Is this Al Merrick Flyer the right size for me?

[norwsurf]

Hi.

Have been surfing for some months now on a 7'3" minimal and now I want to get a shortboard. I have read that the Al Merrick Flyer is a good one to start with.

So I found this used Flyer that is 6'3" - 19 3/4 - 2 1/2. I am 5'9 and about 170lbs. Will this board be a good size or will it be too big and too much volume? Will it be better with 6'2" - 19 1/2 - 2 1/2?

[tony g]

It really depends on your skill level as well as your size. If you are riding a regular high performance short board Al suggests you go 2” to 3” shorter and 1/4” to 1/2” wider than your normal shortboard. If you are coming off a 7'3" mini mal, I would say try to try one out before you make the purchase if at all possible. The bigger board will catch waves easier, but not be as high performance as the smaller one. Since you know your skill level better than we do, you have to make the call! Great design and good choice!

Good Luck!

[themathteacher]

Seems like a big jump from a 7'3" minimall to a 6'3" shortie for someone that has been only surfing "for some months now"

When I started surfing I used a 7ft step up for like 2 years and weighed 180lbsbefore I went down to a 6'6 and now I ride a 6'1" at 200lbs.

You might struggle some, but it's the right size board if you want to stick it out. If not, get something in between to make the transition more fun.