Hey Gang,
As reported a few weeks ago on this very blog, the combination of a growing mat community, some well timed hype in the Wall Street Journal, and a really, really warm summer on the West Coast of the USA has netted more 4GF orders than ever before. So...we're stoked, but backed up and slowly catching up.
In addition to an
uncharacteristically sluggish turnaround time for our mat builds, I haven't been able to put together the latest installment of
"30 Years Of Tinkering and Testing." In terms of the historical time line, we're at the point where the first nylon mat has been made and surfed. The next phase -- Part 9 -- will deal with is the first round of prototypes that eventually become 4th Gear Flyer surf mats. That should come some time before fall.
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And now to the testimonials, which have building up for months. Try not to get too excited...
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Paul-
Thanks for the quick shipping - excellent service.
I got the idea for a mat from an old surf buddy from Santa Barbara, Wardie Ward, who had sent me some mat videos from Byron Bay. I was randomly "surfing" the web and found you on google. When I read the "Tracker" blurb about George Greenough it sealed the deal.
Wardie says "Hi" from him & George. I'll let you know how the "Tracker" performs up here on Vancouver Island, an untapped market.
Happy Holidays
-Steve-
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Hi Paul,
Received the XL very quickly as you said. Got a few days perfect for it since then and have had a great time! It definitely glides a lot on the smaller days. Will try and get some photos with my son when he's old enough to ride with me. Thanks again for the fun machine :)
David
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Out at s.f. ocean beach p.m....im sore but picked off some sweeeeet ones...
thnx, Tom
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Thanks heaps I am sure I will love them ! Brocky my friend from Lennox heads nsw is a real example of a mat rider !!
V
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Yes, it took about 15 minutes from when I read the emails to when I had the Vespa at home.
That’s quick! I can’t wait to try it out.
Hopefully I’ll get to share a few waves with Neil at Anne St in 2014!
Regards
David
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Thanks Paul,
This will be my first mat and I am fired up. The Riders Guide looks very helpful
Cheers,
John
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Hey Paul
Peter from moonlight glassing here. Been riding a round tail tracker since June when I got back in the water after a year off thanks to a adventure with colon cancer got back on my board for three days and hurt my shoulder can't paddle but I can still kick. Bought the mat from Dean King as it was too small for him. Really like it, after six months of riding it everyday finally starting to grok the mat surfing deal.
Talked to Henry Hester the other day he said you have a new model out the Lotus that's a bit smaller for better waves . Can you make me one? Sounds like just what I need at 5'6" 150lbs Got lots of good waves the last few days of swell and took some beatings paddling out. Sold my factory to Chris Christenson and we merged the two crews and did a complete remodel of the shop. Now I'm working for Chris which worked out nice for me and gives me a hell of a lot more water time.
Let me know how I can get some $ to you couldn't find anything on the lotus on your website.
If you see Spencer tell him I said hello.
Thanks Paul
Peter St Pierre
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Update. Took the Standard for a spin at Ocean Beach. Wow. This is really exciting. It feels like it is going much faster that is physically possible. And the maneuverability is too much.
Thank you for suggesting the Standard as the width is perfect. Paddles like a board.
If you could send me some of your business cards it would save me a lot of time in the parking lot explaining to people where to get one.
Thanks again, John
ps, feel free to put this note in the reviews.
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Paul,
I am still buzzing from the epic Lotus session the other day. I have been surfing for over 3 decades and cannot recall ever having a piece of surfing equipment as perfected as the Lotus. All the mats are fantastic, but the Lotus really showcases your design direction with the mats. I can't wait to get back on it again!
Rode with Scott at Cstreet. He has the Omni. We both got the best waves of anyone out! I started with the standard and then switched to the Lotus as the swell increased.
The standard feels thicker and better at eating chop than the Lotus, but if the faces at smooth then the Lotus is supreme. I love them all!
Made every wave from the upper lot to the hotel. Sets were head high to 2 feet overhead. Got a genuine in and out tube too, don't ask how. I have never had a board / sponge / log that worked well at Cstreet but the Lotus was as if it was designed to exploit every ounce of speed and power out there. I can add Cstreet back on my list of places to ride!
Gary is still breaking in the Fatty, but so far he likes it. My dad is starting to seriously consider a mat now, surprised he has held out this long. Once he gets a mat, expect a bunch of orders from the beachbreak crew he hangs with.
I switched from duck feet to viper V7 fins due to the voits digging in tot the top of my feet. The Vipers took some adjustment but are really good fins and very comfortable. The tracking strakes can help get through a long close out section better than the voits.
Aaron
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Hi Paul,
I finally got the Omni wet today -- I drove up to Refugio. There were occasional sets, lazy slow and not bigger than 3 feet, but sometimes they'd wedge just right and form some useable pockets. I was able to get a solid sense of the mat, the easy takeoffs, confident edge control, and nice glide. There were only 3 guys out, so after I got the "wave of the day" I packed it in. I took my sweet time changing, and by the time I was all warm and dry an even better set rolled thru. Everyone missed it, and in fact they all got out of the water after that. Well, I had no choice; I pulled on my soggy wetsuit and went back out for another hour and a half with no one else but some seals and dolphins. The second session was nice. I had my mojo back, and really felt like the Omni was just right. I suppose I need to compare and contrast with an older Standard or Fatty to improve my feedback, but given all the circumstances, it's an awesome ride.
--Dirk
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Hello Paul,
Just letting you know the mat arrived Monday all well and good.
In terms of appearances and expectations, it is very pleasing. As for how it performs, I have had just the one surf on Christmas day in small surf, and had a ball.
Thanks again for such a quick delivery allowing me the use of it through our summer holiday break, and for such a reasonably priced quality product.
From Wes at Bawley Point
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Paul,
I couldn't understand why the 4GF triple pontoon design felt better than the "flat bottom" style mats. Then it hit me. Andrew let me ride his neumatic at a beach pound recently and I realized the top and bottom skins are not well connected. They slide left and right a lot when paddling and especially when riding. This effect seems to reduce the positive feel and reduces edge holding power. Communication between the rider and the mat and the wave is severed to some extant due to the inability to accurately control the bottom skin. The only way to counter this effect is ride a high inflation pressure, which in turn kills the speed of the mat. Even at the lowest inflation levels, the 4GF design reduces the side to side wobble to almost nothing. But you have known this for decades. It just gives me a warm and fuzzy feeling to understand my equipment at a low level.
To sum it up, hooray for three pontoons!
Aaron
PS Surfed the outside reef with Kenny and Gary. We all had the same idea, get away from the crowds. It was nice to reminisce about the old days when you could go out in 1 foot crap and not have a pile of guys in the water. We saw 2 otters in the kelp and we all agreed that made the trip out to reef worth it.
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Hi! We bought a classic a few months ago and my husband loves it! He was looking at the Fatty and I am thinking about buying it for him as a surprise.
I know you make them to order and wasn't sure of the turnaround time. (By the way, the turnaround time was EXCELLENT last time! Even faster than expected, so great job!) Please let me know so I can decide on the purchase.
Thanks SO much!
Julie
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Received (yesterday) and ridden (today). Stoked, and more to come as I dial it in. Tiny point break (Leadbetter's), so not much power in the waves. Played around with positioning and pressure settings. Caught a few waves--I can feel the potential. I think I need a couple more feet of wave.
Thanks again Paul. This is a great surf mat.
Chris
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Hi Paul,
My wife an I spend the holidays in southern Spain to refuel and enjoy the light and the warmth there. The waves were great and I had plenty of opportunities to surf. On most occasions I used my Omni. What a great mat! Thanks for making one for me.
One evening I got some amazing rides at Cape Trafalgar. The light was absolutely beautiful and waves with 6-10 foot faces were rolling in. It's gently breaking righthand point-break which is perfect for long-boarding. I took one of the bigger set waves and I just went crazy fast along a steadily building wall of water. My best mat riding wave so far :-)
Unfortunately there's no photographic or video evidence. However, the last day of 2013 I was able to score again and this time I have something to show.
https://vimeo.com/83891673
Enjoy!
Tim
PS: I have a new year's resolution which is: Meeting other mat riders. In Sweden where I live I seem to be the only one and so far I have never physically met other people who share the same passion. Also, it is kind of boring to only have one mat rider to film ;-)
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Paul,
The surf matt arrived today without extra customs fee. It looks good!
I will try it in Portugal on my next surf trip.
Thank You very much!
Matti
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Hey Paul. Took the fatty out for the first time today. I had a great time on it, first time on a mat. Caught some waves, and had a great time. Wanted to say thanks. Can't wait to take it to Nicaragua with me!
Bobby
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Hi Paul,
Thank you so much for sending me the surf mat! I took it out for a spin last weekend, and it was so much fun! I'm not too good at it yet, but there's going to be waves this weekend, so I'm going to keep at it!
Best,
Jenny
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Hey Paul,
Blake here, we surfed St Ann’s a handful of times last spring, I ride the Skip Frye’s. I was talking with him a few months back and mentioned surfing with you. Normally Skip is a pretty laid back but hearing you name he really lit up. He wanted me to say hi and let you know the Greenough fin template one of you gave him is still one of his prize processions.
I was going south to pick up a board and stopped at Rincon. Small, clean, low tide sunny day with a few out. I had a matt with me and went out to enjoy the afternoon. This guy paddles out on a 12 foot paddleboard and started taking these little 1-2 foot waves starting on his knees to turn the thing and then riding all the way in. On about the third time watching him paddle pass me and ride I notice it was Tom Curren. He and I were the only ones out on alternative equipment so we began talking and he ended up waving me on the multiple waves. I think he was interested in seeing how these babies draw lines. We both ended up having a good time.
Hope all is well with the family,
Blake
PS going to Mex in March and will be taking a few matts down to enjoy a soft left point.
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Paul,
I picked up my mat this morning. What an incredible work of craftsmanship! After blowing it up I'm sure it has less volume than my old one and is definitely narrower. The inflated width is almost identical to the width of the wooden bodyboard I shaped last month and although they are altogether different animals, I think I'm really going to like it. Today was double overhead and the forecast for tomorrow even bigger so I probably won't get it in the water until early next week. I'll let you know how it goes with my first session. Thanks for the great service and a beautiful mat.
Regards,
Chris
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Mahalo Paul...appreciated...I just found out he leaves from LA on Jan 25...both he, Lucas and his gal, Coco took my Tracker to Brazil and CR, and they also rode it all over Santa Cruz, and Lucas has even taken it as part of his train hopping gear.....they really like it..so I am glad they can now check out the Omni...and I can keep my Tracker with me on Kauai. :)
Aloha, Stephanie
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G'Day Paul,
Thanks, my Omni turned up in the mail this morning and is sitting inflated in front of me. Unfortunately I'm 70 miles from the where I can use it right now! I can't get down to the coast (Northern New South Wales, Cabarita Beach) until about Friday due to work but rest assured it will be in the water then.
Thanks again.
Kim
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Hi Paul,
I received the new tracker this morning and have just had a few waves, mate it is unreal, it is so fast! A bit like hoping out of a Kombi and into V8 supercar. The waves were a bit sloppy and full but the mat was great, can't wait to ride it on a good wave. Our local malibu club is holding a mat expression session at our next comp, will send you some photos. Thanks for the mat mate I love it!
Allan
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Hey there Paul
Now THIS is how I envisioned retirement! Surfing three days in a row. I can't remember the last time I did that! The feet are starting to feel it too--better start using booties like Jim does.
After a couple days of agro I thought it refreshing to go to a place with a little more aloha. And where might that be, you ask? Well, here in town, one particular spot is about the best bet for that kind of thing. This morning it did not let me down. Big fat medium tide walls and the Omni was just flyin!! No crowd issues at ALL. After three distinct types of days I would have to declare the Omni is indeed "omnivorous". Works in anything. Okay, well, I did sideslip pretty substantially once this morning, but that's because a dolphin jumped completely out of the shoulder, airborne, in front of me, and I was a bit surprised! Where was the damn videographer on hand for THAT one? I suppose a Go-Pro will have to be my next purchase.
Hmm, what next? Card game with the missus, perhaps a few non-strenuous chores... and a nap...
Ciao fa niao
Kenny Hughes
PS pausing here at Lookout Park in Summerland -- lines all over the place!
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Paul
I've been riding nothing but the mat sinse it arived and it works realy well in every thing that I've been out in, two to six foot. I've been riding between 90 and a 7 and its easier to get the volume close the first time.
I got to ride it at Capitola during Christmas break, 30+ people in the peek, not like here where 8 is a crowed. I caught lots of waves, every one was friendly but ignored the old guy on the pool toy, some of the kids on the inside thought it was really cool and look like I was having lots of fun. We had so much fun that Donna Polly and I are meeting up with friends in San Diego for 2 weeks of camping and surfing, we could have 6 mats out at the same time witch will be a record for us.
And I would like to thank you again on behalf of all the mat riders of southern Oregon for making are life more enjoyable.
thanks again
Greg
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Aloha Paul,
I rode the standard yesterday as soon as I received via mail. I was really impressed on the construction as well the way it rode. I am sure I will be ordering another one in the near future. Since I have the standard, which other mat would you recommend for me as a second mat?
Mahalo & aloha!
Doug
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Paul
Thanks very much for your prompt service with attention to communication and delivery. Received the Tracker last week after 3 or 4 days from being posted. Well done and many thanks.
Roger
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hey paul
The first couple of surfs where very interesting.
We had a run of cyclone swell in the solid overhead range, with a few sneaker sets washing through the line up.
I probably shouldn't have gone out in those first couple of surfs but its hard to stare at perfect waves.
learning to duck dive and general mat positioning/ inflation was the biggest thing to rap mind around.
its a very humbling experience going from being able to sit deep under the lip and taking my choose of waves to miss calculating a set and spending 15 minutes just getting out wide again.
after a couple of beatings I finally managed to rap my head around the whole positioning in the line up and on the mat.
Once everything clicks and your flowing down the perfect line on a wave, its just incredible!
the sensation of speed is unrivalled to anything else i have ridden.
i havent in the water for the last couple of weeks after my surgery. i am looking forward to catching a few more on it.
how hope everything is going well your on end and thank you so much again.
will
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G'Day Paul
Not sure if you ever look at Korduroy.TV, but there is a good story on there by Cyrus Sutton, that some of your other blog followers may like, called Trail Therapy.
Have been riding the Tracker Round Tail a bit lately after putting it aside for the past 6 months or so (Favoring the squarer tails). So far, it seems to be a real advantage in tiny waves that are hollow and peeling extra fast, where I tend to struggle with making the initial section on takeoff.
Have also experienced the very pleasing partial-drift whilst hard on rail in bottom turns of larger hollow pocket, where the mat is drifting but still on a curving arc. If I tried a similar drift on a square tail mat I'd be more likely to drift in a straight line. So, as many have already said, put a mat aside and come back to it later with a new set of eyes!
Cheers
Steve
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Hello Paul,
Having a blast on my Omni and I'm getting the hang of dropping in and getting going. I've surfed it in everything from mush ball San O to hollow Blacks and it works best for me on the bigger days as it feels like I'm really flying and just using the tips of my fins, a subtle body roll, and my line of sight to guide me. I was considering getting another mat really soon for the smaller days and was wondering what you would suggest. I feel I might only need some added length, not any added width as on smaller days I only really notice my knees drag more in the water the more I try to raise my legs out of the water. Never a problem on waves a little bigger than normal down here (2-3') but noticeable on the smaller days with less push. I appreciate your time and suggestions!
Thanks!
Erik
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Paul-
I heard you made an Omni for Kai Cole- she is an excellent surfer and wonderful person. Excellent ambassador for matting.
Good on ya!
Stein
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Hola Mat-Don Paulo!
I'm finally getting back into the water next month in Brazil. Only trips to the far East and Chicago this year so far.
For our 2 week trip to Bali (Flights confirmed, hotel booked, Bretto's tumbs up, Yeaaaaah!) in July I'm thinking of ordering a mini-mat for our skinny 5ft 10yr-old and either an Omni or a Lotus.
The Tracker was just right in about everything lately. What would you suggest? (I'm back up to 200lbs currently working on 190lbs...)
Hope all is well on your side!
Cheers from Bad ( as in 'spa') Honnef
Tom
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Hallo Paul,
I Received the Omni las week end. I am looking forward to surfing it next week in Brazil.
Thank you for your help with the shipment.
Best regards
Sebastian
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Hey,
Finally got a chance to try the standard in a couple of central coast rock gardens. Super Fun!
Once I got it out onto a clean face I could really fell it accelerate. Did not hit 4th but got a decent look at third and that was enough to really put a smile on!
Was also pleasantly surprised at getting out through the shorebreak. Powered over a good amount of stuff and had some good luck either going on my side or back with a two handed grip and just kicking through.
Strangely enough on reading the blog I did not see word one about arm paddling. I found it really accelerated when catching a wave with a few strong pulls along with a kick or two.
Thanks for the great ride! If this is the bottom of the learning curve I am very pumped!
Don
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Got my mat... Thanks Paul!
I am impressed! Nice build, perfect shape, that canvas deck is gonna bring back Converse memories!
The ocean is a toxic soup right now with the first real rain run-off, but after it dilutes a bit I'll get out there. I know it'll be a pleasure to ride just by looking at it! Thanks again for the quick delivery.
Paul
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G'Day Paul,
Just thought I'd better get back to you about the omni mat I got from you. Very Happy!! I can't get into the water anywhere near as much as I'd like as I live about 100 kms from the waves but have been using it at Currumbin (Gold Coast) and Cabarita Beach (Northern NSW) fairly regularly.
Even with my limited experience on it I can get it to go like anything on the right wave. In fact it wears me out as every time you have so much fun you just have to go out for "one more".
Mostly been surfing smaller "shories" (2-5 foot) coming around a short point. My two adult sons are loving it to if they go with me. Might have to get another soon!
Thanks,
Kim
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Holy shit!! Lotus 7!!! This mat has afterburners!!
Tremor got some footage, I think. We were once again riding waves together while he had that GoPro mounted to his back.
That mat is fast!! Woo hoo! That's a winner!
M
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Thank you Paul
Looking forward to the mat experience. I remember them fondly (the old school mats) from Hermosa Beach in the late 60s
Bruce
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Hi Paul,
just wanted share a few experiences now that I have had the Standard for awhile. When I first got the Standard, I was instantly in love with it.
I took the mat with me to Rincon. Not the best day I have ever seen there, but there were consistent chest high sets with a fair number of shoulder high ones mixed in. The first hour was not spectacular, I was not making good bottom turns and I was sliding out, then falling behind the waves. Darn. Then a bigger set came through, and I had it to myself. I dropped in at the top of the river mouth, made the bottom turn dragging my fin, and rode that horse at full gallop past the crowds at the first point and all the way into the cove. Definitely a top 3 lifetime wave for me, not for size but for shape and my stoke factor in riding it. The Stardard did what it was designed to do and took me for a hell of a ride.
When I bought the Standard (which you recommended) this was exactly what I had in mind. Now I finally got it out in the surf which it was intended to be ridden.
Got a few more fun ones after that as well, but that ride will stick in my mind for a long time to come.
See ya, Matt
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I took both mats to Kauai. I was hoping my sons would use them as well there. The waves were not so great when we were there for the most part. Two of my boys tried them out for a bit and did not really get it. Can't blame them, I was struggling on the waves as well. There was one day that it was working, out past the reef at Tunnel's beach. I was riding some waist to chest high waves on the Standard, and was joined eventually by 3 kite surfers. That was a really fun session, best of the trip for sure. Even in those smaller waves, the Standard did well, or at least we did together.
Oh, and I chatted with another guy on a Vespa yesterday out at Rincon. He said he had just gotten back from Hawaii, and had ridden his brother's Lotus 7 out on the North Shore and had really liked it. I am definitely seeing more and more folks on mats these days. Ran into a couple of brothers out at Campus Point a month or two ago, Jeff and Jason I think. One of them had a Standard you had made special for him, a couple inches shorter. I have saw mats on other occasions as well, both at Rincon and Campus Point. Definitely have seen more mats in the water in the past year than the past 10 years combined.
Matt
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Hi Paul,
thanks again for the lotus. Got some great rides again today. Surfing on my own although I was pleased to see Al, Brett and Georges mate surfing his board at one stage. It just the perfect amount of mat for the conditons that are challenging for me. Brett and I have often talked about if we cant get past a thumping bank, to roll mat, dive under and swim out. However, I havent had to do that yet with the lotus. I am surprised it make duck diving pleasant and the rides i get, I have had a good edge. So totally stoked. Thanks again for all the fun. Today was hard work getting out the back but worth it..
Take care, mixo
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Hi Paul
I have just ordered a Lotus 7 YAY. I am loving the standard so much I have already sold two of my surfboards. Our indo trip is coming up soon and thought the Lotus7 would be fun to use there.
Thanks again for your great service and good advice. Much appreciated.
Terry
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I've been having great sessions on the Standard at the various South bay spots during the recent run of winter swells. It's been a blast when a good one lines up. Thanks again!
David
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A few weeks ago I saw a guy riding what I believed was an omni at Rincon.
I saw him walking up the point it was overhead south wind about 12 knots very bumpy wind chop with rain .
Only four surfboards out and the chop was making it very hard for them to Ride .
I was going to leave until I saw this guy with the mat. I decided to wAtch him for a while and perhaps I. Might learn something . What ever mat he was ridding he was really ripping on it . Going very fast and not really affected by the heavy chop that surfboards were . I should have stopped him and asked him what model He was riding. The only thing I could Identify was the 4th gear flyer material particularly the blue streak nylon on the bottom . What ever model he was ridding it was truly inspirational watching that guy tear up that big sloppy uncrowned point surf.
Any way I'm looking forward to the new Omni.
Stoked ,
Marc
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Hi Paul
Thanks so much for the new Omni. Got it in the mail yesterday and when I opened the box, I could have swore I heard angels singing?!
Super stoked,
Glenn
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Thanks Paul,
If it wasn't for you and 4GF I wouldn't even be here. My right leg injury prevents me from riding standups so the surfmats have truly been a blessing. Surfing in indo has been a life long passion so to be able continue after I never thought I would surf again is just incredible. Surfmatting has really changed my life.... so thank you so very much.
Regards
Bretto
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Hello, Paul,
I wish that I could tell you that my friends and I are hot young surfing chics who could revolutionize boogie boarding here by introducing your wonderful surf mats.
The actuality is that we’re ladies in our sixties who remember canvas surf mats from the 70’s. Some of us are slender, some not, and range in height from 5’4” to 6’. Adding to that, we’d be lucky to find waves over three feet that don’t crest over rocks.
Thanks for your reply and feed back. If my friends don’t freak out after reading the Rider’s Guide, the Classic would appear to be the mat of choice.
Mahalo and aloha,
Susan
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Hey Paul,
Just wanted to let you know that I had an absolute blast on my Fatty in Nicaragua. I was at Solid Surf in El Transito, Nicaragua. I still have a lot to learn about riding the mat, but I do know it is a ton of fun.
Bobby
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Thanks so much. Feel alive again. Appreciate you helping me on holiday time.
John
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Paul,
rode the mat alot since I got it! First on a chest high day at pacifica, beach break. It was fast! Super fun. Then I was in santa cruz for 3 days. Just got home. I surfed it at pleasure point, way out on the 1st peak where all the short boarders hang. Took some killer drops!
I like how the mat tends to draw up to the lip before rocketing back down the face. Its an amazing feeling when you adjust the rocker a bit and it just drops into the pocket and you start to see the wave walling up above your head and sunlight shining through. All while going super fast!
I got a couple really fast lined up pocket rides which were a thrill. A couple of them eventually sucked me up to the lip and launched me. A couple of them I made it through. Commonly though, I feel like I get pushed out of the pocket and into the whitewater and have a hard time getting back around and up in the pocket again. Instead of out running the wave and getting far on the shoulder and needing to cut back, it seems like itll get pushed out of the pocket and BEHIND the wave and then your riding mostly soup wanting to get back over and up into the juice.
I know its a learning curve. Just stating my observations! BUT, I did have a few rides where I out ran it a bit and had to cut back and then bottom turn and it was so freakin fun! My first few waves ever on it were so fast and fun that I kept forgetting to cut back. I was wondering why does this thing just fizzle out and hit a flat spot. Then I was like oh yeah, just like surfing when it slows and gets soft on the shoulder its time to cut back. So I started focusing and remembering to cut back and my rides got alot longer.
I also rode it at a spot in SC that is more like the wedge. Heavy hollow inside beach break that barrells and then dumps you out on the sand. Got completely launched a few times. Think the mat is just too buoyant for such a huge punch and maybe doesnt trim in such steep fast conditions. I kept either getting just launched and air dropped on takeoff or if I got down the line fast I'd get sucked up and tossed.
SO FUN! I even got to wear a spring suit with short legs at pleasure point!
thanks again!
Nick
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Hey PG,
Howzit? Am back from another trip to Aussie. Definitely preferring NZ as Oz is rapidly becoming another US. Aoteroa is still fairly individualistic and not yet overly security conscious. Anyway, just wanted to tell you that Lotus is now my go to mat. It's got all the right stuff. The rest have been relegated to backup stash for the future. You've done it again with another leap forward. Hoping all is well for you and yours.
Max
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Hi Paul.
I am absolutely loving the Lotus 7 mat. I had her out in some big barreling waves at palace we call Urchin Reef. So much fun. Fast and manoeuvrable. I had to do some serious duck dives too. No problem at all. Here is a picture of Johnny Tofu and myself on our 4GF’s in full mat relax position between sets at our local.
Terry
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Hey Paul in sunny California.!
I just received MY mat personalised for which I say a big thank you. I really think your business ethics and practices are top notch Paul. I will recommend.
As someone who has walked to the beat of a different drum myself, this is something of a crossroads in my life. Although Im a 60 year old worn out old man, Im in touch with the young free adventurer that came to Australia 33 years ago with images of waves filling my head. I'm motivated and excited.
Thanks Paul.
See you
John
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I am just really impressed with low end on the UDT. No need for a log or SUP, and you go faster and have more fun too on the UDT on the same wave
Aaron
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Hi Paul
Thanks and nice to do business with you again. Last year around this time you helped me out when you were back ordered by getting that Classic to me for my boys on our annual trip to Cape May, NJ, where I grew up. The mat was a hit and this year my youngest is old enough to participate, so need to fill out our gear. Have a great Fourth and good rest of summer.
Chris
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Hello Paul,
I look forward to receiving the new mat, and I'd like to enjoy difference of feel between my own tracker RT and it.
Thank you.
Michinobu
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thanks Paul
I just ordered it (the fatty) look forward to testing it out .
I didn t realise they were made to order, that is pretty cool
keir
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cadalassic :)
Gary
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Paul,
The mat arrived today. Thanks! Can't wait to try it out. I really like the personalized info on the side baffle.
Mark
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Hey Paul!
Here's my mat experience:
1. People in the water look confused and ask, "What are you doing".
2. "Can you actually get waves on that thing?"
3. I get into waves and go faster than the guys on boards in the lineup.
4. "How much is one of those and where did you get it!"
I don't think I've ever smiled so much riding a wave! I took the standard out and it was so easy to paddle and unbelievably fast. The mat is easy to control and turn. I can't thank you enough for your lifelong dedication to the design of the surf mat. "For Jeff" in the seam was an amazing surprise. Thanks for all the conversation and quick delivery.
SO MUCH FUN!
-Jeff
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Paul, I love the Tracker RT. So does my wife.
Tom
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Hi Paul
just checking in on the new mat I got of you awhile back - had a few waves here and there - had a few sessions last winter with my old mate Chris Brock.
But last weekend the surf was pumping and no one out! I got a full session in perfect waves until a few others came out
the next day same spot and tide there was one person in the water and another great session before the crowd arrived-8 people - and 3 of these board riders commented how fast the mat was flying.
Yep - both days the mat was flying - fastest most responsive mat I have ever ridden.
Thank you
Cheers Lloyd
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Hey Paul,
I've been able to get a few sessions in on the standard. Although Hawaii has been getting some pretty consistent south swell Maui has been pretty blocked from this energy so most of my sessions have been in 2 to 4 foot, slightly onshore, surf. Like you've stated there is definitely a learning curve to riding the mat. Nevertheless, I've been able to get the mat to track, trim and drift. I haven't found that 3rd gear yet but I'm looking forward to the day I do. I find the mat to be more intrinsic and similar to body surfing than anything else. I'll keep you posted on how things progress. Stoked on the mat.
Aloha,
Marshall
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thanks Paul! you are a legend!
mat surfing has totally changed my wave riding.
i never thought I"d be a dick dragger!!! haha
but i can't get enough. pure joy.
and i can keep the thing in my back pack. makes me feel like a ninja or a navy seal!
thanks for sending her my way.
Bobby
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Hey Paul
Have had as couple of runs on the lotus.I thought paddling stability may be an issue due to the narrowness, but no probs whatsoever. As everyone says, duckdiving is much more user friendly!
First run at currumbin alley, 4-5 feet. First swell in a bit, so pretty crowded. I made the decision to sit wide for the bigger ones. Outside on the point was too crowded and a little sucky and I didn't want to park it on the rocks first go out.
I went for around 90 degrees inflation but it felt over inflated, really stiff. Is this the 'newness' of the mat or are the internals/construction coming into play here? Sems to pick up waves better than any mat I have ridden, for me, so far, anyway. Like others say, this tracks and holds a great line. Rounding sections or chasing drop ins, it goes forward. The inside rail seems to absorb the impact and transfer it into forward motion. Normally, I would struggle to hold the line; slide out and get caught behind.
No, it doesn't want to run out on the face. I'm keen to play with inflation to find a sweet spot for this...if there is one.
Got a few fat beachies the other day but then went into the shorebreak. 2-3 feet hollow closeouts. Again, the hold and direction Is great and this transfers into drive! Also really easy to get into waves. I don't know why, but it was.
Haven't really tried to break free and 'slide' yet. I feel that may take some user input, but i am keen to get there. Will be using the L7 as my go to mat until it suggests otherwise.
Will keep you posted
Thanks again
Regards
Mike
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Got the mat today! Jazzed! It looks and feels great. Might get it in the water tomorrow. For the occasion, I even splurged on some new fins, replacing my beloved 15-year-old Churchills.
Oh, and outside the fin store, I saw an old 4-Runner with a "Have you seen him?" sticker on the back window. A good sign, no doubt ... ;^)
Scott
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Thanks Paul, will let you know how we get on with it.
It's for our wedding anniversary.
Thanks again
Andy
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I've been riding my Lotus lately with more air volume than usual and am having consistent good results with about 75 degrees fold angle. The surf has been 3'-5' and not very fast but with steep sections and occasional walled-up racetracks. Although more air reduces glide the improved grip produces plenty of go power. Turning is easier and tracking is superb with this heretofore untested increase in air volume due to the Lotus drop rail edges having more definition.
Previously I'd ignored the realm of 70 to 90 degrees bend angle, but now the Lotus design has opened up new possibilities with it's smaller radius corners, narrower chassis and speedier pontoon configuration. The racing car analogy is quite applicable to the Lotus, with very distinct handling changes from "tight" when inflated over 90 degrees, to "loose" with less than 90 degrees air volume.
For me, 90 degrees bend is neutral in terms of whether the front or rear wants to slide down the face of an average 3' wave. 105 degrees bend gives a an ideal amount of tailsliding for dramatically incresed speed and tail-out drifting fun in small surf. Even less air increases looseness and velocity with corresponding loss of cornering traction and steep wave holding power.
Going the other way volume-wise makes the rear end stick, and allows the front to drop down the face, which is really important in hard turns, and on large and/or steep/hollow waves. Of course this all applies to mats in general, however the Lotus design is like a revelatory step forward in racing tire design, with major improvement in overall grip and sensitivity, plus significantly reduced rolling resistance. This technical leap has significantly improved both performance and enjoyment. I'm having a great time delicately fine-tuning inflation to fit conditions and riding techniques.
On the other hand, I consistently leave my old favorite Standard at precisely 90 degrees bend, and it always delivers faultless 3-D freedom plus exquisite slip-slidey fun with no tuning or thinking required. Both mats have their days and sometimes I switch them during the same session as my mood and/or the conditions change. The Lotus promotes lying low and forward while the Standard calls for a more upright off-the-back position. I suppose that for my purposes the Lotus is like a pavement track racer that surgically rails around the course, and the Standard would be similar to a rally car that merrily floats along doing high-speed drifts and jumps. How much fun is that?
After thirty years of modern matting my stoke level is at an all-time high!
Cheers Mate!!!
Pahl
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Hello Paul-
I just read your excellent blog on the history of mat surfing. I would like your permission to post it on the Cocoa Beach Surf Museum facebook page (I am a page administrator), as it ties in nicely
with our new paipo exhibit, as well as my futile quest to promote mat riding here in CB.
I have also been posting articles on GG from time to time, as I feel one of his least appreciated contributions to surfing, aside from the mat, is his fin design. I dont' think the "shortboard revolution" would have happened with out it. Maybe you can write something about that someday ;-)
Aloha, John
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Hello, Paul
How are you?
My name is Yasuhira Idee and I am a surfer.
Your SurfMats are amazing, I and my wife love to surf with your mats.
It's really happy time with those. Thanks.
Sincerely yours,
Yasuhira
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Paul,
Received my Tracker as scheduled. Very pumped to try it out and get into some speed. I'll be taking it to Cabo next month for a week and surfing it here in Santa Cruz when the swell returns.
Thank you, Bob
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Paul , this is Archy from HB... Have The Standard..... Got it few years back . Anyways had amazing week on it ! I surf everyday , but it's been so crappy down here all week that I needed the correct craft to keep me wet and stoked. My Matt was just that! Just wanted to shout out Thanks Brother ! I'm a believer!
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Hi Paul.
Got the mats the other day. Put them in the water yesterday, surf was crappy but we still managed to have a lot of fun. Kinda digging being a novice all over again and having to learn new body memory etc. it's really liberating to put the ego away and just be open to learning again.
Yoko said to tell you she had no idea how enjoyable these things would be, she's been smiling for the last 24 hrs. Thanks from us both for the excellent and prompt service.
Thanks again, will send you a few photos once we actually get these little beasties a bit better worked out. BTW you said they are really fast, you weren't kidding huh, and I've only just had a tiny hint of a taste of what these things can do, and I'm hooked already. Good work.
Warm Regards (stoked)
Ben & Yoko
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Paul,
There are few guys here on Oahu that's been using your mat. It's funny when people ask what are you riding. It's not a common thing to see here in the line up . I like to change it up a bit and be different.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and helping me understand more about your mats.
Scott
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Paul,
I have been riding the UDT a lot in the small surf we have been getting. Now that she is broken in, she really comes alive in even the most minuscule waves. On Sunday I caught a building swell that went from knee high to 2 feet overhead and I stayed out on the UDT. The new DRP bottom allowed the UDT to hold in on the outside bombs and inside tubes with ease! I could have switched to a smaller mat, but didn't need to. I love it!
Aaron
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