Agree that the speed shape is an incredible option. I've tried heavier logs pintail and square tail as well as performance shapes. I agree that the "logs" are fun in small surf, and that the speed shapes can handle most anything. I have a pintail classic log that I do feel bridges the gap nicely, but there are days when the flatter bottom and edge in the back of the typical performance or speed shape opens up possibilities. Classics really need a beautiful running small wave and if there are wind, chop, or rogue waves on the day it is not the right choice. It will handle on bigger days due to the pintail, but it won't get around sections unless you are able to cross-step and noseride with some skill. Generally they are much slower on the tail and need to be ridden in trim. Not very forgiving if you are new to longboarding. Great video!
PS gliders are a must have, but also the designs can fluctuate. I have a DT Prince Kuhio at 10'8" and this board will handle big and small surf. It is also a great noserider for a glider. It is incredible and if you can get your hands on one, I highly recommend it compared to "Eagle" types for intermediate-advanced. As I understand the Eagle is similar to your Thomas with no concave and is not a noserider design. DT boards are a great all-around option and in my experience can do it all with little sacrifice.
thank you for sharing your extensive experience. Its nice to know you have had a similar outcome. Speed shape cannot be beaten in large waves. The telling thing for me is when my fiend tried it and fell in love with it even though she rides comp style noseriders.
@@Joe-wo2hz ooh that sounds pretty amazing. Is it tufflite? I had a DT 8 6 Opihi and rode it hundreds of times. Then I got a Devon Howard mini special. His boards are special.
Thanks for this James. I've just started surfing lessons at Mooloolaba and plan to keep it up. The surf teacher and my mates suggested to just get a big 8-9 foot foamy that I can beat up to start with but that witbier looks like a great board. What do you suggest? How would you progress if you were a beginner?
Agree that the speed shape is an incredible option. I've tried heavier logs pintail and square tail as well as performance shapes. I agree that the "logs" are fun in small surf, and that the speed shapes can handle most anything. I have a pintail classic log that I do feel bridges the gap nicely, but there are days when the flatter bottom and edge in the back of the typical performance or speed shape opens up possibilities. Classics really need a beautiful running small wave and if there are wind, chop, or rogue waves on the day it is not the right choice. It will handle on bigger days due to the pintail, but it won't get around sections unless you are able to cross-step and noseride with some skill. Generally they are much slower on the tail and need to be ridden in trim. Not very forgiving if you are new to longboarding. Great video!
PS gliders are a must have, but also the designs can fluctuate. I have a DT Prince Kuhio at 10'8" and this board will handle big and small surf. It is also a great noserider for a glider. It is incredible and if you can get your hands on one, I highly recommend it compared to "Eagle" types for intermediate-advanced. As I understand the Eagle is similar to your Thomas with no concave and is not a noserider design. DT boards are a great all-around option and in my experience can do it all with little sacrifice.
thank you for sharing your extensive experience. Its nice to know you have had a similar outcome. Speed shape cannot be beaten in large waves. The telling thing for me is when my fiend tried it and fell in love with it even though she rides comp style noseriders.
@@Joe-wo2hz ooh that sounds pretty amazing. Is it tufflite? I had a DT 8 6 Opihi and rode it hundreds of times. Then I got a Devon Howard mini special. His boards are special.
@ It’s a poly from the guys in California. It’s incredible but I’m already putting holes in it! I’ve heard great things about the tufflite Prince K!
@@Joe-wo2hz they are tough. I have ridden a few in that construction as rentals in Waikiki
Thanks for this James. I've just started surfing lessons at Mooloolaba and plan to keep it up. The surf teacher and my mates suggested to just get a big 8-9 foot foamy that I can beat up to start with but that witbier looks like a great board. What do you suggest? How would you progress if you were a beginner?
they are right. I'd recommend an 8 foot or bigger MF Beastie softboard. The super soft is ideal for learning th-cam.com/video/xsd-yBewC6Y/w-d-xo.html