I’ll switch it to show your pic rather than just link to it. Since I hadn’t asked for permission, I just went with the link.

Thanks for the advice. I have been scouring craigslist for boards. I’d really prefer a used board. Partially because I feel like hitting the beach with an $800+ board at my skill level kinda makes me look like a fool, and partially because I think a much loved board in good shape would be less intimidating. I don’t have to worry about heel dents if they are already there. You’re right on about the dings, I really liked the feel of the fiberglass boards and dinging (/learning to repair) a board that’s already got a few would be better than me freaking about a new board.

I’d been looking at newer boards mostly because it was easier and because I wanted someone in the surf shop to help me size up the boards. Plus they are pretty. I think my inability to commit to any of the boards I’ve seen has been due to the price and the mangling up a new board factor.

The downside of craigslist is I’ve been having trouble finding boards in the size I want and models I know enough about to feel comfortable picking.

I want about a 9ft board, preferably around 22 inches. I like the more laid back cruising and I’ve been having trouble getting waves on anything shorter. Plus what I know of my self, a slower ride where I can learn to cross step and do some mellow turns would probably appeal more to me than ripping on a short board. At least starting out.

I’m 5’10″ and 140 lbs so I’m not totally sure if that’s the right size for me. I want something big enough to make catching waves easier, but not totally unwieldy when I’m on the beach. It’s been a challenge. There’s a lot of folks selling 9’6″ and lost selling under 8ft. Not that many 9′s or 9’2″.

I know the frequency of my board related posts probably doesn’t sound like I’m patient (I had a week off work unexpectedly and wound up OBSESSING) I’m content to keep hunting till I find something just right.

Thanks again for the input and the well wishes!

Without assuming you know nothing about surfing and boards (from your post you’re obviously well ready), but let me throw in my 2 cents. Just get a used board in fairly good shape. I started with that Stewart and then bought the 7’6 Quiet Flight. They were both used and the most I paid for the Stewart was 250. Go ahead and get a fiberglass board and don’t worry about putting dings in it if it’s already used. Also, ding repair kits aren’t expensive and are very easy to use!

Stewarts are truly great boards, and I miss mine incredibly since moving away from coastal waters. They are indeed as you state versatile and can catch any type of wave, even the dinkiest wave since its a longboard. It’s not the fastest board of course, but the ride is super smooth. My 7’6 is actually quite a fast board too. I’m not sure how much of a beginner you are, but I wouldn’t recommend anything shorter than a 7’6

Last I heard, Stewart was the latest company in falling to the pop outs phenom that has been occuring all over the board industry. If you can find one that’s used and still one of the customs, it’ll have so much more character than a pop out from thailand!

I hope this helps, and I’ll be sure to check up on your blog from time to time! Beginning to surf was one of my greatest accomplishments ever! Good luck!

Sherm
PS could you try and have my photo actually show up instead of just having the link? It’ll give me a great sense of pride just having my pic on your blog. Strange, I know.