The Lightbender is a modern hybrid that blends the flow of a fish with the responsiveness of a performance shortboard. With bottom contours pulled from a high-performance template and rails refined for sensitivity, it offers the perfect middle ground for surfers who want speed and style without sacrificing control. Its flat rocker under the chest improves paddling, while added entry and exit rocker let it handle steeper waves with confidence. The spiral vee out the tail aids in rail-to-rail transitions and generates drive from the back foot, making the Lightbender a versatile choice for a wide range of conditions.
Pro
Best of Both Worlds: Offers the drive and responsiveness of a shortboard with the glide and flow of a fish.
Great Paddle Power: Foam distribution under the chest and beak nose help catch waves with ease.
Handles Steep Sections: Slightly increased rocker gives the board more range and hold in critical surf.
Smooth Rail Transitions: Spiral vee and modern concaves allow for fluid, connected turns.
Con
Not Fully a Fish, Not Fully a Shortboard: May leave pure performance surfers or retro fish enthusiasts wanting more in their respective corners.
Requires Active Surfing: While accessible, it shines most under the feet of a surfer who engages turns with intent and flow.
Final Verdict
The Lightbender is a finely tuned fusion for surfers seeking versatility, speed, and a smooth ride across a range of wave types. Whether you’re coming from the performance world or venturing into more alternative outlines, the Lightbender provides an easy transition without compromise. It's a board that invites progression, rewards commitment, and brings new life to everyday conditions.
