About
California Surfskis mission is to bring Surfskis and Outrigger Canoes to the central coast of California. This area has world class waters and only a handful of people out paddling.
We want to fix that!
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Surfskis and Outrigger Canoes combine the connection to nature you get with surfing and swimming, with cardio like cycling and running, with the thrill of surfing downwind waves!​
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FAQ
What is a Surfski?
Typical surfskis are18 to 21 feet long, 17 to 22 inches wide, and weigh 20 to 26 pounds, these are the fastest, lightest, longest, and narrowest kayaks on the planet. Paddled using a double ended paddle with wing shaped blades for maximum power and efficiency. Speed similar to running: 8-10 minute miles are sustainable across long distances, even up to marathon length races. Higher speeds are possible with wind, waves, and tidal assists.
Full body cardio workout with power coming mainly from legs and core, with the added balance challenge of keeping a toothpick shaped boat upright. Elite surfskiers can tackle rough seas and big waves, but for the rest of us these boats are mostly suitable for calmer waters like lakes, rivers, and protected bays. Windy days provide challenging conditions but reward you with fast and easy downwind rides.
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What is an Outrigger Canoe?
An outrigger canoe (commonly abbreviated as OC-1) is a very narrow lightweight canoe​ that has a sidepod called an Ama for added stability. Similar to a Surfski but paddled using a single bladed oar, outrigger canoes can be more suitable in rougher waters where the additional stability provided by the Ama allows the paddler to focus more on the waves and less on balance. Experienced paddlers can fly their Ama, turning the OC-1 into an incredibly narrow and fast boat.
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How are the boats so light weight?
Modern surfskis and outrigger canoes are made from exotic materials like kevlar, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. They are incredible strong and light enough to carry on your shoulder.
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This sounds kind of challenging, am I going to fall in the water?
Yes! But fear not, we offer basic training courses that include setting up your boat, practice remounting, stability training, developing your paddling form, paddling upwind and downwind, and learning to read the water.
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Can I demo your selection of surfskis and outrigger canoes?
Yes. Please see our Events page (coming soon) for Demo Days. In the meantime, please reach out if you would like a private demo session.
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Do you have a trade-in program?
We are working on a​ plan that will allow new paddlers to trade up as they gain experience. Stay tuned!
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Do you ship your products?
We can arrange delivery to anywhere in or near California. Please contact us for more information.