Magic Carpet Size Advice Needed

[Finbolt]

Hello All,

New on here - just decided to register as magicSeaweed took their forum down.

As I’m an ageing surfer (wrong side of 40) now I’m looking for a board that is a bit more forgiving. I’m 5’7 65kgs and I’d say I’m a low intermediate.

I surf throughout the year and want something for summer knee highs to autumn and winter chest high waves. So I’ve been looking at Gulfstream’s Carpets as a one board quiver.

https://www.gulfstreamsurfboards.co.uk/carpets-surfboards/

Question is what length/volume?

I’ve always struggled a little with paddle power as I’m an athletic / scrawny build, but once I’m up and running I’m all good.

In the past I’ve ridden with varying degrees of success mainly fish. My last was a 5’6 twin keel fish, but my wave count with that board was totally hit and miss. That’s technique for sure but also I think it’s under volume for my level of ability. I had more success on an old 6’2 fish and a 6’6 single fin in the past.

I’m hoping the carpet will give me better wave count but also have the flexibility to surf those smaller summer days.

Any thoughts greatly appreciated!

[jaffa1949]

I would suggest around 7’6” this board is an all rounder, don’t get too stressed about volume, dimensions are ok and probably enough float to work on on your paddling and wave catching skills, turn on what ever size board is a skill too, catch enough waves and your turning skill will improve

[Finbolt]

Thanks Jaffa, that’s much appreciated. The other board I was considering was an egg, which is a little more performance orientated but from what I hear needs more powerful surf to get going in. Probably just the type of surf we lack in the UK in the summer months. Though confusingly the write up on their website for the egg says will go in 1ft waves!

[waikikikichan]

If you are older, a low intermediate, need more catching power, more forgiving, did better on a 6'6" than on the 5'6", yet need a board for small and big days, then don't go lower than 6'6". Jaffa's advice for a 7'6" is spot on.

My thoughts on the Carpet: I'm not a fan of Trash Can Cover wide noses. Did any of your previous board have such a wide nose ?

[Finbolt]

Hey! Thanks for your advice too. None of my other boards had wide noses but the idea of having a board with one for me isn’t a deal breaker, especially if it gives a little more paddle power?