My first SJ ride with footholds in the surf vid.

OK - Time to get this thread back on track...

I took gasgas' ski for a spin today and would like to review the footholds.

First off, Greg's turf job is pretty good - especially considering how much work it took to just get to the point where he could turf... I thought it would feel all spongey since there's foam under the turf, but everything felt solid.

I placed my foot in one of the footholds (wearing shoes) and didn't get it that far in. I was thinking the foothold was too small.

Later, after I changed into my drysuit, I tried again and my foot went all the way in. A little duck footed stance took a little getting used to (and I'm sure everyone watching will chime in and tell you all how much time I spent in the drink), but I could see how that little extra width on your stance could add to the feeling of stability.

I didn't try any nose stabs, but did try to rotate the ski backwards. I easily got past vertical and think the placement of the footholds (moving me so far back into the tray) is what allowed me to do this.

I did try to hop a couple of wakes and felt awkward trying to maneuver into position (and ending up in the drink - again) because I normally ride goofy foot.

One of my last hops, I lost my balance and smacked my shin on the upper lip of the foothold. Not really a big deal, but I could see how a guy could lever his body forward and really stress the bones in his leg if he didn't get out...

All in all, I'm impressed. It will take a couple more times riding to really get used to them, but the little extra they gave me to move the ski around was noticible.
 
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