Hi from Harry from North Carolina

Am new to contemporary mat riding. Grew up near Wrightsville Beach NC in late 50's and early 60's when navy and yellow converse rafts were the thing. Bumped into this on the net and have ordered a new ride. My sons are learning to surf hard boards and I want to be there. My rice crispy knees are a limit and by the time I stand up I am on shore tripping over beach chairs. We travel a fair amount and the thought of having the mat there and ready lets me daydream a bit. Am a bit on the chunky side at 6'2" and 240 and am 59 years of age. Bought a 4thGear XL and was pleased with the transaction. Any advice on starting would be appreciated. anyone in this part of the world have any preferred breaks please let me know.
Best, Harry

Harry,
Welcome to the mat world! Riding surfmats hasn't changed since we all rode the blue and yellow ones in our youth. Fortunately the mats have changed so riding straight to the beach in not the only option. Just get back in the water with your kids the rest will follow quite naturally. Get fins that are comfortable on your feet and no reason to start with giant long fins. Too hard on the feet, ankles and knees. Just hold on and smile. The mat knows the way. Best of Luck. Bruce

Hi Harry

Welcome from me too and thanks Prana for picking up that I had not done so and gone ahead and done so for me.

As Prana says just get out there on the mat as often as you can and the magic will start to unfold. It does help to go out in decent sized waves though when you first start as mats can take bit to get going but once they are on the wave and break free woo hop. Exceptional fun!