The Xanadu Hydra is a modern small-wave performance board, evolved from the tried-and-true SW-15 and designed to bring serious speed and flow to gutless days. With updates to the rocker and outline, the Hydra blends a futuristic look with user-friendly performance—perfect for surfers who want to rip on smaller days without resorting to a fish.
The Hydra features a flatter entry rocker and straighter outline, with a wider nose and tail to maximize planing surface and compensate for its shorter length. A flatter deck adds volume and results in fuller rails, which keep the board moving through soft sections while giving it a "skatey and floaty" feel. Quick acceleration, down-the-line speed, and plenty of drive make this board ideal for small, broken-up surf that requires creativity and momentum.
Pros:
* Fast and drivey, even in weak, flat-faced waves
* Fuller rails and flatter deck add forgiveness and float
* Shorter length enhances maneuverability and quick reactions
* Perfect for small-wave shredding without sacrificing performance
Cons:
* May feel overly buoyant or loose for surfers used to refined, narrow shortboards
* Not ideal for punchy, steeper surf or tight pocket surfing
Summary:
The Xanadu Hydra is a fast, fun, and forgiving shortboard designed to bring high-performance energy to small, uninspiring conditions. With a futuristic outline and updated rocker profile, it flies over flat sections and excels where most shortboards struggle. Ride it 3–4 inches shorter than your standard shortboard, and let the Hydra turn your slow days into fast, ripping sessions—no fish required.