Surfing Waves

So im in the market for a new shortboard, i would say my experience is intermediate. I decided on the al merrick flyer mainly because i have ridden them(friends have them), anyway im trying to decide wether to get a 5'10, 18 3/4, 2 1/4 or a 5'8, 18 1/4, 2 1/8. i am 5'8 and 140 pounds, the surf here(south carolina) is anything but special, averege 3 maybe 4 ft. Then ofcourse we have some rare nice days where it get to 5 to 7. I hear people say you should ride a flyer shorter than most shortboards, but im not sure how short haha. Anyway just gathering opnions from multiple places would love some input

Hello Matt N,
Al recommends the Flyer should be ridden 2"-3" shorter than your regular shortboard and 1/4"-1/2" wider than your normal shortboard. I have ridden the Flyer and love the design. I hope that helps you.

Word, do you have any idea on a specific size recomendation for that size of surf? i realize sizing a board for someone over the internet is ridiculous, but i feel like this board could be ridden pretty short haha considering what ive heard about it, like a 5'8 for instance, thats what im leaning towards.