Habanero – The Active Groveler Inspired by the Grinder Series
The Habanero was developed as a specialized small-wave contest board, blending elements from the Grinder and GrinderX to meet the demands of surfers like Brett and Courtney who need to excel on flat sections while still launching vertical when required. Described as an ‘active groveler,’ the board offers ample surface area underfoot to maintain speed and control during dynamic maneuvers. It features a fairly high nose rocker for smooth, catch-free entry in steeper sections, balanced by a lower tail rocker with a subtle vee to aid release and drive. The outline boasts a wider overall template with moderate nose and tail widths and a slightly pulled-in tail block, striking a balance between stability and responsiveness.
Pros:
Ample surface area underfoot enhances speed and control in small, flat waves
High nose rocker prevents pearling and maintains flow on steep sections
Lower tail rocker with vee facilitates quick turns and release
Versatile design tailored for competitive small-wave performance
Cons:
Wider template may feel less agile in faster, hollow waves
Specialized design best suited for small to medium surf conditions
Summary:
The Habanero is a finely tuned small-wave contest board that blends the Grinder series’ traits into a lively and responsive shape. Its combination of rocker, outline, and surface area delivers an ‘active groveler’ experience—fast and maneuverable on flat stretches yet ready to charge vertical when the opportunity arises. Ideal for surfers seeking a high-performance board in smaller, less powerful waves.