So I Just got my happy shovel 2 weeks ago and unlucky for some there was no waves until the weekend just gone, so I thought I'd share my thoughts about it to anyone considering getting one for themselves. I live in southeast Ireland and the waves here are generally onshore mush (simular to coco beach florida) with the occasional point break and reef days as well so it's good to have a board for all sorts of conditions . I'm 5'8 and about 70 kgs ,I'm not a shit hot ripper but I can surf well enough so I got a 5'6X19.7X2.3. ..Man its so small !! So I took it out on a decent point break with solid 3 foot waves at first. I Set it up as a thruster (GRs in the sides and a G3 in the middle) . I was absolutely blown away with the amount of drive out of this board at high speed with such a wide tail . I was sure , even with the bigger fins ..I'd be slipping and sliding all over the shop. This was not the case at all ! Super drivey long drawn out cut backs was the order of the day ..Wow! Super fun. Now at the same time it came off the bottom very well but didn't like going crazy vert and definitely preferred the more open face carves than blasting lips. ..Unless your Smelly Skater of course and we'd all love to be able to surf like him .:) After 1.5 hours I went in for some tea and crumpets give the arms a break before heading back out again. ..This time a went for the quad setup ...You know. ..Just to mix it up a bit . Again I Was absolutely gobsmacked at the difference this made to the board. All of a sudden the board came alive , quick rail to rain action, it became much looser on the wave and much more responsive to "your more immediate turning demands"( to quote the king). I did feel the uncontrolled slide in the bottom turn but not an issue at all! Once the fins catch you can feel the rail engage and your away to blasting another lip . Gotta watch that nose on the re-entry though. ...There's rocker there but not that much and I buried myself into a few batterings . All part of the fun though eh ? The tail also became much more slidey on the lip so plenty of scope for fun slides and busting the fins free. The only other thing I've noticed(so far) with this board that I've never experienced in any board before is that it likes to go to the air. Now I Don't know why and maybe I'm wrong but that's the feeling I got with it and more so with the thrusters than the quads ??? Now I Can't do airs but heck at 38 is not to late to learn. ...is it ?? Well that's my 2 cents on it anyway ... I'd often wonder when see these reviews and think. .It's he talking about hard core rippers in great waves or just for the average punter in average waves ..so I Thought this post might be helpful to some . Super fun board to have in your quiver and I can't wait to get back in the water. :)
I saw this video 1 year ago and it made me very curious about this board. 1 month later I had the opportunity to buy a 5'10" x 20 1/4" x 2 11/16" that is making me very happy since then. At first I was using a set of small thruster fins, but 6 months ago I bought a quad set that makes more sense in this board (it's also looking cooler!). This is my board for small days, maximum on shoulder's high, and never on hollow waves. Thanks for spreading all this boards information! Maybe if I didn't saw this video I wouldn't have bought this beauty!
I got the happy shovel 2 years ago and love it, that width helps out so much in these florida waves down here, plus i love that fun feeling from the wide quad box. Great review!
Got few FST's in firewires (Nano & Lost Mini Driver) and i rate how strong they are, barely any deck depressions! Love the pad for one of those sticks!!
I bought this 4 years ago my first shortboard... now after 7 other short boards later and had broken and repaired the nose its still one of my favorites I am giving it away... it works in shore break waves to overhead (not pitching) and I put different quad fins on it... think I am getting a new one but Rusty will have to custom
Yes thanks model - thinned nose and tail allows for extra foam to be placed near the center. Seems to add speed down the line and extra paddling power without sacrificing maneuverability. Good board for California.
My favorite setup is a PU blank with Epoxy resin. My "go-to" board here in San Diego is set up this way and has been durable for 5+ years of consistent riding. It is now starting to slow in performance and, after watching this video, I'm dead set on picking up a new Rusty Happy Shovel with this new "injected" epoxy resin technique. Thanks for the tip Shred Show!
Its a Del Rey. I forgot the shaper's name but I believe he was part of the Kane Garden crew and after that group broke up he started shaping on his own . if you happen to know I would be very interested in knowing the skaper's name. I can take a pic and send the logo if you like. great quad fin 6 4.
I've always ridden PU boards and i don't intend to change anytime soon. I do like the hyproflex technology i've been reading about how they recycle boards and created the new way of injecting the resin into the foam. As I understand they also vaccum seal the boards which helps the resin deeper into the blank but also reduces the thickness of resin on the board helping keen the board even lighter.
I like standard construction, but i just got a polyurethane core and epoxy construction Cog board by 7s. it feels super strong and stiff cant wait to try it!
I've got a motor boat too at the moment and is a great board. My local is pure muc but this board goes really well from 1 foot in to 6 foot but it gets a bit slidy with the wide tail and find I have to nurse my turns to hold control. Decide to go for a happy shovel this time round as a backup board. I've surfed a dwart a few times and while it's great for getting you into waves and down the line ...I find it difficult to get it to redirect without boggin a railand then all your speed is gone so your just hoofin down the line again . I'm hoping the shovel with be a good compromise and it looks like a wicked addition to my quiver . New board coming so that usually means a flat spell ...doh !!!
Epoxy tri-flex from JR im pretty sure it should have snapped by now, but its just so springy and I have already had it for a year! plus it stays nice and white for longer!
I like pu because it feels great in real bumpy and mushy waves, it also feels like it can be ridden in almost any kind of waves which makes it extremely versatile and perfect for those kind of unpredictable days
Riding a Grim Ripper in normal PU and my mate bought the same board in Futureflex and took it to Chopes, said it went siiiick! Every show brings me ten minutes of happiness
I justed busted a box on my new Wooster so im currently riding my old Stretch: The Thing. I love the EPS tech on this board since you can be rough on it, and it'll take it like a boss. Regular PU blanks get pressure dings way to easy.
such a sick little board! loved the episode. im currently on a timbertek spitfire and love it. great under foot, fast and very fun. as well as extremely easy on the eye. cheers chris
ps. after a long binge of buying up new boards (with money i dont have) in my quest for the best all rounder for south shore on oahu I have settled on my tokoro SF3. Thanks for these thorough reviews. They helped a lot in this process. Started with the lazy boy, then hypto kyrpto then weirdo ripper then tokoro sf3 then channel islands #4. Lazy boy and krpto both felt too corky and separated from the wave, wierdo had crazy tight pivoting but dragged a little on a steep take off making the drop a little too late for how squirelled out the board feels when going fast, tokoro was great but had the yearning to try out another CI board to see what all the fuss was about. I have the #4 grovler at 5'6, 26liters.I weigh 155lbs. I found the medium/thick rails and heavy foam in the chest made the board a little more bouncy and roll-y rather than slicey and drive-y. Tokoro SF3 I have is 5'10, 27.4 liters. its 19 1/2'' wide but rails are pinched giving me extra slicing ability even in small waves. although this board is on the high end of liters per my weight, the pinched rails and relatively narrow nose made the board easier for me to point my board up toward the lip even on gutless mush. catches waves easier than #4, ripper or krypto but also is more responsive and sharp feeling. nothing fancy-seeming with the board. but a very creamy ride. Anyone else out there diving into this not so cheap search for a good all round grovel/shortboard hybird-- save some money and justifications for disapproving girlfriends and check out wade tokoro's boards. The thing I didnt like about all the previous boards was that I found i had to sacrifice that lively sharp shortboard feeling for something with more paddle power. this is where the sf3 rose above the rest. no sacrificing performance for paddle power here.
I think Polyester on PU is a classic that will never get old. Although all these new hip ways of making boards are around. There is something about the great feeling of a handshaped and hand glassed board. It's an art that will never go away no matter the technology! All in all both options are good to have. bust out the indestructible epoxy boards for shorebreaks!
Haydenshapes PE construction and Superbrand's standard production are the two best standard constructions for low weight, higher strength, and lower cost,… all relatively.
ive got my new happy shovel arriving next week...and just cant wait to surf it but im really unsure what to expect except that it should be a lot of fun :)
hope to hear how it turns out! i'm about to go check out a happy shovel this week... along with some lost boards... in search of a summer groveler for florida crap days (which is almost everyday).
I just bought a Motor Boat Too that is an Epoxy 5'8" x 19" x 2 3/8". I've ridden a ...Lost Rocket (the first version) for about 5 years and switching to epoxy was quite the transition. The Motor Boat is a lot more reactive due to the material. I gotta say the speed, "pop", and drive off this board is addicting as hell. Catches waves with ease and just glides. Truly a fun a board for New Jersey summers. I'm probably going to get only epoxy's for small wave boards from now on.
I bought a Happy Shovel about a year ago. I'm a bigger guy at about 190 lbs and bought the 6'4 with the standard demenions. I believe it comes in around 38 liters. Originally I bought it for small days, but I like it so much it has become my go to board. Today I surfed it in waves that were 1-2 ft over head and it was perfect. The only time I really don't like it is when the waves are really pitching. The small amount of rocker and wide nose make it hard to make most of those waves. But, like I said it is my go to board and over half my surfs are on this board. LOVE the show Chris! Keep up the good work! If you get a chance I would love to see a review on the Rusty Panda. I was thinking that could bridge the gap for me on the more pitching days.
Once again, greatest surf gear show in the universe. Eps-epoxy all the way. They have more pop and springyness than PU boards and they don't yellow as qucikly, and of corse they are stronger
So stoked i found your show on TH-cam. I bought a New Flyer after i saw your review and love the EPS foam. Lets you ride a little smaller volume because its a little more buoyant, its super light and is more resistant to yellowing that PU. Keep killin it with these board reviews my dude. MAD RESPECT.
The durability, flex, and responsiveness of epoxy boards is preferred by this guy North of the boarder (Canada for all those confused). I believe board shape designs have nearly hit a ceiling and won't change too much in the years to come, however the introduction of more modern materials will keep the industry dynamic for years.
I just got a timbertek from FW and so far i love the durability, which makes it perfect for travel, and it looks great. I also tried the hypo cripto by HS and was amazed by the lightness and how that gave an edge when paddling for smaller, less powerful waves.
Epoxy! riding my locally shaped Kinetic Flying Eyeball, too broke to deal with the dings I get in my pu boards. East Coast hurricane swell Tuesday and Wednesday, first bit of head high surf in quite some time
SurfboardShredShow yeah really fun for about a day and a half then the wind picked up and chopped it up pretty good, been flat ever since... forecasts showing another swell slipping in next week hope conditions are worth it! (fingers crossed) Great show by the way! watching all these vids makes me want to take a stab at shaping a board lol
Like the epoxy for it's strength and you can ride at a slightly lower volume. Haven't checked out any hydroflex boards but really keen to they seem like the go for me.
This was an awesome video! Being a new surfer, it was really helpful to hear you talk about the different aspects of the board, how it affects the way the board moves in the water, and why certain surfers prefer it. I'm a visual learner so this video taught me a lot! Thank you and look forward to checking out more videos. Hope to find one about the Rusty Smoothie so I can learn how to use this board to it's full potential. So far an amazing board the has allowed me to feel like a real surfer to keep up with the boys here in San Diego.
I enjoy all kinds of boards! There all fun to get the feeling of, but if I had to chose it would be pu! It just feels like it can be ridden on almost all kinds of waves.
the way the volume decreases in this board is an updated version of what we used to call "domed" in the 90s. domed boards came about in the 90s to try to get a little more floatation out of the Kelly Slater-esq, potato chip, flip tip ultra-narrow ultra-thin real boards. once people came to their senses, and started riding thicker, wider boards again the Dome boards sort of just went away. the central idea is still the same. Move the foam towards the center, and keep the rails thin and responsive.
NP man. If you look at that template, it strongly resembles the boards that Rob Machado was surfing on years ago, when he bailed on competitions and started his free surfing. People saw him on boards like that, getting into waves so easily, in all kinds of conditions, and just having fun. He sort of single-handedly put the brakes on the Slater style competitive Thruster design that had dominated the industry and I would say that average surfers really benefited from that.
I prefer a board that is constructed with S-glass on a PU core glassed with Epoxy resin. EPS epoxy boards feel too light, almost like surfing a big skimboard. However, having the S-glass on the traditional PU core with Epoxy resin gives the board the feel I like plus added strength. Plus the board looks super white and stays white longer!
I have a Happy Shovel 5´9” PU, a T-Dwart 5´8” EPS and used to surf in a Dwart 5´8” PU. All are great surfboards. The Happy Shovel is kinda a fish surfboard like the Dwart, but gets more speed to do airs. It is super easy to surf and super fun. Goes vertical too. I sold my Dwart to get the T-Dwart in EPS and this was one the best things i did. The T-Dwart is a more performance surfboard and still paddles great. Super nice board to carve and get speed down the line to do some big turn. It holds the turn very well, but not releases to much. For me, the Dwart has to much foam and feels to much above the water, its a easy board too, but not so funny as a Happy Shovel (who generate more speed) in small (and mushy) waves and not goes well in better waves like the T-Dwart (who is better to do turns and ride barrels). Thanks for the review !!
I was thinking of getting a bunny chow for cocoa beach's mushier surf. What are your thoughts on this and are there any other model recommendations you have?
I like PU more, because it worked for surfers for ages and I also think this will be the future not all the other stuff and also I feel more connected to the ocean on a standart PU board.
I had my shaper make a replica of the weirdo ripper that you reviewed and it is honestly the best board that I have ever surfed!!!! It rides just like you said it would
I've went from a traditional PU board, to an epoxy for 3-4 years and now back to traditonal PU (I've been surfing a total of 10 years). The reason I will always stick with PU is that epoxy boards always felt unlively, and I couldn't feel the pop or the flex I've had with my PU boards. PU boards always felt locked in and surfed down WITH the water. Whereas I felt my epoxy boards always wanted to fight being in the water by riding up higher and fighting my attempts to sink the rail during bottom turns. Ever since I've switched back I've felt my surfing improve. Maybe it's me, but I'll always stick with PU.
I call San Diego home and I tend to gravitate towards PU boards even though they lose their pop over time because I feel the softness of the foam caters to the way I surf
Love this show! Thanks for all the info. I need help understanding VEE!!!! I've read that it helps the board go rail to rail and is good to have in a groveler or board with fatter tail and I've also read they are better for big waves. Which is it? WhT type of waves would you prefer not having a vee? Also what's your take on a rolled vee in the nose?
Years later, I still like these videos...and still struggle to keep up with Josh's enthusiasm! I noticed that in this one, he didn't name the board being reviewed until about 6 mins in.
I primary ride Rusty boards, (The Moby, Big Cat, Hustler, 69 and the Yeti) I prefer EPS but a slightly heavier glassing. Double 6 top and Double 4 bottom.
PU for the spring for me. As my friend Jason at Quality Surf Boards here in honolulu says-- "Epoxy goes "brrrrr" when it hits the bottom after you drop in for a bottom turn." Doesn't spring out
Both constructions have benefits, I prefer P/U for my short boards and epoxy for long boards(cuz they are lighter). Thanks Shred show for putting out these awesome vids.
Hi Chris thanks for introducing the Hydroflex tech ; I think you have no review of the LibTech , what do you think ? same as surftech or worth checking ? looking seriously at their version of the puddle jumper, need your advice first ... thanks !
Awesome video. The hydroflex resin is sweet, makes sense too... How expensive tho?? Traction pad explanation was a cool surprise. I just got a new board and I've hesitated sticking one on, looks too sweet without it! You should reach out to BlackBird Surfboards if you're in San Diego, Leucadia. Shaper is a cool dude
Hey Chris, great show as always, I shape and glass my own boards just in my backyard and from a glassers perspective as far as epoxy vs polyester I can say that working with the poly resin is harder because first of all it is extremely toxic (respirator and tyvek work suit are required to work with it) and that when it cures it is "rough" or "bumpy" and requires a lot more sanding. However, once done, the poly resin does deal with chop better and doesn't yellow very fast. Epoxy is sort of the opposite, working with epoxy is great because it is not toxic and it cures more smoothly leaving you with almost no sanding needed, but once you surf an epoxy board it feels as if it will "blow away in the wind" and they yellow really fast, the last epoxy board I glassed yellowed in less than a month! Sorry for the essay I just typed but thought I'd give you a different perspective on the whole resin topic, cheers!
I disagree with the yellowing comment. I shape and glass my own boards as well. I only do epoxy. They have optical brighteners in most of the epoxy resins now. (slight purple tint to the resin that goes away when glassed up) Apex epoxy from CA is my go to. I find that they stay white longer and hold their pop. I also think you can "heavy up" a board by increasing your glass schedule. 6+4 deck with a 4+4 bottom will give you a heavier board. Additionally I use a resin + microballoon slurry rather than a light weight drywall spackle. The board never delams...stays super white, and is stiffer with more lively pop. The microballoons just fill in all space and bind to the glass. You can also use a lighter glass schedule with this as I believe it adds a touch of strength. My go to is a 4+4 deck with 6 oz bottom. They are pretty light (not team light, but close) and they last a long time. I have also found you can add clean inks and high quality water colors to the resin and especially the resin seal for some interesting color work.
David Gordon Can you buy that brand of epoxy on the internet? I guess the yellowing factor of the resin im using is due to the fact that it is a locally, sort of low grade resin, thanks for telling me about that brand!!!
Rowan Fitch www.fiberglasssource.com/sunshop/index.php?l=product_list&c=51 You can find Apex Epoxy on Fiberglasssource.com It's actually about 20 dollars cheaper than Resin Research and $30 cheaper than Green Room Epoxy out of South Carolina. I have tried all three. Apex is slightly cheaper and in my opinion the best. No Additive F needed "xylene". The hardener is a bit thicker and spreads nicely, sands better, has no river-let problems in the contours of the board when doing finish coat. It's thermal kick allows for decent pot life and time to work around the board before it tacks up. (not a product rep. I just like the stuff) I've also had good luck with the website fiberglasssource.com for shaping equip. I mix it up though. www.greenlightsurfsupply.com is a little expensive but has best tools. maroon squeege's and their rail runner tool are the best. And foamEZ has best prices on certain other things. Good Blanks from Mark Schneider shapes4u.com/main.htm (san diego)will do custom blanks. And another favorite for blanks is WNC foam. www.wncsurf.com/blanks.html (good stringers in these blanks) also good fish blank. (also San Diego) Again...not a rep. Just throwing it back to people who have given me good products over time. And as far as going cheap. I've found that paying the extra few bucks when building your board pays out in the end. So the build cost 20 to 30 dollars more in the end product...but the quality of the build is well worth it.
Honestly I have no idea what board construction I like best... But I am interested in the 3d glassing by hydroflex simply to lengthen board life.... I'm guessing it ends up being cheaper in the long run as long as it's a shape you like and would want to stick with for a while
Any suggestions on Future Fins for this board? I just got mine ordered but it's my first time using a Future Fins setup. I weight 165lbs. and will be surfing this board on waist high days. Thanks
i love this board... my very first short board... it worked great when it was just 1' beach break or slightly overhead (fatter) waves... can ride it close to nose too... think it's time to order a new one from Rusty :)
this was my first short board and now it's just loved to point of destruction... I have since obtained many other short boards but this is my go to board for many situations I have confidence in small beach break waves and sometimes head high slope type waves (not pitching) as a quad... however it is skatey and does have that sliding sensation (every thing you said about how this board rings true for me) I love it and plan to ask them to make me another... I have to make sure they make it like the original boards however :)
I am looking for a nice small wave board like this happy shovel i am 4 foot 8 inches and weigh around 85 pound my volume is usually around 16-17 in a standard shortboard what demensions should i get this board.
I have always been a fan of PU, but I have to say that epoxy on PU (the natural hydroflex construction) is a pretty great idea. I had a board made by Hamish Graham Superstix about 4 years ago, he uses the same idea as hydroflex without the 3D tech (epoxy glass on PU), and I have never been able to duplicate the way that that board feels with any other. It was glassed pretty light and did ding a good amount under the front foot, but it still feels lively to this day. It feels really responsive and actually paddles and planes better than other boards with near the same volume. I am excited to try another of this type of construction, and in fact I have a V2 shorty being made by hydroflex as we speak. I can see if their tech can duplicate or improve on that previously made yet impossible to recreate feeling. Thanks for the review!
you mentioned how leaving a surfboard in a hot car is bad and would damage the board. would the same be true if i leave my boards in my garage. i live in California and my garage is well over 100 degrees. i keep all of my boards in bags. and one more question. the other day i took my shortboard and went surfing. but when i took the board out a lot of the wax had stuck to the inside of the bag. this is the only board that has done this and im curious to know why.
hey Chris, love the channel! i was wondering if you would be able to do a review on the Chilli Cherry Peppa and wether it would be good for a novice surfer like myself and what size board is preffered? thanks will
Great episode! Like the surfing cut scenes. Riding Rusty Moby fish. Epoxy boards are definitely more durable and lighter but stiffer and less flexible than a PU board. Favor the former.
Hey Tym, try a board with "futureflex" that Hayden Cox from HS / Hayden Shapes came up with (at least I think it was him that came up with it). All the properties of flex etc of PU with all the flotation and strength benefits of Epoxy. Unfortunately, they still suffer from the ding it and drown it factor.
Looks interesting, looks similar to a CI Spurm Whale? Also with the construction is that in any way similar to the Hayden Hypto Krypyo? Still love this show, Keep it up bro.
I prefer PU with poly resin. I like the weight under foot. It feels better to me by seeming to have more glide and ride rough water better. Epoxy resin is stronger, but more expensive, and harder to work with for repairing my boards so I don't think to ever mess with putting it on PU. EPS foam is too light and I agree it feels "ping pongy" as a some people say. It's chattery on waves that aren't glassy, and feels like it will blow away on me. As a surfer experimentation is key to advancement, and you can't argue with what "just works" for you. PU/Poly "just works" for me! Keep fighting the good fight, and I would love to see some episodes that were strictly about in depth technical topics like this and not just about a specific board/brand. Mahalo!
You should do a review on the Pyzel surfboard, the Rat Skull. Could you also talk about different glassing, like 6oz on top, 4oz on the bottom etc, and how much it effects the surf of the board. Love your videos!
As usual you make me want to go surfing. I've messaged you about the new eps epoxy sled I have with the carbons inlay across the deck. Adds a little bit if weight so it's not as ultra light as a regular epoxy glass job on an eps blank. My small wave board is super high volume. Makes gutless waves fun. Really fun. You may remember from when ither posts that they are MOREsurfboards from Sunshine Coast qld. Oh btw when the webber wave pool opens up 20 mins from my house you can stay at my house and well go surfing. YYYYEEEEWWWW!!!!!!
Wuts up Chris...?! This is Jonesy out of Oregon. Hopefully you catch this post...Your show is epic and I watch it all the time and hands down it has goto be the best ,most exciting and educational show out there for surfers of all levels!!! I have tried to watch a few tech vids and informational vids put out by other people and I'm constantly looking for new vids to learn new things about surfing and sometimes I want to ask the people who post ," Do you even surf?" because they are so dead in what they're talking about. I have watched this video probably at least a dozen times and really want a Hydroflex Happy Shovel like the one you reviewed here. I have checked out a lot of boards online and tried several similar boards and keep coming back to this board so now I'm going to be saving for a while so I can get one for myself! Thanx for the great board review and all the info you've put out there! Again bro your vids rock and I hope you keep at it and keep the passion!!!! How could a person not after you've started surfing. Live the dream! Stay real B true!
Epoxy all day. Haven't ridden a PU in years. Never will go back. Epoxy is more durable, lighter, and springier. Yes, it is a different type of spring but you get more bounce. I've found the Epoxy boards more "twist" than flex like a PU does. I like that coming off the bottom because the spring is more instant that than slow flex or bend you feel in a PU, thus pushing you down the line faster. And yes, I know it's 100% what you like, that's just me. As for construction, I think Firewire has a good thing going. Like the futureflex, but the foam pressures REALLY easy. And am really horny to try the Stretch carbon, bamboo, cork combo.
Had the Rusty Toad EPS but did not like the way it surfed on top of the water. I prefer a board that rides in the water allowing more quick response and vertical turns. May need to give one a go. Some great info on new glassing technologies. Being out here in Hawaii we kind of get locked in on what works from the past vice new technologies.
![Mind Blown! Rasta Will Make You Rethink Foot Placement [Electric Acid Excerpt]](/img/n.gif)
So I Just got my happy shovel 2 weeks ago and unlucky for some there was no waves until the weekend just gone, so I thought I'd share my thoughts about it to anyone considering getting one for themselves.
I live in southeast Ireland and the waves here are generally onshore mush (simular to coco beach florida) with the occasional point break and reef days as well so it's good to have a board for all sorts of conditions .
I'm 5'8 and about 70 kgs ,I'm not a shit hot ripper but I can surf well enough so I got a 5'6X19.7X2.3. ..Man its so small !!
So I took it out on a decent point break with solid 3 foot waves at first. I Set it up as a thruster (GRs in the sides and a G3 in the middle) . I was absolutely blown away with the amount of drive out of this board at high speed with such a wide tail . I was sure , even with the bigger fins ..I'd be slipping and sliding all over the shop. This was not the case at all ! Super drivey long drawn out cut backs was the order of the day ..Wow! Super fun. Now at the same time it came off the bottom very well but didn't like going crazy vert and definitely preferred the more open face carves than blasting lips. ..Unless your Smelly Skater of course and we'd all love to be able to surf like him .:)
After 1.5 hours I went in for some tea and crumpets give the arms a break before heading back out again. ..This time a went for the quad setup ...You know. ..Just to mix it up a bit .
Again I Was absolutely gobsmacked at the difference this made to the board. All of a sudden the board came alive , quick rail to rain action, it became much looser on the wave and much more responsive to "your more immediate turning demands"( to quote the king). I did feel the uncontrolled slide in the bottom turn but not an issue at all! Once the fins catch you can feel the rail engage and your away to blasting another lip . Gotta watch that nose on the re-entry though.
...There's rocker there but not that much and I buried myself into a few batterings . All part of the fun though eh ?
The tail also became much more slidey on the lip so plenty of scope for fun slides and busting the fins free.
The only other thing I've noticed(so far) with this board that I've never experienced in any board before is that it likes to go to the air. Now I Don't know why and maybe I'm wrong but that's the feeling I got with it and more so with the thrusters than the quads ??? Now I Can't do airs but heck at 38 is not to late to learn. ...is it ??
Well that's my 2 cents on it anyway ... I'd often wonder when see these reviews and think. .It's he talking about hard core rippers in great waves or just for the average punter in average waves ..so I Thought this post might be helpful to some .
Super fun board to have in your quiver and I can't wait to get back in the water. :)
I saw this video 1 year ago and it made me very curious about this board. 1 month later I had the opportunity to buy a 5'10" x 20 1/4" x 2 11/16" that is making me very happy since then. At first I was using a set of small thruster fins, but 6 months ago I bought a quad set that makes more sense in this board (it's also looking cooler!). This is my board for small days, maximum on shoulder's high, and never on hollow waves. Thanks for spreading all this boards information! Maybe if I didn't saw this video I wouldn't have bought this beauty!
+Lui Formaggini Lui, thanks for taking the time to report back.
in the Minute 020 what Video is that i find funny i dont understand much engklaich buit i desire do teh same of These Young People in the video
I got the happy shovel 2 years ago and love it, that width helps out so much in these florida waves down here, plus i love that fun feeling from the wide quad box. Great review!
Got few FST's in firewires (Nano & Lost Mini Driver) and i rate how strong they are, barely any deck depressions! Love the pad for one of those sticks!!
I bought this 4 years ago my first shortboard... now after 7 other short boards later and had broken and repaired the nose its still one of my favorites I am giving it away... it works in shore break waves to overhead (not pitching) and I put different quad fins on it... think I am getting a new one but Rusty will have to custom
i am always learning something new watching your videos ,thanks alot and keep them coming ,Guru!
Yes thanks model - thinned nose and tail allows for extra foam
to be placed near the center. Seems to add speed down the line and extra paddling power without sacrificing maneuverability. Good board for California.
Good review and also enjoyed your description regarding quad fins and the placement of the fins. Great stuff!
My favorite setup is a PU blank with Epoxy resin. My "go-to" board here in San Diego is set up this way and has been durable for 5+ years of consistent riding. It is now starting to slow in performance and, after watching this video, I'm dead set on picking up a new Rusty Happy Shovel with this new "injected" epoxy resin technique. Thanks for the tip Shred Show!
Alan, who made that board you've been on for five years?
Its a Del Rey. I forgot the shaper's name but I believe he was part of the Kane Garden crew and after that group broke up he started shaping on his own . if you happen to know I would be very interested in knowing the skaper's name. I can take a pic and send the logo if you like. great quad fin 6 4.
I've always ridden PU boards and i don't intend to change anytime soon. I do like the hyproflex technology i've been reading about how they recycle boards and created the new way of injecting the resin into the foam. As I understand they also vaccum seal the boards which helps the resin deeper into the blank but also reduces the thickness of resin on the board helping keen the board even lighter.
I like standard construction, but i just got a polyurethane core and epoxy construction Cog board by 7s. it feels super strong and stiff cant wait to try it!
I've got a motor boat too at the moment and is a great board. My local is pure muc but this board goes really well from 1 foot in to 6 foot but it gets a bit slidy with the wide tail and find I have to nurse my turns to hold control. Decide to go for a happy shovel this time round as a backup board. I've surfed a dwart a few times and while it's great for getting you into waves and down the line ...I find it difficult to get it to redirect without boggin a railand then all your speed is gone so your just hoofin down the line again . I'm hoping the shovel with be a good compromise and it looks like a wicked addition to my quiver .
New board coming so that usually means a flat spell ...doh !!!
Epoxy tri-flex from JR im pretty sure it should have snapped by now, but its just so springy and I have already had it for a year! plus it stays nice and white for longer!
I like pu because it feels great in real bumpy and mushy waves, it also feels like it can be ridden in almost any kind of waves which makes it extremely versatile and perfect for those kind of unpredictable days
Riding a Grim Ripper in normal PU and my mate bought the same board in Futureflex and took it to Chopes, said it went siiiick! Every show brings me ten minutes of happiness
Wow a Grim Ripper at Chopes? That's wild.
I justed busted a box on my new Wooster so im currently riding my old Stretch: The Thing. I love the EPS tech on this board since you can be rough on it, and it'll take it like a boss. Regular PU blanks get pressure dings way to easy.
such a sick little board! loved the episode.
im currently on a timbertek spitfire and love it. great under foot, fast and very fun. as well as extremely easy on the eye. cheers chris
i love all types of surfboard construction, as long as i can shred and have a super fun session with my mates, that's really all that matters
ps. after a long binge of buying up new boards (with money i dont have) in my quest for the best all rounder for south shore on oahu I have settled on my tokoro SF3. Thanks for these thorough reviews. They helped a lot in this process.
Started with the lazy boy, then hypto kyrpto then weirdo ripper then tokoro sf3 then channel islands #4. Lazy boy and krpto both felt too corky and separated from the wave, wierdo had crazy tight pivoting but dragged a little on a steep take off making the drop a little too late for how squirelled out the board feels when going fast, tokoro was great but had the yearning to try out another CI board to see what all the fuss was about. I have the #4 grovler at 5'6, 26liters.I weigh 155lbs. I found the medium/thick rails and heavy foam in the chest made the board a little more bouncy and roll-y rather than slicey and drive-y. Tokoro SF3 I have is 5'10, 27.4 liters. its 19 1/2'' wide but rails are pinched giving me extra slicing ability even in small waves. although this board is on the high end of liters per my weight, the pinched rails and relatively narrow nose made the board easier for me to point my board up toward the lip even on gutless mush. catches waves easier than #4, ripper or krypto but also is more responsive and sharp feeling. nothing fancy-seeming with the board. but a very creamy ride. Anyone else out there diving into this not so cheap search for a good all round grovel/shortboard hybird-- save some money and justifications for disapproving girlfriends and check out wade tokoro's boards. The thing I didnt like about all the previous boards was that I found i had to sacrifice that lively sharp shortboard feeling for something with more paddle power. this is where the sf3 rose above the rest. no sacrificing performance for paddle power here.
I think Polyester on PU is a classic that will never get old. Although all these new hip ways of making boards are around. There is something about the great feeling of a handshaped and hand glassed board. It's an art that will never go away no matter the technology! All in all both options are good to have. bust out the indestructible epoxy boards for shorebreaks!
PS: you need to make more shows... a work week without shredshow is really rough. keep it up guys
Haydenshapes PE construction and Superbrand's standard production are the two best standard constructions for low weight, higher strength, and lower cost,… all relatively.
Excellent review!! Love learning so much from Shred Show!! Thank you!😁
ive got my new happy shovel arriving next week...and just cant wait to surf it but im really unsure what to expect except that it should be a lot of fun :)
hope to hear how it turns out! i'm about to go check out a happy shovel this week... along with some lost boards... in search of a summer groveler for florida crap days (which is almost everyday).
Hey Chris, glad you're back an btw I like how you are adding lots more surfing footage during the board reviews.
kseshapoopy Thank you! Happy you like the surf footage.
I just bought a Motor Boat Too that is an Epoxy 5'8" x 19" x 2 3/8". I've ridden a ...Lost Rocket (the first version) for about 5 years and switching to epoxy was quite the transition. The Motor Boat is a lot more reactive due to the material. I gotta say the speed, "pop", and drive off this board is addicting as hell. Catches waves with ease and just glides. Truly a fun a board for New Jersey summers. I'm probably going to get only epoxy's for small wave boards from now on.
I bought a Happy Shovel about a year ago. I'm a bigger guy at about 190 lbs and bought the 6'4 with the standard demenions. I believe it comes in around 38 liters. Originally I bought it for small days, but I like it so much it has become my go to board. Today I surfed it in waves that were 1-2 ft over head and it was perfect. The only time I really don't like it is when the waves are really pitching. The small amount of rocker and wide nose make it hard to make most of those waves. But, like I said it is my go to board and over half my surfs are on this board. LOVE the show Chris! Keep up the good work! If you get a chance I would love to see a review on the Rusty Panda. I was thinking that could bridge the gap for me on the more pitching days.
Great review. would be happy to see your inputs about the RUSty HUstler which is a unique board .
S Lempert Will try. Either that or a Rooster would be interesting. Both have that Venturi bottom.
Once again, greatest surf gear show in the universe. Eps-epoxy all the way. They have more pop and springyness than PU boards and they don't yellow as qucikly, and of corse they are stronger
So stoked i found your show on TH-cam. I bought a New Flyer after i saw your review and love the EPS foam. Lets you ride a little smaller volume because its a little more buoyant, its super light and is more resistant to yellowing that PU. Keep killin it with these board reviews my dude. MAD RESPECT.
The durability, flex, and responsiveness of epoxy boards is preferred by this guy North of the boarder (Canada for all those confused). I believe board shape designs have nearly hit a ceiling and won't change too much in the years to come, however the introduction of more modern materials will keep the industry dynamic for years.
I just got a timbertek from FW and so far i love the durability, which makes it perfect for travel, and it looks great. I also tried the hypo cripto by HS and was amazed by the lightness and how that gave an edge when paddling for smaller, less powerful waves.
so....youre stoked! great! but....i'm not sure you told us the name of the board and the measurements? or...did i miss it?
Epoxy! riding my locally shaped Kinetic Flying Eyeball, too broke to deal with the dings I get in my pu boards. East Coast hurricane swell Tuesday and Wednesday, first bit of head high surf in quite some time
Alphonse Kempfer stoked for you! Hope the swell worked out.
SurfboardShredShow
yeah really fun for about a day and a half then the wind picked up and chopped it up pretty good, been flat ever since... forecasts showing another swell slipping in next week hope conditions are worth it! (fingers crossed)
Great show by the way! watching all these vids makes me want to take a stab at shaping a board lol
Like the epoxy for it's strength and you can ride at a slightly lower volume. Haven't checked out any hydroflex boards but really keen to they seem like the go for me.
This was an awesome video! Being a new surfer, it was really helpful to hear you talk about the different aspects of the board, how it affects the way the board moves in the water, and why certain surfers prefer it. I'm a visual learner so this video taught me a lot! Thank you and look forward to checking out more videos. Hope to find one about the Rusty Smoothie so I can learn how to use this board to it's full potential. So far an amazing board the has allowed me to feel like a real surfer to keep up with the boys here in San Diego.
Bruh your analysis was so great. Miss your vids!
you should review the Stewart a-winger I've been riding it in southern North Carolina and have had a lot of fun on it
i would love to ride that rusty board. looks like sooooo much fun :)
thankyou for showing this board Shred Show
I prefer soft top construction because it has a flexible boogie board glass job and it doesn't hurt you when trying kickflips.
I enjoy all kinds of boards! There all fun to get the feeling of, but if I had to chose it would be pu! It just feels like it can be ridden on almost all kinds of waves.
I really like the Happy Shovel, and I'm considering getting it. I've never gotten a board by rusty and I want to try them out.
the way the volume decreases in this board is an updated version of what we used to call "domed" in the 90s. domed boards came about in the 90s to try to get a little more floatation out of the Kelly Slater-esq, potato chip, flip tip ultra-narrow ultra-thin real boards. once people came to their senses, and started riding thicker, wider boards again the Dome boards sort of just went away. the central idea is still the same. Move the foam towards the center, and keep the rails thin and responsive.
+johnpaulstez John - thanks for chiming in with this.
NP man. If you look at that template, it strongly resembles the boards that Rob Machado was surfing on years ago, when he bailed on competitions and started his free surfing. People saw him on boards like that, getting into waves so easily, in all kinds of conditions, and just having fun. He sort of single-handedly put the brakes on the Slater style competitive Thruster design that had dominated the industry and I would say that average surfers really benefited from that.
I prefer a board that is constructed with S-glass on a PU core glassed with Epoxy resin. EPS epoxy boards feel too light, almost like surfing a big skimboard. However, having the S-glass on the traditional PU core with Epoxy resin gives the board the feel I like plus added strength. Plus the board looks super white and stays white longer!
I have a Happy Shovel 5´9” PU, a T-Dwart 5´8” EPS and used to surf in a Dwart 5´8” PU. All are great surfboards. The Happy Shovel is kinda a fish surfboard like the Dwart, but gets more speed to do airs. It is super easy to surf and super fun. Goes vertical too. I sold my Dwart to get the T-Dwart in EPS and this was one the best things i did. The T-Dwart is a more performance surfboard and still paddles great. Super nice board to carve and get speed down the line to do some big turn. It holds the turn very well, but not releases to much. For me, the Dwart has to much foam and feels to much above the water, its a easy board too, but not so funny as a Happy Shovel (who generate more speed) in small (and mushy) waves and not goes well in better waves like the T-Dwart (who is better to do turns and ride barrels). Thanks for the review !!
Thanks for the feedback on all three boards. Great videos as well.
I ride a baked potato with timbertek and it is just such a fun board! The board rides really well with all of my setups
I was thinking of getting a bunny chow for cocoa beach's mushier surf. What are your thoughts on this and are there any other model recommendations you have?
I like PU more, because it worked for surfers for ages and I also think this will be the future not all the other stuff and also I feel more connected to the ocean on a standart PU board.
I had my shaper make a replica of the weirdo ripper that you reviewed and it is honestly the best board that I have ever surfed!!!! It rides just like you said it would
i enjoy all types of material and construction, i like having a different feeling underneath my feet every time i surf
I've went from a traditional PU board, to an epoxy for 3-4 years and now back to traditonal PU (I've been surfing a total of 10 years). The reason I will always stick with PU is that epoxy boards always felt unlively, and I couldn't feel the pop or the flex I've had with my PU boards. PU boards always felt locked in and surfed down WITH the water. Whereas I felt my epoxy boards always wanted to fight being in the water by riding up higher and fighting my attempts to sink the rail during bottom turns. Ever since I've switched back I've felt my surfing improve. Maybe it's me, but I'll always stick with PU.
Love that pad! I put it on all my boards.
I call San Diego home and I tend to gravitate towards PU boards even though they lose their pop over time because I feel the softness of the foam caters to the way I surf
Love this show! Thanks for all the info. I need help understanding VEE!!!! I've read that it helps the board go rail to rail and is good to have in a groveler or board with fatter tail and I've also read they are better for big waves. Which is it? WhT type of waves would you prefer not having a vee? Also what's your take on a rolled vee in the nose?
Years later, I still like these videos...and still struggle to keep up with Josh's enthusiasm! I noticed that in this one, he didn't name the board being reviewed until about 6 mins in.
I primary ride Rusty boards, (The Moby, Big Cat, Hustler, 69 and the Yeti) I prefer EPS but a slightly heavier glassing. Double 6 top and Double 4 bottom.
PU for the spring for me. As my friend Jason at Quality Surf Boards here in honolulu says-- "Epoxy goes "brrrrr" when it hits the bottom after you drop in for a bottom turn." Doesn't spring out
Hey can you review the catch surf beater board? Im thinking about getting one but id like a review on it first. Thanks
Thanks a Bunch!!! Awesome Review!!! Cheers Mate!!!!!!!!!!
Both constructions have benefits, I prefer P/U for my short boards and epoxy for long boards(cuz they are lighter). Thanks Shred show for putting out these awesome vids.
AWESOME REVIEW!!! I was wondering bout tract pad! THX!
LOVE THE INTRO! STAY STOKED CHRIS!!!
Thank you Bryan L.
I ride a 5'11 Santa Cruz Epoxy board (archbold) and i Love it! Plus I need to support Santa Cruz because well... I'm from Santa Cruz.
Hi Chris thanks for introducing the Hydroflex tech ; I think you have no review of the LibTech , what do you think ? same as surftech or worth checking ? looking seriously at their version of the puddle jumper, need your advice first ... thanks !
Awesome video. The hydroflex resin is sweet, makes sense too... How expensive tho?? Traction pad explanation was a cool surprise. I just got a new board and I've hesitated sticking one on, looks too sweet without it! You should reach out to BlackBird Surfboards if you're in San Diego, Leucadia. Shaper is a cool dude
Hey Chris, great show as always, I shape and glass my own boards just in my backyard and from a glassers perspective as far as epoxy vs polyester I can say that working with the poly resin is harder because first of all it is extremely toxic (respirator and tyvek work suit are required to work with it) and that when it cures it is "rough" or "bumpy" and requires a lot more sanding. However, once done, the poly resin does deal with chop better and doesn't yellow very fast. Epoxy is sort of the opposite, working with epoxy is great because it is not toxic and it cures more smoothly leaving you with almost no sanding needed, but once you surf an epoxy board it feels as if it will "blow away in the wind" and they yellow really fast, the last epoxy board I glassed yellowed in less than a month! Sorry for the essay I just typed but thought I'd give you a different perspective on the whole resin topic, cheers!
Thank you Rowan Fitch
I disagree with the yellowing comment. I shape and glass my own boards as well. I only do epoxy. They have optical brighteners in most of the epoxy resins now. (slight purple tint to the resin that goes away when glassed up) Apex epoxy from CA is my go to. I find that they stay white longer and hold their pop. I also think you can "heavy up" a board by increasing your glass schedule. 6+4 deck with a 4+4 bottom will give you a heavier board. Additionally I use a resin + microballoon slurry rather than a light weight drywall spackle. The board never delams...stays super white, and is stiffer with more lively pop. The microballoons just fill in all space and bind to the glass. You can also use a lighter glass schedule with this as I believe it adds a touch of strength. My go to is a 4+4 deck with 6 oz bottom. They are pretty light (not team light, but close) and they last a long time. I have also found you can add clean inks and high quality water colors to the resin and especially the resin seal for some interesting color work.
David Gordon Can you buy that brand of epoxy on the internet? I guess the yellowing factor of the resin im using is due to the fact that it is a locally, sort of low grade resin, thanks for telling me about that brand!!!
Rowan Fitch www.fiberglasssource.com/sunshop/index.php?l=product_list&c=51
You can find Apex Epoxy on Fiberglasssource.com It's actually about 20 dollars cheaper than Resin Research and $30 cheaper than Green Room Epoxy out of South Carolina. I have tried all three. Apex is slightly cheaper and in my opinion the best. No Additive F needed "xylene". The hardener is a bit thicker and spreads nicely, sands better, has no river-let problems in the contours of the board when doing finish coat. It's thermal kick allows for decent pot life and time to work around the board before it tacks up. (not a product rep. I just like the stuff) I've also had good luck with the website fiberglasssource.com for shaping equip. I mix it up though. www.greenlightsurfsupply.com is a little expensive but has best tools. maroon squeege's and their rail runner tool are the best. And foamEZ has best prices on certain other things. Good Blanks from Mark Schneider shapes4u.com/main.htm (san diego)will do custom blanks. And another favorite for blanks is WNC foam. www.wncsurf.com/blanks.html (good stringers in these blanks) also good fish blank. (also San Diego) Again...not a rep. Just throwing it back to people who have given me good products over time. And as far as going cheap. I've found that paying the extra few bucks when building your board pays out in the end. So the build cost 20 to 30 dollars more in the end product...but the quality of the build is well worth it.
Honestly I have no idea what board construction I like best... But I am interested in the 3d glassing by hydroflex simply to lengthen board life.... I'm guessing it ends up being cheaper in the long run as long as it's a shape you like and would want to stick with for a while
Any suggestions on Future Fins for this board? I just got mine ordered but it's my first time using a Future Fins setup. I weight 165lbs. and will be surfing this board on waist high days. Thanks
I prefer epoxy b/c of its lightness when I surf lower volume shortboards. Hands down poly for big boards like funboards and longboards!
im surfing a rusty magic door and i find it is amazing with speed and with your turn still hold speed with them
i love this board... my very first short board... it worked great when it was just 1' beach break or slightly overhead (fatter) waves... can ride it close to nose too... think it's time to order a new one from Rusty :)
For a beginner surfer, should i get the panda doinker or the lost bean bag. I live on the east coast. What would you suggest?
this was my first short board and now it's just loved to point of destruction... I have since obtained many other short boards but this is my go to board for many situations I have confidence in small beach break waves and sometimes head high slope type waves (not pitching) as a quad... however it is skatey and does have that sliding sensation (every thing you said about how this board rings true for me) I love it and plan to ask them to make me another... I have to make sure they make it like the original boards however :)
Chris review the Stewart a-winger
I am looking for a nice small wave board like this happy shovel i am 4 foot 8 inches and weigh around 85 pound my volume is usually around 16-17 in a standard shortboard what demensions should i get this board.
My board is Epoxy with EPS core and can´t say much good about it except it´s really unbreakable. The pad is awesome! Would love it on my new board...
I have always been a fan of PU, but I have to say that epoxy on PU (the natural hydroflex construction) is a pretty great idea. I had a board made by Hamish Graham Superstix about 4 years ago, he uses the same idea as hydroflex without the 3D tech (epoxy glass on PU), and I have never been able to duplicate the way that that board feels with any other. It was glassed pretty light and did ding a good amount under the front foot, but it still feels lively to this day. It feels really responsive and actually paddles and planes better than other boards with near the same volume. I am excited to try another of this type of construction, and in fact I have a V2 shorty being made by hydroflex as we speak. I can see if their tech can duplicate or improve on that previously made yet impossible to recreate feeling. Thanks for the review!
i have that pad on my lost rv i love it
you mentioned how leaving a surfboard in a hot car is bad and would damage the board. would the same be true if i leave my boards in my garage. i live in California and my garage is well over 100 degrees. i keep all of my boards in bags. and one more question. the other day i took my shortboard and went surfing. but when i took the board out a lot of the wax had stuck to the inside of the bag. this is the only board that has done this and im curious to know why.
hey Chris, love the channel! i was wondering if you would be able to do a review on the Chilli Cherry Peppa and wether it would be good for a novice surfer like myself and what size board is preffered? thanks will
Do you think you could do an episode on the lost sub buggy?
What types of fins would you recommend with this board? Also, how much shorter than your regular shortboard would you ride this? Thx!
I love pu! Also have a rusty stump which is awesome! Want to try an epoxy, sadly never have yet :(
Could you review the klimax wizard? Looks great
As a domesticated lake surfer I am now an epoxy fan due to buoyancy and durability. Boards are EXPENSIVE up here!
What do they cost out there?
Great episode! Like the surfing cut scenes. Riding Rusty Moby fish. Epoxy boards are definitely more durable and lighter but stiffer and less flexible than a PU board. Favor the former.
Thank You Tym!
Hey Tym, try a board with "futureflex" that Hayden Cox from HS / Hayden Shapes came up with (at least I think it was him that came up with it). All the properties of flex etc of PU with all the flotation and strength benefits of Epoxy. Unfortunately, they still suffer from the ding it and drown it factor.
Looks interesting, looks similar to a CI Spurm Whale? Also with the construction is that in any way similar to the Hayden Hypto Krypyo? Still love this show, Keep it up bro.
Hey great vids! Maybe do your thoughts on the vampirate gravedigger?! Keep being stoaked!
Hey Chris how would you compare the happy shovel to the ...lost lazyboy. Thanks! And great episode lovin them!
Hey what do yo think the biggest wave you can ride on this board?
Could u please do a review on the spider bomb by spider surfboards its sick.
I prefer PU with poly resin. I like the weight under foot. It feels better to me by seeming to have more glide and ride rough water better. Epoxy resin is stronger, but more expensive, and harder to work with for repairing my boards so I don't think to ever mess with putting it on PU. EPS foam is too light and I agree it feels "ping pongy" as a some people say. It's chattery on waves that aren't glassy, and feels like it will blow away on me. As a surfer experimentation is key to advancement, and you can't argue with what "just works" for you. PU/Poly "just works" for me! Keep fighting the good fight, and I would love to see some episodes that were strictly about in depth technical topics like this and not just about a specific board/brand. Mahalo!
You should do a review on the Pyzel surfboard, the Rat Skull. Could you also talk about different glassing, like 6oz on top, 4oz on the bottom etc, and how much it effects the surf of the board. Love your videos!
As usual you make me want to go surfing. I've messaged you about the new eps epoxy sled I have with the carbons inlay across the deck. Adds a little bit if weight so it's not as ultra light as a regular epoxy glass job on an eps blank. My small wave board is super high volume. Makes gutless waves fun. Really fun.
You may remember from when ither posts that they are MOREsurfboards from Sunshine Coast qld. Oh btw when the webber wave pool opens up 20 mins from my house you can stay at my house and well go surfing.
YYYYEEEEWWWW!!!!!!
Adam Baldwin have they broke ground on that wave pool yet?
No bro i replied to this as a separate comment. cheers
to be honest i have no idea which i prefer... I have two PU boards and one epoxy and i can't tell the difference lol loved the show today!
aweseome videos man! I am learning so much !
Wuts up Chris...?! This is Jonesy out of Oregon. Hopefully you catch this post...Your show is epic and I watch it all the time and hands down it has goto be the best ,most exciting and educational show out there for surfers of all levels!!! I have tried to watch a few tech vids and informational vids put out by other people and I'm constantly looking for new vids to learn new things about surfing and sometimes I want to ask the people who post ," Do you even surf?" because they are so dead in what they're talking about. I have watched this video probably at least a dozen times and really want a Hydroflex Happy Shovel like the one you reviewed here. I have checked out a lot of boards online and tried several similar boards and keep coming back to this board so now I'm going to be saving for a while so I can get one for myself! Thanx for the great board review and all the info you've put out there! Again bro your vids rock and I hope you keep at it and keep the passion!!!! How could a person not after you've started surfing. Live the dream! Stay real B true!
Jonesy - thanks for this. Appreciate hearing from you and hope you're scoring in Oregon.
Hey Shred Show any ideas where I could get a Rusty happy shovel in exactly the same colour as you feature in your vid?? cheers
@Steven Cole yes you can get it directly from Hydroflex. If you tell them you want it with the exact look of this board, they'll get it done.
Epoxy all day. Haven't ridden a PU in years. Never will go back. Epoxy is more durable, lighter, and springier. Yes, it is a different type of spring but you get more bounce. I've found the Epoxy boards more "twist" than flex like a PU does. I like that coming off the bottom because the spring is more instant that than slow flex or bend you feel in a PU, thus pushing you down the line faster. And yes, I know it's 100% what you like, that's just me.
As for construction, I think Firewire has a good thing going. Like the futureflex, but the foam pressures REALLY easy. And am really horny to try the Stretch carbon, bamboo, cork combo.
I use both depending on the waves and conditions but definitely like how epoxy's last longer.
Had the Rusty Toad EPS but did not like the way it surfed on top of the water. I prefer a board that rides in the water allowing more quick response and vertical turns. May need to give one a go. Some great info on new glassing technologies. Being out here in Hawaii we kind of get locked in on what works from the past vice new technologies.