Summary
The FORMULA-1 Round Pin is a modern revival with serious pedigree—blending the DNA of Julian Wilson’s early-2010s magic boards with the contemporary performance of the Driver 3.0, then refined under the feet of Yago Dora and Cole Houshmand. The result is a more “set back,” curvier, and performance-focused shortboard that emphasizes tight-radius turns, front-foot drive, and controlled release off the tail. Compared to the Driver 3.0, it offers a more connected, precise feel—especially in the pocket—while still generating plenty of speed through deeper concaves and refined rocker adjustments. This isn’t just a reissue—it’s a rework that leans heavily into modern high-performance surfing.

Pros

Deeper single to double concave generates excellent lift, speed, and projection
More curve through the outline and rail line allows for tighter, more vertical turns
Round pin tail adds hold, control, and confidence in critical sections
Strong front-foot drive with a sharp, precise release off the back foot
Balanced rocker (slightly more nose, slightly less tail) helps with both entry and flow through turns
Proven at the highest level—validated in competition by elite surfers

Cons

Less forgiving than flatter, more neutral performance boards
Requires good technique to fully unlock its tighter turning radius
Not ideal for weak, mushy surf—leans toward quality waves
Slightly more specialized feel compared to all-arounders like the Driver 3.0

Final Verdict
The FORMULA-1 Round Pin is a refined, performance-first shortboard built for surfers who want precision and control without sacrificing speed. It takes inspiration from the past but is firmly rooted in modern progression, offering a more responsive and connected feel than its Driver lineage. Best suited for surfers who like to push hard off the front foot and draw tight, committed lines, it’s a legit step up in performance—especially when the waves have some shape and push.

Formula1

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