Board Advice Please

Hi Folks,

After a bit of advice please.

I'm new to SUP and have been out a few times on a borrowed board (on the ocean - Westernport Bay, Vic). I'm a ski instructor in a previous life and so have spent many years tanding in what feels a very natural SUP stance. I took to it pretty quickly and managed a few small waves within 15 mins. Needless to say I am hooked.

So that I can get out on flat days and play in the surf when its up I'm thinking a 10'6'' all rounder - happy to take advice on size too please.

However, main question is - should I stay clear of the cheaper on line imports (of which there seem to be so many) and save up a bit more cash and get a recognised 'brand'? It will get well used as I live on the coast and can get to the water in minutes - so I want something that will last. Pricing seems to vary from around $1000 for a package on the cheap to $1500+ for recognised brands?

Any comments / suggestions most welcome.

Cheers

Don

Some of the cheaper, lesser known brands and deals on ebay ... are okay. I got one and it served me well - but you have been able to borrow a board to give it a try. I would suggest you do save up and get a recognized brand and dont short cut cause of price. My cheapie (Honu brand) was fine...but it lasted me about ten sessions, and my learning curve was steep - and now have lashed out and bought two Naish boards and put a Fanatic on layby - I am that hooked! As for what brand and model... I am sure you will get plenty of advice from others on here.. and I will bet that DavidJohn is going to suggest a Naish Nalu..... the length of which will depend on your weight. :D

Thanks guys - thats really helpful. PS _ I'm 80kg on a bad day and 75kg on a good one :-) #beermakesyoufat