After learning to stand-up paddle (SUP)surf in Kauai over the summer, I was eager to try SUP surfing in Santa Cruz. However, the new stand-up paddleboards for surfing were extremely expensive.
After consulting with Oliver at Covewater Paddle Surf in Santa Cruz, I thought the best SUP model for me would be the Starboard Wedge 9'2" 160-liter model. However, it was priced at $1870 in Starline construction, more than I wanted to pay.
Since I could not test it out (no demos were available), I tried to consult with other shops, including Boardsports California and Cal Sup Outlet.
Rebecca at Boardsports California recommended the Naish and the Fanatic boards. The new 2023 Fanatic Allwave 9'3 model is priced at $1699.
Gordie in Cal Sup Outlet had few used boards in stock. He only sells the local Cruz brand (which has mixed reviews on Yelp).
I would like to find a used version of either Fanatic, Naish, or Starboard SUPs. After a few months of searching, I found a gentleman selling his 2021 Fanatic Allwave 9'3" for $750 on Craigslist (in Aptos).
The Fanatic was scratched up but watertight. I decided to purchase it, as it would last me 1-2 years before I was ready for a smaller board.
After purchasing the board, I took it out for a session at the Hook. I could stand up, but I was more wobbly than I remembered in Hawaii. There were few waves to catch, so I paddled around a bit, focusing on improving my J-stroke. I will get better with it and will start surfing soon.
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