JOHN PYZEL REVIEWS RADIUS PRIME >
The Radius Prime is a finely tuned update to the acclaimed Radius—a flagship high-performance shortboard (HPSB) that earned Jordy Smith’s Stab in the Dark pick and has long been a favorite among Pyzels' team riders. While staying true to the aggressive, performance-driven DNA of the original, the Prime introduces several subtle adjustments to elevate speed, control, and lip attack—making it an ideal board for experienced surfers chasing precision in quality waves.
Designed specifically for good surf with shape—think punchy beach breaks, down-the-line points, and hollow reef setups—the Radius Prime features a continuous medium-to-high rocker that encourages smooth, fast turning and quick transitions. A deep single concave throughout the bottom adds lift and down-the-line drive, while added tail rocker in the Prime version sharpens the turning radius and gives the board more vertical freedom in the pocket and lip.
A slight hip in the outline gives the Prime added looseness and pivot, while a newly widened nose improves entry speed and overall flow—especially in faster, down-the-line sections. These updates work in harmony to maintain the original Radius’s speed and control, while delivering even more precision and pop in the critical part of the wave.
The Radius Prime also comes with slightly more volume per size—about one liter more than the original—which increases paddle power and helps surfers carry speed through flatter sections without sacrificing control. A round tail step-up version is also available for those looking to push performance in bigger, more powerful surf.
Pros:
Refined for peak performance: Updates to rocker, nose width, and outline improve vertical surfing, flow, and release.
Ideal for good waves: Excels in conditions with face and curve—from solid beach breaks to overhead reef setups.
Responsive and fast: Single concave and increased tail rocker deliver both drive and tight, dynamic turning.
Added volume for balance: Slightly more foam improves paddle power and versatility without dulling sensitivity.
Versatile step-up option: Round tail version adds hold and confidence in solid surf.
Cons:
Not for mushy surf: Designed for performance in better waves; may feel twitchy or underpowered in weak or small conditions.
Requires skill to maximize: Best suited for advanced or upper-intermediate surfers ready to push performance boundaries.
Summary:
The Radius Prime is a state-of-the-art performance shortboard refined for surfers looking to elevate their game in high-quality waves. With precision adjustments to rocker, volume, and outline, it maintains the trusted DNA of the original Radius while unlocking tighter arcs, improved drive, and superior vertical control. Whether you're attacking a lined-up point or threading overhead reef barrels, the Prime gives you the tools to surf sharper, faster, and more explosively.
