Had my first surf session on the 9'0 x 33 Star-board Hero at one of my local spots mid morning and was totally impressed with it's efforts.

More importantly, I hooked up with Paul for the first time since he got his 7'9 Mana last week and was frothing to see how it went in some good quality surf.

After sharing a few, I came in and watched him rip it up. Unfortunately, I was both pressed for time and did not have my good camera handy but I came up with these images regardless which give an idea of the quality of Paul's SUP'ping and the manouverability of the 7'9 on the wave face.

I'm hoping with more time tmrw to meet up with Paul for some better shot's, different angles and a tripod which I'll be sure to add.

BTW, the shortboard shot is of Ed Blackwell, a local identity of both good and bad perception who graced the cover of Tracks a couple months back at Virgins - I just liked the shot so included it !

There are a few more than say 5 years back but I'd still not say they are popular.

The latest range of Gath are so damn light and with the extra's such as peak and glasses to stop glare, they are a more attractive option for sure.

I wear one for 3 reasons;

1. I've got no hair and it protects my scalp from having any more skin cancers taken out.
2. Keeps my head warm in winter (60% of heat leaves your body thru your head).
3. Protect me from my own equipment and also from anyone's else's wayward gear.

Funny, we have to by law wear them riding a push bike and to me, the risk of head injury is far greater in the surf with shallow banks, rocks, boards and people etc.