What's up with alaias? What's your take?

[xylemsurfboards1]

I'm trying to get some feedback on what people think about alaias. It seems like the general concensus is that these things are tough to ride, paddle poorly and can be very frustraiting. Are they hard to find? Are they overpriced? Is the quality substandard? What kind of qualities would you like see improved in the current alaias on the market? Is the risk too high to invest in one? The reason I ask is I run Xylem Surfboards and I make/sell alaias and paipos and want to understand what others really feel about this type of surfcraft. Maybe you could advise others on your expirience too. Ask me questions if you have them!

[Katsura]

Check out the SeaGlass (note, not seagrass!) Project started right here in Noosa. A modern take on the Alaia.

I had on one occasion surfed my longboard without the fin (It snapped off in the surf, and the surf was too good so I didn't want to go in). And it was actually a crazy fun experience - I can;t do any turns etc but I sure slide around like a pig in mud and had a great laugh.

I also found I can just about control my board using the rails - but it;s damn hard.

So one of these days I may even deliberately take my fin off and give it another go!