SB-issue59_digital
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
gear<br />
KNOW<br />
YOUR<br />
BOARD<br />
Floatation or ‘volume’ as we refer to it.<br />
Floatation! It’s kind of important if you intend on surfing. If you’re<br />
sinking down to Davy Jones’ locker, perhaps you need to turn up<br />
the volume.<br />
So, what the hell is volume exactly? It’s a complex question, but<br />
here are some hot tips on determining the ideal volume you may<br />
require.<br />
Surfing style<br />
‘Power surfers’ who are less ‘light on their feet’ need a board with more<br />
volume for when they shift their weight on the board.<br />
FOURTH, TOO LITTLE OR TOO MUCH?<br />
Too much volume<br />
Your board will go real fast but lack control.<br />
Too little volume<br />
The rider will be able to sink a rail but lack speed coming out of the turn,<br />
almost stalling on the wave.<br />
Plus, the board will be bloody hard to paddle, making it a pain in the arse<br />
to get out and hard to get on waves.<br />
FIFTH, WHERE’S BEST TO TURN UP THE VOLUME?<br />
Going thicker by 1/8 will deliver up to four times more volume than going<br />
up an inch in length and be almost equivalent to making the board a half<br />
inch wider.<br />
Buying a board and getting one just right for you is tricky. That’s why<br />
it’s important to talk with your local surf store board expert or your local<br />
shaper.<br />
FIRST, WHAT IS VOLUME?<br />
It’s not easily calculated without a comprehensive understanding<br />
of surfboard design but it relates to length, width, and thickness.<br />
It also takes into consideration surface area and displacement<br />
volume. We’ll stop there before it becomes too confusing. If you’re<br />
keen to know more, read this article in depth.<br />
In short, it is one of the ingredients that floats you and your board.<br />
SECOND, WHAT IS LITREAGE?<br />
Is used to measure the volume of the board. Many shapers now<br />
use this measurement along with the length, width, and thickness<br />
of the board.<br />
Please note: EPS/epoxy boards can have up to 30% more<br />
floatation but the same volume as a normal PU style board.<br />
THIRD, CONSIDERATIONS<br />
Ability level<br />
If you’re developing as a surfer, the wider and thicker your board,<br />
generally speaking, the easier it will be to catch waves and provide<br />
you with a stable platform.<br />
Size and weight<br />
Your size (weight and height) is important when determining the<br />
correct volume board for you. Weight and buoyancy work against<br />
each other, so a general rule of thumb is that a bigger, heavier<br />
surfer needs a board with more buoyancy, while a lighter surfer<br />
needs less volume.<br />
Types of waves<br />
On a gutless small wave, most surfers can control a board with<br />
more volume. For bigger waves, the surfer still needs enough<br />
volume to get onto the wave, but not so much that it sends the<br />
rider skidding across the surface of the wave without being able to<br />
dig in a rail to turn.<br />
Remember, no one surfboard design will work in all<br />
kinds of waves for all types of surfers. That’s why you<br />
need a quiver, so get building it! For some inspiration,<br />
see our board profiles starting on page 94.<br />
# 59 // smorgasboarder //<br />
81