Prepare your quiver!
Joey Johnston, T&C rider, on a S4VF shaped by Glenn Pang. PC: Mike Ito
Winter has definitely changed dimensions . Lately, it's been hard to find a swell that isn't classified as an alert. Since this series of swells at Peahi, culminating in the Eddie Aikau Invitational, everyone is on fire for big waves , and the ocean seems determined to deliver.
That's why we dug into our winter quiver to bring you a selection of tried and tested boards, designed for solid conditions.
Well, we're not all Billy Kemper , but that doesn't mean we can't be as well prepared as he is .
CSU
The CSU is the step-up benchmark in Glenn Pang's arsenal.
This is your all-around board for solid waves — except pipeline or outer reefs.
It is a direct evolution of the Flux model , with a more refined nose and tail, and redesigned fin placement for more control in big conditions .
The concave remains the same as on the Flux, which allows for good pivot while adding a little extra "kick" in turns.
Perfect as a first step-up in your quiver , especially if you're coming from a classic shortboard. It excels on open-face waves , while still performing well in the tube—but let's be clear: this is not a board for Pipe.
Pro recommended height: between 6'0” and 6'4” .
S-4V
The S-4V , shaped by Glenn Pang, is the Ferrari of step-up boards.
Already proven on Pipeline and Teahupo'o , it has an even more refined nose and tail than the CSU, with more rocker and a hyper-calibrated V-bottom .
The result: a board made for speed, committed drops , and maximum control in the world's heaviest waves.
It turns, of course, but it's the most stable and precise board in the range.
It excels when the waves are hollow and massive .
Pro recommended height: between 6'2” and 6'6” .
W-4
The W-4 is the ideal choice if you are aiming for very powerful conditions and well above double overhead .
It is designed for Sunset on Fire or the second reef of Pipe .
Thanks to its V-bottom , it remains fluid underfoot and super stable, even in critical drops.
When you enter the Sunset bowl, you have no doubt: your rail will hold.
This is the board offering the most control in our entire range.
Pro recommended height: 6'8” and up .
Dragonslayer Step-Up
The step-up version of the Dragonslayer by Makani , it's the perfect board for Laniakea or Haleiwa when you need a little more volume when paddling, but want to maintain performance and responsiveness .
With a slightly tighter nose and tail, and a slightly more pronounced rocker at the front, it finds a good balance between control and maneuverability .
Stable, it handles open-face waves well, but retains enough concave to propel you into fast turns or hollow sections.
Pro recommended height: between 6'0” and 6'6” .
Ranger
The Ranger , still signed Makani, is his personal step-up alternative .
It was tested from G-Land to Pipeline .
With a wide nose , an advanced outline, and a flatter than average rocker , it is your best ally for getting out on the waves early and easily.
Under the board, we find a slight single concave , an early double, and a generous V at the rear. Result: speed on the line, but a lot of control when exiting the curve .
If your thing is catching the wave early and pumping straight to the barrel , the Ranger is for you.
Pro recommended height: between 6'0” and 6'6” .
In summary:
Having the right board under your feet is essential.
Those who don't adjust their quiver to the conditions risk missing THE right set , or worse, finding themselves facing a giant set without being prepared.
Whether you order a custom-made item or go directly to the shop, we have what you need.
Most of these models are available in stock at T&C Surfboards Factory , ready to take on whatever the ocean has planned to throw at them .
Don't wait, get equipped.
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