The Pyzel Phantom was created in response to overwhelming feedback on the success of the Ghost—a board celebrated for its performance in shoulder-high and up conditions. Recognizing the need for a daily driver version that could handle more average surf, Jon Pyzel designed the Phantom as a step-down model that retains the Ghost’s signature feel, but with modifications that enhance performance in head-high and below conditions—the kind most surfers face regularly.
The Phantom keeps the same Ghost rocker, but adds more single concave through the center to flatten it slightly, generating speed and flow in weaker or flatter sections. This tweak helps the board accelerate easily while still maintaining its responsive, high-performance DNA. The outline has been adjusted with added width in the nose and tail, creating a fuller, more parallel shape that keeps momentum through soft spots and enables tighter, more controlled turns.
The Phantom's rails are fuller than the Ghost’s, offering extra floatation and forgiveness, yet are refined enough to maintain bite and sensitivity when pushed. This combination gives the Phantom an ideal balance—high-performance capability without sacrificing approachability.
Best suited for waist-high to overhead surf across all types of breaks—beachies, points, and reefs—the Phantom is the kind of board that quickly earns its place as a dependable daily driver.
Pros:
All-conditions versatility: Performs in a wide range of surf from waist-high to overhead.
Speed and flow in average waves: Extra concave and fuller outline help carry speed through soft sections.
User-friendly rail design: Full but responsive rails offer forgiveness without compromising control.
Ghost DNA with daily-driver capability: Retains the high-performance feel of the Ghost in more approachable surf.
Well-balanced outline: Wider nose and tail keep the board fast and stable while allowing tight, agile turns.
Cons:
Not ideal for powerful or hollow waves: For more critical conditions, the original Ghost or a more tuned HPSB might be better.
May feel wide underfoot for purists: Surfers who prefer ultra-refined, narrow outlines may need time to adjust.
Summary:
The Phantom is a smart, versatile step-down built to bring the magic of the Ghost into everyday sessions. With extra volume, adjusted concave, and a fuller outline, it delivers easy speed, smooth turns, and just enough bite to satisfy advanced surfers, while remaining approachable for intermediates. For surfers looking to maximize performance on average days without sacrificing the feel of a world-class shape, the Phantom is a go-to in the Pyzel lineup.
