In the world of surfing, choosing the right surfboard can make or break a surfer’s experience on the waves. Over the decades, board designs have evolved, and experienced surfers know the value of a well-designed, durable board. One surfboard that stands out in this realm is the Surftech-Robert-August”What I Ride“, an iconic board that has captured the attention of both novice and seasoned surfers alike. Designed by legendary surfer Robert August, this board promises an optimal surfing experience with a blend of tradition, performance, and innovation.
This article delves deep into the history of Robert August, the legacy behind the “What I Ride” board, its design features, and why it has become such a coveted piece of equipment for surfers around the world.
The Legacy of Robert August
Before diving into the specifics of the Surftech-Robert-August-what-i-ride surfboard, it’s essential to understand the man behind the design: Robert August. Known as one of the most influential surfers of the 1960s, Robert August’s fame skyrocketed after starring in the classic 1966 surf documentary, The Endless Summer. Directed by Bruce Brown, the film followed August and his friend Mike Hyson as they traveled the world in search of the perfect wave.
Robert August’s influence on the surf world extends far beyond his appearances in films. He is also a revered surfboard shaper, with decades of experience in designing boards that cater to a wide range of surfers. August’s expertise in shaping longboards has cemented him as one of the most respected figures in surfboard design. His commitment to creating high-quality, performance-oriented boards continues to inspire surfers globally.
The Birth of What I Ride Surfboard
The Surftech-Robert-August-what-i-ride surfboard is a direct reflection of August’s surfing philosophy, which emphasizes smooth, relaxed rides combined with a practical approach to board performance. Released by Surftech, a brand known for combining traditional board design with cutting-edge technology, the “What I Ride” model offers a seamless blend of classic longboard design and modern construction techniques.
The name “What I Ride” hints at Robert August’s personal connection to this board. It’s the very model he rides in the water, a testament to its effectiveness and versatility. Whether you’re catching small waves on a lazy summer day or carving on larger swells, this surfboard is designed to deliver a reliable and enjoyable experience.
Design Features of the Surftech-Robert-August “What I Ride” Surfboard
One of the key factors that set the “What I Ride” surfboard apart is its design. Every detail of this board is crafted with both performance and ease of use in mind. Let’s break down the major design features that make this surfboard a standout in the market.
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1. Classic Longboard Shape
The Surftech-Robert-August-what-i-ride board is a traditional longboard, which makes it ideal for surfers who enjoy a smooth, controlled ride. Longboards are typically longer, wider, and more stable than shortboards, offering a larger surface area to work with. This feature makes the board easier to paddle and balance on, making it suitable for surfers of all skill levels.
The board’s length and width allow for greater buoyancy, meaning that even in small waves, surfers can easily catch and ride the wave without losing momentum. Additionally, the length of the board is conducive to “nose riding”, a popular longboarding maneuver where the surfer walks to the front of the board and balances near the nose while riding the wave.
2. Tuflite Construction
One of the standout features of the “What I Ride” surfboard is its Tuflite construction. Surftech-Robert-August-what-i-ride technology revolutionized surfboard manufacturing by incorporating materials that are both lightweight and incredibly durable. The result is a surfboard that offers the feel of a traditional fiberglass board with the added benefit of increased strength and longevity.
The Tuflite construction consists of a closed-cell EPS foam core with layers of fiberglass and epoxy resin. This unique layering process produces a board that is not only highly durable but also extremely responsive in the water. The lightweight nature of the board allows surfers to maneuver more easily, especially in challenging conditions, while the strength of the Tuflite material ensures the board is resistant to dings, dents, and other forms of wear and tear.
3. Balanced Rocker
The rocker of a surfboard refers to the curve from the nose to the tail of the board. A well-designed rocker can significantly affect the board’s performance, making it easier to maneuver or stabilize depending on the conditions. The “What I Ride” surfboard boasts a balanced rocker, meaning it’s not too steep or too flat. This balanced design allows for smooth turns and easy wave entry, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned longboarder.
The gradual curve in the nose provides enough lift to prevent “pearling” (when the nose of the board digs into the water), while the gentle tail rocker ensures that the board remains fast and responsive in a variety of wave conditions.
4. Single Fin Setup
The single fin setup is a classic feature of traditional longboards. Unlike modern shortboards that often come equipped with three or more fins, the Surftech-Robert-August-what-i-ride surfboard keeps things simple with one large fin. This fin setup provides stability and control, especially during long, drawn-out turns.
The single fin also contributes to the board’s smooth, graceful feel in the water. Surfers can glide effortlessly down the face of the wave, using subtle weight shifts to adjust their direction. This setup encourages a more fluid, relaxed style of surfing that aligns with the longboarding tradition.
5. Versatile Performance
While the “What I Ride” board is a traditional longboard, its design offers a surprising amount of versatility. It’s capable of handling a variety of wave sizes and conditions. Whether you’re surfing knee-high waves or head-high swells, the board performs well due to its forgiving shape and reliable construction.
For beginners, the board’s size and stability make it easier to catch waves and learn basic surfing techniques. For more advanced surfers, the “What I Ride” board offers the opportunity to refine their style, execute classic longboarding moves like cross-stepping and nose riding, and enjoy a smooth, relaxed ride.
Why Choose the Surftech-Robert-August What I Ride?
With so many surfboard options on the market, why should surfers consider the Surftech-Robert-August-what-i-ride model? Here are a few key reasons why this board stands out from the competition:
1. Durability
Thanks to the Tuflite construction, this board is built to last. The combination of epoxy resin and fiberglass makes it resistant to damage, ensuring that it will hold up well even after years of use. This durability is especially important for surfers who frequently travel with their boards or who surf in conditions where the board might be exposed to rocky shorelines or reef breaks.
2. Ease of Use
The “What I Ride” board is known for its user-friendly design. Beginners will appreciate the board’s stability and buoyancy, which make it easier to paddle and catch waves. The balanced rocker and single fin setup ensure that the board remains responsive yet forgiving, allowing surfers to progress at their own pace.
3. Classic Longboarding Experience
For surfers who enjoy the traditional longboarding style, this board delivers an authentic experience. Its single fin design, smooth glide, and ability to handle various wave sizes make it a great choice for those who appreciate classic longboarding techniques like cross-stepping and hanging ten.
4. Trusted Brand and Designer
When you buy a Robert August surfboard, you’re purchasing a product designed by one of the most respected names in surfing. Robert August’s decades of experience as a surfer and shaper are reflected in the quality and performance of his boards. Combined with Surftech-Robert-August-what-i-ride reputation for producing high-quality, durable boards, the “What I Ride” model is a trusted choice for surfers worldwide.
5. A Board for All Skill Levels
One of the key benefits of the “What I Ride” board is its versatility across skill levels. Whether you’re a novice surfer looking for a stable, easy-to-paddle board, or an experienced longboarder seeking a performance-oriented board for nose riding and carving, this board is designed to cater to a wide range of surfing styles and abilities.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Surfers who have purchased and ridden the Surftech-Robert-August-what-i-ride board consistently praise its performance and durability. Here are some common themes from user reviews:
- Smooth Ride: Many surfers comment on how smooth and easy the board is to ride. Its balanced rocker and stable design make it ideal for long rides down the line.
- Durability: Surfers appreciate the board’s ability to withstand wear and tear, even in challenging conditions. The Tuflite construction ensures that the board can handle everything from reef breaks to rocky shorelines without suffering significant damage.
- Nose Riding Capabilities: For longboarders who enjoy nose riding, this board delivers. The wide, stable nose and single fin setup make it easy to walk to the front of the board and hang ten.