186 posts
I have a 55ML and a 65ML. Both have been amazing boards. The 55 is a bit on the heavier end for its size, but it has been great for both winging and prone in small waves. The 65ML have I believe is a magic board. Awesome as a daily for winging, and it's what I learned to prone on. That one is actually light for its size
My first parawing session was on an 85ML and it went well. That one was a friend's, a bit on the heavier side, but ultra responsive for an 85L board. I almost bought it from my friend, but another one from our crew bought it. I'm keeping an eye on the new ones to get a 75 or 85ML... or I'll source another V1 85ML for light wind PW. Also considering an Axis Frank Mini Dart in either 80L or 90L.
186 posts
^^^ I think this is fine. Notice the squash tail versus the diamond tail, with a V under it. The squash shape will make the rails a tad more parallel, so this effectively makes up for the shorter length. It's almost as if they were the same length, but with a chopped off tail.
186 posts
I almost never wear a board leash, but I usually ride in protected waters in small bays and lakes. I do wear a leash in the ocean. When we have crazy windy conditions at the lakes, it can blow 50mph+. I often don't wear a leash there either, but I've had a few instances of chasing the board down, so when it's crazy windy like that, I've started wearing one now.
186 posts
I finally got out for my first para session yesterday. I winged for about an hour before it to warm up. 4.0m POW and an Armstrong 85ML I borrowed from a friend. Code 1130s. Took me about 3 paddle out to the middle of our little bay. It blows onshore, so you have to paddle out far so you don't get blown right back to shore while learning. I got up after that 3rd paddle out. Rode around for a while and then got up again the other way. Finally, by the end of the 11 mile session I had pulled off a few jibes on both tacks, so overall a really successful first session.
186 posts
Hey Rob, I'm starting my journey too... so I'm right alongside... at the other end of the world. I wing a lot, and I'm comfortable switch (from all the years of kite and windsurf). While riding switch, I can also gybe, flag out, ride swell, and pump (somewhat), so I'm hoping all this helps. I went with a POW 4m, because even with the long line complaints, I'll be doing a lot of freeriding in lighter winds, so I think it's a great place to start... specially given the current price on those.
