exocet Windsup 10 vs 11'8

[wsmtbskate]

I've pretty much decided that the Windsup line presents the best combination of features that would suit me for my "do it all" board, question is which one ?

I can waterstart, straps, harness, just starting completing some of my duck jibes and plane out of carve jibes. Can do some LWFS like helitacks, UP360's, etc. I weigh 160# and already own a Carve 145, Skate 110 and RRD FSW 85 (and Kona One which I'm selling).

(1) Board requirements (probably in order of importance):

- more lively ride/ feel and earlier planing than the Kona One.
- Light wind planing with 7.0 and 8.5 sails, mostly inland location
- Light wind wave sailing.
- Light wind freestyle with smaller sails


(2) Secondary requirement

- Friendly use with beginners such as my kids...in case they get into the sport.

(3) I do not plan to SUP the board.

I'm leaning towards the 10 because I would guess that it will have a livelier ride and turn better than the 11'8, although it's my understanding that it will not catch waves as easily. The 11'8 would probably be smoother in chop, but I'm wondering if would be too sedate.

thanks in advance.

[jingebritsen]

the 10'x32" is a bit more free feeling when planing

the 11'8 is best for easy. it also will allow teaching to be way easier. also, it will allow a less technical set of either skills or conditions to wave sail. the board is stupid easy.

at the time i rode the 10'x32" the foot straps had to be used like a 4 strapper. one has to step into the opposite tack's rear strap to go strapped front side on a wave. there was no center strap set of inserts.