Does anyone have a comparison between the 2012 Naish and the 2012 Fanatic, speed, stability, downwind wave riding etc. Any advice would be appreciated.
You're obviously talking about the Naish Catalina, with the sunken deck? Compared to The Fanatic Fly Race?
Fly Race Carbon is super light. That would be the one I would steer towards. I think the Catalina was orientated to Surf Style BOP (Battle of the Paddle) Races.
I have only had a short paddle on both, on separate days. Both are good boards. The Catalina surf quite well, easy to handle.... I would go out on a limb, and suggest that the Catalina is easier to handle in the surf... Catalina is semi narrow at 27"5/8, and The Fly is 30"1/2. But The Fly seems to come in a 27"3/4 option now.
If you're heavier, The Fly 30"1/2 could be a good option....http://www.fanatic-sup.com/content/products/sup/fly_race/index_eng.html
www.naishsurfing.com/boards/glide/glide-details/?hgm=1_6
For me personally, I like 14-17+ feet of fun. And the S.I.C. F-18 is one serious weapon !! Built for SPEED !!
www.sicmaui.com/f18.htm It's not cheap though, and hard to find them in Oz.
Most normal adult males who are 85kg and over will have more fun on 14+ feet when down winding.
There are some exceptional males in the 70kg-85kg range who smoke on "twelve sixers" in DW conditions though.
I know the F-18 goes really well in most conditions, for adult males in the range of 85-105kg's. The F-18 cuts up any triangle course, and can pick up the tiniest bumps on any DW leg. A very competent All Round Racer, and super light for 18 feet. But often races have class/length thresholds.
What state are you in? There are quite a few places to Demo these SUP's.... Both of those boards have been popular demo boards.... both usually available at demo days, especially if Fanatic or Naish are involved with the demo day....
Mac, DC14 would be good for you. QLD made board, and better for touring than the 12'6. Perfect for a tourist like you! Just kidding buddy!
Lacey, where are DC at with their 14's at the moment.... I can't keep up ! What's happening on the Manta front?
Naish 2012 range, discussion, and brochure pics...
Catalina - gone! (?)...
www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Stand-Up-Paddle/Review/Naish-2012-range/?page=1
(thanks PT)
Fanatic 12'6" * 27 is real nice board . Super light & fast. Not sure about downwinders , but fun surf yesterday before snow hit.