Born from the need to thread long, powerful barrels in Mexico, the Taco Grinder is Channel Islands' answer to the elite surfer’s call for a step-up that doesn’t compromise performance. Developed with direct input from the CI team, this board is designed to deliver shortboard agility in waves that traditionally require a semi-gun—making it the go-to for serious surf without giving up your familiar high-performance feel.
The Taco Grinder features a single concave throughout the bottom for continuous drive and speed, paired with a fuller rail and tail kick to aid in paddling and steep takeoffs while still allowing for tight, vertical maneuvers. This is a board that feels confident under your feet when things get serious—yet still nimble enough to hit critical sections and surf aggressively.
Best ridden the same width and thickness as your standard shortboard but stretched 2” to 6” longer (depending on wave size), the Taco Grinder excels in heavy surf from overhead reef breaks to big, lined-up beachies. It’s a true step-up for those who aren’t just surviving in good waves—they’re performing.
Pros:
Shortboard Feel in Big Waves: Offers drive, control, and vertical performance in conditions where step-ups usually dominate.
Paddles Well: Fuller rails and tail rocker aid in wave entry and stability.
Proven in Heavy Surf: Tested in Mexican barrels and refined for serious conditions.
Streamlined Sizing Strategy: Easy to plug into your quiver by simply adding length to your go-to dimensions.
Cons:
Advanced Surfer Focus: Designed for those who are already confident in solid waves—less forgiving for intermediates.
Not for Everyday Use: This is a step-up, so it’ll sit in the rack until the swell delivers.
Final Verdict:
The Taco Grinder is a high-performance step-up with pro-level DNA, built for surfers chasing bigger, hollower waves without compromising the feel and attack angle of their shortboard. With speed, control, and verticality packed into a wave-hungry outline, it’s a confidence booster for those who want to elevate their game when conditions get serious. If you’re charging when most are watching from the shoulder, this board belongs in your quiver.
