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What makes a stable paddler? - by: jazzman

March 30, 2018, 4:19 pm
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The recent thread about the new to paddling chap on the Epic V12 made me think about what makes a stable paddler. There were some comments made about very experienced intermediate paddlers who can't rotate in a V12
Just got me thinking about what makes a paddler stable?
A year ago I was lucky enough to go to Capetown and do a downwind camp with the Mockes. I had a paddle with a local , non elite paddler who was ROCK solid in the big swell we experienced that day ( in a Swordy I think). I also saw Jasper paddling out of Fish Hoek in his V14 ( looking for me as it happens , I'd had a shocking Millers) in big swell and against the wind. Again, he looked like he was paddling a bath tub.
So different paddlers, similar conditions, different boats and both looked rock solid.
Just curious what people here think are the keys to stability. Core strength , time in water, appropriate boat, combination of all of above. We all know the elites can paddle pencils in big conditions but I'm sure there are "non elites" who may have more experience and more bum-in-boat time than elites who can't do that.So another way of asking - what do the elites do or have that we mortals don't.
Where I live I get a lot of wind chop and am quite comfortable in most conditions ( I paddle a Carbonology Vault, no desire to change). But had a paddle yesterday in windless conditions on a different coast but with big rolling swell, not messy but I found it really unsettling. I'm not inexperienced, but found myself wondering why I was so unsettled in it.
Just curious what people think.
Cheers
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Epic in Thailand - by: Kean

March 30, 2018, 4:49 pm
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Hi all

We are delighted to be the EPIC dealer for Thailand and we now have a stock of V5, V6 and V7 EPIC surfskis and accessories in stock. Prices are the same as the main EPIC website (we cover import and tax on our initial stock).

For anyone planning a holiday, we have a great buy-back scheme which lets you have new or demo kit from us for your holiday use and we GUARANTEE to buy back from you at the end of your trip. A bit like luxury snow ski rental, we can deliver a boat to you at your resort, and pick it up when you leave.

We are a real 'bricks and mortar' shop in the beautiful Thai seaside town of Hua Hin and our aim is to deliver the best possible customer service so please try us out - we will do our best to help.

Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Feedback on Epic V10 G3 - by: Marcabee

March 31, 2018, 5:45 pm
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Hi.
The new Epic V10 G3 has been out for a few weeks now. I would have thought there would be a few more posts online by now discussing its merits and vices given the history of this model. So this post is to try jump start a discussion and feedback thread. I've paddled it and found it much more fun and in my mind faster than the previous g3. It would be nice to get feedback on the boat, how does it compare to the Elite S and Ion G3 which I would say are its main competitors, as well as the Swordfish S. I've paddled the Swordy befoew and in my mind it's more stable, great in the runs (as good) but not as fast in flatter conditions.

Looking forward to some discussion.

Cheers
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1 Year In - by: PharmGeek

April 2, 2018, 8:11 am
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Hello folks...I think about 1 year ago I asked several questions on this page, and was just going to follow up, give an update, and maybe toss in a few items for suggestions/opinions/recommendations.

About 1 year ago, I started getting some interest in trying out surf skis for first and foremost fitness paddling.

I am now rapidly approaching age 35 (in june) and have paddled my v7 for the past almost 1 year...my previosu kayak experience was with a 22 inch wide sea kayak. I live inland, Birmingham, AL area...and paddle a local state park lake about once a week - am busy at this point, wife works, I work full time, two small kids...ill find more time for paddling as things go on im sure, but I find a bit of time and I work out at home 4-5 days per week.

I have done some online coaching reviewing footage of me paddling with a "coach" online which helped me tremendously I think.

My first experience with working on a proper forward stroke was various errors that caused shoulder discomfort...that was rapidly fixed, and then ive worked on various tweaks, drills, and routines and just overall practice to get what I hope will be a solid forward stroke...still tweaking it.

First time in my life Ive had some reason to stay motivated and in shape...its been a game changer for me...it gives me reason to get through what I perceive as "boring" workouts at home (I do like HIIT workouts at home, which double to prep me for hiking I do as well). I do plan to enter my first race this spring, with little expectations, but looking forward to trying...ive never been very competitive, but gives me something to stay motivated about and maybe meet others paddlers...which ive yet to see a surf ski even on a car or at my local state park lake I frequent, lol...

Anyway, I may purchase a second surf ski this summer or fall...my plan is to demo several in months to come...ive fallen out of my v7 all of one time, and it was my poor attempt to ferry across a rapid near class III rapids...which I did not fall out of the v7 going over that rapid in the first place, lol...ive even stand up paddled the v7 using the paddle as a long brace in the water....can hold it there for a bit before falling....my coach thinks now, if I upgrade to a faster boat, ill realize more benefit...im not in a rush though at all...and will be keeping the v7 as my "stable ski" to continue to use, and allow my 7 year old son to eventually use, and hoping my wife will try it this summer and get her into it...also a good boat for many rivers here...

My next boat, I just am not at all sure about...ive asked some folks and get several opinions...read older threads on here from folks analogous to myself...and it seems there are just so many options...

Im 158 lbs, 6'0" at this point...have had no issues with the fit of the v7, although I have nothing to compare it too....ill assume that several other epic buckets ill do fine in with my skinny butt...ive heard their seats are often larger than other brands.

I plan to try several...as I understand, some upgrades ill very likely do fine in from a stability standpoint...v8, S18S, im not familiar with various think boats, but there is a place nearby that deals in them I plan to go demo soon...then more "tippy" and perhaps generally "faster"...SR, SEL, V10, not sure of think equivalents.

Ill just take my time and demo a bunch this spring and summer and by late summer or fall, I hope to snag ski...I have a line already on a couple used skis....an SEL gen 2 in the Multisport layup...ill avoid sketchy rivers or shallow stuff in this 2nd kayak...but I will still likely prefer a relatively "tough" layup being still pretty new - and will require a kickup rudder.

Anyway, I really appreciate the encouragement and advice given last year, and am really enjoying paddling my surf ski....I went back and paddled my sea kayak recently on a camping trip on the Alabama FL border...and wow...I think ive become fixated on paddling the ski...that's all I will say...

I am sure my desire to upgrade is to continue to chase that feeling of "glide" and speed I have grown to really love in kayaking...with the v7, I feel like once I hit 6mph, to get to 7mph is like WOOOORRK for me...some of that is continued technique and relatively meager upper body strength, but im told I likely will see a benefit with the upgrade.

I pretty much at this point can hold 5mph over time on a paddle (totally flat water, a lake, no current)...over 6mph for me gets noticeably more difficult...highest speed ive registered is like 7.5mph (use a garmin watch)...and that was quite momentary...

I suppose what comes up in the threads ive read on this subject is sorta YMMV issue, is going for a faster vs. staying with a balance of stability...

I am leaning toward going for a bit more of a challenge and going "faster" - knowing I will need to adjust...ill still have my v7 if I do any rough water stuff (rare for me inland at this point)...

I suppose my demo attempts in months to come will help me figure things out...

Thanks everyone, hope all are enjoying themselves!

Take Care!
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Surfski foiling: The dawn of a new era - by: mamaru

October 9, 2017, 9:16 am
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SharkBite Challenge - by: mickeyA

April 4, 2018, 6:39 pm
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This will be my first year at SharkBite Challenge near Tampa, FL. Are there any activities going on around the races other than what is on the website? Specifically ski demos. I don't think there is any mention of demo times. I kind of thought there were plenty of chances to test all kinds of skis at this race. Maybe it is Sunday afternoon?? Anything Friday other than social paddle? Looking forward to it.
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McGregor Classic Ski - by: zachhandler

September 17, 2016, 9:11 pm
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Has anyone had a chance to try one?
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What is your surfski story? - by: LakeMan

May 28, 2017, 12:11 pm
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I'd like to hear your story about what and why you started paddling a surfski. You do not have to answer the questions below, they are just some ideas. I think giving your story will motivate others to get into the sport.

For example:
Did you paddle other boats first?
Is this for fitness, racing or just for the mental solitude?
Why paddle something so challenging?
Did you start with a beginner ski or jump into an elite?
How difficult was it to start the sport?
Did you find balance natural or a trial?
What is the best ski you've ever owned?
Do you paddle alone or in groups?
Does your spouse also paddle?
Multi-skis or do you keep one?
Daily, weekly or monthly on the water?
Do you winter ski and why?

This is an open post. Write whatever would be helpful to those who read it. Thank you
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V10 gen 3 v V11 - anyone done any comparison? - by: robin.mousley

April 9, 2018, 6:46 am
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After I published the interview with Greg Barton, greg-barton-on-the-gen-3-epic-v10 , someone asked what the differences were in terms of speed and stability between the All-new 2018 V10 Gen 3 and the V11, which was launched last year.

Anyone?
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Ventura, CA - by: MCImes

March 14, 2018, 6:36 am
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Hey Guys,
I remember someone on the boards here lives in or near Ventura, CA - Although not set in stone yet, my wife and I are likely moving there in the semi-near future for a new job.

I'm wondering where the good paddling spots are, what typical conditions are like, and if I could talk to you about the area (where to live, or avoid, things to do, ect).

Chime in if you're in the area or have recently left it.

Thanks!
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What was the first surfski with a single footwell ? - by: Steve Hansen

April 9, 2018, 10:43 am
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The first one I can remember was a Valhalla, circa 1990's I think ?
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Decals on Epic Mid Wing Paddle - by: peteski

April 11, 2018, 6:24 am
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Hello all

I've just purchased a new Epic Mid Wing Paddle and was surprised by the lack of decals on the shaft next to the blade. All the internet searches I've done show a yellow, red or white band which i think rounds off the paddle off quite nicely and provides details of the paddle type, but mine has none, as per the attached picture.

Is this how Epic now sells them or should the dealer have put these on after assembling the paddle?
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Plastic ski owners - how do you carry your boat to water? - by: SpaceSputnik

April 12, 2018, 8:53 am
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I have been doing various prep things in anticipation of my first season with my V7.
One thing that has been on my mind is what is the best way to get this 50lb+ rig to water from the car? I really rather not mess with carts and things and be able to do it in one trip.
I tried lifting it a few times and find it pretty awkward so far. The strength is not an issue, but rather the awkwardness. I am 5'6".
So, I was wondering if anybody has any tips how to grab it the best way. I guess the simplest is just to carry it like a bucket of water with the right hand and the the paddle with the left.

I do have a cart, but it's too big and heavy to pack in a hatch. As a worst case I guess I could chain in to a tree near a put-in, but again if I could avoid that it'd be best.

Thanks!
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Grrrrr! Ruptured achilles! - by: kwolfe

April 12, 2018, 9:13 am
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Needless to say I'm not a happy camper. 3 weeks ago I was out cruising around on my Hamboard longboard (yup, 43 and skating, I know). Push off hard with my left foot and felt the POP! At first I thought "well this is going to require ice". Then when I tried to take a step and my foot wouldn't work I thought "well this is going to require an ER visit".

So I'm one week post op now and still non weight bearing for about one more week. Then back to the damn cam walker boot for 8-10 weeks. Needless to say this sucks.

However, I AM NOT giving up paddling! I just tried the cam boot and it will just barely fit in the split footwell of my OC1. So at least I can paddle that. I haven't pulled down my Nelo 550 however that footwell looks to narrow at the bottom to fit the boot and my right foot. I can still use my Speedstroke Erg but its just not nearly as good as the water.

Anyone ever have to deal with this? I was thinking about possibly making my over fiberglass splint for paddling. One that will keep my foot pointed (which is what the boot is doing.

Oh and by the way. For guys getting to my age, older or whoever.......stretch those calves, take a yoga class or something. This is definitely frustrating.
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Is surfski harder than it needs to be? - by: d0uglass

April 14, 2018, 7:45 am
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I'm about 8 sessions into learning surfski on a boat that I know is not ideal (2009 Epic v12). It's going as well as can be expected. I'm gradually getting more speed and stability in flat water, and enjoying the learning process. In rough coastal waters I'm an unmitigated disaster, managing only a few strokes between one broach and the next. I'm sure I'd be progressing faster on a more stable ski, but for now this used one was the only thing in my price range.

From my experiences, and from reading all about surfski here and elsewhere on the Internet, I'm developing a theory (which could be totally wrong) that surfski is actually harder than it needs to be.

Both new and experienced surfski paddlers seem to have very low expectations for user-friendliness of the equipment, which is both good and bad. (For example: we accept rudders that lose their grip right when you really need to turn, and cutting bows that instantly broach you if they touch the water during a wave ride.) Low expectations for user-friendliness of the equipment are good in that they lead to patience and sticktuitiveness. But they may also lead to stagnation in design; acceptance of poor handling characteristics of the boats that limits the conditions they're usable in and makes it so many years of constant practice are required to use them. This could limit fun, and limit participation in the sport. Could we be building surfskis that are still pretty fast in flat water, but much easier to steer and less prone to pearl or broach in rough water, ultimately making them faster in downwinders for 90% of people? I suspect so.

Coming from a SUP background I can contrast surfski shapes with the very downwind-friendly shape of my 14'x27.25" Fanatic Falcon board. The tail of the Fanatic is a pintail like a surfski, but the nose is blunt, voluminous, and generously-rockered, such that when it touches the water it creates lift, resists pearling, and won't catch and steer the board into a broach. Compared to my 14'x23" flatwater race SUP board, which has a surfski-like cutting nose and less rocker, like Fanatic is about 4% slower in flat water, but 400% easier in downwind conditions of any kind, including small, steep waves and bumps of mixed period and mixed direction like we typically get in the Gulf of Mexico. It catches anything and goes wherever you want it to go even with just a fixed fin. Seems like some of the Fanatic Falcon shape features could be incorporated in a longer, narrower sit-down surfski version that would be a lot of fun. They say the nose of a surfski isn't supposed to touch the water much when you're downwinding, anyway, so why not give the nose more rocker and a friendlier boof or surfboard style nose that would allow quicker recovery when it did touch the water?

Another area where I theorize that surfskiers have accepted too much user-unfriendliness is with rudders/fins. On this forum I read about what seem to be some successful experiments in improving rudder effectiveness with "caster" rudders, or with rudders where the forward section is a fixed fin (like a giant weed deflector) and only the aft part pivots. Also, seems like rudder foils that tolerate larger angles of attack would be real useful as standard equipment.

Curious to know your thoughts. Now I'm going to head out to the Gulf of Mexico for some masochistic broaching-crazy upwind/downwind balance/remounting practice in mild seabreeze chop.
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Paddling in Hawaii - by: kwolfe

February 9, 2018, 6:19 am
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So I'm getting married soon and as luck would have it (thanks to a lot of unspent airline miles), my wife and I are looking to go to Hawaii for our honeymoon.

The first thing I mentioned was "you know I have to paddle when I'm there.......like every day for a few hours". She's a great woman and know how much I love it so she just smiled and said "of course".

Does anyone here know of places I could rent a surfski (or OC1) and good places to paddle? We aren't really set on any particular island.
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Fenn XT - by: Davidw

April 17, 2018, 9:48 pm
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Hi all

My wife has an older XT, not the oldest version but the version with the rudder moved forward but still with a double foot well.
She loves the boat but its pretty damn heavy, I'd guess 19 kg +.

Does anyone know whether the current single footwell version has any changes to the hull design below the waterline that would make any performance or stability differences?
I'm probably looking at a glass vacuum version which should be about 5 or 6 kg lighter, to make it easier for her to handle off the water.

I've also considered getting a V8 Pro for her (although they seem difficult to come by).
Can anyone compare the Pro with an XT?
She finds the Bluefin to big and "loose" for her, being only 165 and 57kg.

She only paddles for fun and fitness, no downwinds or rough stuff.

Thanks!
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Nelo 550 beginner question - by: Hardy

April 18, 2018, 5:34 am
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I've got a new Nelo 550, it's my first surfski. Overall I'm very happy with the boat, it handles well and is fun to ride. Still there's one thing that bothers me: After each ride I find about 1cm of water in the rudder compartment. The top lid seems to seal well, so I guess water comes in through the rudder shaft and drops into the compartment when the boat is upside down after a capsize (which still happens to me every now and then ,-))
My question: Is there a possibility that the water gets from the compartment into the hull through the holes of the rudder lines - or are these things further sealed and protected from inside? So far I haven't noticed anything but of course I can't see what's going on inside....
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Progressing, stoked, more questions - by: d0uglass

April 19, 2018, 7:25 am
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Hi folks,

Thank you all for your advice on my recent newbie posts. It's clear I'm on a less than ideal surfski that's going to slow down my progress, especially in rough water. But I'm resigned to that for now, and just trying to do my best until I either get good enough for the boat or find a great local deal on a more stable one.

In flat water I've been tracking my progress on a 6.5 km "time trial" hairpin course down and back up the Imperial River in Bonita Springs, FL. (Our local club does a Wednesday night 6 pm all-paddlecraft time trial series starting at Riverside Park if anybody is interested.) Though I'm not quick in absolute terms, I'm excited to be making relatively steep improvements.

March 26th- 8.34 kph
April 2nd- 8.89 kph
April 6th- 8.92 kph
April 9th- 9.61 kph (first time without capsizing)
April 12th- 9.48 kph (1 capsize)
April 18th- 10.22 kph (double capsize within sight of the finish- doh!)

The last time I got some pointers from a buddy who had just been to an Oscar Chalupsky clinic. He said it would help with both speed and stability if I exited the blades from the water earlier instead of pulling so far back. It definitely helped. He also said I'm using my arms too much and probably not getting enough twist and legs into it because my home-made seat pad is too grippy to slide on. I may put some more duct tape over the top of the pad to make is more slippery, plus try paddling in spandex instead of swim trunks.

I tried buddy's Nelo 550 after the last session, and it definitely had a different feel than my v12. Lighter and more "corky" / floaty - it would surge up in the water more with each stroke. The rails felt higher and it felt like I was more up out of the water. The primary stability didn't seem too different from the v12 but the secondary stability was more apparent. More water got in the boat when the bailer was open and not moving. I think I'd be more seaworthy in it in rough water, but not necessarily faster than the v12 in flat water, though I don't have numbers for that.

One problem I keep having on my v12 is banging my right thumb knuckle on the rail during the catch. The thumb/wrist part of the palm on my right hand is overall kind of stiff and arthritic / swollen as a combo of that banging and some other kinds of stress / bone bruising that I seem to putting on it in the stroke.

-J
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Fenn (old school) cable connector bolt fail.. - by: hamishglen

April 21, 2018, 2:09 am
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Any decent tips on getting the stripped bolt out?
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