The Journal
When Force is Fluid: Using Fluid Dynamics to Inform Wakesurf Board Design
If you've ever tried a skim-style wakesurf board and then switched to surf-style, you’ve likely noticed that they feel and ride completely differently. It makes sense because the former is usually smaller and thinner, while the latter is larger, thicker, and has bigger fins. But why do these design differences change the ride? Is it that bigger boards have more contact with the water, while thinner boards have less volume and buoyancy?
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Why does it matter that we define performance?
Going back to the original idea we started off with I would like to add to it, "you can't improve what you don't measure and you can't measure what you don't define". As a sport and an industry we need to start defining what Performance is, otherwise we will continue to stagnate where the only improvement we will see is by way of randomly prototyping new ideas.
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What is Performance?
Smith Board Co is on a mission to set the industry benchmark in an industry devoid of standardization while pushing it to new heights. The nuance of performance, from board design to rider experience, is complex. But put simply, performance can be defined as the relationship between three main aspects: speed, agility, and air.
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The Wakesurf Dictionary
Get stoked with our quick guide to wakesurf board lingo! From 'Deck' to 'Sweet Spot,' learn the key terms that’ll help you talk shop and surf better. Whether you're catching your first wave or aiming to perfect your technique, understanding your board is the first step to nailing those sweet rides. Dive in and up your wakesurfing game with us!
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What is Computational Fluid Dynamics?
Computational Fluid Dynamics, or CFD, is a computer modelling technique that analyzes the flow of fluid. It can be used to simulate airplanes in a wind tunnel, or air flow through a combustion engine. At Smith Board Co, we use CFD to simulate and analyze our wakesurf boards so we can build the best boards out there. Read the full article to get an idea of how CFD actually works, it's written so you don't have to be an engineer to understand it!
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Unraveling the Mystery of Rocker in Surf vs. Skim Style Boards
Have you ever wondered why surf style boards boast a significant amount of rocker, while skim style boards remain almost flat? A visit to any board shop might leave you with the simple explanation that "it's just how they are." However, there's more to the story of your board's rocker than meets the eye.
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Why Do Some Wakesurf Boards have Blunt Tails?
Surface Area Advantage: A blunt tail offers a wider surface area at the back of the board. This design translates into increased stability, an attribute especially beneficial for beginner and intermediate riders. It's like having a more forgiving board to maintain balance.
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Mastering the 360: Choosing the Right Wakesurf Board for Spinning
As your wakesurfing skills progress, you'll naturally be drawn to learning new tricks. One of the first major feats for many riders is mastering the 360 - a full circle rotation on the water, starting and ending in a forward position. Though challenging, understanding the characteristics of a board that aid in spinning can be a significant advantage.
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Why Bigger Wakesurfers Struggle To Stay On The Wave And What To Do About It
Wakesurfing presents distinct challenges for bigger riders, impacting their balance and control on the water. This article delves into the root causes of these challenges and proposes effective solutions. We focus on how factors like board size, buoyancy, and material choices can significantly influence the wakesurfing experience for those who are larger and heavier.
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Starting With Why? A Look Into Questions That Drive Us Everyday
At Smith Board Co, our journey began with a passion for wakesurfing and a relentless curiosity about the mechanics of the sport. Every board we design is a testament to our quest for understanding and our commitment to innovation. We believe that by asking the right questions, we can not only enhance the wakesurfing experience but also foster a deeper connection between the rider and the wave.
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