With this month’s post we start the detailed analysis of each of the Carbonology Sport surfski models. The South African brand designs and produces surfski for all levels. From the most stable models, such as the CRUZE or the BOOST, to the most competitive ones, like the FLASH or the PULSE.
We start with the analysis of one of the most demanded boats: the Boost X LV, a surfski for beginner and intermediate paddlers.
The acronym LV accompanying some Carbonology models refers to ‘low volume’, which means models with less volume than the original ones. For example, we have the Zest and the lower volume version Zest LV or the new Flash LV, which is a lighter version of the Flash.
This lower volume makes them great surfskis for lighter weight people, who typically have a harder time handling higher volume surfskis and may feel like they “dance” on them.
Technical characteristics
The Boost X LV is designed for paddlers between 40 and 80 kilograms. We tend to recommend it for weights up to a bit more, 90 kg, as long as it is going to be used in very strong sea conditions, since its volumes are not made to carry heavier weights in those conditions. However, there would be no problem if you are going to use it in calmer waters.
Its 5.95 meters in length and 50 centimeters in width make the Boost X LV a very stable boat. If you come from more stable models or you are just starting out, you will be able to paddle in calm seas within a few weeks and will feel totally stable. To paddle in the open sea with some waves, you will need to have certain balance skills and experience.
Open sea performance
Both in our canoeing school and in our shop, this is one of the most favorite models. But why is this surfski so popular?
One of the reasons is that you do not need to spend a lot of time adapting to it. In a few weeks of training, you will get the hang of it.
In the event of falling into the water and needing to rebound, the Boost X LV has very little band to save, making the remount much more manageable than in other models.
The seat depth is small, but enough to give you the stability support you need and to have a canoe that feels comfortable for you.
And above all, this model triumphs because of the feeling of speed compared to its width. For the stability it has, the Boost X LV will give you a lot of speed. You will feel in a fast canoe but very comfortable when sailing in open sea and in choppy or unstable conditions.
It is one of the best canoes we can have if we do not want to worry about stability.
Boost X LV or Zest X LV (former Vault)?
It is the doubt of many paddlers who take the step to buy their first canoe. The answer is simple: depending on what you are going to use it for.
If you are always going to paddle in a bay or calm water, you can probably go with a more unstable model since it will not cause you any challenge that you cannot overcome.
If you enjoy training in the open sea or going downwind without worrying about balance, the Boost X LV is the boat for you.
And it is because if you find yourself falling off the surfski several times during a course, leaning, worried about stability, or going slower because balance does not allow you to go faster, then you are in a boat that is not for you.
When choosing a model, we must take into account that we must be able to perform the remount without any issues in wave zones. Ideally, you should not fall off during the whole trip. Apart from causing insecurity, once you fall 3 or 4 times, your strength is diminished, and you may not be able to make the remount.
In summary
In the end, what we are looking for in a surfski is an average speed that is good over a period of time. If you have to slow down or you keep falling off, high speed peaks are useless. This makes the Boost X LV a model that works very well for those who want to go fast but stable.
