# Custom Kayaks Mark 1

> Surfski by Custom Kayaks, out of production. Canonical page: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/custom-kayaks-mark-1/
> Cite as: Custom Kayaks Mark 1, Surfski Index, https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/custom-kayaks-mark-1/ (checked 2026-10-15). Terms: https://surfskiindex.com/using-our-data/

## Specifications
- Usually paddled by: Paddlers in chop

## Ratings (Surfski Index estimates)
- Stability band 5–8 out of 10 (editorial estimate, low confidence).
- Speed rated 6 out of 10.

Our estimate from published descriptions and reviews. Low confidence. Speed is our rating. Both are given at the hull's own design weight.

These ratings are Surfski Index estimates, worked out from published dimensions, traced hull shapes where we have them, and reviews. They are not supplied by the maker or timed on the water. How a ski feels depends on your weight, skill, set-up and the conditions, so use them to shortlist skis and paddle one before you buy. Method: https://surfskiindex.com/how-it-works/#limits

Evidence note: This band is a cautious editorial estimate; it is not backed by a hull trace. Qualitative context includes 2 paddler reports and 1 linked source.

## Suits
General-purpose ocean/downwind ski, used socially and competitively.

## Hull
No verified hull-design detail beyond marketing; owner reports a 'soft, floating' feel on downwind runs, compared favorably to the Epic V12 Ultra's bow behavior.

## What works
- Positioned accessible across skill levels yet race-capable
- Good downwind bow behavior per comparative review

## Trade-offs
- No verified length/width/weight found
- Limited independent review coverage vs Synergy/Apex

## Generations
- mid-2000s: Positioned as elite-competitive while retaining stability/user-friendliness for lesser paddlers. Successor path unclear from sources. South African brand.

## What paddlers say
- Wayne Borchardt (in a 2006 surfski.info Fenn Mako 6 review): paddled a Custom Kayaks Mark 1 socially in Cape Town.
- 2008 surfski.info thread 'Red7 Surf70 v Custom Kayaks Mark 1' shows it was cross-shopped against the Red7 Surf70.

## Sources
- surfski.info forum search results for 'Custom Kayaks' (2006-2010)

## Prices
Current new prices and dealers: https://surfskiindex.com/surfskis/custom-kayaks-mark-1/#buy