Trop storm Bill

[BigVic]

vic, nice analysis. A bat tail though, is not the best option for a bodyboard in big surf. Generally, bat tails are used in smaller surf as they are 'looser' than the crescent tail. The crescent holds the wave much tighter than a bat tail in big, hollow conditions.

Honestly, it really depends on the conditions, the rider, the way the wave is breaking, etc. Is the wave a spilling or plunging wave? Is the wave closing out quickly or do you have some time to maneuver? All of these variables depend on the break and what that particular beach break is doing. I have used bat tails in overhead surf, as well as smaller shorebreak with good results.

The best bet is to simply bring a variety of boards so you can be best prepared for whatever the local break is going to throw at you. I will be bringing (1) bat and (2) cresent tailed boards for this surf..

- Vic

[BigVic]

thanks vic,

Do you know if the beaches around gilgo will be working or if its gona be a big, closing out mess? Also im only 5'6", and my biggest board is 5"8", what problems am i gona see riding such a small board on a day like this?

Too early to predict at this point. I am taking a risk heading up to NY, especially when I have OBX in my backyard. I would continue to monitor swellinfo.com and wait for the hurricane to get closer. As the storm approaches, inevitably things will change as will forecasted predictions. Regarding the board, your biggest obstacle is going to be maintaining stability. Depending on how the swell hits, you might be able to get away with a 5' 8" board.

It'll be closed out for almost everywhere except some hidden breaks like the far rockaways MAYBE...you may be able to score it on Monday though. If you go sat/sun be sure to break out your smallest board right KmAn

Too early to predict at this point with pinpoint accuracy. Will will see, and with some luck we will have the epic waves we so crave.

- Vic

[RI-CUSTOM-X]

Honestly, it really depends on the conditions, the rider, the way the wave is breaking, etc. Is the wave a spilling or plunging wave? Is the wave closing out quickly or do you have some time to maneuver? All of these variables depend on the break and what that particular beach break is doing. I have used bat tails in overhead surf, as well as smaller shorebreak with good results.

The best bet is to simply bring a variety of boards so you can be best prepared for whatever the local break is going to throw at you. I will be bringing (1) bat and (2) cresent tailed boards for this surf..

- Vic

Agreed. I've been riding a bat tail only for for 3+ years now (i need a new board...good thing it's on the way! and been in some big swell year round up here and I love it. I ride 50/50 and I've gotten used to the bat for DK.