duck dive 8 ft board?

[nic]

Hi,
I am fairly new to surfing but I recently bought an 8ft 4inch Linden board. In the past I have always been on 8ft+ rental boards so have always turtle rolled past the break. I know you can't duck dive a longboard but would it be possible to duck dive an 8ft board? It is somewhat floaty, but not as much as the rentals. I can try practicing but just want to make sure it is possible before getting too beat up.

Thanks,
Nic

[Nicola]

Hey Nic,

I'd say stick to the turtle roll. They are great once you get into them. I love doing it now.

[meister]

depends on your weight i think. i've got a 7'4" and i can't even get the nose down coz i'm only little. if you're confident that you can get like the front 1/3 of your board underwater then you should be right.

[sinistapenguin]

A lot of duckdiving has to do with technique rather than just weight (although it does play its part)

My friend can duckdive his 9'6 longboard, so it is possible.

But, like with most things, it's a matter of preference. You don't HAVE to be able to duckdive to surf, if you try it a few times and can't get the hang of it - just stick to the turtle roll - afterall, it's only a way of getting out back so whatever lets you get out there is good!!

Cheers

Sinista

[ghost_who_surfs]

Fully agree with Sinista or you can do what I do when faced with a sneaker set about to land on my head. Quick check behind , bail and swin for the bottom. Leg ropes are such wonderful things.

[surferdude_scarborough]

i always forget the swim downwards bit