The Alaia by Jon Wegener is possibly the most holistic surfing experience one can have. The Alaia (pronounced: ah-LIE-ah) is a thin, round-nosed, square-tailed board ridden in ancient Hawaii in the pre-20th century.

The boards were between 7 and 12 foot long, weighed up to 100 pounds and were generally made from the wood of Acacia Koa wood. They are distinct from modern surfboards in that they have no fins. The Wegener Alaias are made from Paulownia wood which has a low density giving excellent buoyancy and is resistant to soaking up water. Not only is this wood stunning to look at but when you are riding an Alaia or surfboard made with Paulownia timber, another tree starts to grow again. These are designed for an intermediate to advanced surfer who has a fair amount of determination and surf skill. The Alaia works well in good, steep faced waves in the knee high to head high range. Malibu would be an ideal break to ride this type of wave machine. Jon calls it the "magic carpet" as it feels like being on ice as the ride is super fast and frictionless. If you still haven't found what you are looking for, this may be your next board. Alaias are hand shaped and signed by Jon Wegener, world class designer and shaper.

www.wegenersurf.com