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Comparing Beginner Surfskis
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Epic V7
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Surfskis are generally considered to be solidly in the beginner class at a width of 52 cm (20.5 inches) (widest point) and wider. Some may also include surfskis slightly narrower, possibly 51 - 52 cm (20 - 20.5 in) wide, also as beginner surfskis, but usually at that width and narrower you are getting into upper beginner/lower intermediate, though as always also varying depending on the hull shape, volume, etc. You can also find surfski widths along with reviews of individual beginner surfskis in our Spec Table For Beginner Surfskis. The ultimate determinant of whether a surfski is right for you as a “beginner” is how stable you feel and how confidently you can paddle in one even with some roughness of conditions. Or as Bob Putnam says - in relatively calm water can you confidently set your watch while sitting in one?
Please keep in mind that some aspects of preference are very personal and your experience and mileage in any one of the beginner surfskis may very well vary from that of the paddlers commenting below (particularly in terms of fit and comfort).
Zach Handler experienced paddler, owner of NK Exrcize as his stable surfski, but also has experience with a number of other beginner surfskis
2025 observations when asked about his NK Exrcize and how it compares to other beginner surfskis
“…I absolutely love the way the boat (NK Exrcize ) paddles. Best bucket of any ski I own. And it is fun and nimble in the bumps. I think all beginner skis are fun to surf. The NK is noticeably lower volume than the V8, which makes it a little more exciting because it sits into the wave a little deeper.
I think all the companies make a good beginner boat. Nelo 520 is the most playful. V8 has the calmest manners and is the most forgiving in really big conditions. Think Eze I am not a fan of the flat bottom and more vertical sides, which gives it lower secondary stability. I have not tried the big Eze. (Ed. Comment - The Eze is discontinued and the Think Zen and Ace are really Think's beginner skis at the time of Zach's comment) The (Vega) Arc is a great boat, though i can’t get into a long term relationship with any of the Vega buckets (See Zach's Comments on Vega buckets ). I have paddled the Stellar S18S and that boat is a hoot downwind. More agile and a bit quicker than the V8. I have not tried the Fenn or Carbonology beginner boats, but I imagine they are good as well. I think the main positive attributes of the NK are prepreg construction, better price, the best bucket, and lower volume hull design. Mine is prepreg fiberglass. Weighs 27 pounds, is super stiff, and was cheap to buy. Only negative I can think of is low volume for very heavy paddlers.”
The wiki will add additional comments about various beginner surfskis here as we can collect them.
