May 2015 - No. 8

2 0 1 5 board buyer’s G u i d e

Buffalo River Expedition save our american rivers Page 54

08 May 2015

SUP Camping Guide p. 65 | River Life with Mike Tavares p. 14

SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE

www.boardersmag.com/subscribe

Photo Sean Murphy

EVA GRIP

|

17 OZ

|

CARBON FIBER

Born of the sea

 Olivia Nicole

TYPHOON Lagoon James Harold surfing within at the Typhoon Lagoon in Orlando, Florida

 jhfuewfe

4

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

 Bob Baggett  jhfuewfe

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

5

Boarder: Angie Viland Boat: Centurion FS44

Switch backside at the Ladies First ATX World Championship qualifier on Lake Austin, TX

 Tyler Marshall

Spring has sprung, the ice has melted, and the surf is up! Spring is a time for cleaning and renewal. We do it with our house, our wardrobe and especially our gear. The 2015 board buyers guide is the perfect place to scope out the new board for your quiver this year. It’s not spring cleaning without cleaning up the mess that winter has been hiding under it’s proverbial rug.

All around the nation, trash clean ups are going on and are also raising awareness about the fundamental waste issues that our nation’s ecosystems constantly face. The waste I speak of is not just trash. I was personally educated on the impact waste is having on the Buffalo National River, our first nationally sanctioned river. Due to industrial farming waste, the Buffalo is in distress again. Find out how you can help “Save The Buffalo River Again” in our featured story inside titled the same.

Now, well into the year, we’ve captured how the new seasons create the longing for new adventures. Camping is a past time of many boarders; most of them would like to combined their passion for paddleboarding into an even sweeter adventure.

The SUP Camping Guide, found within this issue, will give you a good knowledge base of quality products – all Boarders Mag Approved. This selection of must-haves will make your trips more enjoyable. My trip was definitely a great experience, and I feel it was due to having the right equipment; which makes all the difference.

The busy season of events are now upon us. I am already incredibly stoked for this summer’s competitive season! I primed my senses recently with Tuck Fest; an amazing event.

Inside you can read all about their incredible facility for outdoor activities. I recommend everyone visit and experience the festival for yourselves. The Supreme Wake Surf Championship also recently kicked off the World Series of Wake Surfing with a enormous bang! Link up with us at BoardersMag.com and find a local event near you this summer.

I hope to see you on the water soon!

Danny Braught

Publisher & Business Director Chris Wielinski

Advertising Director Danny Braught

Editorial Director Tyler Marshall

Content Director Tyson Geninatti

Design

Jase Bloor Contributing Writers Contributing Athletes Gabriel Gray Tyler Marshall Danny Braught Sean Reavis Justin Hammond Tige Boats Jessica Cichra Linda McCoy-Schriever Ian Smith Tom Carter MaryKate Wood Mark Payne

Photographers Danny Braught Tyler Marshall Tim Marek Korrin Woodard Molly Wolff Bryan Kirk JB Oneill Bob Baggett Olivia Nicole Jeff Page Mark Payne

Gabriel Gray Hunter Clement Mike Tavares James Harold James Walker Brittany Parker Luke Hopkins Kristin Thomas Jessica Cichra Karis Nowell Ian Smith

John Alvarez Chris Bank Heather Jackson Jake Meyer Sean Murphy Renee Rosensteel Jackson Berger Zack Hughes Micah Harper Silverline Films Carters Collection

For advertising information: 214.683.8317 or danny@boardersmag.com Boarders Magazine is a publication distributed to a targeted list of consumers, board shops and dealers throughout the United States. Copies are also available upon request. Boarders Magazine is a trademark of Lokal Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved without prior written permission of publisher.

Copyright ©2015 Subscriptions to Boarders Magazine may be purchased online at www.boardersmag.com/subscribe Boarders Magazine Address 1665 Keller Parkway, Suite 400, Keller, TX 76248 Phone 214.683.8317

8

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

@boardersmag

14 river life with mike tavares

21

May/june 2015

16

2015 BOARD BUYER’S GUIDE 4

Typhoon Lagoon Feat. James Harold

12

Picture Perfect Feat. Hunter Clement & Meghan Roberts

14

River Life With Mike Tavares

17

My First Board

24

2015 Board Buyer’s Guide

30

Perry Morrison: Joins Team Tige

On the Cover: Our contributor for this month’s cover is adventure photographer/ graphic designer Jackson Berger. Jackson is always up for a SUP expedition to escape the fast-paced world of today’s technology.

See more of his work on his Instagram: jax.berger and throughout other publications. Cover athlete, Gabriel Gray, is also the founder of SOAR (Save Our American Rivers) featured on p. 54.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

9

Featuring May 2015

65 sup camping guide

84

keep tahoe blue

54 save the buffalo river expedition 10

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

36

Get Equipped With Jessica Cichra

54

Save the Buffalo River Expedition

by Gabe Gray

65

SUP Camping Guide

71

Water Shoes

72

2015 Tuck Fest

74

Top 5 Reasons to Attend Payette River Games

76

Supreme Wake Surf Championship

80

Austin Standup Paddleboarders Adopt Shoal Creek

By Linda McCoy-Schriever

82

Ian Smith’s First Waves

84

Keep Tahoe Blue with Tom Carter

76 SUPREME WAKE SURF CHAMPIONSHIP

Set up your shop, retail store, or become a featured dealer.

More info at boardersmag.com/dealer

Shweiki www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

11

Hunter Clement Welcome to the Team!

Hunter Clement The Afterbay in Oroville CA 12

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

 Korrin Woodard

River surfer and surf photographer Meghan Roberts does a shoot with the Hynson Black Knight by Boardworks Surf.

Koontz Bend Tunnel, Gauley River, WV

 Molly Wolff Photography

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

13

River Life with Mike Tavares Photos by Zack Hughes

Glenwood Wave, Colorado Home Town Richmond, VA – Only major metropolitan city with class IV rapids in the city limts!

Any race results you would want to mention?

3rd Place Payette River Games 2014 2nd Place Go Pro Mountain Games downriver Favorite Board for River Surfing Glenwood?

Badfish River Surfer 6.11 – Boardworks Production – I have found the River surfer to have the best volume, size, speed, and shape for waves such as Glenwood. The board has been specifically designed to fit into river waves and enable you to perform and pull off tricks that can be limited on traditional board shapes and designs.

Best day surfing Glenwood?

Peak flows in June 2014 yielded many perfect days. One in particular enabled to surf both river left and river right waves and held a small pocket wave in the center. It also allowed for cross overs from side to side, which opened up huge possibilities that are seldom seen!

Biggest day surfing Glenwood?

I think last year we surfed it on the peak days which were right around 23,000 cfs and up, but the optimal flows for river surfing seemed to be in the high teens up to about 22,000 cfs last year. We will have to see how the sediment and rocks shifted last year during the high water and see how the waves shapes up this year!

Any other favorite river surf spots?

Rock Island, TN is a favorite on east coast as well as the numerous waves on the New and Gauley Rivers in WV. The Rocky Mountains yield a ton of options including the Salida, CO waves, Big Sur on the Colorado, Lunch Counter on the Snake, Pipeline on the Lochsa.

14

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

The beauty of river waves is that there are tons of new rivers to be found and explored depending on your level.

What does it mean to you to be a river surfer?

For me, it’s the most dynamic and expressive way to enjoy the river. When I look at a river wave, I see a challenge, puzzle, and an opportunity to use the river in ways that others might not see. It’s also about enjoying our natural resources and being a part of an amazing community of people.

Any message for people looking to get into river surfing?

Start small and pick a friendly, small wave that will set you up for success. Also it’s a great idea to hook up with someone who is river savy and make sure you know the in and outs of river mechanics and dynamics. Also having a solid paddle stroke and board maneuvering base will help you dramatically. But the beauty of river surfing is that it is very easy and friendly and with the right wave you can progress very quickly since the wave never ends! I feel at home in the outdoors and I am able to connect with the water in many ways.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

15

WAKE SURFERS | STAND UP PADDLEBOARDS | TRAINING BOARDS

16

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

My First Board

Perry Morrison, age 7, stoked to be wake surfing in his first season. Four years later Perry is the youngest sponsored wake surf athlete (see p. 30-31)

It all starts with a board. From the very first moment you get on a board to your first purchase. It all starts in the hands of a shaper like Joe Bark or Mike Walker. Next is the countless hours that it takes to make your vision a reality like Jeff Page and his team at Inland Surfer and Jeff Archer and his team at YOLO Board.

For me it is working and training with future boarders like Perry Morrison (shown above) and the first moments that put a smile on their face. There is a moment when you love a sport so much that you have to make it your own, maybe even a custom board specifically designed for you.

What was your first board? Do you still have it? How have boards progressed since then?

By Tyler Marshall www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

17

joe bark brock dumoit “Bark Paddleboards was in full swing and we were building so many paddleboards for racing and touring at that time when Stand Up Paddling came around it was a very easy step to build a board that had the stability to stand on. I built a 16 ft paddleboard that looked pregnant with a 27 inch width at the center for stability and I knew we were on to something good.”

Bark/Surftech

Doomswell Boarding Co.

“This is my first wakesurf. I shaped ocean surfboards for 7 years before I got into wakesurfing. This board was a DUD! Definitely glad we went back to the drawing board and stuck with it. This was a 4’9 x 21 x 1/8 x 2.” I still keep it in the shop for a good laugh.”

 Micah Harper

18

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

“My first wake surfboard was built as a prototype for Jeff and James Walker (no relation). Jeff contacted me and asked if I could build a small board for riding behind boats. I was instantly excited about the prospect of having a new design arena to focus on, and dove right in. With their excellent feedback and input on what they were looking for, I began adapting what I knew created speed and response in the ocean and applied it to these small boards. The first board actually came out quite well due to all the prior testing that they had done before contacting me, so I’d say our first shape was actually pretty far down the line in terms of the basic design elements that we use today.

Whether in the ocean or behind the boat, shaping boards provides an endless platform to create and push the envelop in terms of design and performance.”

Mike Walker Walker Project Surfboards

They say, “Only a surfer knows the feeling,” which I fully subscribe to. But I also like to add that, “Only a shaper knows how to get you there.

james Walker Team Supreme

“My first pro model board was shaped by Mike Walker of The Walker Project. Mike shaped the board from a standard blank and glassed with polyester resin. The original idea was made based on a board my dad, Jeff Walker, shaped in our garage. It was a 4'6" round tail with 3/4" right angle wings cut out just in front of the fins. The fins were a twin configuration. The best part about it was the camo flame airbrush artwork. This board evolved into The Walker Project James Walker Signature Model which became Flyboy Wakesurfing.” www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

19

Mac Page

 Jeff Page

“Funny to think back 15 years ago when my vision of wake surfing was a board called the Green Room. As I look back to those first days we were way ahead of our time. The Green Room was a dream of an inlander (me) wanting to be tubed in the green barrel, 15 years later were able to bring it back for 2016.”

Jeff Page Founder of Inland Surfer

20

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

“My first YOLO Board was a 12’ rec board we made in 2007. We did everything on that board- distance, fishing, exploring, surfing, even crabbing. It was the perfect all-around platform for fun. I logged hundreds of hours on that thing and it totally connected me with living in the moment.”

Jeff Archer, Founder of YOLO Board

 Sean Murphy

 T-Marsh

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

21

 Heather Jackson

“My first board I learned to surf on was the Badfish Stand Up Paddle 7’6” MVP. It was a great board for the beginner surfer. With a chined bottom that resembled something similar to a kayak it was extremely stable and forgiving when crossing strong currents. That board got me surfing. Without the 7’6” my surfing skills would not have improved as quickly as they did. It helped me get a good grasp on river surfing basics before I graduated to a smaller more advanced river surfing design the Badfish 6’11” River Surfer.” -Brittany Parker Team Badfish “No board from Santa lead to my own search in early January 2010. Rogue was clearing out last year’s boards and Rick Karr didn’t steer me wrong with a great all-arounder. First race later that same month (Hano Hano) and I was immediately hooked.

I didn’t get a race board for almost a year!”

AFTON BANK

Kristin Thomas- Team Infinity and President of SUPIA

Kristin Thomas  Chris Bank

“Kids need a board that is narrower and more maneuverable. They also benefit from a “boxed” rail, for stability. Don’t be afraid to get your youngster into an actual “race shape;” it will assist them in keeping up with older paddlers and they will go faster and make longer distance paddling easier. Race/displacement boards are lighter weight, more efficient and better in rough water than traditional surf-shaped boards. Go fast and have fun!!!”  John Alvarez

22

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

Chris Bank- Pro Wakesurfer/ Competitive SUP racer

“Everything from the curves, the tail to the nose. It was a perfect piece of art I couldn’t wait to get in the water.

Finding the sweet spot was just the beginning, toes to the nose baby.”

Alyssa Mize: Co-Founder of Hype Surf Co

 Tyler Marshall

“In 2008 there was no such thing as a SUP board made for rivers. Whitewater was what I knew and at the time the only way I was going to have a river SUP the way I wanted it back in 08 was to design my own. That is what I did. The board was 5.3 inches thick, 10’6” long, and 31 inches wide and an inflatable. Keep in mind, at the time an inflatable SUP was practically unheard of. In the process of making an inflatable paddleboard that became known as the Stride Airlite HD I learned a lot about the potential for inflatable paddleboards for everything from travel, to flat water, to racing, to paddling on whitewater.

“In 2008 there was no such thing as a SUP board made for rivers”

 Bryan Kirk

LUKE HOPKINS

The Stride Airlite HD was designed for whitewater but also for speed. Over the years I sold 1000s of these boards and improved the design with slight changes over time. To this day the Airlite HD model has won more river SUP races around the country than any other board. The reasonably short length of 10’6” combined with a narrow all around profile with minimal tail rocker has made for an inflatable that is built for speed. In 2013 I was able to successfully paddle all the rapids in the 226 mile stretch of the Grand Canyon. I have had this board in my quiver of boards for 7 years and I will probably have it with me in another 7.”

Luke Hopkins- Team Body Glove

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

23

BOARD BUYER’S

GUIDE - www.boardersmag.com -

Drone Our Flagship model, this board is fast and very responsive.

With a full outline to a single wing rounded tail, the Drone is easy to ride, smooth in the turns and forgiving during maneuvers.

Perfect for beginners but also still fun for the advanced rider still wanting to push their performance.

Includes: • Futures (ILT) Fin System • Futures Thermocore F2 front fins w/ nubster rear fins • Agenda Deck Traction-Classic • Ultralight weight EPS Foam Core Made in the U.S.A.

24

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

Neo Released late 2014, the NEO is a playful high performance Wakesurf board. With a wider blunt nose, the NEO offers increased stability on the wave, above the lip, or while spinning 360’s. The NEO is designed with softer rails which offers a smooth ride while throwing big bottom turns or quick hacks off the lip.

Includes: • Futures (ILT) Fin System color matched • Futures Thermocore F2 front fins w/nubster rear fins • Agenda Deck TractionClassic • Ultralight weight EPS Foam Core Made in the U.S.A.

Tonka Kahuna The iSurf Tonka Kahuna wakesurf board has a similar outline to iDol founder Alex Brost’s competition shape and it has been re-engineered for larger surfers and has a slightly softer rail to be more forgiving for progressing riders. Super fast rocker, concave and outline make keeping the wave easy on the Kahuna. The block tail is fast, stable and releases easily. It will let even larger surfers release off the lip for areal tricks. This board is ultra-forgiving, and there is no minimum recommended weight to ride it. Almost any beginnerintermediate rider can get on this board and have the best wake surfing session of their life.

Because of its wide, stable outline, the board is ideal for beginner-intermediate surfers up to 225 pounds, or intermediate-advanced surfers 190 to 275 pounds.

Also available in Limited Edition carbon-fiber/bamboo construction.

Specs: 4’8″ x 21″ x 2 1/8

Tollie Twist The iSurf Tollie Twist wakesurf board is a combination of team rider Brandon Tollie’s favorite surf-style features with a special “twist” resulting in one of the best shapes in wake surfing.

Couple that with ultra-light EPS/Epoxy construction and a price/quality combination that can’t be beat and you’ve got the 2015 Tollie Twist. This board is designed to execute the most advanced maneuvers in wake surfing, yet it is forgiving enough to be ridden by riders of all ability levels. Fast, stable, drives, and releases – this is a surf-style wake surfboard for beginner-intermediate riders looking to progress their wake surfing skills, or advanced riders looking expand their trick list.

This year Tollie’s board is available in two sizes: 4’3″ for riders 110-145 pounds, and 4’6 for riders up to 180 pounds.

Also available in Limited Edition carbon-fiber/ bamboo construction.

Specs: 4’6″ x 20 3/8″ x 1 3/4″ or 4’3″ x 20 1/4″ x 1 1/2″

Catalyst The Catalyst is everyone’s favorite first wakesurf board. Its wide outline, minimum volume and maximum surface area makes it extremely easy to get up and start wake surfing. Also, larger wake surfers, (up to 250 pounds) will be able to execute more advanced tricks on this board thanks to fast rocker and hard rails. The board comes equipped with a single Futures TMF fin, but more advanced riders may want to upgrade to the available A6 fin.

Specs: 58″ x 20 3/4″ x 3/4″

T-Skim The T-Skim is our most advanced skim-style wakesurf board, designed for our team rider Brandon “Tollie” Tolliver. This board is ideal for medium sized (100-175 pound) wake surfers looking to easily attack the wake with spin and shuv tricks. With a fast outline, full traction, flat rocker and hard rails, this is THE board to progress your skim-style wake surfing.

Skim boards feature EPS/ Epoxy construction and a single Futures Fin. The board comes equipped with a single TMF fin, but more advanced riders may want to upgrade to the available A6 fin.

Specs: 52″ x 20 1/2″ x 3/4″ www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

25

Tako ABOUT: The Tako is our price point, compression-molded board built for durability and speed.

The Tako utilizes the highly proven STEPtech. STEPtech is molded into the bottom of the board for great speed down the line and effortless spins. Big guys (200+) can ride this board as well as the beginner’s.

Weight Range: The weight range for this board is 70lbs. to 250+lbs. depending on wake size.

Specs: 5’0” x 20” x 1” - 8 lbs.

FLYBOY Division- James Walker Pro Model TM

TM

ABOUT: Designed by the most technical competitive wake surfer on the pro circuit, James Walker.

Ultra-Lite construction and killer graphics come standard with the James Pro, along with the most aggressive fin set up – the Inland Surfer Twinzer fin system.

Weight Range: The weight range for this board is 100lbs. to 200lbs. depending on wake size. Available in “Big Boy” version too.

Specs: 4’6” x 20.5”x 1.5” - 5 lbs.

4-Skim squirt ABOUT: The largest and most versatile of the 4-Skim line, the Squirt boasts a tri-fin configuration, epoxy construction and an allnew traction pad for 2015. Part of the Inland Surfer Classic Series, the Squirt can handle the largest range of rider weight and height without sacrificing true 4-Skim performance. The Squirt ships with the S-1 Skim fin but quickly can be outfitted with two Delta fins to give it a surf-style feel Weight Range: The weight range for this board is 70lbs. to 250+lbs. depending on wake size.

Specs: 5’0” x 21.75” x 1” - 6 lbs

Keenan Surf Pro Model ABOUT: World Champion Keenan Flegel’s latest creation and one of the only wake surfboards in history to successfully bring the ocean-style feel and response behind the boat.

The KF Pro model brings a wide hull with a squared nose and tail, large surface area and unique Progressive Edge rail profile. The board is flat out fast and designed to give you the same feeling as surfing in the ocean. The wider tail offers maximum pop without sacrificing maneuverability.

Weight Range: The weight range for this board is 80lbs. to 200+lbs. depending on wake size.

Specs: 4’7” x 19.5” x 2.25” - 5 lbs.

26

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

Sweet Spot ultra

4-Skim black pearl

ABOUT: The long awaited next evolution in the Sweet Spot series is finally here! The Ultra Lite series is taking the bestselling Sweet Spot in history to all new heights and weights, such as: composites sandwich construction, Twin “T” Stringers, strength adding full Carbon Fiber deck & hull. This board is the ultimate rigidity for boosting huge airs!

ABOUT: Inland Surfer Classic Construction Series, the Black Pearl 4-Skim features our classic Wood-Loc with high tech carbon fiber and an upgraded traction pad. This board is a competition-ready skim board and is shockingly fast and responsive. This board is perfect for spins, shuv-its, aerials and snaps. This board is capable of giving you a surf style feel with a optional tri-fin set up. All 4-Skim style boards come with 1 single S-1, 3.0cm skim fin only.

Weight Range: The weight range for this board is 100lbs. to 225+lbs. depending on wake size Specs: 4’8” x 21” x 1.75” - 5 lbs.

Weight Range: The weight range for this board is 50lbs. to 200lbs. depending on wake size.

Specs: 4’ 8” x 20.5” x .75” - 4 lbs.

4-Skim Caro Pro Model ABOUT: The Caro Pro 4-Skim is the ride of choice for the most consistently decorated female in wake surfing, Caroline Villeneuve. Built for versatility, the tri-fin set up of this board allows for growth, whether you are a beginner riding tri-fin or a pro riding single fin, this board is strong enough to handle it all.

Weight Range: The weight range for this board is 50lbs. to 170lbs. depending on wake size.

Specs: 4’ 2” x 20.5” x 5/8” - 4 lbs.

Blue Lake V2 ABOUT: 14 years and there are more Blue Lakes in circulation than any other wake surfer out there. The only board that can help you throw in the rope your first time out, but also take you to new heights fully-outfitted as a quad in the advanced configuration. All-new optional flat pad or arch bar along with full-deck trimmed traction on top complements the Vortex channel and Drop-V tail on the bottom for the most tricked out Blue Lake yet!

Weight Range: The weight range for this board is 100lbs. to 250+lbs. depending on wake size.

Specs: 5’4” x 20.5” x 1.75” - 8 lbs.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

27

Nitro V2

Slayer Plus+

Addixion X

- 4’8 x 20” x 2” - 5’0 x 20” x 2” - Epoxy infused - Bamboo inlay on top deck - Thruster FCS G5 fin setup - Custom Triple X two-tone diamond cut traction

- 4’8 x 20” x 2” - 5’0 x 20” x 2” - Epoxy infused - Bamboo inlay on top deck - 4+1 FCS honeycomb fin setup - Custom Triple X two tone diamond cut traction

- 4’6 x 20 1/2” x 1 7/8” - 4’8 x 20 1/2” x 1 7/8” - 4’10 x 20 1/2” x 1 7/8” - Epoxy infused with sanded finish - Full Carbon Fiber Vector wrap on top deck - Carbon Vector strip on bottom deck - High Density EPS XCELL foam core - 4+1 Futures fin setup

ALSO AVAILABLE...

Carbon Pro X

- Sizes: 52” and 54” - Full carbon fiber wrap - Vacuum assisted epoxy infusion - High Density EPS XCELL foam core - Single Future fin box for A-6 Honey Comb Fin - Custom Triple X two tone diamond cut traction

The Fury

- Sizes: 52” and 54” - Vacuum assisted epoxy infusion - High Density EPS XCELL foam core - Single Future fin box for A-6 Honey Comb Fin - Custom Triple X two tone diamond cut traction 28

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

The Plank

- Sizes: 52” and 54” - Bamboo inlay on top and bottom deck - Vacuum assisted epoxy infusion - High Density EPS XCELL foam core - Single Future fin box for A-6 Honey Comb Fin - Custom Triple X two tone diamond cut traction

KKrows 7 Fin Wakesurf $590 4’6” Squash Tail Skim/Surf Style Medium/High Impact 4+6Oz On Top And 4Oz Bottom Epoxy And Eps Carbon Fiber Net Reinforcing 2 Traction Pads 7 Fin Option. 1-5 Fin Set Up Remove Center Fin & Top Fins For 360S Small To XL Riders Beginners To Advanced Riders: 100 To 280 Lbs.

KKrows 5 Fin Wakesurf $515 4’4” Squash Tail Skim/Surf Style Low/Medium Impact 4+6Oz On Top And 4Oz Bottom Epoxy And Eps 2 Traction Pads 5 Fin Option. 1-5 Fin Set Up Remove Center Fin For 360S Small To large Riders Beginners To Advanced Riders: 100 To 200 Lbs.

KKrows.com www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

29

Perry Morrison:

joins Team Tige Perry Morrison might be the youngest rider on Team Tige, but his talent is sure to carry him to the top. Perry fell in love with wakesurfing, Tige Boats, and the lifestyle that goes with it all through the Tige Endless Wave Tour. With a raw talent and whole-hearted passion, you can expect to hear Perry’s name as one of the the fastest progressing riders on the wakesurf scene in the coming years.

Tige: When and where did you start wake surfing?

Perry: I learned how to wake surf on Lake Grapevine, TX with my coach Tyler Marshall at DFW Surf.

Tige: If you weren’t wake surfing, what would you be doing?

Perry: I would be scuba diving, flying airplanes, sailing or TaeKwonDo which are my other hobbies.

Lake TX 30 Grapevine, May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

 Tyler Marshall Tige: Tell us about your experience at the Endless Wave Tour Perry: I love surfing and after my first private lesson with Dominic Lagace at Lake Lewisville, TX in 2013, I got excited about competing at the Endless Wave Tour Stop in Fort Worth, TX. At the Tournament, we met a lot of people that wanted to make sure I had fun. The person that I remember most was Matt Edmondson with Eagle Marine. My second year at Endless Wave Tour, everyone I met before, treated me like I was part of the family and that made my dad’s decision to purchase a Tigé Boat.

Tige: How stoked are you to be so young and already have a boat sponsor?

Perry: It’s an amazing and special feeling to have a boat sponsor and partner with me on my journey. I am real excited that Eagle Marine and Tigé have offered me the opportunity be a part of their team and family.

Tige: Is there any rider that you’ve never gotten a chance to ride with that you would really like to?

Perry: Keenan Flegel, because he won first place in the 2014 World Surf Competition, and I would love to spend a weekend surfing with Dominic Lagace.

Tige: What’s your biggest goal as a wakesurfer?

Perry: To be the best I can be and someday win first place in the World Wake Surfing Championship. www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

31

Tesani

Haze

A thinner, lighter profile and pintail shape brings skim-style riding to surf-style construction.

Super light weight and incredible buoyancy make the Tesani the ideal board for 360’s, shuvit 180’s and anything else you can dream up. The template is nearly symmetric front to back so riding it switch is easy and there is a lot of push and drive with this board as well.

Squash tail design provides maximum drive and push on the wake.

CNC assisted, hand shaped and polished construction.

Squash tail design.

Quad fin setup, comes with set of (2) 2.1 fins, (2) 1.7 fins, and (2) 1.3 fins for ultimate customization of your ride.

Convex deck for better control

Specs: Tesani is available in three sizes; 4’3″x 19.75”, 4’8″x 20.5” and 5’4″x 21.2”

Specs: 4’4” x 20”, 4’9’ x 20.6”, 5’2” x 21.2”

Celsius

Maha

Time tested shape carries width through the profile while the fish tail improves edge-to-edge response.

CNC assisted, hand shaped and polished construction.

Fish Tail design Quad fin setup, comes with set of (2) 2.1 fins, (2) 1.7 fins, and (2) 1.3 fins for ultimate customization of your ride.

Convex deck for better control.

With twin fins and aggressive channels exiting the tip and tail of the board, the Maha is a performance machine that adapts to any riders style. Extra width out the tail provides incredible push.

Featuring O’Brien’s Convex Deck profile, the deck makes it easier to apply leverage to the edge of the board-resulting in better drive and control. Huge airs, 360’s, whatever-The Maha can get you there and more.

Specs: 4’5” x 19.8”, 4’10” x 20.25”, 5’3” x 21”

Specs: 4’5” x 21.2” , 5’ x 21.2”

Ally

Nalu

The most advanced recreational surfer we’ve ever made. The Ally delivers near-epoxy board performance in a durable and less expensive construction. In early stages of development, the initial design intent was to provide the rider just entering the surf market with a board that they could buy at a reasonable price, had softer edges that won’t ding the boat (or your shins), with performance on any wave. What we ended with, was something that even our pro team is stoked to ride.

The Nalu Wake Surfer features an all new rocker profile, pushing the flat spot further forward and creating a board that excels on wakes large, small, and everywhere in between. Featuring a completely flat bottom and a single fin setup, the Nalu carries speed up the face of the wave, waiting for your latest move.

Whether you’re just cruising behind the boat, or ripping like a pro – the Nalu delivers.

Specs: 4’8” x 20.25 32

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

Specs: 4’8”x20.4, 5’4”x21.5”

 XXXXXX

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

33

34

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

35

EQUIPPED “The

type of gear you have can make or break your experience. The right gear will ensure a pleasurable experience - paddling with ease and in comfort. When choosing the right gear for you, one should consider the appropriate size for their body type, his or her skill level, the conditions they are paddling in and what their goals are.”

- Jessica Cichra

SUP:

Boardworks Surf Shubu Raven 12’6

Paddle: Werner Paddles 3-piece Small Fit Soul Top: Local Honey Designs Corrine top black/chevron Capris: Graced by Grit Land and Sea Knickers

36

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

 Mauricio Ramos

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

37

Orange Crush Race-

12’6 x 25.5” or 27.5” x 6 Carbon fiber race board designed with a low rocker and piercing bow to maximize the water line and optimize speed and glide. The bottom and rails are tuned in to allow for power and direction. The tail width and outline aid in stability.

Includes a GoPro mount and LiftSUP handle. Plus a little EJ magic thrown in!

12’ Original-

12’ x 31.5” x 4.75” x 237.4L The 12’ Original offers superior stability and ease of use for all water conditions, allowing paddlers to seamlessly transition from beginner to pro. Additional features include built-in bungee system, extra-durable “Hammer Strength” construction, LiftSUP handle, GoPro camera mount, integrated cooler tie-downs and self-breathing air valve.

Beautiful wood inlay and custom Jake Meyer artwork.

38

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

12’BigBoyCamo12’ x 35” x 5” x 286.5L

This big boy offers added stability for paddling, hunting and fishing.

“Hammer Technology” for extra durability. Bungees hold your gear and the built-in GoPro mount is there to document your catch. Bungee grommets to anchor ice chest and cargo.

Includes a selfbreathing air valve, LiftSUP handle, and wide traction pad.

12’ Eco Trainer-

12’ x 29.5” x 4.75” x 230.2L Back by popular demand.

The Eco Trainer makes a triumphant return to YOLO Board’s 2015 line, reclaiming the title of the fastest recreational board on the market. A tapereddown version of the 12’ Original, this fitnessfocused board features several attachment points for resistance band training.

Additional features include built-in bungee system, extra-durable “Hammer Strength” construction, LiftSUP handle, GoPro camera mount, and Gortex self-breathing air valve.

12’ Coastal Cruiser-

10’6” Coastal Cruiser-

An entry-level recreational board perfect for all water conditions.

Featuring our most popular shape paired with attention-grabbing aesthetics, the 12’ Coastal Cruiser offers a competitive price point that doesn’t sacrifice style or substance. Additional features include built-in bungee system, extra-durable “Hammer Strength” construction, GoPro camera mount, and Gortex selfbreathing air valve.

This recreational board is perfect for all water conditions. Great stability and floatation for smaller paddlers. Upgrades include builtin bungee system for your PFD and EVA traction pad. Equipped with self-breathing valve, and a GoPro camera mount. Great for catching small waves.

12’ x 31.5” x 4.75” x 237.4L

11’ Roughneck –

10’6” x 29.5” x 4.5 x 160L

10’6 Eclipse-

11’4 x 32” x 4.5” x 231L

10’6 x 29.5” x 5.5” x 230.7L

Thermo-mold construction makes for an almost indestructible board.

This is what you want for your rental business and your kid-filled dock.

Run a cable through the handle for security. This hybrid construction, using thermoformed ABS sheets and composite materials, creates a highly durable, maintenance free and abrasion-resistant board.

Great board for women and paddlers under 200lbs.

Easy transport, light weight. Extra durable “Hammer Technology,” bungee system, and EVA traction pad. Equipped with a selfbreathing valve, LiftSUP handle, and a GoPro camera mount. Trifin set up. Beautiful wood inlay and Jake Meyer graphics.

Grom

8’0 x 26’ x 3.7” This is the board for kids. Will float up to 120 lbs. Great for surfing and paddling. Ergonomic glassed-in handle. Tons of fun.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

39

Universal

Discovery

Yogaversal

10’6, 31.8” 206L. The ultimate go to board with a higher volume design, this super stable design is perfect for beginners and mellow conditions.

Comes with 2+1 fins, ledge handle, tie downs and a shock cord.

10’ x 30.5”, 153.7L, Ultra lightweight, surf inspired shape that has just enough rocker to easily maneuver in the surf while being perfect for flat water to. With a large volume and wide standing area, the shape is suitable for beginners to experts in all types of conditions.

10’6 x 31.8”, 206L. Enhance your on-water experience with this stylish SUP. It’s stable enough for yoga and daily workouts. With a soft yet durable deck pad and multiple tie downs it’s the perfect on water partner for your workouts.

40

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

Saber

Competitor

D2

11’6 x 29”, 205.8L. This touring board is designed glide effortlessly through the water and is built with durability and affordability. Perfect for beginner to intermediate paddlers, the Saber is Surftech Quality at a great price.

12’6 x 29”, 233L. This specialized competition board has quickly become a paddler favorite for all race distances. A proven design it is perfect for intermediate to advanced paddlers.

14’ x 26.4”, 238.7L. Sleek and narrow with a lower-volume nose and a small soft roll at the bottom front of the board make this the top choice among elite distance paddlers.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

41

SUPS & Accessories PULSE EPOXY SUP’s use high quality EPS foam and epoxy.

The combination of these materials allow us to create the strongest, most lightweight and durable Epoxy SUP possible. All of our SUP boards have a durable three layer 6 ounce epoxy glass deck and two layer 6 ounce epoxy glass bottom over 2 lb/ft² EPS core. A final protective clear coat is applied and polished to give the final product a high gloss, attractive look.

All PULSE boards feature a self breathing Gor-tex valve and offset handle for easy pick up/carrying as well as 3 fin thruster set up for stability and tracking and added Go-Pro mount on the nose of the board so paddler has the ability to capture those unforgettable moments.

Traditional Style The traditional style SUP is our most popular design. Whether it be for an entry level flat water paddler, or your serious surf paddle enthusiest, we have a board to suit your needs.

All traditional boards come with a carbon fiber SUP paddle, bag and coil leash.

The Throwback 11’4”

The Wiggler 10’4”

42

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

The Sutra 10’4”

The Kelso 11’4”

The Anode 11’4”

The Reef 10’4”

The Logie 10’4”

www.pulsesup.com infousa@pulsesup.com 1.800.774.4447

Displacement Style These boards are designed for smooth and effortless paddling. With the “V” design, the displacement boards provide the paddler with an all purpose board whether it be for fitness, race or just going for a cruise.

• •

11’ long EVA foam board Comes with adjustable aluminum paddle

Specifications: • Real bamboo inlay • Epoxy construction • Gortex Valve • Available in 12’6” and 11’

The Hurricane 12’6”

The Jelly 11’

The Mummie 11’

Rec-Tech Style Fibreglass Laminated Sandwich Construction with an EPS Foam Inner Core. This layering technique allows for a super durable board in terms of impact resistance, yet still being an extremely lightweight board, which is quite unique. It’s a great board for entry riders and mid level riders, super stable, with good performance in waves also.

Specifications: • Concave bottom with an exaggerated tail rocker, makes for very good glide speed.

• 11’ in Length , 35” Wide, 4 1/4” Thick, Weight 29 lbs., Volume: 212 L • Futures Fin Arrangement,1 center with 2 sides.

• Dual Density EVA Top Deck Pad for solid traction and comfort

The Trace 11’

The Stance 11’

The Kaleidoscope 11’

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

43

At Pau Hana, we are fun-loving adventure-seeking paddle surfers, artists, yogis, makers, fishermen, athletes and travelers -- captivated by water. Pau Hana, [pronounced: pow HAH-nah], is a Hawaiian phrase that means “Work is over.” “Pau Hana Time” encapsulates the spirit of play

and good times with friends and family. We love what we do and put that passion to work, everyday, making boards to share that stoke. Because after the work is done, it’s all about the ride.

Big EZ Hawaiian

Minisport

11’0” x 32” x 5” 32 lbs, 225 L

10’0” x 28.5” x 6” 22.5 lbs, 225 L

The Pau Hana Big EZ is designed for absolute stability, for riders big and small, in all types of water. It’s been chosen by luxury resorts around the world and is one of the most popular boards in it’s class.

All Big EZ SUPs are equipped with the SeaMount System™ for easy attachment of accessories including phone holders, speakers, and the Nocqua lighting system.

The Pau Hana Minisport is designed to meet the needs of those who want the increased speed of a displacement hull race board but in a smaller, lighter weight package. It’s a great training and sport board and paddles fast in the lake river, or marina. Its light weight and soft grab handle make it easy to carry and transport.

44

Carve

Lotus

8’6” x 30” x 4” 14 lbs, 130 L

10’0” x 34” x 4.25” 24.5 lbs, 212 L

Conquer the swell with the Pau Hana Carve. Designed to be the new name in high performance SUP, the Carve is built to handle any wave. The smaller design allows for precision maneuverability through the surf while allowing for maximum speed.

The Carve provides a hybrid of high performance and stability.

Drift across the water and find yourself on the Pau Hana Lotus Yoga board. It provides a stable and balanced platform for even your tough poses. Enhance your workout by easily attaching accessories into the SeaMount System™ such as water bottle holders and paddle clips. It can also be outfitted with “Plug-n-Play” lights via the Nocqua lighting system.

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

Oahu Series

Cadence

3 sizes/lengths:

2 sizes/lengths:

● ● ●

● ●

10’0” x 32” x 4.25” 29 lbs, 187 L 9’5” x 32” x 4.25” 27 lbs, 174 L 8’10” x 31” x 4.25” 23 lbs, 159 L

The Oahu nose rider series combines art and function into a single board. It features a spooned-out nose, wide tale, and full rails making it an excellent allaround board for fun in the ocean, river, or lake. This board can be configured with single, thruster and quad setup, giving flexibility to match the board setup to the conditions of the day.

12’6” x 28.5” x 6” 26.5 lbs, 260 L 14’0” x 28.5” x 6” 30 lbs, 290 L

Speed, stability, and performance. The Cadence features a displacement hull allowing the SUP to easily cut through the water with more glide and less resistance per stroke. The board also features a soft full-length deck pad for maximum comfort. The Cadence is a perfect training platform for getting an intensive core workout.

Big EZ Angler

Big EZ Air

2 sizes/widths:

11’0” x 32” x 6” 24 lbs, 240L

● ●

The Big EZ Air takes the stability of the Big EZ Hawaiian and puts it in an extremely durable and portable package. This high PSI inflatable stays rigid and rides well in whitewater inland lakes, and the ocean.

The Big EZ Air is an excellent choice for the world traveler as it fits easily in the trunk of a car and can be checked as luggage. Comes with bag, pump, and a three piece paddle.

11’0” x 32” x 5” 32 lbs, 225 L 11’0” x 36” x 5” 36 lbs, 260 L

Catch more fish with the Big EZ Angler.

A real teak board, built for the fisherman, the Pau Hana Big EZ Angler features 25 SeaMount™ threaded anchor points.

Easily attach fishing accessories from RAM® Mounts and YakAttack. Bolt down coolers, fishing rod holders, paddle clips, cups, tackle and lights. It can be rigged up for any kind of fishing and can handle heavy loads and carry all the gear you need.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

45

11’4” Super Cruiser SUP Performance and durability for flat water If you want to cruise on flat water (but aren’t looking to be the next world champion of the SUP race circuit), this is the board for you. The aerodynamic shape cuts effortlessly through the water while the scooped-out deck brings stability by putting the ride lower in the water. Hard rails and a 32” width ensure that even novice riders stay dry. Available in TCT and H-TCT constructions.

Length: 11’4” Width: 32” Thickness: 4.5 Volume: 215L Weight: 33lb (TCT), 28lb (H-TCT) Rider: Up to 250lbs Fin: Futures KEEL 44.4 fin Handle: LiftSUP Leash Plug: CONNEXSUP (nose/tail/center) Karis Nowell in the lead at the annual Grape Paddle SUP-Cross race at DFW Surf in North Texas

10’6” Multi-Purpose Perfect For All Levels, Lightweight, Durable with High Performance.

The Swiss army knife of stand up paddleboards. Great in small surf, superb in whitewater, and fun for a day of cruising or yoga. Built with the same trusted Bounce Technology and perfect for those who put their equipment through rough surroundings such as rock shorelines, busy rental docks, jagged launch points and whitewater rapids.

Lightweight with excellent maneuverability.

Length: 10’6” Width: 31.5” Thickness: 4.5 Volume: 210L Weight: 31lb Rider: Up to 240lbs Fin: Futures KEEL 44.4 fin Handle: LiftSUP Leash Plug: CONNEXSUP (nose/tail/center)

11” Multi-Purpose Performance, durability and buoyancy in a larger package.

The 11’ Multi-purpose SUP is a larger version of the 10’6”. Built big for more stability, this board is great for large riders and novices alike. Larger riders will enjoy small surf and whitewater performance, while novice riders will enjoy an extremely stable ride. Plenty of room for yoga, kids, and dogs! As always, Bounce Technology allows for plenty of bumps without bruises.

Length: 11” Width: 33” Thickness: 4.5 Volume: 220L Weight: 34lb Rider: Up to 275lbs Fin: Futures KEEL 44.4 fin Handle: LiftSUP Leash Plug: CONNEXSUP (nose/tail/center)

2015 | www.boardersmag.com 46 Danny May Braught

10’6 Aloha Cruiser The Aloha Cruiser is designed primarily to be an efficient flatwater paddler that can also be surfed. It is a great allaround board for beginners up to 195 pounds.

By using EPS/Epoxy construction, we are able to minimize weight and maximize durability.

This board is laminated with three layers of 6-ounce fiberglass on the top and two layers of 6-ounce plus one layer of 4-ounce fiberglass on the bottom, with all layers lapping the rails.

The result is 34-ounces of fiberglass lapping the rails, guaranteeing strength in the areas of the board most susceptible to damage (nose, rails and tail).

11’1 Yogi Fisher The iSurf Yogi Fisher is one of the most stable and userfriend SUP boards on the market. This board’s design is threefold: a wide flat deck offers stability, for practicing SUP yoga, fishing, or adding stability for larger or beginner paddle boarders. The perfect board for static SUP sports or beginner paddlers up to 350 pounds.

Specs: 11’1″ x 32.25″ x 4.75″ | 27 pounds

Specs: 10’6″ x 31.5″ x 4.5″ | 26 pounds

14 A.L. Race/ Touring

12’6 A-Race/ Touring

The 14′ A.L.-Race is our topof-the-line race/touring SUP. It is designed specifically to be fast, lightweight and durable.

Despite its race-driven design, at 27″ wide it is stable enough to be paddled recreationally or even on expeditions and EPS/Epoxy/Carbon-fiber construction means this board is lightweight and will last for years.

The 12’6″ A-Race is our midsize race/touring SUP. It is designed specifically to be fast, lightweight and durable.

Despite its race-driven design, at 28″ wide it is stable enough to be paddled recreationally or even on expeditions, and EPS/Epoxy/Carbon-fiber construction means this board will last for years.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

47

Scout

Adventure

The SUP ATX Scout Model is the perfect all-round board with a clean no-frills design built for performance and style. Super stable, efficient fast glide in flat water. A shredder in surf with its tri-fin configuration. Included is an integrated LIFTSUP handle for easy carrying. A forward mounted CONNEXSUP deck mount plug. Perfect for mounting your favourite accessories. A rugged, yet soft EVA memory foam deck pad that will keep your feet comfortable for hours!

• • • •

10’6” x 32” x 4.75” 26 lbs. tri fin 3” side fins with 6.5” center fin

•

Molded 1.5lb EPS foam core Glass 3 x 6oz. top Glass 2 x 6oz. bottom 180 liters

• • •

The Adventure line of paddleboards is perfect for paddlers of every size and ability. A full length EVA foam deck pad gives this board a full non-slip surface perfect for your daily adventures! Great for families, tandem paddles, anglers and your four legged friends!

•

Molded 1.5lb EPS foam core 3 x 6oz. top M4 Carbon + 1x 4oz. + 1 x 6 oz. bottom Full length EVA non slip deck pad LIFTSUP handle

• • • • 48

• • •

Molded EPS foam core 3 x 6 oz. top M4 Carbon + 1x 4oz. + 1 x 6 oz. bottom Full length EVA non slip deck pad LIFTSUP handle 4 point connexsup deck rig system Vent plug

• • • •

LIFTSUP handle Front connex SUP deck plug EVA deck pad Vent plug

• • •

Adventure Premium Based on our classic Adventure

platform, the Adventure Premium model takes comfort and durability to a new level.

This model features heavy duty epoxy construction and extra fiberglass and carbon fiber layers to take on the punishment of constant use.

Fun for paddlers of every size and ability. 5 Connexsup deck plugs allow you to customize your board with your favorite accessories as well as add secure storage.

The Adventure Fitness provides a combination of durability, versatility, and stability.

The adventure fitness is a very stable board that provides an excellent platform for all of your yoga or fitness adventures. The 5 connex SUP anchors allow for an option to secure accessories and the patented LIFTSUP handle is perfect for locking security and easy handling.

10’6” x 32” x 4.75” 26 lbs.

Single 7.5” keel fin

11’6” x 32” x 4.75” 28 lbs.

Single 7.5” keel fin

•

Adventure Fitness

• • •

• • •

• • • • • • •

• •

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

5 point connexsup deck rig system Vent plug

• •

Installed rail tape Vent plug

• • • •

11’6” x 32” x 4.75” 34 lbs.

Single 7.5” keel fin Molded EPS foam core 3 x 6oz. top 1 x M4 + 2 x 6oz.

Full length EVA non slip deck pad LIFTSUP handle 5 connexsup deck rig plugs Nose and tail carbon fiber reinforcement patches Cargo net

Pioneer Premium

Navigator Touring

Our top of the line Pioneer Premium paddle board sporting a fresh new look with hot rod metal flake styling. 3 flanking Connex SUP plugs around the front of the deck pad give your board a front and center landing pad for all your accessories. 4 rear loop plugs for stowing extra gear.

• • • •

12’ x 32” x 4.50” 28 lbs.

Single 7.5” keel fin 220 liters

• •

3 x 6oz. top 2 x 6oz. bottom

•

Limited edition metal flake paint EVA deck pad Vent plug 3 Front Connex SUP plugs 4 rear tie down plugs LIFTSUP handle Grey honeycomb carbon fin

• • • • • •

European wakeboard champ, Carro Djupsjo sun bathing on a SUPATX Lakerider Series on Lake Austin, TX @wakecarro

Break free from the norm with the SUP ATX Navigator touring board. A displacement hull and slim profile allow for superior glide and travel; featuring a 5 point Connex SUP deck rig system to customize your board with your favourite accessories. An easy to carry LIFTSUP handle that doubles as a locking point.

Take paddling to the next level with the navigator and leave the shore behind.

• 12’6” x 32” x 5.375” • 34lbs • Single 10” fin • 280 liters

• • • • •

Displacement hull EVA foam deck pad LIFTSUP handle 5 point ConnexSUP deck rig system Vent plug

• • • • • • •

Molded EPS foam core Wood vaneer construction Sandwich construction Vacuum bagged US fiberglass Top: 1 x 6oz. + 1x wood vaneer + 1 x 4oz.

Bottom: 1 x 6oz. + 1x wood vaneer + 1 x 4oz.

 JB O’neill

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

49

SUP INFLATABLES 12’ YOLO Board

11’ x 30” x 6”

12’ x 32” x 6”

This stable and sturdy portable board comes with its own backpack filled with pump, pressure gauge, removable center fin, tri-fins, bungee system, and carry handle. Perfect for traveling on planes, storing on boats, paddling rocky rivers, you name it! Stores easily in a closet. PSI-15

Perfect for the family, this portable board comes with its own backpack filled with pump, pressure gauge, removable center fin, tri-fins, bungee system, and carry handle. Perfect for traveling on planes, storing on boats, paddling rocky rivers, you name it! Fill to 15 PSI and you’re ready to go.

Frontier 10’6” The Frontier is a do anything, go anywhere board without boundaries. Blow it up when you need it and stow it when you don’t. The complimentary pump and travel bag make this board the perfect solution for travel, small vehicles and living spaces. Whether the goal is fishing, tackling local whitewater or simply touring the local waterways, the durable PVC rubber construction ensures the frontier will be ready for any activity or destination.

Frontier 10’6” 10’6” x 31” x 5” 3 soft fins 180 liters Frontier construction: Heavy duty PVC Rigid drop stitch design EVA foot pad

50

Key Features: Easy carry handle Tri fin with removable centre fin Stainless steel tie down points High pressure spring valve Includes: Backpack stuff sack High pressure pump and gauge Repair kit Cargo net

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

4 Reasons To Buy an Inflatable 1. Wouldn’t you want a board with you anywhere you go in the world? Inflatables make that possible.

ian smith

2. Run whitewater with peace-of-mind. The durability lets you forget about hitting rocks and focus on nailing drops.

3. Make friendships last. Loan your inflatable to that friend that’s tough on gear and avoid awkward conversations about dings, scratches, or just how many pieces the board was in when you gave it to them.

4. Adventure per dollar spent. Buy a quality inflatable and you will have a piece of gear that will likely outlast your favorite trucker hat.

 Danny Braught

ULI Boards Zettian:

Specs: 8’11” x 33” x 4 and 3/4” ULI Board’s Zettian is the most refined, all-purpose whitewater SUP in the world. Designed by Rob Mazzetti and Ian Smith, the Zettian achieves a surf-like feel in whitewater and excels when ferrying, catching eddies, surfing down-river features, and cascading over the steepest drops being done in the sport today.

The Zettian maintains substantial maneuverability and feel without sacrificing buoyancy, redefining the way whitewater SUP paddling is done. The progressive shape allows for rapid acceleration, responsive rails, and enhanced stability so you can carve beautiful lines through your favorite rapids.

Combined with ULI’s rugged but lightweight exterior, you have a board that is purpose-built for the mountains. For lowvolume creeking, slalom-style paddling, and exploratory riverrunning the Zettian provides a one-board solution. www.uliboards.com www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

51

EXPLORE Kyle and Angie on their way to explore one of Santa Rosa Sound's island inlets

52

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

 Jake Meyer

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

53

Save the

Buffalo River Expedition Photos by Danny Braught and Jackson Berger

by Gabriel Gray Save our American Rivers Founder

Location: Witaker Point

Man oh man! The 2015 river trips, benefiting Fight to SOAR, got off to an exciting start! My wife and I started the Fight to Save Our American Rivers project, aka FTS, as a way of getting more young and old people outdoors and enjoying our country’s riverways. We were hoping this project would help people be more inclined to respect their local waterways, as well as invite more people to get involved in the issues that their local rivers face today. Our main objective is to bring awareness to the issues that threaten many of our nation’s rivers systems.

Just over a year after creating Fight To SOAR, I was asked about doing an expedition down Arkansas’ Buffalo National River by a member of the Buffalo River Watershed Alliance. I was honored and happy to see that what my wife and I set out to do with the project, was in fact reaching more like-minded people! To be honest, I knew the Ozark region had beautiful rivers... but that was the extent of it. I began to invest the time I could outside of my fulltime job as a Firefighter/EMT, and the seasonal SUP tour business that my wife and I own, into investigating this river that seemed so foreign to me.

I spent the remainder of 2014 learning about the Buffalo National River, and after speaking to many local people about their views on the issues the Buffalo National River faces... I began my planning. I must mention my sponsors that have strongly backed both my goals because without them, not even the idea of the trips would be possible!. Outlining this trip was made much easier with the help of American Fish and Tackle Company (AFTCO). So I would like to give a huge “Thank you” for stepping up and being the main sponsor behind the Buffalo National River Expedition.

We all knew the Buffalo River would be different than other rivers I have paddled before due to its many characteristics, and this certainly added to the challenge. This entire region is made up of karst topography; meaning, the landscape is formed from the separation of soluble rocks, like limestone. The limestone matter creates sinkholes, caves, and subterranean drainage. This in turn makes it hard for surface water to stay above the ground. This type of setting makes sustenance a challenge, yet it creates one of the most unique regions in the area. This area has been occupied by prehistoric Native Americans, the Osage Indians, and early Europeans, I heard that it was even a safe-haven for civil war deserters because of its vast caverns and rugged territory. I can only imagine the rich history hidden below such porous terrain.

In the 1960’s the US Army Corps of Engineers attempted to dam the Buffalo River, but the people fought back and won!

In 1972, the river was acquired by the National Park Service and designated by Congress as America’s first national river.

Sadly, 40 years later the Buffalo River is in need of saving again, but this time it’s from factory farming pollution. Two years ago, a large hog concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) opened a new factory on one of the major tributaries (Big Creek) of the Buffalo River. This new establishment, coupled with the topography previously described, creates a devastating combination that threatens both the balanced www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

55

water composition of the river and its ecosystem.

A CAFO is an indoor area where many animals are kept in tightly packed quarters, and their urine and feces are collected from below in sewage containers. The waste is then processed into fertilizer and sprayed onto nearby fields, placing the river in imminent danger as these contaminants make their way down through the sediment by the practice of over fertilizing, flooding, spills, etc. Water testing has already shown spikes in contamination of E. coli and changes in water content values.

Once I started to grasp the importance of the situation, the more desire grew in me to plan this 130 mile journey. This would be the longest documented descent down the Buffalo National River on a stand-up paddleboard. The rough terrain, long days paddling, long hikes, and rapids would require a crew that had outdoor skills and a healthy respect for Mother Nature; and more importantly, a mentality that could handle her abuse. Knowing I would need some company on this trip, to help with documenting Fight to SOAR’s cause...I contacted my good friend and talented photographer Jackson Berger.

He is a man that has been by my side on other expeditions, and I wanted him on this one. When I mentioned the trip to

one of the editors of Boarders Magazine, Danny Braught, he jumped at the opportunity, he himself being an avid paddler who grew up loving the outdoors. .

After I was done assembling a solid crew for the expedition, I moved to the next step - planning out the gear to bring on the trip. This river is highly dependent on rain, and therefore requires good timing and a little bit of luck from the weather gods for good navigation. The Buffalo River, like all rivers, is unpredictable and ever changing. It has sharp bends, class II rapids and shallow rocky waters. I definitely knew I needed a trustworthy board that I could count on. The Badfisher

Spring breakers camping out on Whitaker Point. Top to bottom: Will Morris, Devin Withrow, Ethan Mershon Inflatable SUP by Boardworks was just the tool to carry myself and gear. The weather was forecasted to be much colder than what actually occurred and with water temperature in the midforties, I knew we would need to plan accordingly with some dependable drysuits. Thankfully, the drysuits were provided

by Supskin & NRS. My aim was to pack my Watershed dry bags lighter than done on prior expeditions, yet bring enough food to provide adequate calories for the long week ahead.

To help with cool nights, and protection from the sun during the day, I depended on AFTCO’s technical clothing to keep me warm, yet sweat-free, and protected from the elements.

Prior to this trip, I hadn’t spent much time in the state of Arkansas. I feel many American’s, unless they venture out like we did, do not truly know the beauty that this state holds.

It almost feels as if it’s a secret that has been kept from the rest of the world. The beautiful fourteen hour drive from the panhandle of Florida led us to a small bunkhouse at Lost Valley Canoe, in the town of Ponca, AR. From researching the area, I had been told about all of the beautiful hiking trails along the Buffalo National River and that many of them were at the top of the river, Perfect! That’s exactly where we were launching from. The next morning we didn’t get in the water; instead, www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

57

we spent the day taking in the views and exploring local hiking trails. We even took a trail leading into a recommended vista, Whitaker Point. When we first walked up to Whitaker Point, we could hear in the distance someone playing a ukulele on the crag. We walked over and introduced ourselves to three high schoolers that had driven down from Kansas for spring break. The person that was playing ukelele was Ethan Mershon. I asked him if he would play us a song for the video that I am putting together. He took a quick second to think of a song and then started strumming. Little did I know, he would start playing The Blowers Daughter by Damian Rice.

This remarkably happened to be the song I played to my wife, the first time I met her. Bang! Our trip was already off

to a magical start! After leaving the crag, we headed out to Big Bluff to scope out the river from a higher vantage point. We took in the winding river below in all its glory, as we anxiously anticipated the next few days on the river.

Our first official river day began with a busy crowd at the launch site. Everyone else was also eager to get out and explore the turquoise waters that day. We were the talk of the launch site, since we were the first SUP’ers many of these people had ever seen on the river. Even the game wardens were taking photos of our launch! With our boards finally in the water, that first stroke brought on a feeling of relief. I took in a deep breath of the cool crisp air. I exhaled. It is hard to explain the calming happiness that can overcome someone when facing a few days out in nature, at her mercy, and away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These are the days I work hard for all year!

I am so grateful to have the opportunity to enjoy this experience with friends. We were also accompanied that first day by local Arkansans Mat Timmons and Cricket Dime, who were good friends with Danny. Mat’s spent many years as a guide on the river. ­He ­ was able to share a lot of history and make sure we didn’t miss any of the hidden gems at the top of the river. At lunch we explored an old farm house we saw from Big Bluff the prior day. History was literally glued to the walls; as old newspapers, dated from 1952, provided insulation for the residents sixty plus years prior. Further down the river, we hiked the Hemmed-In-Hollow trail to the tallest waterfall between the Rockies and the Appalachians. There we were, watching it flowing freely from 209ft above right in front of us. I couldn’t resist the water, so I stood underneath the bone chilling water. At the end of the day, just before Mat and Cricket were about to pull out and head home, Mat screamed, “STOP! Here is the spot I have been telling you about!” It was just a small creek coming out of the woods at first, then we pulled the branches back and walked towards the three tiered waterfall. Mat told us each to go stand on one of the tiers in a straight line and put our hand up like we were holding each other up and he grabbed the camera. The outcome of the photo was awesome. See it online at BoardersMag. com.

60

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

The next morning we woke up to rain beating down on our Warbonnet hammocks, but we were completely dry thanks to the Superfly rain fly. Over the next two days we encountered wildlife of all sorts, all while picking up trash we found along the way. We were able to enjoy fly fishing, exploring, and even surfing some small rapids. The karst topography of the land displayed its uniqueness by the outpouring of waterfalls flowing from the side of the towering limestone mountains above us. Sadly, this was also a reminder of how fast pollution can travel into the river. There are two distinct portions to the river, and I found the bottom portion to be my favorite.

We were surrounded by vast scenery and abundant wildlife, this made for a breathtaking appearance around every bend.

We were greeted by otters, beavers, bald eagles, deer, and even a baby pig swimming across the river. I’m not going

to lie I did attempt catching the little guy for dinner. Lucky for the little piggy, Jackson was trying to get a picture of the swimming pig at the same time, and his paddle fell in the water.

Fortunately, the escaping paddle saved the little piggies life, as I went to save the paddle instead.

On the fourth day we stopped at the river town of Gilbert.

We beached our boards hoping to explore the town, but it turned out that everything closed after 3pm with the exception of an RV convenience store. Jim, the older gentlemen inside, warned us of a mountain lion that had been spotted down river at a nearby creek. Then he told us to expect severe weather that evening and not to camp too low to the river’s edge. Heeding his advice, we walked back to our boards while being escorted by a friendly pack

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

61

of town dogs wanting to see us off on our voyage. Setting up camp that night, we saw an angry storm heading straight for us with lightning, thunder, and expected golfball size hail. We hastily set up our camp spots. Just as we were about to hunker down for the night and wait for the storm to hit us, we turned around to find the weather gods had gifted us with a double rainbow all the way across the sky.

This immediately reminded me of that one YouTube video.

I said to Danny and Jackson, “This is a good sign!” After taking a few photos we took shelter in our hammock tents; only to have the storm split into two cells and go around us completely! We didn’t even get rained on! Talk about a miracle...

The fifth day was our longest day of paddling as we covered over 30 miles. We found a fun class II rapid around 6:00pm, so we decided to stop, to take our gear off the boards, and run it a few more times. As the sun set that night, ominous dark clouds were seen in the distance. At this point we had been without cell service for a few days, so other than the warning from Jim the day prior, we didn’t have a clue about any upcoming weather. The chilling cold from being in the water mixed with the rumble of thunder urged us all to eat a little quicker, set up our hammocks, and secure our rain flies faster. Once hunkered down, the light tapping of rain began hitting our tarps. The rain fell harder and a sense of concern occurred, wondering if what was heard in the distance was going to be coming straight for us. The rain turned into a roaring continuous downpour, the temperature dropped and we were nailed with hail. Thankfully our rainflies withstood the beating. The next morning, we awoke after little sleep to a river that was 3-4 ft. higher and flowing quite a bit faster.

We were completely oblivious to the destruction caused by a band of deadly tornadoes that occurred just miles away from us that night.

We had about 25 miles left in the trip when we awoke to that cold and wet morning. With the storm the night before,

62

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

the fast flowing soul of the Ozarks decided to save us a day and carried us to our finish. We arrived where the Buffalo National River flows into the White River, and a sense of accomplishment overcame all of us as we took the last few strokes up the White River to the shore of the White Buffalo Resort.

That night we looked over photos from our week on the river.

We talked about the moody weather which was fascinating to experience while simultaneously providing prime water levels for our journey. As we made our way down the river, we caught the eyes of many people; all seeming a little perplexed as 3 men in bright colored drysuits ‘tom sawyer’d’ by on paddleboards. This created a good way to begin a conversation with them, and helped in explaining our purpose on the river. The feedback about our journey from those we spoke to were all extremely positive, and the people were all welcoming. A few folks were excited to know that the issue facing the Buffalo National River was being seen and shared by people outside of Arkansas.

I want to thank everyone who is continually fighting for the Buffalo National River and trying to preserve other rivers like it. The Buffalo National River’s issues need not just the state of Arkansas attention, but that of the entire country.

Please go to buffalowatershedalliance.com and sign up or even donate to help support the Buffalo National River. I would also like to thank AFTCO clothing again for stepping up to support a small town guy like myself by supporting this journey to help spread awareness. I hope y’all enjoyed this journey and continue to follow along on the 2015 Fight to SOAR expeditions that will be documented in Boarders Magazine issue this year. See full photo gallery at BoardersMag.com/ FightToSOAR For more information please visit Grayoutdoors.com and visit the Fight to SOAR Facebook page.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

63

“Our main objective is to bring awareness to the issues that threaten many of our nation’s rivers systems” -Gabe Gray

64

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

SUP CAMPING GUIDE

Preparation is key on any camping trip and is especially import when doing a self supported exepdition with your SUP Board.

There are a lot of factors that will weigh in on how you pack for your trip like water temp, air temp, weather forecast, type of waterway, length of trip and more. We have compiled the staples you will need on a SUP camping trip to help you get on the water quicker and safer with gear that you can rely on.

 Jackson Berger

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

65

Born on the banks of the Green River Narrows we bring you a versatile shoe from a kayaker’s point of view. The Astral Brewer is built to last with many of the same durable and fast-drying materials as the Astral lifevest line including Cordura® and AirMesh fabrics. The Balanced Geometry Midsole securely cradles your foot, providing stable navigation through unpredictable rocky terrain.

The bottom of the shoe features Astral state of the art G Rubber™ outsole for unsurpassed traction on wet rocks.

Technical performance and classic style are blended perfectly to bring you the shoe whitewater kayakers have been waiting for.

Features: • Lightweight, Minimalist • Construction • Durable Cordura® Upper • Breathable Airmesh vamp and tongue • Balanced Geometry Midsole (zero drop) • Drainage at front sidewall and Silt Dump at heel • G Rubber™ outsole • Step-Down Heel • Alternate lace color provided

OPTRIX IPHONE CASE

The iPhone is the most used camera in the world and Optrix knows that sometimes the best shots require you to get a little adventurous. Enter the Optrix PhotoProX, the world’s first and only case to give you waterproof, rugged and 4 interchangeable lenses all in one compact solution. Your photos on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Flickr have never looked so good.

What’s Included in Your Purchase: iPhone 5/5S Housing iPhone Sled Macro Lens Telephoto Lens Fisheye Lens Flat Lens O-ring Padded Lens Case Leash Lens Cloth

66

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

CAVEMAN COFFEE BLACKLISTED SINGLE ORIGIN: COLOMBIA This dark roast is a signature, post-roast blend of Single Origin beans. It has a bold taste with a full body and low acidity.

The result is Black Diamond: a roast that has the notes of a traditional dark coffee and still retains some of its unique, nutty flavor. Your mouth will thank you.

GEIGERRIG

GO PUCK

The GEIGERRIG RIG 1200 contains the award winning 3 Liter pressurized hydration reservoir that is filter ready and can be turned inside out and placed in the top shelf of the dishwasher for cleaning. The 3L pressurized hydration system is holstered in a separate, insulated compartment with the pack. Designed into the back pad of the pack there are deep padding and air channels as well as a Geigerrig Guardian Plate that provides extra protection for your back and spine while maintaining the shape and comfortable ride of the pack. The main compartments of the pack provide 1200 cubic inches of load capacity. There is a large compartment for carrying gear and clothing and then a smaller compartment with organizers for smaller items such as pens, flashlights, maps, granola bars, etc. The pack also has mesh side pockets for easy to reach food and gear as well as a removable waist strap. The pack handle at the top of the pack is extremely durable and box stitched. The black RIG 1200 is made of 1680 Ballistic Nylon, the same fabric Dupont designed for military flak jackets. The camo, blue and green RIG 1200s are made of a lighter weight, but extremely durable ballistic rip-stop fabric.

Designed for those with an active lifestyle, the GO PUCK 5X is a wearable, compact and durable power source for all your mobile devices.

Small enough to put in your pocket, powerful enough to charge your devices multiple times a day and easily mountable and storeable. The GO PUCK 5X really is the most versatile USBbattery on the market.

Whether you are a frequent outdoorsman, an avid business traveler, or a fitness enthusiast, the GO PUCK allows you to stay connected, capture priceless moments and enjoy mobile freedom.

Specs: Mountable / Wearable Power (includes Active Mount) At a compact size of 3″ x 3″ x 0.7″ it easily fits in a pocket or cupholder With 6,600 mAh, you can charge mobile devices (e.g. iPhones, Androids, GoPro’s, etc) multiple times Charge two devices at the same time with the dual USB outputs (includes standard 1 amp output and rapid charging output at up to 2.1 Amps) Rugged design allows for shock and vibration resistance At 6.4 oz, it’s ultra-light weight and comfortable for long trips Includes 40″ micro-USB Active Cable

The GEIGERRIG Virus Filter is a feat of engineering. The virus filter is a 2 micron filter that is tested and meets EPA standards for the removal of Giardia, Bacteria and Viruses.

This filter simply plugs directing in between the reservoir and the drink tube, providing plug-n-play, on-the-go, in-line water filtration of water found along the trail. No more need to go all the way back home or back to camp to refill. Water you find along the trail is readily accessible and drinkable using the pressurized hydration system and the plug-n-play, in-line filter. GEIGERRIG also offers a Crypto filter that removes Giardia and cryptosporidium – great for all your hiking needs in North America.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

67

SUP SKIN ULTIMATE PURE The Ultimate Pure is a perfect all season dry suit with a high level of comfort and a latex-free neckseal. Only the best in waterproof breathable fabrics with bionic climate membrane, feelgood technology and a lightweight fully waterproof YKK zipper for extreme outdoor use.

Key Features: • • • • • • • • • • •

High-function fabric Water and wind proof stretch fabric – triple layer weave with comfortable lining and a breathable climate membrane Self-cleaning nano technology – NanoSphere® Active silver reduces odors and ensures freshness and hygiene Bluesign standard Zipper Lightweight fully waterproof YKK zipper for extreme outdoor Super stretch neoprene manchettes on neck Latex seals on arms and legs 1 waterproof pocket Removable hood

WATERSHED DRYBAGS

The Chattooga is one of the most versatile duffels. It can be used as a large first aid kit for a group expedition, a small ditch bag for blue-water sailing, a blind bag for waterfowl hunting, or like we used it for food storage! People come up with new uses for Watershed bags every day and the Chattooga offers a wide range of possibilities.

• • • •

Rugged carrying handles Several hard lash points Multiple compression straps Available Colors: Orange, Blue, Coyote, Black, Clear, & Multicam**

Specs: Weight: 1 lb 13 oz Capacity: 1800 CU. IN. (30 L) Dimensions: 12”H x 20”L x 10”W Opening Size: 17” Closure Type: ZipDry Watershed Dry Bags Dry bags are essential on your SUP expedition. When it comes to keeping your gear dry, Watershed Dry bags have you covered from duffle bags to backpack and deck bags.

Westwater Backpack The Westwater backpack is a monster waterproof backpack, offering submersible protection for several days worth of gear.

These bags stack nicely in rafts and the removable backpack straps and waisbelt help to haul your gear up the beach to the campsite.

• • •

Removable, padded shoulder straps and waist belt Durable top lug handle Available Colors: Orange, Blue, Coyote, Black, Clear and Multicam **(MULTICAM IS A TRADEMARKED, MILITARY GRADE FABRIC AND HAS A 25% UP CHARGE; IT IS CURRENTLY ON EXTENDED BACKORDER)**

Specs: Weight: 3 lb 1 oz Capacity: 4900 CU. IN. (80 L) Dimensions: 32”H x 24” L x 11”W Opening Size: 22” Closure Type: ZipDry 68

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

WARBONNET HAMMOCK

The Blackbird is our original mosquito hammock. The dimensions of the hammock body are roughly 120”x 63” with an overall length of 101” from end to end (ridgeline length); this gives you 15-16 inches of tarp overlap at each end of the hammock if using an eleven foot tarp. The Blackbird is rated for a user up to 6’0” (for folks 6’0” and above check out the Blackbird XLC model). Hammock fabric is breathable nylon treated with a DWR finish (Durable Water Repellency).

Blackbird is available in several fabric types and also with a single layer body or a double layer body, the double layer increases the weight capacity and is also recommended for anybody using a pad as bottom insulation, you place the pad between the two layers which helps hold the pad in place and keeps it from sliding around.

The Blackbird includes a fulllength zipper on one side and the netting can be rolled back and out of the way when not needed.

Also included is the very popular storage shelf and footbox. The storage shelf is approximately two square feet in size and great

UE BOOM • • • •

•

Make Some Noise: UE BOOM is the 360-degree wireless speaker that drops bold, rich resonant sound in every direction with exceptional bass.

Up for Anything: UE BOOM has a versatile, go anywhere shape that is designed to be spontaneous Life-Resistant: Colorful acoustic skin with plasma coating makes UE BOOM water and stain resistant Live Wirelessly: Switch songs, adjust volume and take phone calls from up to 50 feet away.

Plus the rechargeable battery has 15 hours of playback Double Up: Wirelessly connect two UE BOOMs together in stereo via the free UE BOOM app to spread the sound and pump up the volume

for small and med sized items (pair of shoes, waterbottle, glasses etc). The Blacklbird also includes a footbox which allows the user to fully use/extend the hammock fabric in the foot area without restriction from the netting, resulting in maximum leg room. The hammock can be setup on the ground as a bug bivy if needed. Note: Be sure to use a groundcloth to protect the bottom of the hammock from water and abrasion.

Yeti Underquilt The Yeti is our underquilt for end-gathered hammocks like our Blackbird, Blackbird XLC and Traveler series, but will also work on just about any end-gathered design. (It will NOT work on our Ridgerunner hammock, for that you need the Lynx) The Yeti is a torso-length underquilt 40” wide by 46” long, covering you from shoulders to your knees. You can use a short leg pad under your legs in colder weather to achieve head to toe bottom insulation.

Specs: • Temperature rating: 20°F • Baffle height: 2” • Fill weight: 6.5 oz.

• Item weight: 12.5 oz.

• Fabric: 30D Nylon, DWR • Color: Graphite

UE MEGABOOM Portable Bluetooth Speaker: Music is always a great thing to have on any trip and floating down the river is definitely one. Bring any campfire to the next level with a portable speaker that offers 360° sound, dynamic wireless control from up to 2 Bluetooth-enabled devices at once, and a lightweight, waterproof design with a 20 hour battery life. Download the app to unlock cool, new features like a musical alarm, custom-tuning options and more.

Find out more about the UE MEGABOOM at www.ultimateears.com

UEBOOM.com www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

69

TEAM RIDER

LUKE HOPKINS

2014 river rock champion

PATENTED TECHNOLOGY

WARRIOR

ADJUSTABLE SHOCKLACE

Minimalist shoe design protects your foot, allows unparalleled dexterity for the toes that can be articulated, provides excellent grip on all surfaces and features our exclusive IDS (Integrated Drainage System) which allows water to drain through the sole and air to circulate when on land keeping your feet cool.

JUST YOUR FOOT PROTECTED

70

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

IDS- INTEGRATED DRAINAGE SYSTEM

EASY ON WITH THE 3 TOE DESIGN

CHECK OUT ALL THE 3T BAREFOOTS AT BODYGLOVE.COM

WATER SHOES KKROWS “Liquid krow” sk8/wksk8 shoes For water sports and boardsports.

Draining capability and great support.

Vulcanized and stitched leather shoes With mesh on the sides for a quicker dry and Drain holes + metal mesh in the sole to help drain water while keeping the elements from getting in Kkrows.com

THE CORE BRAND LOGO THE CORE BRAND LOGO The Core Body Glove Original Circle Hand logo can be used as 1 color or 2 color, but the logo should never be broken apart or altered in any way.

BODYGLOVE T3 bodyglove.com 3T Barefoot Warrior – Womens

2-Color

3T Barefoot Gladiator Pro - Mens

STANDARD LOGO

Our 3T BAREFOOT ™ minimalist shoe protects your foot, allows unparalleled dexterity for the toes that can be articulated, provides excellent grip on all surfaces and features our exclusive IDS (Integrated Drainage System) which allows water to drain through the sole and air to circulate when on land keeping your feet cool.

Process Color

Our 3T BAREFOOT ™ minimalist shoe protects your foot, allows unparalleled dexterity for the toes that can be articulated, provides excellent grip on all surfaces and features our exclusive IDS (Integrated Drainage System) which allows water to drain through the sole and air to circulate when on land keeping your feet cool.

Features: • Adjustable shocklace • Easy on with the three toe design • Hybrid - Use it in or out of water • Zero heel lift • IDS - Integrated Drainage System & cools the foot out of the water with air circulation

Spot Color

100% black

Black

White

White

Features: • Easy on with the three tow design • Just your foot protected • Extra ankle support • Hybrid. Use it in or out of water • IDS- INTEGRATED DRAINAGE SYSTEM: Cool the foot out of the water with air circulation

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

71

2-Color Reverse

2015

TUCK FEST

PHOTOS BY DANNY BRAUGHT

US National Whitewater Center (USNWC) Apr 17-19th, 2015 Now in its third year Tuck Fest has grown to become a staple for whitewater SUP events featuring water family fun and professional competition drawing top extreme whitewater, kayak and mountain biking athletes not to mention running, obstacles races and live music.

The name “Tuck Fest� comes from the Tuckaseegee Ford and Trail, a historical landmark located at the US National Whitewater Center (USNWC). Sadler Island, found on USNWC property, is a visible reminder of the Tuckaseegee Ford and its historical significance and is now the backdrop to Tuck Fest.

The set up at the US Whitewater center is unrivaled by any other whitewater park in the US and is a must visit if you are in the Charlotte area or love outdoor activities. To learn more about Tuck Fest visit www.tuckfest.org

72

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

Ian Smith (Yellow) Alex Mauer (red)

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

73

5

Top Reasons to Attend

Payette River Games PHOTOS BY Silverline Films

Dan Gavere - “to be a part of SUP history” (Race Director) Bernd Roediger - (Pro SUP) “Kinda hard to fish trout on Maui. Don’t be surprised if you see me casting line upstream between rounds..”

Mark Pickard (Founder) – “PRG15 is for someone who wants to experience River SUP with a unique race environment and a festive atmosphere. All athletes will enjoy free organic food so they can compete at their full potential and enjoy a riverside hot tub to soak their tired body. “ Brittany Parker – (Pro SUP) “You won’t want to miss the premiere of the ‘Can I Surf That’ film at the Roxy on Sunday night.”

Chris Peterson - “Because you can ride your surfboard in the mountains” Pro River Surfer

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

75

5 2

6 4

7

3

8

76

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

1

SUPREME WAKE SURF CHAMPIONSHIP Pictured:

PHOTOS BY MARK PAYNE

1. James Walker, in the Pro Men’s Surf division, enters the course on Day 1 of the Supreme Wake Surf Championship.

2. Supra Boats and DFW Surf team rider Parker Payne starts his Pro Men’s Surf run on Day 1 of the Supreme Wake Surf Championship.

3. Centurion team rider and World Champ, Ashley Kidd, goes for the grab in the Women’s Pro Surf division on her second pass of Day 1.

4. Centurion team rider Taylor Dorey racking up style points in Women’s Pro Skim.

5. James Walker showing technical expertise in Men’s Pro Surf on day 2 of the Supreme Wake Surf Championship.

6. Starting in third place on day 2, Parker Payne kicks it up a notch by throwing a surf style Shuv-in, Shuv-out to Big Spin to a 360 Shuv on his Day1 Wake board. Pictured here midway through the Big Spin.

7. For three years running the Supreme Wake Surf Championship is synonymous with great wake surfing, tequila and sombreros. Sean Cummings pictured here in full Sombrero Madness mode.

8. The 2015 Supreme Wake Surf Championship took place in Parker, AZ on the Colorado River. This always popular event sold out quickly and kicked off the US portion of the 2015 World Series of Wake Surfing tour.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

77

RE A E RW

HE

T TOGE

IN

S E I R E GS

RF U S E AK W N FU

IN

D

ORL W E TH

15 5, 20 surf Open 2 l i r ke Ap X Wa ustin, TX T A t s Fir 5 eA adies ores Lak 15 , 201 en L 0 3 2 1 , & p 8 h e 12 ke Surf O A 7 & 1 urf Champ Ski S n 1 u l i J r a Ap eS aW Z k, V e Ann a St Par e Wak Parker, A k m a e L 5 r 1 nn Sup Water, 1, 20 ifier ke A 3 a 2015 n L e & , u l 4 l B 30 ua 3& pe May ring Q in, TX p April rf Ibiuna O Brazil S 5 st 01 Su ke, WC 2 ustin, Au A 5 1 Wake biuna La 0 2015 n 2 A , , e I 1 7 k 2 1 a a L ad 20 & Throwdow 16 & rf Open e y Pous n a u Z M J er akesu na, A hredd p, CA S AZ W ant Mari e k Wa 2015 thro 15 as , a 0 e 2 l L 2 1 P , -21 surf Cup y 10 esurf Cup 9 l Lake 1 u J e e ak Jun en Wak nka W , Russia a i i p l s O a s K n u ia cow Russ oscow, R 015 2015 Mos 2 , , 5 3 M 3 1 s July wake 12 & Surf Serie ia e n u y r J Evo ust ake man A W r , e r n a e 5 G i , 201 ls Austr aderbau sau, 015 g 2 s 2 a t , s P 8 na gu na R 25-2 Surfin 0-Au Surf Natio ada Mari 3 y June en Wake ia l Ju an ake p 5 ian W ntario, C ian O vo, Russ s d s a u n a R , 201 en O o 5 C 5 , k 1 1 e a i 0 n Op 4& Ko bog 6, 2 ust 1 Wake Surf N Cala 24-2 pen g y u l u A M J A SA O Lakes Parkway, 0 0 NWW onroe, W 0 , 10 15 ver ye, M 9, 20 Champ st Ri 015 T e 2 e 8 , W k p t 9 s La rf Cu 17-1 Augu ke Surfing razil July en Wakesu ssia p Ru an Wa urf Bar, B i O l , i n g z r a a i Br 2015 mp 015 aii S Russ Petersbu , 2 m 0 , r 3 9 o tM st 6 t 28 f Cha Sain ugus l Wakesur GA Augu kestock ada A Wa tiona ardens, , Can a o N i 2015 r 5 A , G a 1 S 6 t 0 y U 2 n 2 a p 4 w ,O 3, ber 2 fing Cham Bala Calla 2 & 2 ur 2015 m 2 e t t r s p u Z Se Augu kesurf To tzerland ake S arker, A W d a l i r P 5 W o W 01 ter, GVA neva, Sw 12, 2 eWa 015 ge u 2 1 l e , 1 B G 3 l er -2 en Lake s.htm temb Annual st 21 rfing Chall e i p u r e g e u S s A a su AWC stin, TX Wake , Canad world / a s 5 u m u 1 A o n C 0 a .c 2 ,B Kooc Lake 4-6, ships gate r n e w o i e b p N m em ke gcha Sept urf the La ce n fi r u S es ran .wak cy, F w e n w n w A 78 May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

G R A L THE

ST O M EST

2013 Worlds in Las Vegas, NV.

(From Left to Right): Chris Wolter, Keenan Flegel, James Walker. Photo: Tim Marek.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

79

spring cleaning: Austin Standup Paddleboarders Adopt Shoal Creek

By Linda McCoy-Schriever

How It All Started In the summer of 2009, I discovered Stand Up Paddleboarding.

I loved it immediately and began venturing out onto the lake every chance I got. I also discovered how much trash was in my local lake and I was stunned at the amount of plastic water bottles, styrofoam, and other litter I saw during my paddle sessions. I decided I needed to do something about it, so I went on the Internet and searched for lake cleanup in Austin where I found a website for Keep Austin Beautiful (KAB), a local non-profit service organization that strives to preserve Austin’s quality of life. My life was forever changed by that one little search.

Getting Down to the Nitty Gritty By that December I was leading my first cleanup and by the next April, I had adopted a creek! I signed a 2-year contract to commit to holding at least four cleanups a year and six years later I am still happily digging trash out of the lake and creek.

My cleanup site is unique because I adopted the mouth of Shoal Creek were it flows into Lady Bird Lake. So I am an “Adopt-a-Creek” Lake Leader that participates in their “Clean Lady Bird Lake” program and I lead six cleanups a year. Our cleanups are regularly scheduled on the second Saturday of every other month, starting in February of each year. KAB helps to recruit volunteers through their website calendar. I have a Facebook page (Austin Standup Paddleboarders) and a Meetup group (CenTex SUP) where I recruit waterway and shoreline volunteers, as well.

The ASUP Cleanup Our cleanups are held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and the week before the cleanup is when I pick up supplies from KAB – trash bags, disposable gloves, trash pick-up tools, bug spray, and sunscreen. On the morning of the cleanup, I arrive at the site at 8:00 am and set up my table and sign in sheets. Once 80

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

the volunteers arrive, I hold a safety meeting to alert them to potential dangerous situations such as picking up syringes, getting too close the shoreline, encountering snakes and poison ivy, and to make sure to leave any homeless camps alone. We clean our area until 10:45 and then gather to take a group photo. We vote on our “Most Unusual Object” found and the person that finds the “M-U-O” gets a prize donated by a local business or KAB sponsor. I gather all of the trash bags onto the trash barge that has been provided to our site

by the Watershed Protection division of our city.

The Results!

The amount of trash ending up in our waterways is out of control. It may seem like an insurmountable problem, but every little bit helps. In 2014, Keep Austin Beautiful organized 22,000 volunteers who contributed a total of 54, 600 service hours! Those volunteers collected 77 tons of trash and diverted 11 tons of recycling from landfills and 88 tons of garbage IN ONE YEAR! Our ASUP Cleanups average about 18 full bags of trash per event, so 108 bags per year. At an average of 20 pounds per bag, that’s a little more than a TON OF TRASH!

How can YOU get involved?

Contact your local Keep America Affiliate. It’s usually as simply as typing in “Keep” then the name of your city (or

nearest large city) followed by “Beautiful” into your favorite search engine. These affiliates can help you with supplies for your cleanup and help with volunteer recruitment. You can lead a cleanup or you can volunteer for a cleanup near you.

Organize a cleanup or your neighborhood, park or playground.

Get some neighbors together and have a picnic followed by an hour of litter pick up.

Even the rental outfits can do their part very simply. If they ask each and every renter to bring back just ONE piece of trash they see on the water, it would make a HUGE impact. Not to mention it would help keep your rental dock nice and clean!

The easiest way you can make a difference is to simply bend over and pick up a piece of trash when you see it. You don’t have to go on an all-out trash picking frenzy, just one pieceevery day. Put it in the trashcan. That’s 365 pieces of trash not on the street or in the water a year. Your karma bank will be full, your soul will be a happy, and the world will be cleaner.

SIMPLE.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015 81 Tyler Marshall

IAN SMITH’S FIRST WAVES

with a means to inspire and educate others.

With partners like Paddle Without Pollution, a stewardship organization that specializes in cleanups using only nonmotorized craft, the students get to play a key role in the immediate improvement of waterways near their homes. If cleaning up trash in the river doesn’t sound like fun to you, try extracting a shopping cart, loading it onto your paddleboard, and ferrying it out to the scrap yard like a gondolier on a romantic night in Venice. The point is, these groups make the experience fun, and the students get to see first-hand how their work can make a difference in the community.

While it is a vital task, cleaning up a riverbank is somewhat like sweeping filth under the rug. It may provide peace of mind and a short-term solution, but it is essential to address where it comes from in the first place. Instead of springing for a larger rug, First Waves is making a change that can reduce the problem year after year. Under the tutelage of Pittsburgh Filmmakers, one of the nation’s leading digital media schools,

Winter’s grasp can be hard to shake. The spring thaw is like

a cold shower to placate the hangover and prime our pasty skin for the impending embrace of sunshine. But there are other hurdles to overcome. No, not just enduring the clutched hands of spring love and reminders that tax season is upon us. There is also the abhorrent chore of spring cleaning – a purging of winter dust and gloom as though we owe our dwellings a dowry before transitioning to shorts, flip-flops, and screen doors. Our homes, however, are not the only places in need of a stiff broom (and don’t forget to dust the ceiling fans).

Our rivers, creeks and streams are aching for a spring fling, the shores spoiled by high-water events and storm run-off like a prom dress that got too close to the punch bowl. These waterways are vital to the health of our communities and they deserve to be stain free. It’s up to us, however, to get them ready for the dance.

First Waves, an organization in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania is doing just that. With a focus on providing standup paddleboarding and river surfing experiences to underserved youth, First Waves is taking a new approach to conserving waterways in the short and long-term. In addition to learning things like whitewater paddleboarding, participants also undergo an intensive education in the art of filmmaking and watershed awareness. In partnership with agencies such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh, the program also serves as a mentorship and growth opportunity. First Waves’ mission is to provide the community’s youth with a love and appreciation for the outdoors, while arming them

82

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

participants gain valuable insight on the art of filmmaking and digital media. They can then collaborate on ways to use these tools to share what they have learned and express important ideas like using less single-use plastics, littering, and recycling. The student-filmed production provides the community with an enriched understanding of riparian pollution and the implications on our environment’s health.

It also supplies a blueprint for how everyone can make a difference and have fun during the process.

The concept of spring-cleaning will probably never escape its notoriety, forever condemned as a menial task along with activities like flossing. River cleanups, on the other hand, are making waves like the curl of hipster mustaches.

With groups such as First Waves making them more about community and fun than rigorous labor, they continue to attract more and more people and make substantial improvements to our water resources. While a group of kids might be the last ones you expect to spearhead a movement of conservation, First Waves is doing exactly that, swooning one shopping cart at a time on a gondola ride over cleaner water.

Article by: Ian Smith You can learn more about First Waves at www.firstwaves.org

 Renee Rosensteel, courtesy of the Sprout Fund.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

83

 Carters Collection

Keep Tahoe

Blue

“I’ve been Sup-ing for 5 years. Three years ago I started working down at Waterman’s Landing for my friends Jay and Anik Wild - (a mile from my home) in Carnelian Bay. Because I was on the water daily I had the advantage of hitting the water when the surface was smoothest and the visibility at its clearest. So naturally when you gaze down into Tahoe you don’t expect to see junk laying around on the bottom. But from the standing position the angles are just right and I saw all kinds of stuff. Junk I couldn’t pull and stuff that I could.

Junk, trash disappoints and people get conditioned to accept or expect it. That’s not good, so the next time I paddled over a tire I gave it a go and dove down the heaved it onto my board and it felt good to be removing something that didn’t belong in the Lake.

People didn’t throw the tires into the Lake. The tires mostly came off dock and piers. They were used as bumpers and when storms tore the pilings loose or the structures finally floated out into the lake and sunk the tires were scattered about. Some were set up to be used as anchors for light watercraft too.

There are all kinds of situations that create difficult conditions when retrieving the tires including wind chop (even a slight breeze) boat traffic, the lighting, the angle of the sun, water temps etc. So it took me three years to hit 101 tires! I developed a map or checklist of sorts to track the tires that I discovered or was told about so I could time the conditions to be there at the right times.

Basically I’m a really simple guy - don’t like carrying extra stuff around so I made it a point to do the collecting from my board and to go as organic as possible. Patagonia gave me a sweet short john and that really extended my season this year!!!

No fins, power tools, nor scuba, just me. I like the freedom and the challenge of standing on my Tahoe SUP board and looking down and figuring out what it will take - how deep?

Is it stuck into the bottom? Will it take multiple dives? Is it a classic “Great Whitewall”?

84

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

I’ve gone over 35’ for those buggers - it’s rewarding. When you have a job down there its way easier to hold your breath.

It’s stimulating. We also got four car engines (used as old anchors) out this season too. We dug those out of the sand and ran them in tandem (like running rocks) or rolled them along the bottom until we hit the shore. The water column displaces approximately 30% of the objects weight, so the lifting is easier than you would think.

All kinds of boat parts, boat covers, pipe etc. is down there.

I’m alway bummed when the water gets cold enough to dissuade me - usually in mid October, although I went in for some stuff last week.

The goal is for people to see nature without a bump, without our marks. People don’t intentionally throw things into Lake Tahoe. But if we all pick up a piece of junk, of trash, the beauty shines through - people need to see uninterrupted nature. It is liberating and peaceful. Little things make a difference and we all need to know we can do something good for the planet, for everyone.

From here forward I will continue to pull and collect trash both in and on the shores of the Lake. I’d like to create some “art” out of some unique pieces and someday have an auction, to raise some money to finance more cleanups at Lake Tahoe. I would like to thank everyone along the way who was enthusiastic and encouraging.”

“Keep Tahoe Blue” - Tom Carter

Aquatic INvasive species Mastered THE PROBLEM: According to MaryKate Wood, President of Wake WorX, “The spread of Aquatic Invasive Species is an enormous issue for our country and the environment. Since their arrival (both Quagga and Zebra Mussels) in 1987 in the Great Lakes, the US Government has spent over $5 BILLION in prevention and containment efforts. Unfortunately, boaters are the largest transporters of AIS, both via ballast tanks and live/bait wells.

Ballast Tanks and Bags are used to make wakeboarding and wakesurfing possible. 100’s of gallons of lake water is pumped in/out to ballast tanks, so in “positive or infested lakes” microscopic mussel larvae, called “veligers,” travel unseen in the water and enter the ballast tanks. If the water is not filtered with the Mussel Mast’R the infected water can be transported to other lakes and waterways. Additionally, even when tanks/bags are emptied, not all of the water is dispelled when they are emptied.”

THE SOLUTION: Education + Awareness + More contamination stations + Mussel Mast’R

Thank you Centurion Boats!

Centurion was the first to offer the Aquatic Invasive Species Ballast Filter System on their Eco-Conscious (and I believe their ballast bag boat models as well). Centurion spent months and a collective effort promoting and educating boaters on the importance of AIS prevention efforts. Clean, Drain, Dry and Filter your boats! Today the Mussel Mast’R is starting to be adopted by other boat companies and there are “after-market and retro-fittable kits at certified boat dealerships” according to MaryKate.

THE RESULT: “Since the Mussel Mast’R was introduced late in 2014, we have had very positive feedback. Our company, Wake WorX won the 2014 WSIA Innovative Product of the Year as well as the 2015 Miami International Boat Show Environmental Award. Sales are increasing each and every month and we are looking forward to another very successful year ahead.”

MUSSEL MAST’R AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES FILTER SYSTEM

Lake Tahoe The TRPA, Tahoe Regional Planning Agency was and is in the forefront of preventing Aquatic Invasive Species transport/ transfer into Lake Tahoe and around the region. Each and every boat that is launched at Lake Tahoe is inspected and/or decontaminated. Boats that are Clean, Drained and Dry and have our Mussel Mast’Rs installed will be accepted at Lake Tahoe inspection stations, however, ALL boats will still have to be inspected before they are launched.

Mussel Mast’R The AIS Ballast Filter Systems are water filtration units that installed in-line, one for each tank, after the seacock and before the pump so they filter the water going into the tanks thus keeping the Quagga and Zebra Mussel larvae out.

Additionally, the filters keep out Water Fleas, Asian Clams, New Zealand Mud-snails, Eurasian Water Milfoil, Daphnia and Conepods.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

85

Western States Boat Inspection Information We’re All in This Boat Together

(907)465-6183 Alaska: Dept of Fish & Game www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=invasive.main Arizona: Game and Fish Dept. www.azgfd.gov/ais

(623)236-7608

California: Dept of Fish & Wildlife www.dfg.ca.gov/quaggamussel

(866)440-9530

Colorado: Parks & Wildlife www.cpw.state.co.us

(303)291-7295

Idaho: Dept of Agriculture www.invasivespecies.idaho.gov

(877)336-8676

(888)824-6267

Montana: Dept of Fish, Wildlife & Parks (406)444-2449 fwp.mt.gov/fishing/guide/AIS Nebraska: Invasive Species Program (402)472-3133 neinvasives.com Nevada: Dept of Wildlife www.ndow.org

(775)688-1314

New Mexico: Dept of Game and Fish (888)248-6866 www.wildlife.state.nm.us/ais North Dakota: Game & Fish Dept. gf.nd.gov.ans

(701)770-0920

Oregon: Dept of Fish & Wildlife, State Marine Board (503)947-6000 www.boatoregon.com South Dakota: Game, Fish & Parks www.sdleastwanted.com

(605)223-7700

Utah: Division of Wildlife Resources www.wildlife.utah.gov/dwr/invasive-mussels.html Washington: Dept of Fish & Wildlife (888)WDFW-AIS www.wdfw.wa.gov.ais Wyoming: Game & Fish Dept wgfd.wyo.gov.ais

86

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

Boat Inspections

Prevent the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species

New Zealand Mudsnail

Kansas: Dept of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism (620)342-0658 www.protectKSwaters.org Lake Tahoe: AIS Program www.TahoeBoatInspections.com

Western States

(877)WGFC-AIS

Quagga/Zebra Mussel

Eurasian Watermilfoil

DFW Surf in North Texas doing their part to Keep Grapevine Beautiful at one of their annual Pick Up Trash and Surf Days.

TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND IT STARTS LOCALLY WITH YOU.

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

87

88

May 2015 | www.boardersmag.com

# Introducing Ultimate Ears MEGABOOM - the 360-degree wireless speaker that drops bold, immersive sound in every direction. It’s water and stain resistant acoustic skin and 15-hour rechargeable battery make it the ultimate portable wireless speaker.

ULTIMATEEARS.COM

www.boardersmag.com | May 2015

C

CENTURION QUICKSURF PRO

CHALLENGE

FIND A DEMO EVENT NEAR YOU AT CENTURIONBOATS.COM

scan for demo event info

WWW.CENTURIONBOATS.COM

DOMINANT PERFORMANCE AMBITIOUS D E S I G N INSPIRED CRAFTSMANSHIP

SPECIAL PRICING

TAKE THE CHALLENGE