Advice for First Paddleboard

[MDP]

After saving up all my earnings for a year and a half, I am now ready to buy my first board. I've done some research into different paddleboards and also bought some SUP magazines, and I have two specific boards in mind. I'd like some second opinions on the boards, and also advice on which board I should purchase(or maybe someone can suggest a board that I don't know about).

I want a fast board with a displacement hull that works well in the ocean and on flat water areas, such as harbors, lakes, etc. I also want a relatively lightweight board, and one that is easy to travel with. As I plan to use my board very often, I would like a durable board that will last for a long time. I paddleboard mainly on flatwater, though I use it in the ocean every so often. I do not plan to use the board to surf; I might use it to race later on.
I weigh 130 pounds and am 5'10 ft. tall.

The two boards I have in mind are the Infinity x Aviso 12'6 Racer 2(found it through StandUp Journal) and the Bark 12'6 Competitor by Surftech(recommended by many). I'm aware that both boards are expensive.

I figure that because Christmas is over and winter's upon us, the prices will be significantly lower than they would be in the peak season of summer. My budget is within $1500-$1900 dollars for the board.

I'd also like some recommendations for paddles. I hear carbon paddles are the best to use. The only company that I know of is Quickblade.

Thanks for reading and have a good 2011!

[Dwight (DW)]

You can find demo and slightly used race boards in the $1200-1500 range all day long. The hard core racers are always changing gear. Weights vary wildly. Even between same models. Keep an eye out, check the weight in person, paddle them, and don't get your mind locked into to any one brand reading specs. Tons of good choices now. Makes those dollars go farther and you'll be glad you did later.

Go to a race without a board. Make friends at the race, demo, buy on the spot. Lots for sale after a race.

[PT Woody]

The other brand of quality carbon paddle is Kialoa. At 130lb, I think the Kialoa Pipes or maybe Methane would suit.

[stoneaxe]

No personal experience but I hear the Infinity is prone to dings (carbon doesn't like impacts). Fast and light but not so durable. DW's advice is spot on. From the sounds of it I'd give up a little in the weight in the interest of durability especially for your first board that is more likely to take some whacks..
Kialoa, Quickblade, Werner...all good paddles...others too. Try to demo paddles if possible before you buy....may even be more personal than boards. I think you can get both a board and paddle for well under $1900. If you look for a good deal on a used board from a well known manufacturer and then use it for a year while you get better you will probably be able to sell it for close to the same price a year later if you take good care of it.

[beaglebuddy]

First boards always get beat to hell