Handling a longboard requires a certain amount of experience, which many beginners don't realise. This is not due to the area of use, because waves that are suitable for longboarding are also suitable for wave beginners. The biggest fallacy lies in the length and volume of a traditional longboard. There is a high risk of the bow being pointed in when paddling into a wave. Compared to the traditional Naish Nalu, the groove principle is more suitable for beginners. However, Starboard is not the inventor of this peanut outline; the father of the groove shape is shaper Thomas Meyerhoffer. Even SUP companies such as Coran Addison copied the groove shape years ago. The idea: to create a smaller board with a longer gliding surface thanks to the double curve. Does this concept work in the 11-foot size?
Naish Nalu 11'0'' GT
Despite its length of more than three metres, the Nalu is a true wave specialist - especially for experienced and heavyweight longboarders. The thin rails carve willingly in front of the small wave and you stand safely on the yellow plank. Those who can do so will venture elegantly to the bow to celebrate a noseride. For tight turns, the stern must be watered consistently. The board is designed for long, stylish turns and is a true style master in small to medium-sized knockers.
Conclusion The perfect longboard (also suitable for flat water), especially for surfers over 80kg. For steeper waves, there are easier wave beginner boards for novices.
PLUS Super grip, lightweight construction. MINUS None
Price 1,599 EuroLength 335.3 cmWidth 78.9 cmWeight 10.5 kgVolume 175 lInfo www.naishsurfing.com
Starboard Nut 11'2'' Brushed Carbon
At first, our testers couldn't do much with the Surf Nut. Despite the thicker rails, the board seemed more unstable than the Naish. What was pleasing was that you needed less steering input in front of the wave to turn the groove. Proper carving was not possible. When trying to ride more radically, the front third vibrated unpleasantly. Only beginners could casually waggle back and forth in front of small waves. We can imagine that the groove principle would be more favourable for experienced surfers with smaller sizes than with 11 feet.
Conclusion The Nut works in small waves. Beginners can also use it for cruising. The outline is not a revolution in the 11-foot size and for the price.
PLUS Super grip, lightweight construction, non-slip deck up to the bow, GoPro attachment in the bow. MINUS Very expensive
Price 2,369 EuroLength 340.5 cmWidth 75 cmWeight 9.8 kgVolume 182 lInfo www.star-board.com
