How up-curved is the nose and how heavy is it versus a skim board (more is better for me on both)?
354971
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_D0IMEGOHoqg/SvQknhlH3-I/AAAAAAAAAXE/csLSaBDOm90/s400/DSC01787.jpg The nose is not super curved up -- it does have two "nose bulbs" on the edges of the nose, little grips/corners that make it easier to grab the front of the board, you can kinda see what they look like in this photo. It is MUCH heavier than a skim board -- also significantly heavier (and much much stronger) than cheap EPS foam bodyboards (i.e. any bodyboard less than $100), between the strong foam and the graphite stringers (reinforcing rods) it is quite strong and I never feel like it is in any danger of folding/breaking even when waves are putting crushing levels of pressure on it. http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_D0IMEGOHoqg/SvQknhlH3-I/AAAAAAAAAXE/csLSaBDOm90/s400/DSC01787.jpg The nose is not super curved up -- it does have two "nose bulbs" on the edges of the nose, little grips/corners that make it easier to grab the front of the board, you can kinda see what they look like in this photo. It is MUCH heavier than a skim board -- also significantly heavier (and much much stronger) than cheap EPS foam bodyboards (i.e. any bodyboard less than $100), between the strong foam and the graphite stringers (reinforcing rods) it is quite strong and I never feel... » Read More http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_D0IMEGOHoqg/SvQknhlH3-I/AAAAAAAAAXE/csLSaBDOm90/s400/DSC01787.jpg The nose is not super curved up -- it does have two "nose bulbs" on the edges of the nose, little grips/corners that make it easier to grab the front of the board, you can kinda see what they look like in this photo. It is MUCH heavier than a skim board -- also significantly heavier (and much much stronger) than cheap EPS foam bodyboards (i.e. any bodyboard less than $100), between the strong foam and the graphite stringers (reinforcing rods) it is quite strong and I never feel like it is in any danger of folding/breaking even when waves are putting crushing levels of pressure on it. « Show Less
354972
I am a 6'4" tall and 225 lbs bodyboarder . That is what the board is made for . This is not a skim board . Use the right board for your purpose .
354973
It really depends on what type of skim board you are talking about. Honestly it is quite lighter than my wood skim board. And there is hardly any up curve to the board. Obviously, the nose tapers thinner, but the purpose of this board is for body boarding, not skim boarding.
354974
Surfing and body boarding are a religion - if your over 6ft and 200lbs this body board is for you. If your looking to run and jump on it like a skim board, stick to a skim board. If you want to rip up the faces of very large waves I recommend this body board
421608
I asked my nephew (who is skinny), and he and his skater friends said that if someone weighs 230 s/he would need to make sure the longboard was Canadian maple and have at least 10 plus of wood for thickness (not sure what 10plus means but I hope it means something to you). Got this answer via text. Hope it helps :)
1396485
Good balance is needed, therefore it is a step up from skateboard. Remember to wear helmet and use it on a smooth surface. Have fun!
1704966
I've had friends who are way heavier ride it just fine. The only problem is the board looks like it's caving in, but obviously never breaks. Enjoy!
919632
It is definitely lighter than a typical Rubik's cube. I, as a casual user, like it better than a traditional cube. It seems easier to manipulate.
2056650
Definitely 180mm trucks with 1/2 risers. Wheels can be anything upward of 70mm. I'd recommend 74mm 80a wheels for this board. Have fun man.
1482830
Like the others mentioned, the ride is just slightly stiffer which is good IMO. Handling is really unchanged and if you decide to use this or any kit that changes the center of gravity on you rig, just make sure you get the front end aligned.
361829
I weigh 158lbs. When I stand on the board and try to balance myself without the outer edges (perimeter) touching the floor, I notice a slight flex of the face of the board. I am sure that the heavier a person is that the face would flex more noticeably. This product works fine for me. If you need a stronger unit you will want to buy one made of a single piece of hardwood. I used one of them at my physical therapy session a couple of years ago and they do not give.
1370688
My friend is 180lbs and comfortably rides this board. I personally would not recommend someone who weighs much more than that to buy this board simply because it is very flexible and would be difficult to ride.
763520
Given the similarities, I'd go with the less expensive version, with shield. You could always take off the shield if you dislike it, but it serves a use. Most of the other construction seems similar, and the one with shield has slightly larger wheels.
256283
Yes! I'm a 105lb girl and for the price it's pretty good. But if you want an actual "cruising" board, you might need to pick up some new gel/rubber wheels so you don't have to constantly kick every second and loosening the board is better for turns.
2049588
definitely go with flex 2 I'm around 140 and got flex 2 and i wouldnt want the board to be any more flexible than it already is. For you i think the choice is more between flex 1 or flex 2 and if you want the more flexible feel of the 2 i would say flex 2 all the way
1853452
I have the Metolius simulator on it, and it's pretty heavy. I personally would not trust a thin piece of plywood because that plywood should support your weight + the holds and the board. The board is probably around 5-10 lbs.
1631629
what may want to consider is the size of the wheels, and the stiffness of the pivot bushing. i usually run 50-52 mm wheels and i like the pivot kinda tight so its not to wobbly and the wheels dont bite the board in corners
747988
I weigh in at 225 and use the board for what it's meant for...LONG BOARDING/Cruzing! I use Tracker Trucks with OJ Wheels and I receive a smooth ride. On a scale 0-10 I would rate the flex at a 7 (for me) ! Durability has been strong and I haven't noticed any breakdown with the material! The first thing I did when I got it: 1. Sanded entire board. 2 added own artwork 3. Applied several coats of varathane. Also, I added two risers 1/8th inch thick underneath each truck. This wasdone to absorb road conditions. Over all I feel it's a good solid board. HopeThis helps out.
889159
Having both, I'd go with the 12' if you are over 5'7" or if you are heavy at all. The smaller one is fun but the longer one comes with the straps on the front too. Great boards! We love them!
60525
We just played this today! Was given to my brother in law for Christmas and he is very happy with it. The board is slicker than a wooden one but for the price and/or if you need one you can transport, it is great! Hope that helps.