Glide as a beginning board?

Moto · Since 03 Sep 2006 2698 Posts Still a gojo pimp! Moto Mouth

I am helping a friend who is just getting in to the sport buy his gear and I was wondering if the SS glide a good board for a beginner. It would be nice if he could buy a board to start with and then keep it as a light wind board.

Also, does anyone know how North's Sumo board compares to the Glide for beginners?

forrest · Mon Jan 29, 07 4:34 pm

Both my wife and I learned on my glide. I think a lot of people in Seattle learned on a Glide at Jetty Island. It's so easy to go upwind. Some people have trouble with it in the chop, I just developed really strong legs.

Mine is for sale btw:
http://www.nwkite.com/forums/t-3762.html

(I replied to this on the Seattle forum too)

genek · Since 21 Jul 2006 2165 Posts East Po KGB

I would recommend a more universal big twintip for a first board unless you're planning on just riding in light wind while learning. Otherwise I'm sure the Glide will work as well.

pkh · Since 27 Feb 2005 6548 Posts Couve / Hood Site Lackey

I would say the glide is an awesome first board, especially if you can grab one used.

Hardest things to learn when you start are:
- getting up
- riding upwind
- not sinking when you transition

Glide does awesome at all those. I know its not a Cadillac in chop, but there will always be trade-offs.

bleighty · Since 17 Apr 2006 86 Posts St. Petersburg, FL

as a lightwind board the glide is a great plank to have in the arsenal.. but i'd say a more versatile board would be a better buy for a beginner. Chop and the glide dont get along too well .. and for a new rider you'd want something a bit more adaptable to changing conditions.

if you can get a used one cheap.. then ya.. it will be fine.. but I'd say you can get 2 quality used boards for the same as one new Glide.

I just picked up 2 skywalker boards.. got the 2007 models of the 131 and lightwind 135 and i am so beyond stoked with these. the 131 would be a GREAT beginner board for most ..

I can hold down the 135 in heavy chop in 25 to 30.. !!!

Skywalker also makes their Riders series which are geared towards new riders.

Also.. Take a look at the Aggression Super Phatty.. its WIDE and does tons better in multiple conditions.

also.. the new BEST Chubby is sweet. nice and wide.. perfect for beginners.

Moto · Since 03 Sep 2006 2698 Posts Still a gojo pimp! Moto Mouth

Thanks everyone for their input Very Happy

its totally appreciated!