Archive for June, 2008

Stand Up Paddling In Hawaii – KGMB9 Video


(click thumbnail to launch video)

Note: SUP segment starts at 1:53

Written by Liz Chun – echun@kgmb9.com

Stand up paddling is a combination of surfing and paddling. But it’s not just for elite athletes any more. There’s a new fitness routine for the sport, for anyone willing to try it.

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Kialoa Shaka Puu Stand Up Paddle (Part 1)

Kialoa Shaka Puu Stand Up Paddle

Dave Chun of Kialoa Paddles answers questions about paddling technique, paddle design and performance, his all-new Shaka Pu’u paddle, and general concerns about the stand up paddle surf culture. Dave also talks about choosing the right paddle, which all boils down to intuition that tells what type of paddle is best for the stand up paddle surfer.

We get to learn more about paddles and why design and performance are always relative to individual surfers.

In the first of this three-part interview, Dave takes us through the process of building paddles and how they test the durability and strength of their products. He also compares the Shaka Pu’u to the Nalu.

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icon for podpress  Kialoa Shaka Puu Stand Up Paddle (Part 1) [8:09m]: Download
icon for podpress  Kialoa Shaka Puu Stand Up Paddle (Part 1) [8:12m]: Download

Q&A – Beginner Board Recommendations

Chris wrote:

Hi, I’m sorry to bother you, but would you be able to help recommend a good beginner board for me? I’m trying to start standup paddling, and I’ve been reading this website as well as other forums, etc. trying to find a good board.

Based on all the reviews you’ve done, I figured you were the guy to ask. There’s so many different boards to choose from that I’m just making myself nuts trying to figure out the differences. I’m 6′3″, 235 lbs., and a novice surfer.

I’m looking for the most durable board possible, and I’m more interested in cruising than surfing with it. I’ll probably surf only occasionally, in knee-high waves. I was looking at the 11′6 c4 waterman from hawaiian south shore. I also inquired at psh, and Austin said they’d be getting in some 11′0 x 30 x 4 7/8 hand glassed boards in august. Would either of these boards suit me and be able to handle the abuse of a beginner falling/whacking it with a paddle every day? Or would you recommend an entirely different brand/board/model?

I like those two options I mentioned because both come with pad, fins, and paddle, which made them more economical for me. I’d like to stay in the 1400-1800 price range for the total package.

I’d really appreciate any advice or opinions you have, such as whether you’d recommend a molded sandwich board or a hand glassed one. I’ve been reading this site daily, and I love it. Thank you in advance for your time!

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Q&A – Surftech Softop Surfboard as a Stand Up Paddle Board

I have a surftech 12ft softop surfboard. Is it suitable for use as a stand up paddleboard?

I never could get the knack for riding the waves w/ it. Its just kind of going to waste. Before I step up to an actual paddleboard I would like to give it a try on the softop I own. I am 6ft 1in 250lbs.

Many thanks,
Jeff

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Tropical Blends Newsletter

Here’s the latest from Tropical Blends

Tropical Blends

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Injury from Short Leash – Ouch

Injury from Short Leash – Ouch

I used a short leash a couple weeks ago on the north shore and really liked it. I think the leash was 7’ or so and it made the board way easier to retrieve and seemed less in the way. I liked it so much I went and bought one the other day. I measured the 7’ Da Kine leash which turned out to be a tad under 9 ft when stretched out. I thought that length was perfect for my new 8’9” Blair board. I was wrong.

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Q&A – Surftech Infinity

Evan,

I bought an Infinity, I’m glad I did. It’s a little on the heavy side but not bad. It’s loose… I like the way it rides and is easy to stay on while waiting for waves.

Question, will Infinity be making a Surftech version of this model. Since owning it I’ve depressed the deck & the grip on the front is starting to peel off. The front I can see it’s just tape. Clearly not a Jack Reeves, Alvin, or Clays glass job. I’ve been a backyard glasser for many years, I’ve played a lot with epoxies.

As a side note I went to Home Depot & got Rubber Mastic Tape 30″/$10.00 for wrapping the edge of the paddle (you don’t get a sticker though).

Create a Great Day

Ernie

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C4 Waterman/Boardworks Bob’s Mission Surf Demo Day

C4 Waterman/Boardworks
Bob’s Mission Surf
Demo Day
Tourmaline Surf Park
http://www.beachcalifornia.com/turmo.html
Tuesday 10 June, 0800 to 1200

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Laird Hamilton Interview on Good Morning America

Check out Laird talking about stand up paddle surfing on Good Morning America. Laird states that if he could only do one sport it would be stand up paddling. He also wants to stand up paddle in a hurricane.

Laird Hamilton
(click thumbnail to launch video)

Oahu Contests June 7 and 8, 2008

China’s 12th Annual Wahine Classic: June 7th, & 8th, 2008

http://www.chinauemura.com/

Primo Hawaii Kai to Kaimana race for charity is on June 7.
Click Here for post

Soljah Presents
The Primo Stand Up Challenge
A benefit for Malama Maunalua

Saturday, June 7th, 2008
From Hawaii Kai to The Elk’s Club

Surftech Launches New Website Featuring First Ever Surfboard Recommender!

Press Release
May 30, 2008

Surftech announced the re-launch of their website, designed to educate surfers and provide dedicated areas to Surftech’s involvement in a growing range of surf and action sports markets.

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C4 Waterman Vortice XP Instructional Video

Check out the new instructional video on the C4 Vortice XP directly from C4 co-founder Todd Bradley.


(click thumbnail to launch video)

Joe Blair 8-7 Longboard Quad for Big Guys

Joe Blair 8-7 Longboard Quad for Big Guys

I know this isn’t a stand up paddle board but this may be an addition to your surf quiver. It’s a special surfboard built by Joe Blair for older or heavier guys. Here’s what Joe has to say on the board.

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C4 Waterman-Boardworks-Legends Surf Shop Demo Day

C4 Waterman / Boardworks / Legend’s Surf Shop
Demo Day
South of Dog Patch, San Onofre
Wednesday, 4 June, 0800-1130

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