I'm 6'2 and 180lbs. Is this a good setup for me?

d0uglass · Posted: Wed Oct 15, 2014 8:31 pm Post subject:

Yes, the Viper 80 (190 liters) with a 5.5 sail would be a fine setup to start with.

The Viper 85 (220 liters) would be even more stable and easier to use in light winds. If you're planning to carry fishing poles and stuff you'd probably want the 85.

The Kona ONE is a great board that has plenty of float at 220 liters but will be more side-to-side tippy at first because it's just 70 cm wide. It will be the fastest of the three boards, though, and the one you'd be most likely to want to keep for a long time.

adywind · Joined: 08 Jan 2012 Posts: 665

What about one of these:
http://www.isthmussailboards.com/Inflatable-WindSUP-Crossover-Boards/products/366/
I don't think there is anything easier and more fun for a beginner then inflatable WindSUPs and the simple small rigs offered for them.

isobars · Joined: 12 Dec 1999 Posts: 20935

Inflatable board + fish hooks? Very Happy

adywind · Joined: 08 Jan 2012 Posts: 665

isobars · Joined: 12 Dec 1999 Posts: 20935

I thought those inflatable SUPs were a joke, for kids or for people who HAD to carry them in Prius glove boxes. But no ... they're FAST, they feel rigid, and they led to building more flex into rigid SUPs to gain speed. And for fishing, a windSUP, whether Kona 1 or something else, gives the Frogman more fishing opportunities.

adywind · Joined: 08 Jan 2012 Posts: 665

jingebritsen · Joined: 21 Aug 2002 Posts: 3371

exocet link 11'8" is 80 cm wide. http://www.exocet-original.com/link.php

i have the wind SUP 11'8" is a very do all board too.

70 cm kona one is not very tipsy, james. esp if the dagger is deployed.

dsgrntlxmply · Joined: 16 Jun 2010 Posts: 255

Fanatic Viper 80 and 85 are good beginner boards, and have centerboards. They are tough and durable, but a bit heavy. If you eventually move to something lighter, they are still good for teaching newcomers, and for relaxation sailing in low wind conditions with larger sails.

frogseatflies · Joined: 19 Jul 2013 Posts: 4

Thanks for all your responses everyone. It honestly has sounded like the best choice for versatility and performance is the Kona One. I've made a similar post on another forum and got the same responses. My conclusion is that Kona has really designed a superb product and is getting rave reviews. I think I'm going to spend more money and get the Kona.

UncleRandy · Joined: 18 Sep 2009 Posts: 63

I think u think u will be very happy with the kona one u should also,look at
The 11'8" wind sup also is a little wilder 80 cm and may a little slower
But great in lite wind waves, very fun board. Both are great boards