The Rad Ripper is a wildly popular post-modern retro performance board designed to deliver maximum fun in minimal conditions. A direct evolution of the Retro Ripper, this model blends the glide and style of 1980s performance shortboards with modern hydrodynamics to create a board that’s fast, forgiving, and full of life — especially in small, average waves.
Designed by Matt Biolos, the Rad Ripper lowers the entry rocker for faster paddling and quicker acceleration, while maintaining a healthy dose of tail rocker for maneuverability. An aggressive double concave runs through the tail, injecting extra squirt and lift under the back foot. The retro-inspired squash tail provides more surface area, which enhances planing and maintains speed through flat sections — making the Rad Ripper a great choice for soft summer waves or everyday conditions.
The board features a flat deck with steep, tucked-under rails that strike a perfect balance between float and control. The signature beaked nose pays homage to its retro roots while adding forward volume for better paddle power and wave-catching ability.
The Rad Ripper is a fun-first surfboard that almost anyone can ride, from intermediate surfers looking to improve flow and speed to advanced riders who want to loosen up in small surf.
Pros:
* Extremely fast and user-friendly — great for everyday or small-wave surfing.
* Paddles effortlessly and catches waves early.
* Retro feel with modern performance; appeals to a wide range of surfers.
* Excellent stability and drive in weak or mushy conditions.
* Stylish throwback with real substance underfoot.Cons:
* Not ideal for steep, hollow, or highly critical surf, but don't tell Rasta Rob that.
* The wide tail and lower rocker can feel less reactive in powerful waves.
* May be too “fun-focused” for surfers seeking ultra-high-performance responsiveness.Summary:
The Rad Ripper is a post-modern retro rocket — fast, fun, and forgiving. By combining old-school charm with new-school function, it excels in small, everyday conditions and is accessible for surfers of almost all levels. It’s a paddling machine with flow, speed, and just enough spice to keep advanced surfers grinning. Think: summer magic, with performance to match.
