I tested my friend Bruce’s 9′4 Joel Tudor Classic Pin. The board measured 9′4 x 22.125″ x 3.125″ with slight concave under the nose, smooth 50/50 rails, and 10″ classic fin. This was the first time I’ve ridden one of these ‘Cali-type’ longboards with it’s ultra flat rocker and even rails. Hawaii doesn’t really have slow point break style waves like those found in CA and because our waves are often shorter, steeper, and packed with more punch, our longboards tend to utilize a lot more nose and tail rocker to keep from pearling and provide quicker turning ability. The Tudor Classic Pin provided excellent paddling power and its wave catching ability was effortless. The overall flatter deck and rocker combined with soft rails proved to be something that I’ll need to get used to but I did manage a few smooth and arcing turns.

Unfortunately, due to the poor shape of wave faces today, I wasn’t able to noseride this board. However, I’ll get a chance to ride the Classic Pin a few more times soon and report on its nose riding ability. Stay tuned for the update.