Olympic-Caliber Performance for Everyday Conditions
The IF15 GOLD is a refined take on Italo Ferreira’s original IF15 model, purpose-built to thrive in the softer, punchy beach break conditions encountered during the lead-up to the 2020 Olympic Games. Developed in close collaboration between Italo and shaper Timmy Patterson, this board was fine-tuned to maximize speed, drive, and flow in smaller, less ideal surf—without sacrificing the explosive performance that defines Italo’s surfing.
To adapt the board for these conditions, the outline was slightly widened, especially through the nose and tail areas, while the tail block was thickened for added foam and stability. This provides a noticeable increase in drive and control, particularly through turns and when transitioning off the back foot. A deeper single concave was added through the bottom, and the rocker line off the tail was adjusted by dropping the rail line—resulting in a board that generates speed effortlessly, even in flatter sections.
The IF15 GOLD also features a fuller rail, which gives it a smoother, more forgiving feel, making it easier to engage and maintain speed, even when conditions are inconsistent. Despite being rooted in high-performance DNA, this board is remarkably approachable for a wide range of surfers.
Recommended as a tri-fin, the IF15 GOLD can be customized with various tail shapes—squash, round, chop, or swallow—depending on your preferences and local conditions. It’s best ridden in waves ranging from waist-high to a few feet overhead.
Pros:
Widened nose and tail improve planing speed and stability in weaker waves
Deeper concave and modified tail rocker add significant drive and back-foot control
Fuller rails create a user-friendly feel while retaining responsiveness
Custom tail options allow tuning for specific wave types
Perfect for beach breaks and variable small-to-mid surf
Cons:
Not as refined or nimble in hollower, critical reef or point break waves
May feel a bit too full underfoot for surfers seeking ultra-refined shortboard sensitivity
Summary:
The IF15 GOLD is a performance board tuned for real-world conditions—especially for surfers looking to maintain top-level speed, power, and flow in less-than-perfect surf. With added volume, a forgiving rail, and precision adjustments to the tail and bottom contours, it delivers Olympic-level design in a package that excels in everyday waves. Whether you’re competing or just trying to make the most out of your local beach break, the IF15 GOLD brings power and progression within reach.