I have been using my Naish Mana 9'5'' for the past 2 years and i feel i'm ready for a smaller and more board. At this stage im contemplating a SMIK Spitfire (8'8 or maybe the 8'6''), a Naish Mad Dog (8''11) or a Naish Hokua X32 (8'7 or maybe the 8'2). I weigh 92kgs and i usually SUP around Perth, the occasionally trip south and the annual trip north.
Has anyone stepped down from a 9'5 Mana (or similar) and what board did you step down to?
Hi mate
I started on a TSBW 10 x 32 carbon evoke and dropped to an 8' 10" x 32 sunova skate. A bit wonky and some quality splash time for 6 or so sessions but haven't looked back. Rotten egg gas?
Cheers
Eski
I am 85 kg I love the 88 x 32 hokua I tried the 710 and 9 1 hokuas and didn't like them. The 83 will be harder work
If you plan another 2 years between boards, maybe something that might seem challenging early will be perfect later on. All the boards listed will do it for you, with the X32 most likely to be the easiest transition from a stability point of view, the other two might surf better depending on your ability. If you've surfed prior to SUP, I'd suggest the smaller options you've listed as these will surf better as you get more familiar with them. The trade off is balance early on.
Hooksey,
I did the 9'6 to 8'5 jump about a year ago and it only took about 2 sessions to feel comfortable on the new board.... I did add an inch of width though and I think that did help. I should have done it earlier....
hey hook man .
had a 9.5 mana changed to a 8,8 x32 @ 140 litres .a lot looser no nose diving either .you can cut loose on this one .
i now ride a sunova ,9,1 acid ,it has more speed and less volume at 125 ,litres .
the other board mentioned ,maddog is 29 wide ,,big step down from a 32 wide mana ,
you may have some issues adapting ,but not impossible .
hey Slugga
What board would you recommend for which wave type and size? Super jealous that you have both!
What sizes do you have of each?
Hooksy,
Come grab one of my Demo Naish Mad Dogs you will love it!
I would be surprised if you wanted anything wider than 29" The Naish Mad Dog is hands down the best well-balanced performance surf sup I've ridden.
Luke