Midlength

The different types of midlength boards

In the family of midlength boards, there are two different categories of shapes. First, there is the Hull Bottom Midlength, and the Concave Midlength. Even if they are close in size, they are not intended for the same use.

The Hull Bottom Mid Length

Less forgiving and often frustrating to start with, once you get the hang of it, surfing a Hull Bottom feels unique. These boards simply do not have a concave. Its shape allows you to really feel the power of the wave and use it in such a way that there is no need to pump. The board will guide you and pick up speed without having to lift a finger. All you have to do is control your trajectory and ensure your balance. It is necessary to bend down a little more to keep your center of gravity close to your board.

It should be noted that this type of board is not for beginners. The Hull Bottom is surfed with a very particular style, far from the current standard.

Generally speaking, the rails are rather tapered, and the board is often configured as a Single Fin or 2+1. Putting an ultra-flexible fin on the board allows for a better projection in the bottom turns. Hull bottoms are perfect in clean waves with a good point break.

Concave Bottom Midlength

As previously stated, there is another type of midlength: the Concave Bottom. These surfboards represent the vast majority of midlengths. Less technical than its counterpart, it is a little closer to a longboard. It offers freedom while having a consequent volume allowing a good balance. It is adapted for the beginners looking for new sensations without taking too much head.

To fully utilize the resources of the Concaves, it is necessary to pump on the waves. They were initially designed to adapt to medium sized hollow waves, impractical for longboards. We recommend a 2+1 configuration for maximum performance.

Our selection of brands and shapers

Now that you know the different existing midlength boards and their characteristics, here is our selection of brands and shapers of mid lenghts.

The brand presenting the best value for money is certainly Catch Surf. This Californian company inspired by the 70's style presents high quality midlengths at very attractive prices. Full of colors and extravagant designs, Catch Surf's boards give the brand a fun and trendy retro feel. They are hand designed by various shapers such as Tom Morey, and come from collaborations with surfers like Kalani Robb, Juilan Wilson or Sierra Lerback.

Our favorite board is the Odysea 7'0 The Log Taj Burrow. This board is shaved with a light and resistant deck that greatly increases its durability. The Log Taj Burrow is made of a triple maple stringers and is one of the strongest boards in its class. It is perfect for surfing intermediate sized waves.

Aloha Surfboards is a surfboard brand based on the beaches of Sidney. Founded in 1978, the brand has quickly become a reference in the industry. Professional surfers have contributed a lot to the design of the boards presented. Thanks to collaborations with extraordinary surfers, Aloha has developed on all continents. The brand's goal is to present quality boards and apparel that are carefully designed with a strong focus on design.

As far as boards are concerned, the Aloha Mid Length 7'6 is a very good model. Ideal for surfing larger waves, it's the perfect blend of a log and a shortboard. Reactive and easily maneuverable, it also offers an easy paddling.

How to choose your board?

There are different criteria that come into play when selecting a midlength board. Even if there are no predefined rules, it is necessary to know what to check before buying.

For the length for example, taking a board about 30 centimeters taller than you is ideal. The length will also depend on your goal. If you want to have a little more bite in the turns, and in particular in the hollow and powerful waves, invest in a board close to 6'0. And on the other hand, if you want to have more balance turn to 8'0.

As far as fin configurations are concerned, subjectivity comes into play. Even if there are rules, it is better to let yourself be carried away, and try several to find the one that suits you. Generally speaking, if you want maximum freedom, to run on the line and to tube, it is better to take a Single Fin. The 2 + 1 configuration allows for good acceleration during turns.

If you already have a board of another size (shortboard or longboard), then the choice of your midlength must turn towards a model on which you will be more comfortable. Coming from a longboard, we can only advise you to take a big midlength in order not to be totally lost. And likewise if you come from a shortboard, recommend a smaller than average board.