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The Schooner is JS Industries’ latest evolution in the realm of high-volume performance all-rounders. Designed with input from Mikey Wright and battle-tested across the globe by team riders like Julian Wilson, Conner Coffin, and Kauli Vaast, the Schooner delivers a rare blend of paddle power, speed generation, and full-throttle performance in surf ranging from playful beachies to powerful, barreling reefs.
The name “Schooner” nods cheekily to its design—just like a frothy beer, the board carries most of its foam up front with a pushed-forward wide point. But this isn’t just about float—there’s serious function behind the form. That added foam through the front half boosts paddling and wave-catching ability, while the medium rocker (inspired by the Monsta 2020) ensures the board stays responsive in the pocket and fast down the line without catching on steep takeoffs.
The outline is fuller, comparable to the Raging Bull, which gives the Schooner its forgiving feel and added glide, but the rails remain low for sensitivity, bite, and maneuverability. Underneath, a single-to-double concave setup runs from nose through the fins, promoting lift, control, and drive through turns and sections. The foil maintains volume through the center, allowing you to ride slightly thicker without sacrificing control.
JS recommends riding the Schooner about an inch shorter and slightly wider and thicker than your go-to shortboard. This design choice allows surfers to pack in extra liters without feeling sluggish—perfect for surfers who want performance without paddling penalty.
Riders across the JS team have proven its versatility: Mikey pushed it through heaving European slabs, Julian used it for both barrels and airs, and Kauli called it the best board he’s ever had at Teahupo’o. If that’s not a resume for a one-board quiver, we don’t know what is.
Pros
Versatile All-Rounder: Handles everything from head-high beachies to serious reef setups (2–8ft+).
High Paddle Power: Extra front-end foam makes it easy to catch waves and stay in position.
Responsive & Fast: Medium rocker provides a balance of speed and control in critical sections.
Smart Volume Strategy: Fuller outline and low rails give added buoyancy without dulling performance.
Proven Worldwide: Tested in real surf, from Teahupo’o to Sunset, by some of the world’s best.
Cons
More Volume Than Some May Like: Riders used to ultra-refined shortboards may need an adjustment period.
Not a Pure Groveler: While it performs in average waves, there are better options for truly weak conditions.
Custom Tuning Required: To maximize performance, sizing it correctly (shorter, wider, thicker) is important—especially for those unfamiliar with EasyRider-style boards.
Final Verdict
The Schooner is a refined, powerful board with broad appeal—a high-volume, performance-tuned all-rounder that lets you go shorter and thicker without losing responsiveness. Whether you’re threading barrels, carving on rail, or launching airs in head-high surf, the Schooner does it all with confidence and flow. It’s an ideal one-board quiver for intermediates and pros alike, built to perform anywhere from everyday conditions to the heaviest waves you’re willing to take on.
