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Knysna viper-opinions please - by: laker

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Hello, first time poster here.
Recently I got my first ski, a knysna viper and am curious to see what other peoples opinions of the ski are. Information on the net about it is very sparse and the only mention of it is on this forum is from a self confessed inexperienced paddler.
So far I am really liking it. To my inexperienced eye It looks to have a lot of front rocker so is very easy to turn in choppy water but not as fast on the flat as its length would suggest.
Its fairly tippy but I can paddle a k1 so that's not a problem. I can also remount it so that aspect is good too.
I would like to hear other peoples views on it and especially how you think it compares to other skis. I got it for a great price so if you think its rubbish, please say. I won't be offended. Thanks

Keeping Feet Warm - by: drjay9051

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For colder conditions I have Hydroskin tops and bottoms. Not sure what to do about my feet. Anybody use neoprene booties? Are they too big to fit in the foot straps?

Wool socks?
Not sure what is best.

Help with technique - by: malvina

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Hello everyone. This is my first post, though I have been reading this forum for about a year. I know there are some very expert paddlers here and I was wondering if you could help me with a doubt that has been puzzling me for some time.

But first of all, since I am new here I though I would introduce myself with some info to help you understand the type of paddler you are talking to. Male, 53 years old, reasonably fit. Have been paddling for 6 years, of which 4 in a traditional sea kayak and 2 in a surfski. I currently paddle an Allwave Genesi, an initiation surfski (520 x 50 cm) with a wing paddle (Epic mid-wing). I am pretty much self-taught. I live near the sea in the south of Spain but there are no paddlers in the area (mine is the only surfski I have ever seen in the area) so I rely on the internet for technique improvement. My technique "bibles" are the "forward stroke clinic" DVD by Bret Reitz and the wonderful ebook "perfecting your technique" by Kevin Brunette. I also watch videos of elite paddlers and, last but not least, have obtained tons of good information from this forum. I had my technique checked a few months ago by Sean Rice who confirmed that I have an overall correct paddling style (I think he was overly generous). I go to the sea almost every day for an 8 to 10 km paddle, I usually cruise at a speed of between 9 to 10 kms and sprint to a top speed of between 13 to 14 kms.

So, the technique question I have for you is: what would be the right top elbow bent? I have read conflicting advice on this topic. Some experts (including Mr. Reitz) recommend keeping the top elbow at about 90 degrees while others (including Mr. Brunette) suggest to keep it just short of straight. It is also clear from watching videos that different athletes have different approaches to this. Olympic sprint paddlers seem to prefer an almost straight arm while at least some surfski pros seem to keep an angle somewhere between 90 and 120 degrees. I have experimented with both extremes and my feeling is that an elbow at 170 degrees results in a more vertical paddle at the catch while possibly sacrificing some forward reach. A 90 degree top elbow, on the other hand, seems to somehow facilitate engaging my core and, maybe, result in a more relaxed paddling style.

Any clarifications / tips on this subject would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks

Foot plate design - by: Uffilation

Trying to locate a video ... have you seen it ? - by: Kiwi Dave

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I've seen a video before which was explaining how to read the waves when paddling downwind. It was from the paddlers view and had coloured lines overlayed on the video showing waves at different directions etc.

Have searched high and low but can't find it ... does anyone know the one I mean and have a link to it per chance ?

For Sale - Epic V10L Performance - USA Pennsylvania - by: rhainan

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Nearly new Epic V10L Performance. 2nd Generation, 2014. It has seen very limited paddle time, all fresh water.

$1,800

Located in Pittsburgh, PA.

Contact me at - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information and pictures. I'm having difficulties uploading pics to this site.

Surf kayak owners? - by: SurfskiEstonia

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Hello, guys :)

Are there any surf ski paddlers that also own a surf kayak (international class or high performance)?

I've been dreaming about a surf kayak since I started paddling, but proper shore break for a surf kayak happens some 10 times per year max here in Estonia. At the same time, a surf ski can pick up any kind of small or large waves (apart from tall braking waves, which are surfable, but too dangerous for the ski).

ATM, I own a long unstable ski, a carbon slalom kayak and am considering to buy a double surf ski in spring. Also thinking about choosing between a more stable, but light surf ski and a super light surf kayak.

Would You rather buy a second surf ski with different length / width, or are there many here who'd go for a surf kayak?

Mocke Downwind camp - by: jazzman

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Well , I've finally got the nerve to enrol in one of the Mockes downwind camps ( a belated 50th birthday present to myself). So if anyone sees a New Zealander wandering around Fish Hoek in October with VERY wide eyes , looking like he needs a beer; it will be me , and , yes , I'll be needing a beer!! I have no idea what I'm in for but I'm assured I'll have a great time. Bigger water than I've ever paddled but if spending time with Dawid and Jasper can't improve my confidence , then nothing will. Part of me is bloody nervous , the other part really can't wait!

Carbonology Vault - by: Hulk

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Hi fellow paddlers,

I'm paddling the always reliable Fenn Swordfish in a Glass Vacuum layup at the moment for the last 3.5 yrs. I'm 1m88 and 76kgs.
I'd like to upgrade to a different boat or to the new swordfish S.

In 2wks I'm going to trial the new Carbonology Vault and was wondering if there is anyone at this forum that could give me any feedback about his experience with the Vault and/or upgrading from the Swordfish.

Cheers
Pete

v8 Pro vs v10 Sport - by: feeny

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Hi everyone,

I'm wondering whether anyone has paddled both these boats in a variety of conditions and can offer thoughts/comparisons/opinions ?

I have paddled both, though mostly in calmer bay waters, where I find very little difference between the two of them. The v10s is just a touch less stable, but barely noticeable .. although it should be said that I've only paddled the v10s a handful of times, usually in less than 15 knots of wind and reasonably quiet conditions.

There is barely anything in terms of speed, I find I can keep up or even lead an intermediate pack of paddlers in both boats.

With summer coming, afternoon sea breezes are about to kick in and we'll have plenty of waves to play with soon enough.

This leaves me wondering which to purchase and whether there is really that much of a practical difference in general between the boats...?

There are some minor logistical advantages to the v8 Pro, the shorter hull length will make it easier to move in and out of tight rack space, handles also help with a carry... I suspect the v8 pro will also be more bomb-proof on downwind runs - something I haven't done too much of yet (but look forward to!)

Thanks,
Feens.

Just got my first ski, need paddle - by: MCImes

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Hi Guys,
I've been lurking around these forums almost daily for the last couple years after my friend @Zachhandler took me out on his V10 double. It immediately got me hooked and I've been scheming to get a ski ever since. Life threw me a couple curve balls that delayed my acquisition but it finally happened!

I got a 2008 V10 for a steal and now need a paddle. I think im going to get an epic small wing because they're generally considered 'vanilla' in the sense that they're a relatively forgiving paddle and widely available.

My immediate question is, without demo-ing multiple paddles, is there a way to determine how long of a paddle I need? Im 6'1" (185cm) and usually paddle an OC1 or North American racing canoe with a 51" (130cm) paddle. When seated sitting up straight, there is about 22.5" (57cm) from the seat to the bottom of my armpit.

I know trying multiple lengths with an advisor would be the best, but at this time of year in Massachusetts that isn't practical so I will likely be buying a paddle sight unseen. Anyone have advice for a paddle length? I was thinking 210-220, but am just guessing.

Also, are there any recommended balance trainers? I have decent balance, but the V10 will challenge that for the first little while. I'll be paddling on lakes and rivers near shore in a dry suit over the winter, so practicing balance to minimize swims will be to my advantage.

Thanks in advance for the thoughts,
Marcus

Can Nelo Surf ? - by: photofr

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It's been about 6 months... and people are still asking me:
"Can Nelo surfskis SURF?"

I mean, it's a good question: Nelo's concept seems to be aiming at a reduced volume bow. The theory is that the paddler is not tossed around as much with side wind. The narrow catch makes paddling a little more pleasant too... but can it surf?!?

Well, the short answer is: absolutely!
Don't just take my words for it: here's Nelo enjoy a totally mellow day before the race.

THE SETUP



WITH 100 KILOS



FUN PHOTOSHOOT


I'd say surfing is in the book!

First ski for OFB? - by: Armchair.Spaceman

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As the title suggests looking for pointers to first ski choices for an OFB (54yo, 6'2, 138kg). I have about 5 years SUP racing, training, surfing and downwinding but some leg and knee issues have kept me off the water for the last 6 months and will for the foreseeable future. So I'm thinking I want to get onto a surf ski, to get me back onto the water and into some runners and stuff this coming summer. I live Bayside Melbourne, where local waters are often wind-affected and sloppy.

For a man my size I'm naturally gravitating towards wider, more stable craft with bigger buckets (stability over ability eh?) but I'd like to get onto a 'proper' ski, so which of these could float me?

Fenn Blue Fin
Epic V8
Stellar SR or S18S

or is there anything else I should be looking at?

All advice gratefully received.

Largest Ski Race in Australia? - by: AR_convert

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The Augusta Adventure Fest in Western Australia boasts the Worlds Largest Adventure Race.

Over the weekend around 3000 people race in various events.

The main race on the Sunday see's over 500 on the start line that are either solo's or teams.

This year for the first time the 13.8km paddle leg started the race and as a result it could be claimed that this was the largest Surfski event in Australia!

The race starts on a river inlet and then heads out through a surf zone into the ocean.

I'm sure they'll put out some high quality video of the start in the future which I'll be sure to come back and share.

www.facebook.com/rapidascentevents/videos/10153797810267024/

Surfski stability vs K1 - by: daplew

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Hi all,

I've never paddled a surfski before, and in december I am going to be spending a fair few weeks in South Africa on Langebaan Lagoon. I paddle 6-7 times a week at home in the UK in a top level sprint K1 on rivers and canals and am keen to keep training when in SA. Consequently, I've found someone who's willing to lend/rent out a Fenn Elite to me for the time. Before I go ahead with it, I'd just like some advice as to whether I'll actually be stable in this boat. What is it like in comparison to a K1? I don't plan on doing any downwind, just flattish water training on the lagoon really.
Any advice much appreciated.
Thanks in advance,
Dan

Thermoplastic Surfskis, Racing Skis - by: Uffilation

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Made the list to seek for a downriver (stone hitting) alternative for the flatter days(+family/guests "abuse ski"), maybe someone has a use for the list for his/her own quest. I guess there are more thermoplastic surfskis and SOT-type-Ski-Hybrids on the market, so you are invited to add the list or correct mistakes. tia

Actual prices s.b. outdated or differ or be lower or ...:

Spirit PRS SKI, Spirit PRS Elite SKI
Manufacturing process: rotomoulding
Made in: Australia
Material: PE
Length: 567cm
Width: 50cm
Moulded weight: 20.5kg
Moulded weight, Elite: 18.3kg
Weights fully outfitted: ?
Colours: white+many others as per google
Price: from AU$1595, 1190€

Spirit Racing SKI
Manufacturing process: rotomoulding
Made in: Australia
Material: PE
Length 496m
Width: 51cm
Moulded weight: 19.5kg
Weight fully outfitted: ?
Colours: white
Price: from AU $1295

Spirit Fury Racing Ski
Manufacturing process: rotomoulding
Made in: Australia
Material: PE
Moulded Weight: 19kg
Moulded Weight: Elite 17.6kg
Length: 570m
Width: 47cm
Price: from AU$ 1895.00

FINN Molokai
Manufacturing process: rotomoulding
Made in: Australia
Material: PE
Length 590m
Width: 47,5cm
Moulded Weight: 18kg
Price: AU$ $2150 (website)

FINN Endorfinn
Manufacturing process: rotomoulding
Made in: Australia
Material: PE
Length: 520cm
Width: 54cm
Standard Weight 18kg plus deckout 5-6kg
Lightweight 15kg plus deckout 5-6kg
Standard AU$1399 (website)
Lightweight AU$1649 (website)

Cobra Surf Ski
Manufacturing process: rotomoulding
Made in: New Zealand
Material: PE
Length: 520cm
Weight: 21 kg?
Price: ?

VAJDA Raptor Ski
Manufacturing process: thermoforming
Made in: Slovakia
Material: double layered ABS-type with outer acrylic layer
Length: 535cm
Width: 53cm
Weight fully outfitted: 19.5kg
Colours: pearl white, metallic: orange, red, blue
Price: 1250-1350+- €

Epic V7
Manufacturing process: rotomoulding
Made in: South Africa ? (test paddled one with Made in USA sticker though, anyone has details?)
Material: PE, solid skin with foam layer
Length 520m
Width: 54cm
Moulded weight: <19kg
Weight fully outfitted: 22.7kg (from EPIC website)
Colours: white
Price: $1495, Au$ 1995, 1295€

THINK Nitro/Pyranha Octane
Manufacturing process: rotomoulding
To be made in: England?
Material: PE
Length 535cm
Width: 53cm
Color: orange, white

Liker Surfski PE
Maker: Liker Kayak, China
Length: 505cm
Width:55cm
Depth:35cm
Weight:21kgs

NELO 510, PE ... ????
pops up in the 2016 pricelist for surfskis , so?

Protecting the hull from paddle strikes - by: Aurelius

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What's the consensus here about the best way to prevent gouges and scratches resulting from paddle strikes? I've heard of something called "helicopter tape", but I've been unable to find any store selling it. I've also seen some type of rubber sheeting with an adhesive backing used, but I have no idea what that is or where to obtain it. Any suggestions?

Spec Ski - which one? - by: nicolas_mcconnell@yahoo.com.au

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Can anyone give me some tips on buying a spec ski? I have an Epic V8 and need to upgrade into a spec ski.
Given I am in an Epic V8 - most important criteria would be stability but i would like something not too slow....
I have tried the Fenn LS and liked it but there do not seem to be any available.
What else would you recommend for something similar (ie as stable as possible but not too slow) ?

Which one, if any, is the most stable intermediate ski? - by: Canario

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Hi!
My name is Matias Gomez. I am a 53 years old family man who discovered surfski 13 months ago. I´m 1.86 tall and still 95 Kgrs ( down from 107Kgrs 13 months ago....). I started on a Cruze and after 4 months went to a Boost. Carbonology Sport is the choice of 90% of the people here in Gran Canaria. Now Im starting of thinking on going ahead to an intermediate boat. I have always been told not to trade speed for stability, so I would like to spend my money in an intermediate boat as stable as possible. I have asked here and have got three different answers:
- There is no such a thing as all intermediate boats are more or less the same in terms of stability, so try some and go for the one you feel more confortable on.
- Carbonology Sport Zest, because of my height and weight.
- Think Evo II, even when maybe that is more a beginner/intermediate than a proper intermediate boat, like the Epic V10 Sport, but will allow you keep on going ahead more comfortably.

Any help form the forum members? Thank you very much!

New Epic V12 - by: zachhandler

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I keep checking to see if there is a post about the new epic ski. I guess I have to start it myself. I am very excited about this. I have paddled the original v12 since it came out in 2009 and I just love that ski. It fits me perfect, the seat is nice and high, the hull is fast, and it has an amazing amount of secondary stability. I did however start craving a boat that was a bit more playful downwind after having a great experience in a Fenn elite double a few years ago. I I ended up buying and paddling an Elite S for a season, and though the hull was great, I just could not get comfort or power because the fit was not right. So maybe this new v12 is what I have been waiting for. A familiar epic cockpit on a just as fast but more playful hull. I will get mine in April just as the ice is going out. I'll report back then.
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