The Step Off Performer is JS Industries’ specialized answer for serious surf missions—when you’re chasing slabs, riding heavy water, or stepping off a ski into barreling beasts. Refined through extensive feedback from team riders, ambassadors, and big-wave chargers, this board is purpose-built for high-speed control in hollow, powerful waves. After years of dialed-in R&D, the Step Off Performer is now available by custom order for those looking to push their limits in serious conditions.
Based on the proven rocker of the Forget Me Not II, the Step Off shares its medium entry and exit curves, giving you the ability to knife into barrels without sacrificing speed or responsiveness. However, the outline is where things get radically different—narrow and straight from nose to tail, designed to hold a line at maximum speed and offer unmatched stability in the barrel. A more pulled-in tail further increases grip and control in steep, critical sections, helping the board hold its line through shockwaves, chandeliers, and turbulence.
The Step Off doesn’t try to generate lift—it’s all about harnessing the raw energy of powerful surf. A shallow single concave runs throughout the bottom, allowing clean water flow and providing precision and drive. Low rails add to the board’s control at speed, letting you knife turns with confidence and stay engaged on rail when it matters most.
Recommended glassing is 6x6x6, offering added durability, weight, and momentum to smooth out choppy or windy conditions. Smaller fins are also suggested—ride a medium template instead of your usual large to maintain looseness and flow, with setups ranging from quad (for pure barrels) to thruster (if turns are on the menu).
This is not a daily driver—it’s a board for when the ocean’s flexing, and you need your gear to match.
Pros
Bulletproof Barrel Board: Designed specifically for step-offs and big, hollow waves.
Incredible Hold and Speed: Narrow, straight outline and pulled-in tail track like a missile in the barrel.
Controlled Rocker: Balanced enough for tight pocket turns and long down-the-line walls.
Optimized for Ski Access: Ride narrower and thinner than your shortboard for max control.
Durable & Momentum-Heavy Glassing: 6x6x6 setup offers strength and smoothness in bumpy or windy conditions.
Cons
Too Specialized for Everyday Surf: Built for 6–12 ft+ waves—overkill for average beach breaks.
Less Lift, Less Forgiveness: Shallow concave minimizes lift for control, which could feel stiff to some.
Custom-Only Build: Availability is limited and tuned for surfers chasing serious waves, not casual orders.
Final Verdict
The Step Off Performer is the board you want when the forecast looks sketchy… in a good way. It’s your ticket to staying locked in and blown out—whether you’re being towed into ledges, chasing long walls on big days, or threading tubes from a ski. With its controlled rocker, narrow outline, and proven concave setup, the Step Off combines stability, speed, and precision for the most demanding conditions. For advanced surfers tackling serious waves, it’s not just a board—it’s a necessity.
