Monday, July 2, 2012

Signing Off the Blogspot....

After 4 years and 800 blogspot posts the time has come for us to say farewell to the Pioneers Blog and move on too bigger and better things at the all new PioneersBoardShop.com.  We've had tons of fun over the years with our crazy ideas, funny stories, product reviews and rants on the blog and while it's not stopping it is changing format!  The new website features a "latest news" section right on the main page of the web just next to the NEWLY IMPROVED WEBCAM.  You can also click through past posts or find exactly what your looking for by going to the Surf, Skate, Paddle, Snow, or Gear page and clicking on news.  You'll also notice the new and used surfboard inventories are up to date as well as lots of info on shop deals and upcoming events!

We're working on setting up a new mailing list through the new website and if you're getting this through email update you'll get the new one when we get it running!  Until then make sure to bookmark PioneersBoardShop.com for the latest in shop and industry news as well as the MOST ACCURATE AND EARLIEST surf report on the seacoast!!!

Thanks,

The Pioneers Family

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Vans Chukka Low at Pioneers in New Hampshire

Couple fresh color ways in today in one of our favorite shoes ever.  It's got style to spare and skates great too.

Bright Blue & Pewter


Navy & Light Grey

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Electric Blue Heaven



Globe does things right!!! Making surfing look so FUN!!!! If you like what you see here be sure to check out Year Zero!

Friday, June 15, 2012

Hayden Shapes HYPTO KRYPTO at Pioneers!!!



Yesterday Hayden Cox of Hayden Shapes rolled through the shop to say hello, give some hi fives, and talk about what he's going on!  Steve and I were very impressed, Hayden knows his craft very well and to put it simply... he gets it. He's got a great line up and we're super stoked on his board the Hypto Krypto and the Psychedelic germ, one of the first production boards to feature sidecut!  Remember we like sidecut...

The Hypto Krypto is the most versatile shape in the Haydenshapes range, enabling it to be ridden in waves from 1ft to 8ft. It paddles like a dream due to the volume and flatter rocker. You ride the Hypto Krypto on the open face, drawing fast, flowing lines with all the speed it provides.

The outline resembles an old school twin fin in the nose, yet pulls into a rounded pin tail which will give you plenty of hold in the bigger stuff, and provide a lot of curve around the back foot. You can use the wider, straighter outline forward on the board to give you speed down the line and the rounded pintail to draw tighter arcs in the pocket.

Although the rocker of the Hypto Krypto is flat, Hayden has snuck in a little extra lift in the entry to add some curve up front; this helps taking off late, or turning in the steeper sections of the wave. The design of the rocker has been focused around speed, and more speed! The Hypto has never been shaped as a quad because it is too fast already, you’ll find yourself making sections down the line that you would never expect to make.

The foil has plenty of volume around the chest and center area of the board, yet it refines out to a thinner, more pinched rail to keep the board connected to the wave. The concave runs from a rolled vee in the entry, to a slight single transitioning into a vee double out the tail, which gives the board great speed and control from rail to rail.

The Hypto Krypto and most of Hayden's Shapes are created using Future Flex. FutureFlex represents the very latest in surfboard technology and design. The construction process combines a stringerless, high-density custom shaped EPS core laminated with biaxial fiberglass, epoxy resin and a parabolic carbon fiber frame. The carbon fiber frame within the laminate is the key to the performance of these boards. Designed to maximize speed and drive while minimizing twisting, FutureFlex boards essentially store and release energy as the surfer transitions through a turn. The result is a fast and lively, highly responsive surfboard that's perfectly geared for high performance surfing.



DIMENSIONS
LENGTH   WIDTH   THICK   VOLUME
5'4''              19 1/2''     2 1/4''      27.08 ltr    
5'6''              19 3/4''     2 3/8''      29.7 ltr
5'8''              20''           2 1/2''      31 ltr
5'10''            20 1/4''     2 5/8''      33.79 ltr
6'0''              20 1/2''     2 3/4''      36.56 ltr

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Stand Up Paddle Race Boards At Pioneers in NH

Just as we've seen stand up paddle boarding gain popularity we've also seen a dramatic improvement in board shapes and design specifically in the surf specific SUPs and and Race SUPs. The race boards are built to be 12 foot torpedos, these boards have begun using different shapes (displacement hulls) and materials (carbon and coconut husks) to make them glide as quickly and smoothly as possible...

This is the Fanatic 12'6 Fly Carbon Race board



Fly Race 12’6’’ x 27 ¾ ‘’ Volume 225 liters   Weight just under 20lbs


After the introduction of Fanatics first SUP Race board last year, we decided to design a smaller version of the acclaimed 12’6’’ x30 ½”. This smaller 12’6’’ has wide range of use from flat water performance to gliding long ocean swell.  Complex bottom surfaces have been CAD-optimized to deliver maximum speed and glide.

Key Features:
-Stretched Outline with stabilizing square tail
-Long maximized waterline
-Smooth Tail rocker for clean water release in paddle motion
-Domed nose for quick nose recovery and water disperse.
-Flat angled deck shape for secured stance and water release
-Sharp water cutting Bow …transforming into a slight rounded V towards the tail
-CAD analyzed surfaces and curve flow.

This is the NSP 12'6 Coco Mat Race Board



The NSP Coco Mat Race SUP 12'6 x 28 1/4   Volume 220 liters   Weight just over 20lbs


Great for downwinders, racing, fitness, training and cruising. They were designed for speed with long glide and have proven to be super fast in all conditions. The 12'6" is a training and recreational race hull. The hull shares its DNA with our 14' racer. The entry cleanly displaces the surface water and transitions to a flat bottom. The bottom is extremely hard off the rails for clean release of surface tension, low drag and quick planing.

As a daily trainer, these long boards take a lot of abuse going to and from the water - 10 years of refining our construction methods means your investment is extremely durable. Coco Mat technology integrates natural random discontinuous coconut fibers into an exclusive lamination construction method to create a surfboard with amazing performance and unparalleled strength to weight ratio. After hundreds of hours surfing, as well as controlled laboratory testing, Coco Mat construction has proven to produce the lightest and strongest surfboards on the market today.

The natural coconut fibers used to make Coco Mat surfboards are readily available, need minimal processing and come from self-sustaining crops located near our manufacturing facility. For these reasons the NSP brand is proudly championing the new Coco Mat technology which offers a responsive, fluid ride with great flex characteristics, and an aesthetic that is not only original, but organically beautiful.

If you're interested in racing, finding more out about these race boards or other race boards, or taking one for a test paddle get in touch with us at the shop. Phone, email, or face to face all work for us!



Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Meet Hayden Cox of Hayden Surfboards At Pioneers 6.14.12



That's right, Hayden Cox of Hayden Surfboards will be hanging at the shop tomorrow, Thursday the 14th , from 3 to 5pm.  

He'll be here with some of his surfboards and talking about the technology behind them.  Swing through and meet the man and see his craft.

Hayden shapes for Craig Anderson, Warren Smith, and Sally Fitzgibbons just won the Rio Pro on a Hayden shaped Psychedelic Germ!!!!

 Here is an interview between Hayden and Drift Surfing where Hayden discusses his boards and working with Global Surf Industries.

TP: Great to see the new GSI lineup that you’ve been a massive part of – how’s the whole process been for you as a shaper?

Every part of it has been a great experience really! From embracing the new business side of things right through to manufacturing and learning how to work with such a large scale factory team.
The technical side of thing has been amazing to work with – getting all the finer details of the board exactly how I want it produced. It’s been a real eye opener and a good personal education too.

A lot of big names have worked in the more ‘pop out’ style board Market recently but many have openly stated that there’s not enough accuracy with the final product compared with hand shaping, the GSI team seem to have this range pretty solid – how’s the final board from a shaper perspective?

The main thing today is I’ve personally designed the whole thing. They’re my designs, my technical drawings, my dimensions. The C & C machines we’ve been using are are so accurate and replicate it all time after time. In the past the technology has been lacking and the whole cheap mass produced pop out board has given the process a bad name. The guys we’ve been working with produce performance machinery and aircraft so the control is superb – there’s no guess work anymore, the whole thing has moved to a new level.

TP: Your experimenting with alot of new shapes and styles with this range – including fin setups and stingers, what’s the inspiration behind them?

They come from a variety of sources really – from the sidecuts to the concave outlines. My own personal surfing and also the shapers and surfers I’ve met too.
There’s a broader picture to the whole thing aswell and I try to incorporate ideas and innovations from all sorts of board sports – not just surfing. The sidecut for instance came from the way snowboards ride on the rail. enjoy picking up inspiration on the road too – word of mouth and other projects I’m involved in aswell.
The displacement hull was adapted from the Storm Surfers tow project I was working on with Tom Carrell. My aim is to merge the theory of other board cultures into everyday surf craft that will help people get more waves and have more fun.

TP: You seem pretty versatile as a shaper, and you have a great range of models, do you think that’s an important place to be with people swaying towards larger quivers these days?

For sure. It’s important as a shaper to use your own experience and riding style – I’ve tried everything from alaias to SUPs. It gives you a better understanding over a variety of perspectives – not just as a shaper though, as a surfer too.

And you’re right, alot of people are expanding their quivers to make the most of the variety of conditions they surf in – not everyone has a perfect point break on their doorstep!

TP: I’ve heard your GSI range described as the Ferraris of the surfboard world, is that justified?

It’s definitely the goal I set myself with this project! I always try to design and manufacture my boards to the best possible spec – and I approached the GSI partnership the same way.
I brought the raw materials and knew the process in which they needed to be made and we’ve worked together to bring this into the mass manufacturing process.
It’s the same ethos as Ferrari – use the best for everything and have the best quality control systems to make sure it all meets the same standard.

TP: What’s your personal favourite model?

The kryto – purely because it rides from 1-8 foot!
You can get barrels bust out powerful carves and maybe some airs if the conditions are right!
It’s an amazingly versatile board – to the point that when I travel it’s the only surfboard I bring with me.
Craig Anderson favours it too – it’s all about grass roots surfing and having fun.

TP: Do you feel having the support of GSI has allowed you to experiment slightly more design wise and push some of your ideas into the hands of alot more riders?

That’s the aim! It’s my first project with them and it’s early days in the launch but it’s definitely promising! Once we’ve refined the business model and I’ve tweaked the evolution of my business model with merging into the GSI side of things it’ll hopefully continue to grow.

TP: Out of the many new techniques and things included in the 2012 range – including super White foam and carbon rails – what’s got you most stoked, both as a rider and a shaper?

I think the future flex tech construction will be the most advantageous to the intermediate surfer – it’s lighter and more responsive under your feet but also adds alot of durability.
For me the range was about contructing boards that would help everyday surfer alot – that’s my target market, intermediate to advanced surfers – and the shapes and boards I’ve produced will hopefully fit alot of styles and wave types to help progression.

TP: How do you feel about where shaping and surfing is heading at the moment, with airs becoming the norm and people like Tom pushing finless surfing?

It’s awesome! I can’t really do airs – but I love watching other people bust them out!

Technical surfing is always progressing but the core of the sport is still there too – with big turns and rail control – but it’s about the versatility of the riders too now in the comps, people want to see it’ll all being mixed up a bit!

Shapers are pushing it too – the niche guys like Tom are focusing hard and everyone is pushing their own boundaries to expand the scope of surfing. As a shaper this means there are more craft than ever to design for – from SUPs to big wave surfing, small wave surfing and experimental surfing – everyones open to trying new equipment too which is great.

TP: Can you offer any insights on where your designing will be going and any projects in the pipeline?

I’ve got a few personal goals for my shaping at the moment. Ove rthe last 4 years I’ve been properly focused on the GSI range – and I’ve developed a solid range of boards that my team love to ride and that everyday customers can enjoy too.

From a business perspective I’ve also enjoyed it and that’s something to keep my focus on – pushing my business model and therefore the shapes I produce.
I’m also concentrating more on performance and contest equipment too – but throughout everything it’s the innovation and concepts that dirve me – and I’m not stopping anytime soon!

TP: And finally GSI say “life is better when you surf” ….what’s your reasoning behind this?

I totally agree with it!
The UK is doing my head in being onshore all the time I’ve been here, I’m frothing to get in the water! For me surfing merges with the creative side of my life and also my approach to everything changes when I’m surfing alot. My girlfriend will back me up on that statement – I’m a nightmare when I’m not surfing much!






Dave Bachinsky x Thrasher Mag x Vox Shoes



Pioneers team rider, Dave Bachinsky, has a collaboration shoe with Vox and Thrasher! So stoked for Dave, he's been traveling the World and KILLING IT!!! He's earned this shoe through years of skating!

The shoe is the Kruzer and it features vulcanized construction, rubber outsole, I.R.S. gel system, and shocksorb EVA insoles. Super light, extremely comfy.



Tuesday, June 12, 2012

Fully Restocked with Spitfire F1 Street Burners, Park Burners, & Trippers


The Spitfire F1 Street Burner Multiball Wheels are a true flatspot resistant urethane that don't sacrifice the slide when you want it. Formulated to withstand any street terrain. None faster. Survive the slide. 100 duro. Available in sizes from 52mm to 57mm. My wheel of choice!


There is none faster. Survive the slide. The Spitfire F1 Parkburner Wheels a true flatspot resistant urethane that grips when you need it. Formulated to maintain control on all park surfaces. Available in sizes from 54mm to 60mm.


Keeping the underground lit up. The Spitfire Nibble Magic Cap 92D and 95D Wheels are the #1 performance urethane, poured and shaped in SF, CA. These are some Spitfire Trippers, a softer 92 duro wheel for smooth rides and a good trip and a 95 duro when you need a little more speed. There are none smoother. Available in sizes from 54mm to 57mm.

New Jeff Grasso and Pinata Antihero Skateboards



Antihero showed up today, 26 decks in total!  The Gross Free Pig comes in an 8.75" and a 10.12" and we've got them both.  We also have the full run of the Antihero Pinata series.



If you're balling on a budget, like most of the buzzards who ride Antihero, than look no further than the Hardtimes Series.  $45 w/ grip!!! Now with 33% Less Graphic...

We also got some Eagle decks and some Cardiel decks too.  Hand full of Antihero tees, hoodies, and hats to back it on up!

Volcom Fiji Pro Recap and Fantasy Surfer Update



WOW!!!  What an event!!! Thanks to Volcom for bringing this event back to the tour!  So glad that the waves showed up for the boys.  First things first, congrats to Kelly Slater.  No doubt now that the boy still has it and he's ready for a 12th title run in 2012. Gabriel Medina, the guy who couldn't stick an air reverse in Rio in front of the home crowd, mowed down everyone in his way until he faced Kelly in the final.  CJ Hobgood is claiming Medina as one of the top ten goofy footers of all time, I'm not so sure yet...

Speaking of the Hobgood Brothers, they both killed it!  So good to see those two in their element, fast steep, & hollow is where they thrive!  CJ's 10 point barrel to gigantic floater closeout was absolutely RIDICULOUS....  Mick Fanning surfed well and with his second equal third finish in a row he is sitting in the number one spot.  Other surfers who stood out in my eyes were Owen, Parko, Taj, J Wilson, John John, Mitch Coleborn, & Jordy Smith.

As far as the "BIG DAY" went I was more than bummed to see the contest called off.  Simultaneously they were calling the conditions to difficult to compete in while half the tour was in the lineup scoring 12 foot barrels you could have driven an 18 wheeler through.  I understand the dangers but these are the top 36 surfers in the World being assisted by the best water rescue personal in the business...  Let them surf!!! Koby, big wave hellman, called the tour out on there desicion and internet forums where abuzz the day of and after....

I don't want to keep beating T Knox up but after 4 events Taylor has 4 equal 25th finishes earning him a total of 2000 points.  Dusty Payne who has YET to surf this year due to an injury has also earned 2000 points.   Two surfers, one surfing, one not, tied for dead last.

Our Pioneers Fantasy Club was won by Andrae with 1020 points!!!  Huge win and the highest points scored in one event so far this year.  Nice work Andrae, Volcom and Electric hooked you up with a killer prize pack, swing on through and claim your winnings!!!  The front runners in the club are starting to show themselves.  Give a look and see where you are at in the standings!!! Remember there's a surfboard at stake for the winner along with some other killer prizes from O'neill, Ripcurl, Creatures of Leisure, and others!  The Next event is Teahupoo fingers crossed for another repeat of last year, it's just too bad we have to wait 2 months for the contest to start.

Check out Volcom Pro Fiji for all the highlights and heat recaps!  SURFING


Friday, June 8, 2012

Nixon Watches at Pioneers Board Shop in New Hampshire


Nixon has pretty much set the standard for style as of late in the surf, skate, & snow world.  Every piece they make just kills it! Whether it's function or fashion you're after you are pretty much guaranteed to get both from a nixon.  We currently have over 75 Nixon watches in stock, some for men and some for ladies. Some for business, some for pleasure and some for the surf. If you're struggling to come up with a Father's Day gift idea I'm willing to bet a Nixon watch for dad is a sure thing!

The following photos are a sampling of our watch stock.  Like I said we have 75 in stock so to really see them all swing by the shop and have a look for yourself!




The 51/30:
There's a reason they send tank watches into space. With superior functionality - 6 hand Japanese quartz movement, with tide - its wearer is never without the necessary earthly information. But with stainless steel-clad durability and unrivaled good looks, it's a timepiece that's rife with worldly good looks. Since there's plenty right here that can send you into orbit. The 51/30 pictured above has a P/U wrist band.  The 51/30 also comes in fun metal, full P/U, and with a leather wrist strap. This watch is BOSS...
The Corporal SS:
A FORCEFUL DISPLAY OF SUPERIOR STYLE. The new stainless steel Corporal SS takes command. Stripped of all but the essential function of keeping true time, the Corporal distinguishes itself as a leader. The strategic blend of high-caliber construction and disciplined design result in a forceful display of superior style. We've got them in all black like above and all matte gunmetal.



The Sentry:
While it's true that you never know what is going to happen, The Sentry covers most of the bases, providing protection from most everything that could happen within the seconds, hours, days, weeks, and months of the regular calendar. It's your won't-quit, always obedient, ever-watchful, and timely guard against mayhem. Unless otherwise ordered. 9 colorways to choose from in total but these two are epic.  Black with a P/U Band and Silver with Navy/Red Nylon Band.

The Supertide:
DISSOLVE YOUR BRAIN IN SALTWATER. Time your surf sessions right and you don't even have to think. And who wants to think? Dissolve your brain in saltwater. Get lost in the explosion of a backside bash. Or a frontside slash. Escape life on land and head for the water. With the rhythm of the tide displayed in high-resolution detail, the Supertide syncs you up with the motion of the ocean so you know exactly when to go. Whether you're sitting in the line up at your local break or frothing in your car, stuck in traffic, one exit from the beach, you'll know what you need to know. Really digging this one!!! The display and functions are insane.  Best digital tide watch I've ever seen.  We've got the green pictured above as well as white and red.

The Lodown:
LEGIT TIME-TELLING AND TIDE-TELLING. As fashionable and functional as your salt-encrusted neon neoprene, The Lodown has all the radical 80s dude appeal as your first slip-ons with legit time-telling and tide-telling capabilities. With a custom digital interface that graphically displays crucial ocean info - for over 200 beaches until 2020 - in addition to dual time, alarm, wave counter, chrono and light. All while candy colored injected polyurethane case and band harkens back to your first days on the water. We've got 7 colors in the shop to choose from and at $125 you get bang! for your buck.

PLENTY MORE TO LOOK AT ON NIXON.COM.  SPECIAL ORDERS ARE NO TROUBLE GET IN TOUCH WITH US!

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Ripcurl E-Bomb Pro available at Pioneers in NH


Well 3/2 season is pretty much here, although at the moment you might not guess it,  the water is in the low 60s. I've already had a handful of sessions in my 3/2 with no boots and no gloves. Without a shred of doubt the E-Bomb Pro from Ripcurl is my favorite wetsuit for the summer and fall months. The fit of the suit is insane and while it keeps you nice and warm like a 3/2 should it feels like you're wearing a 1.5mm.  


WHY THIS SUIT IS AWESOME...

THE RUBBER!!!  90% of this suit is constructed out of Ripcurl's famous E3 rubber.  The other 10% of the suit is made of E3+ which is as light and flexible as neoprene gets!!! They put the E3+ rubber in as one continuous piece from one elbow across the back to the other elbow.  That one panel of E3+ is the reason this suit feels so amazing and thin once you get it on, it truly is amazing! Check the photo for the picture of the E3+ panel on the E-Bomb Pro.


As far as construction is concerned the E-Bomb Pro keeps it pretty simple with a glued and blindstitched seam.  It's not over done which means is very flexible and the triple glue/double stitch means that it's strong and will hold up!!!  I also love that the E-Bomb Pro comes in a chest zip and that they took extra time perfecting the fit.  This suit KILLS IT!!! Try one on and you too will be a believer...


 The Ripcurl E-Bomb Pro comes in a variety of colors and while we may not have them all in stock we'd be happy to special order you one at no extra charge!!!

The Ripcurl E-Bomb Pro LIVE THE SEARCH!

Here's what our customers are saying about the E-Bomb Pro:

"I got one of these suits for Christmas and couldn't wait for the water to warm up enough to use it. I started about a month ago with booties and gloves and am now using it alone. It is so light and stretchy it feels like you're wearing a much thinner suit. I had not bought a new 3/2 since 2006 so the leap in technology was huge. Do yourself a favor and get one of these."


Monday, June 4, 2012

New Pioneers Hoodies, Tees, and Tanks


Fresh gear for the Ladies and Girls of the Pioneers Family. Hoodies, Tees, and Tanks! Get into it!


A new logo for the shop. We got this made in a zip up hoodie and in tees. Both are available in two colors, a really nice navy heather and a grey heather!


This one is getting classy!!!  The Pioneers quiver logo comes in the grey hoodie you see pictured above with a small logo printed on the chest and a bigger on on the back. We also have the quiver logo shirts available in tees printed on olive green, dark grey, and blue as well as in a long sleeve version.


No matter how hard you try you can't not like this one.  We did them for men, for women, for boys, and for girls.  The shirt pretty much sums us up in a nutshell.  Surfing and hanging sharing good times! Come grab one of these for yourself if you down with it!


Although it hasn't been my shirt of choice lately it will be as soon as the weather clears up.  Back by popular demand the Pioneers Reversible Jersey is ready for a killah SUMMAH!!!

Sunday, June 3, 2012

NORTHCORE CAR SEAT COVERS at PIONEERS SURF SHOP in NH



At last, there's now a car seat cover out there designed with boardriders in mind.   This is a top of the line super tough waterproof cover which will fit most single car and van seats.   Great when you cant be bothered to change out of your wetsuit to go to another spot or get home, just jump in the car and go.
  • Super tough material that's going to last
  • Material that's waterproof under normal use and resistant to oil, food, drinks, mud etc.
  • Wipe clean with a damp cloth
  • Fits most car and van seats and even allows access for armrests
  • Strong action sports branding

Stop by Pioneers to check them out.. retail $40 or buy online here



Saturday, June 2, 2012

Almost 5 Incher Video Premier in New Hampshire



This SUNDAY at LAS OLAS in Hampton New Hampshire, Pioneers will be hosting a VIDEO PREMIER for the brand new skateboard film from Almost, 5 INCHER!!!!

Premier starts at 6:30 and the Video will go on at 7pm sharp.  The half hour before show time will give us enough time to grab some mexican food and drinks from Las Olas and kick it for a bit.  The video runs about a half hour and is AWESOME.  INSANE parts from Daewon Song and Chris Haslam with Cooper Wilt, Lewis Marnell, Christoph WIllow, and Youness Amrani holding it down too!!!

There's even a slight chance of some afternoon sunshine that may allow us to get a session in at the park after the video.  If you have any questions about the upcoming skatepark build I'd be stoked to chat about that too!



Friday, June 1, 2012

Heather Ross Walden Surfboards at Pioneers Surf Shop in NH



 Heather Ross teamed up with Walden Surfboards to produce an inspired a range of art series boards. Heather is a renowned author and artist whose work draws upon her own childhood, which she describes as “rural and unsupervised!” We call it beautiful.
While the board might look beautiful it also is a fully function performance surfboard. Featuring the Magic Model design and X-2 Epoxy construction the board will suit surfers of all levels who ride a wide variety of wave types.
This board has been designed to be ridden rather than hung on a wall. It is more than your average art board. They come in two sizes 8' and 9' 
8' x 22" x 2 3/4 57ltr 7"center FCS on sale $636
9' x 22 1/2 x 3" 69ltr 8"center FCS on sale $700
For more info call the shop 603-964-7714 or email info@surfnh.com

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Volcom Pro 2012 Fiji/Tavarua Preview


The first contest held at the ICONIC Cloudbreak for the first time since 2008 is getting set to kick off!!! We've really got to give it up for Volcom for bringing this stop back to the tour, it's been far to long since we've seen the top 36 go head to head at the best left in the World.  Even better news is it going to be firing at 8 to 10 feet on the first day of the waiting period and then stay at a steady 6 to 8 foot for the next few days! I am pretty damn excited to sit back and watch this one over the upcoming week!

At smaller sizes it definitely favors the goofy footers but when it's bigger (like it's forecasted to be) it's really anyone game! Cloudbreak itself is a challenging wave with three sections that can either pinch off or just lineup all the way through. Restaurants is just about as perfect as a wave can be with 10 to 12 second barrel rides the standard when conditions are right.

That being said let's talk about the Fantasy Team and who to think about adding for the Volcom Pro.  First off experience and time spent in the water here is really going to pay off so picking veterans who've competed here before is a solid idea.  Secondly the judges are going to be looking for the longest deepest barrels so make sure if you've got guys with air game on your team they can thread a barrel or two also.

Slater: pretty much a sure thing here and the fact that he's already there means he's ready to compete. He's spent as much time at the place as anyone and know's it on a locals only level.

The Brothers Hobgood: These two have set the standard on how goofy footers ride Cloudbreak. They have spent so much time there that they too have a locals only level of knowledge of the wave. Damo has won here twice and CJ has two seconds.  CJ is cheap too, worth it in my opinion!

John John: What should I say here.... hot off a win, lives in the tube, could easily win here...

Owen Wright: Can go left as good as anyone and if you look back at Teahupoo when it was massive Owen made it to the finals! Owen likes big barrels!!!

Michel Bourez: Super powerful and can muscle his way through the largest of pits!

Freddy P: Hasn't had the best start but he's at home in powerful barreling lefts.  A good investment at for his price!

Josh Kerr: Can get pitted with the best of them and he's having a hell of a year so far!!!

Travis Logie, Ace Buchan, Kai Otton: All can hold there own in the forecasted surf and know there way around the tube!!!

The usual suspects are always solid bets here too. Mick, Parko, Taj, & Jordy.

The contest starts on the 3rd so get your Fantasy Team in order!!! Got a rad prize pack of Volcom and Electric gear for the winner!!!


Saturday, May 26, 2012

Surfboards for Women and Girls at Pioneers Board Shop in New Hampshire



Here at Pioneers we are always trying to keep the ladies in mind when we stock the store.  Recently we restocked with a bunch of boards that we think you'll love. The one above is a Walden Magic Model with artwork done by Heather Ross. Heather Ross teamed up with Walden Surfboards to produce an inspired range of art series boards. Heather is a renowned author and artist whose work draws upon her own childhood, which she describes as “rural and unsupervised!” We call it beautiful.

While the board might look beautiful it also is a fully function performance surfboard. Featuring the Magic Model design and X-2 Epoxy construction the board will suit surfers of all levels who ride a wide variety of wave types.

We've also got a dedicated run of Stand Up Paddle boards for ladies with the popular Boarding for Breast Cancer logo adorning the full traction deck. A portion of each sale of one of these boards go to the B4BC foundation. 

The 10'2” Betty B4BC SUP is a great first board for beginners with its generous volume making it easy for riders of all sizes to balance on. It also features a double concave bottom shape and fluid outline, which will make this a super fun board in the surf. Also because of the boards generous width the board is a great choice for someone looking for a board they can practice a little yoga on also.

The 10'6" was based on our best selling 11'0” model and developed for riders requiring less volume. The bottom shape features a nose concave, which blends nicely into a Vee bottom making the board easier to turn.

The 11'0” SUP is our best selling shape and is the perfect all around design for riders of all levels in both surf and on flat water. This board is very stable with good glide making it easy to paddle for flat water cruising.

All NSP Surf Betty SUPs come with a full length EVA deck with the new B4BC design and integral handle.


The Surf Betty is designed for young girls to advanced Betty's that want to spend more time exploring new surf breaks and traveling with their friends than fixing dings.

The 6'4" Surf Betty Fish is the perfect board for intermediate to experienced traveling Betties that are looking for a durable fish shape.

The 6'8" Surf Betty Fun shape is a forgiving performance fun shape that will offer a stable platform for beginning surfers.

The 7'2" is a comfortable fun shape that will get you in early and help you advance your surfing skills.

The 7'6 Surf Betty tri fin egg is a classic. It's shaped like a mini longboard and the focus here is fun!

The 7'10" Surf Betty is a performance shape in a funboard package. It is a balanced stable shape combined with the extra volume that helps you catch waves with ease. But don't be fooled, this board goes like a rocket when the surf is pumping. The rounded pintail will hold solid surf and the thruster configuration combined with the nicely foiled rails really projects your bottom turn.

ALL NSP SURF BETTY BOARDS COME WITH A LEASH, FCS M7 FINS AND A TAIL PAD.

And because you need more than a board to surf we also carry a full line of women's wetsuits from O'Neill and Ripcurl as well as tons of accessories from Volcom, Reef, and more.  If your new to surfing or just never been in the shop swing in, say hello, and check us out!

Friday, May 25, 2012

Summer Kick-Off Party to Benefit the Hampton Skatepark

The PARTY starts tonight, Friday the 25th, at 6pm and goes to at least 10pm!!!

There will be a BBQ with a real deal pig roast!  We'll also be raffling off a surfboard, selling bricks, a conducting a 50/50 raffle.

$10 cash gets you in and a bottomless plate of food!  The weather looks awesome and it's BYOB!!!

See you all there and be sure to bring some friends!!!


Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Isurus Wetsuits at Pioneers Board Shop in New Hampshire


We at Pioneers are all about progression and new technology that helps to push progression.  We are stoked to tell you about a new wetsuit company that we have brought into the shop called Isurus Wetsuits that is doing just that, pushing the boundaries.

Isurus isn't your average wetsuit and the price of an Isurus wetsuit starts where most top out. In the end it's money well spent on arguably the best wetsuit on the market.  The only way to get a better wetsuit is to have one custom made for your body. Steve has been wearing a hooded 4/3/4 Evade for a few months now and he is loving it, here are his comments "Super light, dries incredibly fast, amazing fit, and an incredible hood".

To sum it up these suits are amazing because:
100% Japanese rubber-super light, doesn't absorb water, dries fast
Fit- 20 points of measure are used when building the suit, most wetsuit companies use 11
Designed to move- Panels w/ compression technology are shaped with the natural movement of the body in mind equaling less fatigue/more waves.

If you're not sold yet or for further info continue reading below as I go deeper into the hows and whys of Isurus Wetsuits.

Anatomically Engineered Wetsuit Technology

The objective was to design a wetsuit that did not inhibit the natural range of motion of the athlete’s body. The process led us to research tri-athlete wetsuit designs where unrestricted range of motion is critical to fast swim times. ISURUS consulted with biomechanical experts to engineer proven tri-athlete wetsuit innovations to the special requirements of big wave, coldwater surfing.

By studying how the human musculo-skeletal structure works, the panels were cut to match the natural movement of the human body. Each panel synergistically works with the adjacent panels to provide the maximum free range of motion to be found in a wetsuit.

What thats means.... MORE PADDLING POWER, LESS FATIGUE

It is each panel designed working in unison with body that results in a higher elbow position and increased power during the catch phase of the stroke. More power and less wetsuit resistance results in more distance per stroke and reduced muscle output.

COMPRESSION WETSUIT

Compression Knit Construction, laminated to Anatomically Engineered Wetsuit Panels engineered to match the musculature of the surfers body, delivers an evenly distributed 360° stretch compression for increased performance.

ISURUS BioRx Compression Technology

Compression >> Anatomical Design
     Perform Better
     Recover Faster
Anatomical Design >> Muscle Oxygenation
     Optimizes Delivery of Oxygen
     Increases Power and Endurance
Precision Fit >> BMI (Body Mass Index)
     Fits Like a Second Skin
     Focuses Muscle Power
     Facilitates Lactic Acid Removal

Advanced Materials

DESIGNING A WORLD CLASS WETSUIT BEGINS WITH THE WORLD’S BEST NEOPRENE; TWO KEY POINTS IN THE RESEARCH

Great wetsuit performance begins with superior neoprene.
Not all neoprene is the same.
During our research it became evident that Yamamoto neoprene, is widely recognized as the most advanced neoprene available. Yamamoto neoprene dominates the market for high end triathlete wetsuits with 90% marketshare where lightweight and ultra flexible warm material is critical for competitive swim times. No serious triathlete uses a wetsuit that is not made from Yamamoto.

A SUPERIOR NEOPRENE

Yamamoto is made entirely from closed-cell neoprene using a proprietary manufacturing process that makes the material out of limestone and not petroleum. The material is 98% hydrophobic, meaning it doesn’t absorb water. Yamamoto’s closed-structure possesses elasticity or the ability of the material to return to its original shape after repeated wearings (that is not found in open-cell neoprene). It also makes it super warm, lightweight, thin and quick drying.

THE ISSUE WITH TRADITIONAL NEOPRENE

For the last 50 years, neoprene wetsuits have been made from petroleum-based rubber that is injected with nitrogen to create an “open cell” thermal barrier against the cold.

The problem with open-cell neoprene is:

It absorbs up to 80% of its weight in H2O. Think of a kitchen sponge. Water absorption which adds weight and requires additional body heat to warm the excess water. Open cell neoprene deteriorates quite rapidly compared to closed-cell neoprene primarily due the inherent weakness in the cell structure. The cell walls are connected to other cells by thin walls that weaken after repeated usage and the neoprene loses its thermal and hydrophobic properties (ability to not absorb H2O).

Body Mass Index for an Anatomically Correct Fit

BMI AND 20 POINTS OF MEASURE FOR A PRECISE FIT

ISURUS uses BMI (Body Mass Index) to size and shape the panels for a more anatomically precise fit. The company mapped the anatomies of over 300 athletes. Took more than 6,000 measurements of the different body types.

From these measurements, ISURUS developed over 20 Points of Measure to design and size the new series for an off-the-rack fit that compares to a custom wetsuit.

BMI

BMI is a statistical measure of body weight based on a person’s weight and height. Athletes searching for a performance edge have used BMI to design gear where a precise fit is critical to gaining a performance edge.

BMI IN SPORTS

Speedsuits in swimming, skiing, cycling and speed skating have been designed using BMI principles where a precise fit is critical for performance. The research ISURUS conducted shows BMI to be an excellent technology for designing a correct anatomically fitted wetsuit.

As surfers, we understand that a correct fit is critical to maintain body warmth and for maximum unrestricted range of motion when paddling.