I love my race board. I prefer it over any other board in my quiver. I also paddle it more than any other board. After a few seasons of this, I’ve started to realize the many benefits of taking my sleekest, fastest, lightest board out for casual cruises.
Obviously, the biggest plus is how well it paddles. The 25.75-inch width splits the surface like a pair of scissors. On glassy days I can put in 10 miles while hardly noticing. The hull planes on the tiniest waves and tracks effortlessly. In the ocean, I can speed along with the open swell.
Sure I have to be a little gentler with the board when I transport it, but the performance is well worth it. I am primarily interested in long, open flatwater paddles. Even if I’m not going for speed, no other board does it better.
Even for short days or checking out new spots, my 14-foot is my board of choice. Because of the light weight, boards like the Hobie Apex 4R are easy to carry long distances. I can walk down to the beach and carry a small drybag without a problem. It’s simple to lift on and off the car. I can portage over areas or pick it up in the shallows.
For long days, I’ve figured out how to carry a load of gear securely. A few companies make small adhesive tie-downs. With a couple of those and a bungee, I can bring lunch, my camera and a sweatshirt in the fall. The inset deck will also keep most untied items from being washed overboard.
Finally, and perhaps my favorite thing, is getting used to a long narrow board makes other boards come alive. After paddling a 14-foot missile, I’ve found I can really appreciate what a board like the 10’4” Hobie ATRv3 has to offer. Suddenly, it’s a blast to stand way back on the tail and just spin in circles or paddle tandem on a nice stable deck. I like that my race board rockets through chop, but I don’t mind bouncing around a bit from time to time either.
I guess the bottom line is every board has its pluses and minuses. Paddling a raceboard in most conditions is a really great experience. But maybe what I’m most thankful for is that I can get out on the water often. That’s what really matters. Whatever you’re paddling, just have fun out there.
