Summary:
The Faded 2.0 Step-Up is a heavy water big-wave performance board designed for serious surf sessions where power, control, and paddle ease are essential. Developed alongside the regular Faded 2.0 but scaled up for bigger, punchier conditions, this board features input from team riders like Jay Davies, who trusts it in heavy West Oz and Hawaiian swells. With a slightly fuller nose and ample volume under the chest, it paddles effortlessly into steep, hollow waves, while the pulled-in pin tail and low rails provide confident hold and control at high speeds.
Outline:
Fuller nose for paddle power
Smooth, fast outline through the bottom two-thirds ending in a pin tail for control
Rocker:
Flat-medium entry rocker for easy wave catch
Smooth medium tail rocker that supports speed and maneuverability
Bottom Contours:
Single concave from roughly 12 inches down to midboard for speed and lift
Slight double concave from mid to tail, flowing into a vee out the tail for rail-to-rail ease and hold
Rails:
Low rails for excellent bite and line-holding in fast, hollow waves
Fins:
Comes with a 5-fin setup, adaptable for both quad and thruster configurations, prioritizing control in powerful surf
Pros:
Exceptional paddle power thanks to volume under the chest and fuller nose
Balanced rocker offering both speed on the wave face and control in critical sections
Contoured bottom that provides smooth rail transitions and stable hold in heavy waves
Low rails allow aggressive line holding and confidence on steep drops
Versatile 5-fin system for fin setup customization
Cons:
Designed specifically for heavier, larger surf—less optimal for small or mushy waves
May feel less forgiving for surfers used to more relaxed or retro step-up designs
Final Verdict:
The Faded 2.0 Step-Up is a precision-engineered weapon for surfers tackling big, fast, and heavy waves. Its blend of paddle-friendly volume, refined rocker, and smart bottom contours make it a reliable board for those critical moments when control and confidence matter most. Backed by rider experience and meticulous design, this board is perfect for anyone serious about charging big surf with maximum control and drive.