I see a lot of threads on here about asking what boards to buy. One or two new threads on the subject per week it seems. While it is great to seek advice on what category of boards you should get, I recommend doing this at a pro shop. Why? You can talk to the shop in person and they can ask you the right questions about your riding ability and goals to set you up properly. I would merely use the forum setting to help narrow down your search.
Before you buy any board for yourself, DEMO DEMO DEMO. I have left shops before that do not let me demo a wakeboard. I want to know it will work for me. I don't care if it is your favorite board, that doesn't mean it will work for someone else. You could absolutely hate it. I DO NOT like the Pheonix Project. At all. I love my Oracle. All for very specific reasons. I'm looking forward to getting onto a VonVido and seeing how it rides because it seems to be loose and playful as all hell. I won't buy it on that alone.
Ask questions, study boards and Demo Demo Demo. I can't say it enough. You don't want to buy a $400 deck that you absolutely hate because it was recommended to you.
Most shops will charge you $50 to demo a deck and boots, and that cost will go to the purchase price of the board as well. Personally, I would rather pay the extra cost to support a local business and know damn well that I love the deck I am buying. Not to mention, most shops will cut you a good deal on last year's gear.
|