Hey,

The Kaos is essentially a sit on top surfboard but I am having trouble right at takeoff with fishtailing into a hard turn(almost always to the right) then side surfing in the foam. Several reviews site seat position problems and that may be where my trouble is. Or, this boat is just so "carvy" I am leaning/bracing a little on takeoff?

Sitting forward of the cockpit does seem to help as does a clean takeoff, straight, then start the high brace or rudder turns.

Anyone else out there surfing long boards, stand ups, or surf kayaks with any suggestions?

PS: The Kaos is rated to 250 lbs. but I doubt that. I am 180 so easily inside the specs.

Tom at Westport, WA

Alas, the Kaos, like it's decked brother, the Alamax is essentially a Big Gun surfboard with a deck or thigh straps. If you are surfing without fins in the back the stern will be very loose in turns. If you're surfing with a fin in the back it will be an absolute pig to turn as the fin boxes sit about a foot behind the seat and not on the pivot point. Am convinced my Alamax gave me a bloody hernia just trying to lift the nose.
Does have a wicked amount of down the line speed but can be a bastard to paddle out especially at W'port due to a lack of nose rocker, so it tends to "submarine."
Gary is a great resource and lives in Joyce. He's specialty though is surf kayaks.
If you're looking for something in the sit on top range, Ken de Bondt builds waveskis and lives overlooking Crescent bay.I know he has just finished a waveski with adjustable footblocks to accomodate a wider range of paddlers to try. He also does custom skis.
I can guarantee that once you've tried a waveski the Kaos will feel like a whale.
Let me know if you're interested, I can give you Ken's contact info.

All,

Yea, I'm gonna jump over to BoaterTalk and try again.

Thanks for the help here. Tom