The CI Pro Step Up is the logical evolution of Channel Islands' best-selling 2.Pro, engineered for surfers who demand elite performance in powerful, more consequential surf. Developed by Britt Merrick and the CI team, this model carries over the proven contours and rocker profile of the 2.Pro, but is lengthened and fine-tuned to thrive in steeper, heavier waves. It offers a seamless transition for those who want to retain the same feel of their daily performance shortboard in bigger conditions—bridging the gap between everyday shred stick and serious wave charger.
Pros
Consistent Feel Across Conditions: Maintains the 2.Pro’s trusted rocker and contours, delivering familiarity even when stepping up.
Ideal for Bigger Surf: Lengthened template and refined volume provide confidence, control, and speed when the waves turn on.
Performance First: Designed for radical surfing in serious surf—perfect for barrels, big carves, and aggressive rail surfing.
Cons
Less Forgiving Than the Happy Traveler: With its high-performance DNA, this step-up caters more to advanced surfers, not casual travelers or intermediate-level wave chasers.
Niche Use: While incredible in the right conditions, it’s not a one-board quiver—it shines specifically in overhead-plus surf.
Final Verdict
The Pro Step Up is a weapon of choice for experienced surfers pushing their limits in waves of consequence. It carries the trusted DNA of the 2.Pro into the kind of surf that demands more length, paddle power, and hold—without sacrificing the speed, sensitivity, or flow that define CI’s performance boards. For those who want a seamless step-up that still rips like a shortboard, this is a no-brainer.
