The Ripper is a rip-roaring, radically fun small wave slasher, evolved from the wildly popular Rad Ripper. Designed to aggressively shred everyday average surf, it carries a modernized look that sheds much of the ’80s nostalgia for a fresh, high-performance feel.
Inspired by Kolohe Andino, who famously rides the Rad Ripper, The Ripper was developed at his request to eliminate retro design cues and introduce a sleeker, contemporary shape. This involved removing the beak nose and re-foiling the deck line, replacing the flat deck and steep rails with a moderately rolled deck and softer rails. The tail is scooped out with a thinner, boxy block, while the deep fluted wing was reduced to a subtle bump, maintaining ample surface area for small waves. The nose features slightly more rocker and a pulled shape to better handle kinkier wave transitions.
Retaining the Rad Ripper’s low rocker profile, The Ripper incorporates a single concave center and a deep double concave with vee through the fins and tail, preserving the signature speed, paddle power, and carving control. It thrives when surfed aggressively off the tail, responding to rear foot pressure with driving snaps and sharp carves. Yet, it also caters to more casual riders who appreciate its speed and ease of directional changes.
The combination of a rolled deck, softer rails, increased nose rocker, and a scooped tail deck modernizes the board’s feel and performance, making The Ripper a potent weapon for small to moderate waves—perfect for both everyday surfers and pumped-up pros.
Recommended to be ridden about the same size as the original Rad Ripper, but with less foam for a cheekier ride, or slightly longer for cruisier sessions.
Pros:
* Aggressive, high-performance design for small wave slashing.
* Modernized shape with improved maneuverability and speed.
* Versatile enough for both aggressive and casual surfers.
* Maintains excellent paddle power and carving control.
Cons:
* Reduced foam may feel less forgiving for beginners.
* Modernized design lacks the nostalgic charm of the original.
* Best suited for small to moderate waves, not ideal for larger surf.
Summary:
The Ripper is a dynamic, modern evolution of the Rad Ripper, tailored for surfers who want a fast, aggressive small wave board without the retro styling. With its refined shape and responsive feel, it excels in everyday surf, offering a thrilling ride for both ambitious pros and dedicated enthusiasts.