An Epic Surfski for Everyone
Over the past eight years we’ve sold well over 100 Epic Surfskis. While the fundamentals that define Epic surfskis have not changed, the models and features have evolved considerably as has our ability to fit paddlers to the optimal boat .
The number one thing we’ve learned is that stability is everything and when a customer buys an unstable boat, they are much less likely to stick with the sport. We consider a number of factors in the stability equation including age, weight, gender, paddling experience, and paddling aspirations. But even with those considerations, we still prefer to have our customers take a lesson where they can learn the basics and try out several different models before making a decision.
Simple Stability Chart
New Paddler Guidance in the Simplest Terms
Buying a new surfski is big purchase and there is a plethora of options and opinions to be researched, but in the spirit of KISS, and as an antidote to analysis paralysis we’ve developed the below key guidelines:
- If you’re not overly concerned about speed and are looking for a super stable and easy to manage (on and off the water) surfski, go with the V5. If your budget is tight or you need bullet proof durability go with the plastic verison. But if you can swing it, a composite will become your best friend for life.
- If you want solid speed and stability, but you’re on a tight budget or need the durability, go with the V7. At 50 lbs it can be a beast out of the water, but once in the water and up to speed it moves and surfs quite well.
- If you are just getting in the sport, but you know you’ll be paddling for at least a couple years and want the ultimate craft, get a V8. The V8 hits the sweet spot of speed and stability and has proven itself to be the ultimate surfski for the majority of new paddlers.
- If you are athletic, up for a challenge, and care about tenths of a mile per hour speed differences, then the V8 Pro may be the best starter surfski for you.
- In all of the composite boats, if you can afford the ultra layup you won’t regret it. The lighter weight makes a big difference in the water and an even bigger difference out of the water (car topping, portaging, etc.)
- Note: We sell and paddle the rest of the Epic line-up including the V10 Sport, V10, V11, V12, and V14, but don’t recommend any of those models to first time buyers so they aren’t covered here.
A Word About Speed
The pursuit of speed has led many paddlers into boats that were beyond their skill level. Over the years, and as more GPS data has been captured, the realization has been that the speed differences between boats are marginal and likely to be negative when the paddler does not have the skill.
For a simple reference on speed variation from one end of the Epic spectrum to the other, check out this brief blog and speed chart
Epic V5 Surfski: A SURFSKI For Everyone!
The Epic V5 is designed to bring surfski paddling to everyone. It is extremely stable, faster than almost any other kayak of a similar length, and surfs like a champ. The ergonomics and comfort of the V5 are night and day compared to other boats in its class. The V5 is outfitted with the same optimized functional components of all the surfskis including an adjustable foot brace, 4 level retractable bailer, and handles on the bow, stern, and mid section. It also comes stock with an under stern rudder or optional kick-up rudder with toe pedal controlled steering . In addition, it features an aft storage compartment with a hard plastic, waterproof hatch.
For a more detailed review, check out this blog post we wrote
Check out the awesome videos below to see the V5 in action
Epic V7: Speed and Surfing on a Budget
The Epic V7 sets a new standard for roto-mold performance. It is extremely efficient, and easy to handle. The V7 is outfitted with the same features as every surfski in the Epic lineup, including bow, stern, and side handles, toe controlled rudder, adjustable foot brace, and the hugely popular Epic designed bailer. In addition, it features an aft storage compartment with a lightweight, waterproof hatch with a hard plastic cover.
The Epic V7 has a lot going for it and at a price that is very affordable. It offers versatility and speed that will be unmatched by even the most expensive racing SUPs. In addition to speed and versatility, we believe it will also be the most comfortable and ergonomically well designed roto-molded boat ever built. For a more detailed review check out this blog post we wrote.
Epic V8: Simply A Legend
In over 12 years of selling surfskis, I have not encountered a single customer who did not absolutely love their Epic V8. With over 17 years of surfski paddling experience, I still use the V8 for at least 6 months out of the year during the cold water season. This past January I posted my fastest Lake Michigan downwind kilometer ever averaging 10 mph in the V8.
The V8 is every bit a performance craft made for racing and touring rivers, lakes, and the biggest oceans. Yet at the same time it is accessible to anyone with a desire to paddle, regardless of background. A legendary accomplishment indeed.
Epic V8 Pro: For the Ambitious Beginner
The V8 Pro was initially designed as an upgrade option for those paddlers who were ready for more than the V8, but not ready for the leap to the V10 Sport. As you will see on the stability chart above, it fits right between the V8 and V10 Sport both in speed and stability. This makes it a great option for those who have gained some surfski experience but want something faster, or those beginners who are ambitious and determined and want the one boat that will serve them for years.
You can check out a detailed review of the V8 Pro in this blog post
