shaped, and made in the US using only the most highly-durable materials and with proven manufacturing methods. They come in a wide variety of styles, each built to withstand the harshest and toughest conditions of the oceans. Key Highlights: Softech initiated operations through their mission to connect functional surfboard characteristics of fiberglass designs with foam board reliability. Their unique mix of products enables them to claim a specific market segment. Product Line Overview Product Line Overview Softech manufactures surfboards which serve all types of riding abilities alongside multiple design types for specific surf styles. Main Categories: Series Best For Key Features Performance Advanced surfers Responsive Lightweight construction Original Beginner Stable Forgiving design Original Series Softech Softboards’ Original Learner Series is made to be buoyant, firm, and stable for the first time riders to easily catch and ride waves. This design helps them build the skills to start executing basic turns. Roller Designed specifically for beginners, Roller/Handshaped comes in different sizes ranging from 6’ to 8’ and packed with loads of volume. They added the rocker on the nose to keep the dreaded nose dive that a lot of first-time riders fall victim to. Considered a funboard, it has generous outlines aside from the loaded volume. These help in making these boards stable and very easy to ride. As with most of Softech Surfboards sticks, they feature 100% waterproof EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) foam core, double core stringer for strength and rigor. One feature that you will truly appreciate about this stick is its integrated handhold in the deck. Learners find it helpful since it makes it much easier for them to carry it around and to the water. Sally Fitzgibbons Signature Sally Fitzgibbons Signature is made particularly for girls and women who want to experience and rock it out on the waters. It includes a set of compatible fins and is extremely stable and easy to paddle. This signature model is wide, stable, and easy to maneuver and paddle on making it the perfect board for beginner girl surfers. A learner-oriented board, it comes with the width and the volume that helps for easy wave catching. Sally Fitzgibbons Signature surfboards have the high-level standard of Softech construction that features two wood stringers and waterproof EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) core, slick deck, and soft top foam. It features the same handle in the deck like Roller which is popular for learners as they can be easily carried around. All three sizes of this board come with plug style soft fins. They can be ridden by kids, adult learners, and even more advanced surfers. It showcases some upturn in the nose to make sure it wouldn’t sink nose-first. Plus, the lift in the tail helps in twisting and turning. Zeppelin Zeppelin is designed to be extra wide with a huge amount of volume. They are incredibly stable for first-time riders and learners while they gain confidence in riding small broken waves. Known as the “Fat Boy” by surfers in the US and Europe, Zeppelin is a shorter and fatter mal shape that is perfect for beginners who need the extra volume to get the paddling power that most of the time are showcased by wider deck. It helps with stability when the rider is getting up on their feet. The extra width also helps to accommodate heavy and bigger riders. Very easy to ride, it is one of the most buoyant and stable boards in the market today. Performance Series Softech believes that every aspiring surfer grows and they want to be there every step of the way. Instead of focusing only on creating surfboards for beginners, they came up with High-Performace series so that they will still have a board to offer as the surfer’s level of expertise progresses. Softech High-Performance series is inspired by the most up-to-date fiberglass surfboard designs. It erases the fine line between crucial riding and simply having fun. Filipe Toledo Wildfire One of the best performance soft boards in the market today, Softech Surfboards’ Filipe Toledo Wildfire is a soft top that can really rip. Compatible with all FCS II fin styles for additional performance, it is the most refined and performance-oriented board in the lineup. Suited for the intermediate to advanced surfer, Filipe Toledo Wildfire can make the most out of the slightly weaker waves. Its sealed epoxy core makes it lightweight but durable. The double composite stringers it features keep the board stiff and stable. Filipe Toledo Wildfire has a diamond tail … Read more

Boost Fin | The World’s First Electric Surfboard Fin

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

When it comes to catching waves, do boosters really matter? For as long as we can remember, purists have shut down all technologies such as e-foils and propellers that take out the very core of surfing. But now that there’s a new innovation in the market known as the electric surfboard fin, will these kinds of products finally fit in the exclusive world of surfing? In October 2020, the world’s first electric surfboard fin — ‘Boost Fin’ — was launched globally after starting their Kickstarter campaign that received over USD 240,000 pledges from their USD 50,000 goal in 2019. As we speak, this start-up company has already over 11,500 pre-orders on its website. But as good as this product may seem, a lot of people scoffed at the mere idea of an electric motorized fin. Upon its release, it gathered lots of attention and received mixed reviews from enthusiasts worldwide. Initially, it didn’t receive a lot of support from surfers as well. The Boost Fin even got featured on a famous Instagram surfing page, ‘Kook of the Day’. On this website, however, we try to play fair the best we can. Instead of poking fun, we’re going to discuss how the Boost Fin can possibly create an impact and help some of our surfer companions, including what we really think about this revolutionary invention. How The Boost Fin Started Boost Fin was created by two surfer amateurs — Dmitri Kozhevnikov and Alexei Ostanin, both of whom had their own share of struggles in keeping up with other surfers and getting up into the lineups of famous surf spots like Huntington Beach. The idea started when Alexei had a shoulder injury from rally sport racing and found it hard to paddle for longer periods. He then discussed his predicament and resolve with his friend and business partner Dmitri, who then proposed mounting a motorized fin at the bottom of the surfboard so they can easily propel into the waves while paddling less. In the next few years, the two of them worked hard in researching and designing a fin that doesn’t drag and keeps stable in the water. They’ve also optimized its tracking while keeping its surfing dynamics intact. In 2018, Dmitri and Alexei created their first prototype, had their third prototype tested by 2019, and finally — sold their product to the public by 2020. Boost Fin also collaborated in a sponsorship deal with pro surfers Bobby Hasbrook (2018 West Coast Champion) and Erryk Jennings (WSA Tour Champ, 2nd Place) in testing this electric fin’s capabilities in the water. After trying it out, Bobby commented, “I wasn’t expecting it to have that much boost, that much power. I had no issue catching up. I was like catching ripples.” What is an Electric Surfboard Fin? Let’s cut to the chase. An electric surf fin will neither turn your surfboard into an e-foil nor make it as fast as that. On the contrary, it will only be mounted at the bottom of your surfboard to give it a similar feel to a powered and motorized board. It’s designed to catch waves faster and help make your life easy when riding against strong currents. It’s not created for pro surfers and purists (because heaven forbid if we say it’s made for them). Rather, this e-Fin is for surfer amateurs, the injured, and old folks who need a little boost with catching waves because they find it difficult to paddle with their arms. With this, they’ll be able to ride the waves faster than their regular pace at a duration that’s longer than they usually can. Aside from those things, an electric surfboard fin will also help in getting to the lineup of powerful swells easily, as well as getting back to the breaking point when you get dragged by a wipeout. If you’re a beginner, you’d also appreciate the long boosts it gives when you’re trying to catch and ride a wave. In summary, the main purpose of the Boost Fin is to help you make the most out of your surfing sessions. 80% of surfing consists of paddling, so the fin helps you by cutting that percentage in half. With it, you’ll be able to relax for a short while as you wait for your turn in the lineup, but at the same time, it doesn’t take away all the work because it still gives you the freedom to paddle on your own. Simply put, this product gives you an edge over other surfers. Now, on to its specs! Dimension and Weight Weighing 2.7 lbs or 1,200 gms, the Boost Fin isn’t very lightweight at all. It adds a substantial amount of weight load to your board, not to mention its fairly large size of 10.5 by 9 by 3.5 inches. So the winning question is, will that affect the tracking and drag of your surfboard? Yes. This motorized fin is also bulkier and bigger in size when compared to regular fins. But while it may somehow affect your performance when riding a wave, the good thing is this won’t ruin the nature of your surfboard as it’s easy to install and remove. Materials This electric surfboard fin is made from non-corrosive materials such as ABS plastic and fiberglass-reinforced polymer to protect the motor inside the fin. Aside from saltwater, the Boost Fin is also compatible with freshwater use. The materials used are also shock-resistant, therefore it can take on some gnarly wipeouts and axing. Design The Boost Fin is easy to mount on any kind of surfboard, and unlike e-foils, this electric fin is compatible with any rider’s weight, age, and size. What we appreciate is the sleek and modern design of this e-Fin that will look nice on any kind of surfboard. The Boost Fin also looks like any other regular surfboard fin, the only difference is the attached propeller at the back of it. This product comes in two colors — white and black. Aside from surfboards, they can … Read more

Top 6 Best Connelly Paddle Boards Reviewed | Update

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

Now, when it comes to the best paddle board brands, nothing comes close to the experience and expertise of Connelly. For over 50 years, this company has been designing and manufacturing boards for different water sports like paddle boarding, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and surfing. Connelly is known for making quality and durable products that are well worth your investment. Sure, their paddle boards lean more on the expensive side, but that’s only because of the integrated and innovative features they come with. If you’re looking to buy a Connelly paddle board, this guide contains all you need to know about this brand’s top products, as well as things you should look out for before purchasing your own gear. Top 6 Connelly Paddle Boards Reviewed Connelly has a wide selection of high-rated specialized and entry-level boards that are fit to use for all-around paddle boarding, SUP yoga, and touring. Their boards also vary from inflatable ones to hard and soft top boards. Here’s the brief summary of their best products: 2021 Classic 2021 Highline 2021 3D Softy 2021 Pacific 2020 Tahoe 2021 Drifter #1: 2021 Connelly Classic Specifications: Length Width Weight Volume Maximum Capacity 11 ft 6 in 33.0 in 30.5 lbs 220 L ≤260 lbs 10 ft 9 in 32.0 in 29.5 lbs 190 L ≤230 lbs 9 ft 9 in 31.0 in 25.5 lbs 155 L ≤210 lbs You can’t just go wrong with classic gears — they’re durable, stylish, and has long-lasting value. Just like Connelly’s Classic, it’s an all-around paddle board that features bold designs and high-performance features for riders of any skill level. It has a roomy deck that offers more stability and balance while allowing quick turns; hence why it’s most suitable to use for paddle boarding beginners. This versatile board can be used both in waves and flatwater. That said, you can use it for paddling in oceans or lakes. It’s also lightweight and rigid, as it is made from epoxy construction with an EPS foam core. With the deck’s soft sanded EVA foam pad, your feet will be glued onto the board even with all the sharp turns and rough waves. The Connelly’s Classic features a wide outline on its tail and a displacement nose for balance, including one removable 9″ FCS II center fin for tracking. To prevent the internal pressure of the board from fluctuating, this SUP also includes an auto-vent. Although it’s big and heavy, the Classic is quite easy to carry, just make sure to watch out for hitting surfaces and bumping into walls! This board is available in three colors that stand out in the water while maintaining that refined and polished look. The Classic’s price ranges from $$1,099.99 to $1,249.99. It’s one of the high-end products of Connelly, and possibly also one of the bests in the market. The only thing that’s missing? A good paddle to get you started! #2: 2021 Connelly Highline Specifications: Length Width Weight Volume Maximum Capacity 11 ft 6 in 33.0 in 32.5 lbs 240 L ≤300 lbs 10 ft 6 in 32.0 in 30.0 lbs 205 L ≤260 lbs With the Connelly Highline SUP, you can’t help but think of summers in the lake, slowly paddling the waters and just taking all the views in. It has that vibe to it that can entice novice paddle boarders to hop on the board and get gliding pronto. Perhaps, the reason why is because of the Thermo-shell technology that makes it durable and resistant to scratches, dents, and dings. Or maybe because it has a higher weight capacity than its competitors. With these features, you don’t have to worry too much about playing with this paddle board, because you know it’s durable and it will keep up with your activities. The Highline is not an epoxy constructed board per se, rather, its outer layer sheets are molded together and secured by a strap for added protection. A coiled leash is included when you purchase Highline, as well as an ergonomic center handle and bungee cord tie-down for personalization and easy transportation. With its 9” FCS II center fin, this board will allow you to move forward and avoid any sideway slips. Similar to Classic, Highline also features a soft sanded EVA pad for traction and to keep your feet planted on the board. Because it features a rounded nose and wider deck for more stability and buoyancy, beginners won’t have a tough time maneuvering with it even in rough conditions. #3: 2021 Connelly 3D Softy Specifications: Length Width Weight Volume Maximum Capacity 11 ft 6 in 33.0 in 30.0 lbs 250 L ≤350 lbs 10 ft 6 in 32.0 in 26.0 lbs 200 L ≤300 lbs What’s good about paddle boarding is you can also share this activity with your loved ones — for instance, your four-legged friends who also love the water! The next one we have is the Connelly 3D Softy, a soft top paddle board with beginner-friendly features suitable for yoga paddling or relaxed tours with your dog(s). With its weight capacity that reaches 350 lbs/158 kg and full traction pads from tip to tail, you can paddle away without worrying that you and your pal might fall off from the board’s deck. The 3D Softy has many features to make sure you and your furry friend are comfortable and safe while riding it. It has a recessed deck for easy paddling and a wider area for more stability. Meanwhile, its center handle has a cupped design for less hand fatigue when carrying the board. With a price tag that starts from $529.99, this board promises enjoyment and safety without breaking the bank! #4: 2021 Connelly Pacific Specifications: Length Width Weight Volume Maximum Capacity 10 ft 6 in 34.0 in 28.0lbs 325 L ≤260 lbs Whether you prefer lounging or standing up on your paddle board, the Pacific inflatable paddle board from Connelly will allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds. This SUP is more than a SUP, as … Read more

Top 7 Best Surf Bikinis (Nike, Hurley)

January 4, 2023by Luke Morris

The first documented surfing wardrobe malfunction is attributed to an unlikely personality – Agatha Christie. Yes, the world’s best-selling mystery fiction writer happened to be a keen surfer. On one of her surfing trips with her husband, her surfing outfit she described as a “handsome silk bathing dress” got torn by the force of the waves. Christie’s unfortunate event is just one of the many reasons there’s still a hot debate about whether female surfers should wear bikinis when surfing. The other reason is surfing and sexism, a topic that former WSL CEO Sophie Goldschmidt focused on during her time. Whether it is to avoid wardrobe malfunction or simply want to express your persona, you are in the right place. This article speaks about the best surf bikinis, including topics like; What makes a good surf bikini Prominent women’s swimwear malfunction and tips Women surfers camera inequality What Makes a Good Surf Bikini? A surf bikini is not like your regular beach bikini. It has to manage not rolling down past your butt checks at every duck dive. No boob should pop out. More importantly, it shouldn’t cause your neck to ache after surfing. Save this dos and don’ts list as your reference for your next surf bikini shopping: Dos Look for cross-back or racerback bikinis – they spread out the weight of your boobs across your back and shoulders while keeping your assets closer to your body. Wear crop-top style surf bikinis if you have big boobs – crop tops offer the best coverage and prevent overspilling out of the top. Even with no straps to tie, they won’t easily come undone when you stack Look for thick shoulder straps – these straps are comfortable on your shoulders. In addition, the larger your boobs, the wider your straps should be to disperse weight evenly Look for a wide hip band and drawstring – the wide hip band keeps your bikini bottoms from rolling down at every dive. Plus, drawstrings let you tighten your bottoms. Get a bikini with tighter bottoms – your new surf bikini will stretch like jeans along the way. If they don’t have drawstrings, you want them to be as tight around your hips as possible. Look for stick fabric – some fabrics grip your skin. Either that or look for bikinis with rubber added to the edges. Look for strong and thick materials – your best choices are spandex or nylon bikinis Look for bikinis that tie around your ribs – not clasp. Don’ts Pick a halter neck bikini – when you paddle, you arch your back and pull your shoulders close together to keep your chest off the board. A halter neck will put contra forces on your neck. Not to mention the weight of your boobs that may put unnecessary strain on your body and cause neck and headaches. Wear a bikini with an underwire – the underwire can dig into your side and ribs when you paddle. Wear a strapless bikini – you don’t want to play peek-a-boo with your boobs. Wear a triangle bikini – they may move side to side or top to bottom. Wear a side-tie bikini – its thin ties roll down. Plus, when tied tight, it might cut into your skin. The general rule is never to put fashion before function – particularly with fabric texture. Top 8 Best Surf Bikinis Reviewed Any female surfer needs to have a surf bikini that stays on – no slips, no slipping off, no sneaks. From paddling out to popping up, you would want to have your bikini staying put and still making you look cute. Let’s narrow down your choices to the many surf bikinis in the market. Our list of the best surf bikinis goes: Nike Women’s Core Solids Sport Two Piece Surf Bikini Hurley Max Solid Scoop Bikini Top TYR Sport Women’s Solid Durafast Workout Surf Bikini Roxy Women’s Beach Classics Moderate Bikini Bottom Sensi Graves Alexa Eco-Friendly Stay Put Bikini Top KASSIA Surf San-O Surf Top Carve Designs Palisades Bikini Top 1. Nike Women’s Core Solids Sport Two Piece Surf Bikini Nike is committed to bringing innovation to every athlete globally – with their shoes and apparel. This giant company is serious about every product it put out to the public. This includes the clothing they engineered for women in surfing. The Nike Women’s Core Solids Sport Two Piece Surf Bikini is not the bikini for looking fancy and fashionable. It is for keeping the surfer cozy while feeling athletic. Wear it for swimming or surfing; it stays on and doesn’t roll up. While most surfers debate about the best surfboard, other surfers, particularly women, have their most important question – what kind of active bikini to get. The answer is this pair of bikinis from Nike. This basic but elegant surf bikini is made of nylon and spandex, allowing quick drying and body fitting. This surf bikini from Nike is our top pick because of its excellent shape retention and chlorine-resistant fabric and because they are sold as pairs. Sometimes, it’s too much to find a pair for a top or bottom you bought separately. 2. Hurley Max Solid Scoop Bikini Top This brand that grew into a global youth culture has its roots deep in the beach lifestyle. Therefore, it is no surprise that it’s one of the best surf bikinis on the list. Hurley is a unique blend of style and performance and only uses the best materials appropriate for both in and out of the water. Their Max Solid Scoop Bikini Top, when partnered with Quick Dry Ribbed Bikini Bottom, offers the best coverage with its generous fabric in the front. Most of Hurley’s tops are perfect for surfing. The company is focused on giving sturdy and enough coverage, soft material, and strappy backs. These are all guaranteed to stay on as you surf while also providing sleek style. The bikini bottoms are designed to show some cheeks but maintain position … Read more

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