NSP or a 'real' board? OPINIONS WANTED!

[Insane Ian]

Hey guys, the title about says it. After a good bit of digging around, I figured that I am either going to go for an nsp fun board or (here is where you guys come in) a normal 'real' board.

Other than the weight of the nsp's, is there anything overly bad about them that would make me really want a better board? Its going to be for a few one-week trips to the beach and a few weekends, so it wont be seeing every day action. I picked up snowboarding and skateboarding really quick, and surfing the few times I have tried it. I just dont want something that will get boring quick, but I have never owned my own board either, so im not going to spend much over $300 or so to get something.

Any help comments ANY of you have about what you have heard, or experienced would be GREATLY appreciated. Along with your personal prefrence if you think I should get something other than the NSP.

If you dont want to leave a big long comment, just suggest a board, or vote on the pole, and I will do research on whatever board names or suggestions you guys leave.

Thanks,
-Ian

[RJD]

NSP/Surftec type boards are ok, a lot will be down to the shape/size of the board, I dont see you progressing quickly beyond the boards ability (depending on board) only using it the odd weekend.

[fiend]

Don't know where you're from, but have you thought of buying used?

As long as you know what to look for (ie: what to avoid) then you can often find some really good deals... although not if you don't live near a good concentration of surf shops.

[thaya]

I'd get an NSP - nice and sturdy. I've had some awful wipeouts and if i'd had a custom board it would have been broken in half by now! You don't have to worry about your board when you wipe out, hit others (by accident!), knock it etc. I think it's a great board for beginners and you could surf quite happily on it for a year or two till you get much better...

but that's just my opinion...

[Stone Fox]

I've been renting quite a lot recently, and have tried a couple of boards and I've got to say the NSP (7'10) was the heaviest, most unpleasant board going.

I found both Bic and Saltrock to be a lot lighter and easier to manouver, but that could just be me!

[surfsc77]

As someone who just traded a 6' 8" nsp for a real board, i would say go with a real board. getting a nice used board shouldnt cost very much, and they are much lighter and more responcive than your nsp's. also you wouldnt be supporting an evil empire using child labor to destroy real surfboard shapers. (lol). having said that, nsp's are impossible to break and are great if your just getting started. its much easier to advance on some real foam though, so the choice is up to you.

[gdude335]

maybe surftec boards. Those are strong yet light and handle like a "real board".
if i am wrong someone contradict me now.
they also have so many models to chose from you should find one right for you.

[Real Pol]

If you're going for an NSP buy second hand cos you won't want to spend too much money on something that handles like a lump of iron. As they're indestructable you should be able to get one in good condition.

I personally think there are better pop-out options than NSP, (but I'd also say go for the real deal).

Good luck ya nutter!

[RJD]

Surftec are okish, light & strong but much less flex than a custom, probably a good thing on a short board but on a long board in choppy waves....

[Wakka]

I'm a beginner, so my opinion may not be worth much of you're past my point, but i got a great deal on an epoxy board on ebay. Perfect to start out with and improve before i purchase a shorter custom board.

[Insane Ian]

Alright guys, looks like I went and bought myself a real board. I couldnt pass up the deal...and it should be here on friday. I will post pics and info when I get it. Thanks for the help!