With my Wavestorm 8' surfboard seriously damaged, I decided the new version might be beneficial. Since my local Costco did not have any available (either in-store or online), I decided to try ordering the Gerry Lopez 8' Foam Surfboard from Costco.com for $189.99.
The reviews at Costco.com seemed favorable, and the price (although higher than $99 for Wavestorm 8') seemed reasonable. After ordering on Tuesday, April 12, 2021, I received a shipment on Thursday, April 22. After unwrapping the box, I was impressed at the quality-looking board and fins supplied. It seemed like a solid alternative to Wavestorm, and it looked fantastic.
With the 3 fins attached, the Gerry Lopez surfboard was ready for surfing. (Gerry Lopez supplied a leash, but I used my DaKine leash instead).
During my first surfing session, on Saturday, April 17, the board performed remarkably well, and I could ride 8 waves at the Hook in Capitola, Santa Cruz. The board was easy to paddle and highly stable. It turned out quite well, too.
However, I encountered a severe defect during my second surfing session on Sunday, April 18, at the Hook, Capitola. After 30 minutes of surfing relatively small waves, I suddenly felt my board detached from my leash. At first, I thought my leash must have broken (as had occurred before at Rockpile Beach surf spot in Laguna Beach). Upon closer scrutiny, I realized that the leash was fine - the board was at fault. The rear fin fell off, and the strap attached to the leash was missing, too. In my 70+ sessions on a Wavestorm, I have never encountered such a defect. Gerry Lopez had this issue with small waves.
I returned the board to Costco and found an alternate brand of surfboard to purchase.
Gerry Lopez 8' Foam Surfboard Scorecard
Highlights
- Excellent for catching small to medium-sized waves
- The fit and finish are excellent
- Low price ($99 at Costco warehouse, $189 online)
- Nice fins are included
Lowlights
- Durability is questionable (I broke it on my 2nd day)
- Heavy (15 lbs. vs. 11 lbs. for Wavestorm)
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