how do WDK "freeride(?)" hoods hold up?

[brett]

my buddy has a WDK hood i can get for cheap. its not the lowered one, it looks just like the stocker...i guess its the "freeride" hood?

 

[Kennay]

Why would you even want it then? To save 5lbs?

 

[brett]

"Waterdawg Kustomz has an affordable option for anyone that wants a freestyle hood, without lowering the ski with a cowling and bracket. This reduces cost by a substantial margin. Also, some people prefer the high pivot system used from the factory. The “FREERIDE” hood has many advantages over a stock one. First, it weighs half as much. Eleven pounds compared to twenty-three. Second, it breathes and drains through the back only, like a lowered freestyle hood. Third, the hood liner will clear all dry pipes, internal fuel fillers, and tall flame arrestors. It is available with or without handholds. Color options include white, black, carbon fiber, or custom paint. “FREERIDE” is a must for anyone that wants to take his or her ski to the next level on a low budget."

thats what WDK says...idk..i can get it for 100 bucks

 

[Matt_E]

The stocker weighs 18.5lbs without the extinguisher, not 23. (My scale, admittedly)

 

[SXIPro]

For a hundred bucks, I'd grab it. You'd pay that for a used stocker.

 

[brett]

For a hundred bucks, I'd grab it. You'd pay that for a used stocker.

didnt think about it that way....great point.

 

[jetx]

I'd grab it too...but its not my money...

 

[K-SCARB]

If you don't want it I'll take it.

 

[dustin272]

Brett for a hundred bucks you can't beat it. If you don't want it I'll give you 125 for it and I will pick it up from you.

 

[stanton]

it will hold up great for ya, you thinking of going big brett?

 

[brett]

it will hold up great for ya, you thinking of going big brett?

lol

 

[stanton]

all you gotta do is hit a steeper wave. you remember how many times i bailed learning stabs? some days i only stayed on 3 times a session. i was also learning with no straps but still. it really doesnt hurt that bad off these summer waves.

 

[FL-cracker]

For a hundred bucks, I'd grab it. You'd pay that for a used stocker.

But a stock hood will hold up WAY bettet, and also fit far supperior.

I have bashed on stock hoods for more then two years of heavy abuse, and have never cracked, or hurt one in any way.

My waterloged Craper started ripping the liner out on the 2nd ride.... then my role side got realy mushy/soft. I have heard of many other's doing the same thing.... most have had to reinforced there liners.

I would not waste 100 bucks on that crapper... Id rather rock a stock hood, and not be concerend with sinking my boat.

Just my opinion/expereince.

 

[WAB]

So 6-7 lbs lighter (maybe), looks just like a stocker, may not fit like a stocker, may not take abuse like a stocker. You'd never notice that little weight savings in the surf. Plus, a stock hood can be modded for rear breathing & draining easily.
I'd say spend the $100 on something else, but I'm a cheap bastard. :no: