Al Merrick Mikey February Shorty: the ultimate shortboard

Equipment Spotlight: Everything you need to know about the new Al Merrick Mikey February Shorty

It’s the sensation of the year at Channel Islands Surfboards. Designed by shaper Britt Merrick for the king of fluid style, Mikey February, the Mikey February Shorty marks the South African freesurfer’s grand return to a classic high-performance shortboard (Thruster).

Instantly embraced by several surfers on the World Surf League (WSL) circuit, this board is the perfect blend of technical radness and natural glide.

What makes it unique:

• The shape: It strikes a balance between the forgiveness of a Two Happy and the pure technical performance of a 2.Pro.

• Effortless speed: Thanks to a progressive rocker and a well-designed single-to-double concave, it generates incredible speed right from the take-off, without the need for frantic ‘pumping’.

• Signature flow: A slight hip (drop-off) at the rear fins allows you to break the line instantly for tight, precise and ultra-smooth turns in the wave’s pocket.

• Exclusive look: It stands out in the line-up thanks to its unique ‘Swirl Hex’ logo.

Who is it for?

This model is aimed at intermediate to advanced surfers looking for a high-performance everyday board, capable of holding the rail at high speed whilst retaining the ‘flow’ and fluidity characteristic of Mikey February’s style.

In what conditions should you use it?

It’s an ultra-versatile board. It excels in everyday waves but really comes into its own when conditions get hollow and offer great sections to manoeuvre through.

The blog’s verdict: The Mikey February Shorty succeeds in making the performance shortboard accessible, ultra-smooth and incredibly stylish. Ride it in your usual size!