Potato-shaped stones are better for skimming, say experts

Scientists claim that heavier, rather than flatter, rocks can produce almighty' leaps out of the water

Scientists have identified particular types of stone that can produce almighty" leaps out of the water when skimmed across the surface.

While aficionados of the pursuit favour thin, flat stones for long-distance skimming, the researchers' mathematical model reveals that heavier, potato-shaped stones can achieve more dramatic results, which blast the rock into the air.