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Summary
The JS Black Baron is a modern twin fin that blends retro inspiration with contemporary surfboard design. Originally shaped with Joel “Parko” Parkinson after his retirement from the World Tour, it was created for surfers wanting a break from high-performance shortboards in everyday waves. This updated version keeps the original’s fun factor but adds refinements:
A subtle flyer into a pulled-in swallow tail for extra release and hold.
A fuller nose with hidden foam under the chest for paddle power and glide.
Fin boxes set further back to increase drive and control compared to looser twin setups.
The flat deck, low rails, and vee-to-double concave bottom contour make it easy to roll rail-to-rail and keep sensitivity despite added foam. With a low-to-flat rocker, the Black Baron generates effortless speed, particularly in smaller waves. This makes it best for 2–4ft beach breaks, mellow points, and playful reefs, where it allows surfers to explore stylish lines, fast carves, and tail release at speed.
It’s not a high-performance shortboard or step-up, but in the small-to-average surf where most people spend their time, it’s built for maximum fun without sacrificing function.
Pros:
Effortless speed in weak waves thanks to the low-to-flat rocker and twin-fin setup.
Fuller nose and hidden foam under the chest improve paddle power and glide.
Flyer into swallow tail balances looseness with hold for control in turns.
Fin placement set further back gives added drive and reduces drift compared to looser twins.
Vee-to-double concave bottom promotes smooth rail-to-rail surfing and flow.
Flat deck with low rails hides volume while keeping sensitivity at high speeds.
Versatile across beach breaks, points, and reefs in smaller surf.
Encourages stylish, creative surfing with both carves and tail release options.
Refined through extensive R&D with JS, Parko, and the Traktor Team.
Cons:
Limited wave range — not suited for hollow or overhead surf.
Loose twin-fin feel may not appeal to surfers preferring thruster-style drive and control.
Performance is fin dependent; works best with quality twin setups like Hydroglass or Carbotune.
Not a one-board quiver — designed as a specialty fun board rather than an everyday performance shortboard.
Flat rocker can feel restrictive in tight vertical sections that require more curve.
Final Verdict:
The JS Black Baron is a modern twin-fin classic, blending retro glide with contemporary control. It excels in everyday waves from knee-high to head-high, with its sweet spot in waist-to-chest high surf where speed, flow, and creativity are the focus.
While it won’t replace your high-performance thruster or step-up, it doesn’t need to. The Black Baron is all about fun and style — making even the weakest waves feel fast and playful. For surfers who want to expand their quiver with a twin-fin that’s equally at home trimming down the line or burying rail in a carve, this board is one of the best options on the market.
