MEGA Surf Kayaks
International was formed in 1991
as a result of the personal desire for a surf kayak that was not
available from other manufacturers in the U.K. The first Mega
Jester was produced in humble beginnings in a garden shed and
three months later won the World Championships in Thurso,
Scotland.
Malcolm
started slalom kayaking at age 12. One year later he started
surfing ocean waves in his kayak and at age 22 he participated in
his first kayak surfing competition. Back then - in 1988 - he was
one of the kayak surfing trendsetters in the UK. Today, he is
proud of already having sold more than 5000 kayaks worldwide.
Your
favorite surf kayak?
"We have produced around 24 models over the last 15
years. I think the original Jester had the biggest impact on world
level surf kayaking and changed the sport considerably.
With such a comprehensive range of boats covering a wide
range of paddler sizes, it is logical that the most popular boats
are probably the Neutron and the Merlin. These are aimed around the
middle of the population weight range wise, are both awesome boats
performance wise, and have had big exposure in the hands of some of
the worlds best paddlers. If you look at some of the other models, then the lighter guys and
girls are going for the Reflex, and at the top end the Scarab and
Megatron are both selling very well. I think the boat that has
really been a real revelation as regards sales though is the
Bullitt "S". It's combination of ease of paddling,
ability to surf a wide range of conditions, and comfort for long
paddling sessions has made it an instant success. It was aimed
firmly at the recreational surfer which makes up by far the
biggest numbers out in the surf.
Our own new plastic Surf Kayak, the
X-Ray, is a slightly enlarged Revenge and the performance according
to the top guys that have paddled it is no different than the
composite model. You only notice it when carrying it down to the
beach, but at Circa 14 kgs I think it's acceptable given the
performance of the kayak and the durability of the plastic."
Your
favorite spot ?
"I
have been lucky to have some great surfing trips, ones that rate
highly are Thurso, Steamer Lane, Easky, Boca Boranca. I generally
prefer: Warm water, slight offshore, 5-6', easy paddle out.
"
