I got a great deal on a used Bark Commader 12’. I’m 195lbs so it’s fine lay down paddling but I’ve been only able to do a stroke or two on my knees before falling (in semi choppy conditions.) Would a different fin make any difference? In flatter water and a 14’ rented commander I could knee paddle so I know it’s possible.
I got it down by knee paddling in the harbor on a 12 footer made for a 160 pound dude, I was well over 200 pounds at the time. Practice in super flat water. Gives you more room for fuck ups so you can find the sweet spot. Once you find you find your proper position and can paddle hard to fatigue without any “sudden corrections” in balance then start practicing your prone-to-knee transitions. Paddle prone, pop up to knees, get in your sweet spot. Do this until you can consistently pop right into sweet spot with minimal wobbling.This all should take about 20 minutes max.
Then go out in the “semi-chop” and do it.
And yes, a 14 foot board is easier to knee paddle. Learning on a 12 will benefit you more in the long run.
And yes, a fin might make a difference.
My board came with one like this….
Now I have one of these and it definitely helped.
Developed by the legendary Bark family, the RFD is most commonly used fin for stock prone racing. Tested and developed by the best in the sport, the RFD works in everything from downwind to flat water conditions.
futuresfins.com