We've been asked a number of times which craft we prefer, the outrigger canoe or the surfski? Join Barry and Rod for a chat over a FAB burrito as they discuss which is "better".
I have an Ocean Swell Waahoo Max OC1 and a Fenn Kayak Mako 6 Surf Ski. I love both but tend to paddle the OC1 in the cooler months with little chance of dunking. The Surf Ski in the warmer months is a wonderful challenge though very tiring if I fall off and remount or swim. Either way as a 65-year-old, I just love being on the water.
Used to paddle on a SoCal OC6 club, where we cross trained on the surfski. We did this for the same reason you mentioned in the video - application of power while keeping balance. In an OC6, it's easy to get sloppy, but the crew will eventually pay a price for it, in a long distance, competitive race. Similar to you, I've got a V8 Pro and a Puakea Kahe Kai. Preference depends on conditions. On the flat, the OC1 is like digging a ditch, whereas on the ski, you can power down. Where conditions are mixed, I'll take the OC1. Overall, I prefer the surfski - it forces you to be more in-tune with the conditions. More one with the sea, the wind and yourself.
Yes! Another paddler who does Surfski and OC1! I prefer Surfski in flat water as well. Really love the OC1 in messy down wind conditions. I do see a day where I will prefer Surfski in the ocean... the overall speed is pretty amazing. The fitness elements are slightly different for each craft. We didn't talk about that part very much, but if you paddle both craft you know what I mean.
@@barryblackburn5910 Also want to thank you for the Vega Flex tip. I've been in the market for an intermediate+ ski. V10 Sport is a top contender (butt could barely squeeze into the V10). Setting up demo for the Vega Flex, now.
Solid conversation and food choice....👍 Here's thought process, all things being equal environment wise (wind, current, wave size, being in the nc inlets, offshore, flatwater etc.) Where's the threshold for equal ability of both the surfski and outrigger. Example, this surfski size/ length is equal this outrigger size/ length for the benefits of 1-challenge of mastering not only short but long term without becoming bored, 2- flat out enjoyment, 3-challenge of changing to different fitness modalities without constantly becoming frustrated from getting dumped......lots of info to take in and give feedback on. Keep up the solid work 🤓🤙
Hey Joe, I will try to answer your question. I think you are asking because you are trying to decide what to buy, right? If yes, then here we go... New to Surfski, look for a “V8 Pro” because the stability will give you the confidence to get out there regularly and allow you to develop good paddling technique. After 1 or 2 years you may want to move to the “V10 Sport” or even the 3rd Gen. V10. You tried to paddle my 1st generation V10 one day at the lake and it was wayyyy too tippy. If you would rather start out with OC1, look for a used one. When we last takes you seemed more interested in the kayak / Surfski. If that’s the case, look for an Epic V8 Pro. You will be able to paddle that in the ocean after a few sessions in the waterway. Just be sure to get a leash and Mocke PFD before you get in the water. Text or call me if you have more questions 🤙🏽
I started w/surfski long long time ago….younger and getting wet w/huli huli was part of fun. Conditions dictate OC-1: for bump chasing, it’s stability- in variable conditions, so depending on where you are, seasonal conditions, inform your choice.
Good points. We used to always turn to the OC-1 when conditions were challenging, but now feel pretty comfortable in the ski in those conditions now (after hundreds of hours). But the chance of going for swim always seems greater in those conditions in our surfskis...
We can relate to that...do you find the same Zen in all conditions (downwind vs. calm)? We find that Zen state sometimes on the ski when downwinding, but definitely know what you mean.
@@ThePaddleChannel I think it relates to aquiering a flow state while being in the momemt, relative to a comfotable stroke rate within your lactate threshold, combined with a whole body (core) movement, somewhat similar to a runners high.
@@barryblackburn5910 Supposed to be here in January, but I heard the December shipment got moved back a month...so maybe in February. Yep, think I'm gonna love it! Btw, was just on the Epic website scoping out their boats...LOL! Great vid...thanks!
Any time, Jody! We're still learning, but hit us up! We've found the surfski community to be very helpful and encouraging, and we'd love to help out if we can.
Jody, we can meet at Flaming Amy’s for burritos and talk paddling for hours! If you are ever in the Wilmington, NC area please reach out to us on RU-vid or message us on Instagram!
Thanks the video. I have been debating getting a surfski or an OC1 for a while now. I'm an experienced Sup paddler in the surf, downwind and long distances and a stable Surfski looks like it would be a good option for me.
Same situation. 12 years on a SUP (all conditions) and looking to transition to a SKI. Any resolution on which SKI you may choose? Curious if the balance developed with SUP transitions to a SKI in some way?
Love both but I need to stay current with the ski or Inget rusty fast! I can jump in tbe OC (or my marathon canoe) and hammer out distance even if it's been a long time since I paddled th
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Hi. Thanks for the vídeo. In Brazil is kind of hard to get really good canoes, and The SS costs a lot. So, do you think the weight really matters on OCs when paddling?
It *could* be done, and probably has been done, if you have the glass skills to do it, but they are different hull shapes. It would be an interesting experiment, but also one we haven't seen done.
