STRETCH IT: The ultimate mid-length style that breaks the mould

Stretch IT: The ultimate mid-length board that breaks the mould

Finding that one special board capable of saving your summer sessions without sacrificing the fun of riding hollower waves: that’s the ultimate challenge for any surfer. This is precisely where the Stretch IT comes in – the iconic hybrid model shaped by the legendary William “Stretch” Riedel in Santa Cruz.

A far cry from the flat, retro mid-lengths you see everywhere, the IT is a true performance sensation.

An uncompromising
hybrid shape At first glance, the Stretch IT surprises with its outline. The front of the board is wide and generous, offering the paddling comfort and ultra-early wave entry of a longboard. But make no mistake: as soon as you move your back foot back, you’ll discover a tapered “Stinger tail” and an aggressive rocker directly inspired by the brand’s shortboards.

Add to that very thin (foiled) rails that bite into the water with surgical precision, and you’ve got a board that loves speed and tight turns.

Thruster or Quad: The choice
is yours Fitted with a 5-fin box, the Stretch IT adapts to your style and the day’s conditions:

• As a Quad (4 fins): For maximum speed, incredible drive down the line and excellent stability in the tube.

• In Thruster mode (3 fins): For a more vertical ride, precise trajectories and reassuring control in powerful waves.

Who’s it for, and what kind of waves?
That’s this model’s greatest strength: it’s incredibly versatile. It performs just as well in soft, knee-high conditions as it does in solid, head-high surf. Whether you’re an intermediate surfer looking to catch as many waves as possible or an expert seeking a high-performance alternative for those less-than-perfect days, the Stretch IT ticks all the boxes.

In Europe, this little gem is manufactured under licence by Polen Surfboards and available in the best core shops. One thing’s for sure: trying it out will redefine your view of the mid-length.