Vader
The Vader is based more on a Retro Style Mid Length Template. This shape is super popular and we feel lends its self perfectly to the Hybrid Softboard construction style.
It is ideal for surfers of most levels, and is suitable to use in a variety of wave conditions (either big or small).
The template is user friendly enough to provide some extra paddle power, stability and drive, allowing you to squeeze a bit of juice out of the smaller, weaker days.
In saying that, the longer rail lengths are sleek and racey enough for for fast, down-the-line speed, and allow smooth, clean turns on open faces in bigger conditions.
It's got a relatively low, continuous rocker, allowing the board to glide at speed and turn with ease.
We've opted to use a Rounded Pin tail on this model. This tail design provides the benefit of a Pin Tail as it creates a small reduction in surface area to maintain control, while keeping it rounded provide a bit more release enabling smoother, more drawn out turns.
We've also done our best to solve the #1 problem of softboards - the rails! The Hybrid Range features an updated version of our Parabolic Rolled Rail Technology.
These are then hand shaped, allowing softer rails near the nose tapering down to a sharp, harder edged rail at the tail. Similar to regular fibreglass surfboards, it allows if to be forgiving and not catch rails up front, but gives it a bit more bite making it easier to turn off the tail.
Similarly, to a stringer it also provides extra stiffness in the board, and generally helps to increase the durability of the board.
This board features a Thruster Fin Set up using Futures Fin Boxes.
Weight is approximately 4.7kg for 6'10
Like name suggests, we've combined the favourable elements from both a Performance Fibreglass Boards & and Entry Level Softboard to create a selection of board that stays true to our core values of Quality, Performance and Safety.
Put simply, the construction consists of a Stringered EPS Core, wrapped in Fibreglass Cloth & Epoxy Resin, which is then encapsulated by a traditional Softboard deck skin and slick.
Detailed Construction Specs:
24kg Density Moulded EPS Core
This core provide unhindered strength and enhanced durability while retaining light weight characteristics. It also has the most buoyancy and floatation of all surfboard cores.
Stringer System
Each Hybrid Board contains a stringer which acts as a backbone to the EPS Core. In the smaller models (6'0 and below), we use a light-weight Fibreglass Stringer, while the larger sizes (6'2+) we use a Solid Bamboo Stringer for increased strength.
Internal Membrane
Each Softlite Hybrid Series board contains 3 layers of 6oz Fibreglass set with Epoxy Resin on the Deck Side. (Standard Shortboards usually 2 X 4oz or 6oz)
On the Slick side contains 1 layers of 6oz Fibreglass set with Epoxy Resin. (Standard Shortboards usually 1 X 4oz or 6oz)
External Membrane
On the deck side this is encapsulated by a 5mm IXPE Deck skin for extra strength, durability and traction.
On the slick side, this is encapsulated by a super High Density PE Slick Bottom for protection, speed and durability.
Futures Fin System
We use an industry standard Futures Fin Box. This allows quick and easy fin installation and removal.
It is compatible with all Futures Fins making it easy to change fins to suit conditions or alter board performance.