SURF SKI
"The surfski is one of the most versatile water sports devices ever and enables a complete workout for body and mind."
SURF SKI
«Beyond Kayaking»
Canoeing has definitely arrived in the present day with the surfski. The most modern, versatile, and sleek fitness kayak (sit-on-top) in the world! Once you've paddled a surfski, you won't want anything else. The perfect combination of fitness, fun, and adventure!
Developed in 1912 in Australia by a fisherman to quickly and easily reach the oyster beds in nearby Lake Innes, the surfski represents a completely new watersports experience on Swiss lakes. Add to that the spectacular panorama, and it's no wonder that surfskiing has quickly become a hit in Switzerland as well.
Surfski paddling is fun and can be done in any weather! It's also ideally suited as a fitness activity well into old age.
It is no coincidence that many racing canoeists switch to surfskiing after their career as regatta paddlers.
Surfski: A surfski looks very elegant and sporty. It measures between 4.5 and 6.5 meters and weighs approximately 8 kilos in its lightest version (carbon fiber)! The surfski is unsinkable and therefore very safe, as the hull is enclosed (no cockpit, no spray deck).
The surfski is propelled, as in a racing kayak, by a wing paddle. It is steered with the feet via two pedals and a rudder under the stern. The surfski is fast (similar to a racing kayak) and can be used and surfed in waves in almost any weather.
FEATURES
Surfskis offer a number of advantages over conventional kayaks, especially in certain areas of use.
Surfskis weigh between 8.5 kg (carbon fiber) and 23 kg (plastic). Made of carbon fiber, they are very light and easy to handle on land. A surfski can easily be transported on a car.
Foot-steered surfskis are equipped with a foot steering system. No corrective paddle strokes are needed to adjust the direction. This allows for smooth and symmetrical paddling even in crosswinds or waves.
Surfskis are faster than most conventional kayaks. Thanks to their narrow and long design, they glide more efficiently through the water. This makes them particularly attractive for long-distance races or fast training sessions on the water.
Surfing: The surfski is designed to make optimal use of waves. Its shape allows it to easily ride waves and build up high speeds. This makes it ideal for coastal waters and downwind paddling (with a tailwind and waves).
Safety: Thanks to the open cockpit and the surfski's buoyancy, you can quickly re-enter the water in the event of a capsize, without having to deflate or stabilize the surfski first. This increases safety, especially on rough water.
Training effect: Paddling a surfski requires good balance and core stability, which can lead to a more intense training effect. It is particularly good for strengthening core muscles and improving balance.
Versatility: Although surfskis are primarily designed for use on open water, they can also be used in calmer waters such as lakes. Their design allows for fast paddling in both wind and waves as well as on flat water.
Design: A surfski is eye-catching. Its minimalist and sleek design makes it look very chic and sporty.
Self-bailing surfskis typically have open cockpits and are designed to automatically empty themselves using a bailer. In contrast, a closed kayak can fill with water in heavy waves and must be emptied manually.