🏄The Art of Surfing à la Takayam 🏄
In the world of longboards, one name stands out as an essential reference: Donald Takayama. A legendary shaper, he captured the essence of classic surfing while adapting it to modern demands. Whether you are a noseriding enthusiast, a fan of smooth gliding, or passionate about dynamic turns, there is a Donald Takayama board designed for you.
In this article, discover how to choose the ideal Takayama board based on your surf style, your level, and the sensations you seek in every wave.
Why choose a Donald Takayama board?
Choosing a Donald Takayama surfboard is more than a technical choice: it is embracing a philosophy. Each model is a work of art designed to optimize glide, stability, and elegance.
The strengths of Takayama longboards:
- Iconic shapes, born from decades of expertise
- A perfect balance between tradition and performance
- High-end construction with durable materials The classic noserider: glide and elegance
Identify your surfing style
The classic noserider: glide and elegance
If you love riding the nose of your longboard, then a 100% noserider model is made for you.
Models to prioritize:
- Model T : for an ultra-classic style, ideal in small waves
- In The Pink : the signature model, perfect for noseride but more versatile
-> For surfers who want maximum time on the nose, with a stable and smooth glide.
The versatile style: adaptability and fluidity
Do you like to vary between modern maneuvers and retro glide? You need an all-around board.
Models to consider:
- DT-2 : fast and lively, very suitable for changing conditions
- Hapa : rare hybrid model, for those who like to surf without compromise
-> Perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers who want to explore all facets of longboarding.
The performance style: power and radicality
If you come from shortboarding or like to attack the wave, these shorter boards are made for you.
Recommended models:
- Scorpion 2 : very responsive and high-performing in the pocket
- Howard Special Mini : fusion of shortboard maneuverability and longboard glide
-> Ideal for technical surfers seeking speed and committed maneuvers.
How to choose the right size for your Takayama board?
The size of your Donald Takayama longboard will depend on three main factors:
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Your level
-
Your build
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The type of waves surfed
| Build/Level | Recommended size | Suitable style |
|---|---|---|
| Light beginner | 9'2 to 9'4 | In The Pink |
| Intermediate | 9'0 to 9'2 | DT-2 / Hapa |
| Advanced | 8'6 to 9'0 | Scorpion 2 |
Conclusion
Donald Takayama Surfboards embody the essence of longboarding: elegance, performance, and pure pleasure. Choosing the right model depends on your style, your level, and what you want to express on the wave.
Whether you are looking for a retro Takayama board, a versatile model, or a more radical surfboard, there is a board that will help you progress with style.
📣Want to know more about Donald Takayama? Find Why Donald Takayama is a longboard myth: The legacy of a surfing legend or even Top 5 Donald Takayama longboards for purists: Choose the ideal board for authentic surfing
