The XL version remains identical, featuring stock dims, designed to accommodate larger, more stocky surfers, as well as less experienced surfers aiming to level up their surfing by downsizing to a smaller board.
The concept for this board originated when John explored a range of alternative surfboard designs during a break from competition. His clear standout was the new flat-rockered Funformance model, the White Tiger (5'6"). From there, he requested a translation of that feel into a high-performance board he could rely on for tour conditions when waves are smaller or lack power.
The outline is slightly fuller for a HPSB, while the wide point remains positioned just behind center. This keeps the surfing focus shifted toward the mid-to-rear section of the board. A wider squash tail block maintains surface area in the tail, generating extra lift and drive while also supporting release and pop for aerial maneuvers. A subtle hip positioned ahead of the fins introduces a defined break in the outline, creating a natural pivot zone that enhances tight-radius turns and improves release in the lip.
What truly distinguishes this model from others in its category is the rocker and bottom contour. It features our flattest HPSB rocker to date, delivering immediate, consistent speed from takeoff and maintaining momentum through flat sections and softer conditions. To counter the tendency of flat rocker to feel “sticky” or promote a flat surfing style, the board uses a single-to-double concave - favored by JJF - through the forward two-thirds. This transitions into a pronounced double concave combined with a deep vee through the fins and out the tail. This configuration keeps the board responsive rail-to-rail while the tail vee promotes vertical surfing and quick, tight-radius turns, even in confined pockets.
Foil distribution from nose to tail is balanced with a slightly thinner front end compared to the rear. The deck is relatively flat, pushing volume toward the rails. The rails themselves are full just inside the outline but refined and tapered to preserve sensitivity and bite.
The Red Tiger is typically ridden about an inch shorter than a standard HPSB and slightly wider. Overall volume remains similar, though adding approximately 0.5 to 1 liter can enhance performance in weaker surf. The design is intended to elevate everyday sessions, offering an advantage over conventional HPSBs in average conditions while still holding strong performance when the waves improve.
