Surfboard quivers are a diverse thing. In fact, watersports quivers in general are as broad as riding preferences. Personal tastes, styles, aspirations and Mother Nature’s moods play their part in dictating what watery toys we use. But what does your quiver say about you? NCW investigates…
High performance 6ft shortboard (x3)
You’re a ripper and live only for the slash, shred, tear – searching out the best performance surfing conditions you’re happy in most types of waves. Smacking a big roundhouse cutty or boosting huge airs, it’s all good, as long as nobody drops in!
11ft nose rider log and longboard skateboard
You’re a crusier who prefers to paint stylish lines rather than hack tops off waves. Going with the flow you love a peeling point or winding country lane to get low on. Getting ten over and soul arching really makes your day – especially if the sun’s out.
Vanguard 5.7ft, 5.6ft and 5.4ft
Super fast riding in small to medium waves is where it’s at for you. Contorted aerial trickery and a slashy style separates you from the pack. You’re just as likely to be out tearing up moderate onshore days as well as bigger cleaner surf.
Soft top foamie, bodyboard and sit on top kayak
Fun’s the name of the game for your watery activities. Simply being in the ocean is stoke inducing. You’re not interested in high performance riding – instead it’s about having fun with your family and friends. If the waves go flat then it’s time to bust out the kayak and cast a line…
Pic: Derek Pickell
14ft downwind stand up paddle board, 6ft Fish
You love quality surf sessions as much as the next rider but with limited time you can’t be searching around for the best conditions. An all round waterman at heart riding a Fish allows maximum wave count, even when the surf isn’t perfect, while the 14ft downwind SUP sled gets busted out during gales for some downwind paddling action.
Windsurf wave kit, kitesurf wakestyle gear, 7.6ft mini mal
Windy waves float your boat, although you appreciate the breeze doesn’t blow all the time and can be frequently light. If it’s howling then wave sailing is your preference while lighter airs dictate kitesurfing’s place in the pecking order. And when those blows disappear, but waves stick around, there’s always the mini mal for a spot of prone surf action.
Pic: Julia Toms
Body surfing hand plane and traditional belly board
You have a traditionalist approach to wave sliding – and minimalist gear to boot. As far as you’re concerned body surfing offers no restrictions and the most natural ocean experience. If waves go onshore then a bit of belly boarding fun is usually on the cards.
Some of the above may ring bells while others may scoff at chosen crafts listed. The truth is: there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy the ocean and its waves. Whatever gets those juices flowing is all good and here at NCW we provide the products that will help you enjoy your time afloat. Check ’em out in the NCW shop – www.northcoastwetsuits.co.uk/new/category/wetsuits/