Channel Islands "Ultra Joe" Surfboard Review by Noel Salas Ep.81

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In this episode I get two stock 5’3” Ultra Joe boards in Spinetek. Both boards are set with 5 fin options and I put them through the paces in 1-6’ surf. Even though the Ultra Joe is made for 1-4’ surf I like to find the top end on these type of Grovelers and it held it’s own even in overhead surf.
After thorough testing as a Thruster, Quad, and Twin Fin with a small trailer (2+1) I liked it best as a Quad. The Quad set up carried the most speed and flow from turn to turn. I also liked how the tail had a little more release in my turns due to no center fin. I also really enjoyed the Ultra Joe with a 2+1 set up. The Twin Fins gave this board exceptional speed and I had control with the small trailer fin.
The Ultra Joe is a favorite of mine for 2019 in the Groveler category and I highly recommend it.
This board suits all level of surfers for maximum fun… beginner - expert surfers will love this little board. Ideal wave size 1-4’.
Board Dimensions:
Stock 5’3” x 19 ½ x 2 ¼ Liters 26.3
My Height: 5’9”
My Weight: 160 lbs or 72kg

[@izandevainmyheart1129]

Nice review! Great for San Diego summer grov. Haha, I'm one of those ding dongs that compares apples and oranges. Good correction....but at my age I'm still trying to decide whether to surf like I'm 25 (neck beard 2) or come to terms with being 55 ( ultra joe). This looks really fun no matter wut doh!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

IzandEva Inmyheart Classic comments. Cheers

[@izandevainmyheart1129]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 look forward to every new show So great

[@izandevainmyheart1129]

@Matt R I have a neckbeard 2. It works great in everything once I'm up but gets in really late. I think I'm too ysed to wider fishes now.. I was riding a girthy twinzer fish by Larmo forever and I'n still a bit girthy myself. So I kinda wish I got the Tomo Fish recently reviewed by Noel. I was really skeptical of it til I saw him perform on it. I still surf well and skate regularly but have a hard time transitioning back to performance boards. Ugh

[@RobSymington]

So awesome hearing about your back foot movements. Really useful explaination! More please!

[@glenmack3640]

Yet another fantastic review. Since JS stopped making the Flying Pony & the new Flaming Pony you have to get 2” longertnis could be a great alternative. Good work mate.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Glen Mack Cheers

[@brba1325]

Noel, I bet if you put some fins on a burrito, you'd rip on it. Great review BTW. PodMod or Sampler or Ultra Joe?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

BRADEN BADUA I love burritos!!! Al 3 of the boards your asking about are epic! I would go PM or UJ for a Groveler. For a SWPB I would go RW or NB2. I say go to your local shop and feel these 4 boards up and buy the one that feels the best under your arm. Go with your gut. All of these boards are favorites of mine so you are going to be stoked no matter what. Cheers

[@rs9196]

Thanks Noel! your channel is helpful and educating. It'd be nice to see a review about the Hypto Krypto.

[@marki4920]

Epic review! Thanks mate. I was looking for a small wave board and a board for fatter point waves. Only have surfed it in 1 to 3 ft below par waves but it has been unreal. Pulls nicely through cut backs, still is sensitive and even though I went a couple litres more it doesn't feel like a boat at all, except for its paddle power. Went to 5 different surf shops, and slowly narrowed it down between the dhd phoenix and the ultra joe. Very happy with my decision because I've heard this can handle a bit bigger too! Off on a two week road trip down the east coast of Oz next week, can't wait for some nice waves!

[@garrettlachlan4380]

I guess it's kind of randomly asking but does anybody know a good site to watch newly released series online ?

[@oscarbruce7741]

@Garrett Lachlan Try FlixZone. You can find it on google :)

[@alaricluciano4238]

@Oscar Bruce Yea, have been watching on Flixzone for since april myself =)

[@garrettlachlan4380]

@Oscar Bruce Thank you, I went there and it seems like a nice service :D Appreciate it !!

[@oscarbruce7741]

@Garrett Lachlan Happy to help =)

[@robespero330]

Noel, that's a SOLID review and breakdown of the characteristics! Keep up the good work! Now if only CI could keep up with the demand for the 4/5 fin Ultra Joe!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Rob Espero Good problems to have... supply the demand.

[@nicklewdor1290]

Ultra joe or mash up for small surf?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Ultra Joe

[@surfersoldierforchrist5928]

Great intro super dramatic like a summer movie trailer...epic review !!..my purchase this summer for a groveler will be solely based on your super informative and well researched reviews...we spend 800 bux + when all is said and done and worst feeling is getting a board your just not happy with..really appreciate all your hard work you put into these reviews they are second to none Mahalo Noel.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

surfer soldier for Christ Cheers for the kind words. Stoked you found our show. We understand the cost of boards and how important it is to have fun and find a magic sled. Cheers

[@thegamingbros826]

Hi i love your channel and was wondering what booties you use in this vid? I know that you don’t like booties that much and that feeling is something I have struggled with ice cold toes. If you would let me know what booties you use I would really appreciate it! Keep making vid there amazing!!!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

The gaming bros Stoked you found our show. The booties I am wearing the Xcel Drylock 3mm booties. Decent feel... but more than anything very comfortable. These boots come in 1/2 size. Most booties only come in full sizes... normally I have squeeze into a 9 and my toes are numb before I even hit the water. A 10 gets water inside and then I’m tripping over most boots.... these Drylock boots are perfect at 9.5. Check them out

[@thegamingbros826]

Which model are those ? I looked online and i can only find models that sell full sizes. Thanks for the reply. Hope to hear from you soon

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

The gaming bros Xcel Wetsuits is the brand and the model is Drylock

[@hiramespinoza8994]

Nice review and Sick surf man, Today I'm order my Ultra Joe, can't wait to Surf it in Baja! Saluddd!!!

[@andreabordoni2665]

Great review!! The ultra joe would be the perfect board for Italy's conditions 🤙🏼😍

[@dkilla01]

Love the board comparison idea. How does this board compare to the seaside in terms of performance surfing?

[@remicottes6180]

Hi Noel, very professional and complete review. After watching a lot of your videos, I feel the UJ could be a good option for me. I'm a bit overwhelmed by the sizing though. I'm 65kg (143 lbs) for 1m73 (5'6). My level being inter/beg and surfing max. 4ft waves, which height would you recommend? Below 6'0? Thank you so much.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Rémi Cottes Keep your liters high.. you want to make surfing easy for you. Depending how much of a beginner you are I’m thinking 40 liters.

[@remicottes6180]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for your quick feedback, highly appreciated. All the best!!

[@surfersoldierforchrist5928]

I got this ultra joe in a quad with rastavich fins im an above average joe im 190-200 lb i got a stock almost 35 litre board it catches everything !!! only have to stroke maybe twice max and board drops and transitions effortlessly !!!!. due to this review and honestly its my magic board im not a great short board surfer but this board makes me look like i am so 🔥🔥🔥🔥🤙🏻

[@SlickWillie]

you should try this board with JJF and HS2 quad trailers... either way this is a sick board for my ability!

[@surfersoldierforchrist5928]

Will Davis ill look into those thanks for the heads up.

[@topdeckdog]

Your explanation of litres vs rocker makes perfect sense. Thank you!

[@RavenAndrew1]

Hi Noel, Nice surfing! I'm having issues doing round house cut backs as my rail stops digging in and the board flattens out and i fall off, i have tried bigger fins and smaller fins but the same issue happens. Is my surfboard tail too wide or are my rails too thick for my weight. i'm 63kg and ride a pocket rocket 5,8 18 1/4 2 1/4 thanks

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Andrew Your liters should be roughly 23-24. Kinda hard for me to tell what’s going on... sometimes using a more upright or pivotal fin will help keep the board on rail through wraps if the tail is wide. Just not sure what the problem is. Do you have a older board that does good wraps for you? If yes then pull that board out and see if the same thing is happening. If your having the same problem then it’s your technique, if not then it’s the board and fin combination. Just trial n error at this point.

[@Apeunion]

Great idea with the different color wetsuits!🤙

[@SergioGomez-qc1vf]

Hey Noel. Any advise for begginer/intermediate girl?. She has 6'4" cheap funboard 40l dominated but need a shorter board to duck dive and catch more summer waves 1-3'. She is 5'4" height and 125 lbs. Maybe ultrajoe, RW, PJ or Tomo evo? any recommended size? Thank you and great work!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Hypto Krypto or Ave Joe

[@soulsurfer3102]

You open the vid...like "marvell studio"😁 Noal great video.legend

[@vanislandsurf]

This board looks like Channel Islands answer to the Lost Puddle Jumper. Groveler with a bit of rail rocker to surf small waves in the pocket.

[@irbombardmnt]

Hi Noel! Big fan of the reviews, I think I've watched almost all of them already! I have the opportunity to get this board for a little over half the price. The board is a stock 5'5 so 28.6L, PU. I'm still fairly new to shortboarding and currently working on getting more consistent with my wave count. I'm 5'7, 130 lbs and surf mostly SoCal beach breaks. Do you think it would be worth it for me to snag this deal or is the board not a good fit for me?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

irbombardmnt I would snag that board ASAP. The Liters seem good for your weight and skill level. At the price how could you not try it and work it out.

[@irbombardmnt]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 It's settled then, getting the board on Sunday! I know you provide lots of info on fin setups, but is there a particular setup you would recommend for someone at my level and weight? Thank you for your help!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

irbombardmnt Get a set of Neutral fins in Medium like the F6 in Futures. Get a set of Medium Quad Rears.

[@irbombardmnt]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel, it's time to fill up the shopping cart! This conversation also sparked me to re-watch a whole bunch of your Fin related videos. I noticed that they all talk about the thruster setup though, so something I didn't pick up on though is when to use a set of quads vs. thruster vs. 2+1. Can you please elaborate on this? Like what conditions to use each type of fin setup in?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

irbombardmnt 2+1 set ups don’t work with every board but I think getting a good set like the T1’s you can test a bunch of boards. I find the T1’s work good in a lot of boards for me. If your a FCSII guy then get the MR’s. I like the 2+1 set up in 1-3’ occasionally 4’ surf depending on the board. I have been riding more n more Quads lately. The speed and freeness in Tail is so fun. I like a Pivot set though like the Reactors so I can still get vertical especially in low rocker boards. I will Ride Quads at the point breaks in 1-6’ surf and have a blast. If the surf is a bit choppy then I switch to a Thruster for a little extra control. I hope this helps. If your looking to get a good upright Pivot Quad set in Futures then check out the HS1 with HS Quad Rears. Yewwww

[@jonkennard8272]

Absolutely love my average Joe been my go to groveller but also surfed it in solid waves. However really tempted by the ultra Joe especially the performance side of it over the average Joe

[@GabrielMirandaV0878]

Great Review Noel! Couple of questions: - does the ultraJoe have a more performance outline than the Biscuit? I mean...more entry and mid rocker? - Do you use your iwatch while surfing? If so, What’s app u use to track waves/speed/etc? Thanks mate

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Gabriel Miranda Not sure on the rocker question in comparison with the Biscuit and UJ. The UJ has more performance in the pocket though.... the Biscuit is a really fun board but the lines it draws are a bit more round not as pivotal off the bottom compared to the UJ. I don’t use my watch for surf.... I tried one app for a while but I have so much stuff going on in my head and under my feet with board and fin design it can all get a bit overwhelming. Sorry

[@jonasbrehm1596]

Really great review!! Thanks a lot! It would be cool if you could add some clips, surfing this board in real grovel waves. Like a mushy beach break whatever. To see how it goes there 👍👍

[@rosscrighton2320]

Great review Noel as always. Love the tunes too!!

[@radioceans_band]

Thanks Ross, Very exciting to have our music behind such stellar footage :D

[@waikikiwilly13]

Love the reviews as always. So, ultra joe or gremlin?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

William Russell Tough call.... Both boards are epic!! The UJ has more hold on the hook but the Gremlin might have a bit more flow

[@waikikiwilly13]

Thanks Noah!

[@freddesmet259]

Noel knows board and fin design. Would love to see a segment on 6 to 10 ft equipment.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Fred DeSmet It’s been years since I’ve charged 10’ surf.

[@kingsofmayhem]

Outstanding review Noel as usual. Thanks for the in depth fin explanations along with the attributes of the boards. Been riding my PJHP as a 2+1 MR FCS and loving it. Cheers

[@toddfrazier1991]

I was under the impression that you were going to do a review on the Spine Tech construction but I can’t find it. I’m hoping to get your opinion on it’s characteristics (ride, flex , durability, stability in bigger waves) before making a purchase. Great review on the Ultra Joe. Looking forward to seeing a review on the new CI Happy. I demo’d it and loved it. Keep up the good work, Low tide

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Todd Frazier Go to our website and you will see the Spinetek review I did on the OG Flyer. Surfnshow.com

[@toddfrazier1991]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Found it, Thanks!!

[@NZsurfe]

Great review again Noel! I can't decide between the Ultra joe and Astro pop as a Groveller. Which is more high performance, which one would you chose? Cheers

[@NZsurfe]

Went for the Ultra Joe in Flexbar tech, super fun board, been riding it in mainly reef breaks here in Philippines. Its super fast as a quad, I find myself having to burn off speed alot of the time, not so much as a 2+1 thou which seems slower more controlled. Super happy with my purchase thanks for the review.

[@joedirt8625]

Nice work Once again. Surf Wars and Categories. Volume Is only used for Paddling Ease at Advanced Levels. Board Either Planes or it Bogs. J.M.O

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

joe Dirt I also think Liters in certain type of boards like Grovelers can mess with swing weight. If I get a board like the UJ with 29 liters... it will paddles great but it will be hard to turn quickly, and a bit top heavy due to all the foam in the nose area.

[@saltycapers]

Just snagged a stock 5’9, running it as a thruster and it works perfectly on my steep little break. Thanks for the review, it helped with my purchase! 🤙🏼

[@jasondhines]

Looking sick on that thing! That was some of your smoothest surfing imo!

[@rhidiandavies1991]

I mostly stick to thrusters because I seem to get much more speed/drive off my bottom turns with them than I do with quads, but damn that board looks so much better as a quad. It's got me thinking that maybe I need to experiment with some different quad sets. Any FCS2 quad sets you can recommend for a 74Kg (165lbs?) guy that would make the transition from thrusters to quads easier?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Rhidian D Get a set of Large Reactors and a set of Medium Reactor Quad Rears. Best Quad set to date in my book. I also like the Reactors as a Thruster in my HPSB... quick pivot and pretty good drive off the bottom. The Reactors are basically the same template as the old KS 2.1.

[@roofiesify]

Hey Noel! Another epic review! Are you planning on reviewing the Js black baron twin? It looks amazing and am just about to pull the trigger on it but would love to hear your thoughts. Cheers.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

roofiesify Yup... I already have one. I hope to get on it soon. Our wave forecast looks pretty solid right now so I am focused on a couple HPSB’s right now but I will jump on the Twin soon. Hang tight....

[@arrzfr]

Would be awesome to have a review for the Firewire Chumlee, in comparison with the Ultra Joe.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

arrzfr I tried the Chumlee... it has good speed but it won’t do a quality turn in the pocket.

[@dynodin81]

I agree with Noel about not riding grovelers with extra volume. Unfortunately the stock dims are higher from what I normally ride, I guess I would have to make a special order if I wanted a volume closer to all my boards. I wish they would have a wider range of dims.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Catch the Wave I feel the same about Stock HPSB Boards. I have to order custom cause there all to long for my likings.

[@theoverstoker3430]

If you could only have one board out of the ultra joe and pod mod in 1-4ft surf what would you pick?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

William Hernandez Both boards are sick... I would Go UJ

[@marcelkwantes6479]

Thanks Noel, your review of the Ultra Joe got me over the line and just ordered a custom one here in Sydney. I am really focused on progression and want to improve and it looks like this is the one for me in a segment of boards where there is so many to choose from. Thanks for the fin options as well, this will give some great starting points for me

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Marcel Kwantes Epic... let me know how it goes for you.

[@marcelkwantes6479]

Surf n Show Reviews hi Noel, I have been surfing my customs Ultra Joe for 2 months now and it is going great. The speed is quite impressive. Have not quit worked out the ideal fin set-up, but current favourite is the MF large for good hold. But over all def a winner

[@mhannydiaz1463]

Hey Noel, How would you compare the ultra joe for paddle power and maneuverability when comparing to the CI mini?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Mhanny Diaz The Mini is a cruiser compared to the UJ. The UJ has excellent performance capabilities and the Mini wants to draw more classic lines.

[@mauricegourmet]

Noel you're killing it man. The Average Joe was the first short board I ever surfed. It was a favorite of mine. Im tough on boards and the Ultra Light construction was too thin for me. Do you think the spine tek is more durable and strong enough for some one that is tough on boards? Still feel like the Average Joe is one of the best boards at creating that feeling of fun while surfing.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Maurice Cureton Check out the Ave Joe by Surftech. Light and durable

[@bezawithikateshome7806]

Hi Noel I am considering buying ultra joe but am very uncertain about length and volume. I have a seaside 5.10 39.4 liter and a rocket wide 6.1 38 liter in spintek. The standard dims it stands for are 5.11 21 2/8 37.2 lier or 6.1 21 1/4 2 3/4 40 liter. Or should I order custom? I weigh 95 kg and am 1.90 cm and surf in norway.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Bezawit Hika Teshome The stock 5’11” in Spinetek sounds good for you.

[@SlickWillie]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 hey bezawit iam 5'11'' and 95 kg -- i picked up the 5'11'' and its perfect! also thanks for the fin recommendation Noel. i used the board this morning here in HB with the john john / hs2 quad rears.. board has drive and speed! very fun with this swell we got. thanks!

[@staymakai]

Amazing review! How would you compare the ULTRA JOE to the POD MOD? Mahalo in advance~

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Gino Kim Both are epic... the PM might be a tad more responsive and it think it will surf the pocket a little better and handle a little more size. You will be stoked on both

[@toshjaoudi1302]

Sick review! Looks like a fantastic board for SoCal summers in SD. Are you planning reviewing the new CI Happy anytime?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Tosh Jaoudi Yes... rode the Happy for the first time this am... felt good too. That review is in the pipeline but I do not have a solid date at this time.

[@simonfreeman51]

your channel should have more subscribers, great reviews.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Simon Freeman Cheers!! Help us spread the word. We are also stoked on the Subscribers we have!!!

[@trevorhocking9840]

Hey Noel, Great review what’s you pick - PJHP or Ultra Joe in PU? Thanks mate

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Trevor Hocking UJ

[@youdigsurf]

Hello noel, how does this compare to the puddle jumper ? They look similar.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Youdig surf A better comparison is the PJHP... kinda similar but the PJHP has a wider tail. Both boards are winners.

[@hendrikfaber3499]

Gremlin VS Ultra Joe? Which is the better groveller?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Hendrik Faber Gremlin is faster and paddles better... UJ is better in the pocket and off the bottom

[@jonsalvador5051]

Another epic one and really flowy surf, boards looks like so much fun

[@TheDazboo]

So bottom Lone would u prefer the Pod Pod 2020 or the Ultra Joe? Thanks man-love all you do

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

TheDazboo Pod Mod

[@TheDazboo]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thx man!!!!

[@lukevitale3643]

Hi Noel, if given the option, would you ride the Ultra Joe with a concave deck or would the concave aspect contradict the board's design/performance? Asking because CI offers the option to add a Black Flag Concave Deck but I've never surfed a concave board before!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I wouldn’t waste your money on that. I’ve ridden a couple concave decks… not a fan

[@mocean365]

Noel do you think this and the Bobby Quad share genes? I’m very interested in the BQ and a good friend whose had lots of cI’s and said it’s the same. Thoughts? I know you have a bq edit coming. Thanks.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Not sure they are the same…. The BQ is a Quad with a different tail shape and maybe different bottom contours compared to the UJ. I say get a Bobby Q.

[@mocean365]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Noel you are a legend thank you, have got many boards on your recommendations etc and turned friends on to your fins and patreon etc. really appreciate your dedication and inspiration!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@mocean365 Cheers!! Thank you

[@EmzalinaNZ]

Hi Noel, great review as always sir and pretty much 100% sold but just a quick question if I may. I'm 210 Lbs and 6'3" tall and I recently on your advice purchased the Rocket Wide SpineTek, the CS website board selector recommend a 6’0, 20 1/2, 2 3/4, 37.0L however I went with 5’11, 20 1/4, 2 5/8 and 34.4L and had no issues in 2 (shoulder) to 3.5ft surf (just over head high), it performed so well! So now I look at the Ultra Joe to replace my Pod Mod for soft to medium punch beach break 1ft (waist) to 2.5ft surf range and the CS board selector is saying 6’1, 21 1/4, 2 3/4, and 40.0L. My Pod Mod is PU 6’0, 21 1/8, 2 3/4 and 39.1L and for me it yes has good speed but has to much length and foam to get the board moving in such a small wave pocket. So I would like to get the right volume for the Ultra Joe and feel the CS board selector stock dimensions are again to much in having a board with 40.L give my Rocket Wide SpineTek 5’11, 20 1/4, 2 5/8 and 34.4L that has performed so well in even 2ft surf that has a decent bowl. I have two options I feel for the Ultra Joe in a spine-tek, a 5’11, 21, 2 5/8 and 37.2L or a 5'10 version that has 35.4L. Which do you think would best suit for the wave size I am after given my height and weight to match the same type of smaller less bowly surf that you are ridding in your review Many thanks, Frank.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

EmzalinaNZ I say 5’10”... it’s 1 liter more than your RW. The UJ will will go good in small 1-3’ surf.

[@rickcruz8319]

Great review! Very detailed oriented on all explanations. Keep up the good work!

[@adamkline8762]

Hey Noel! Im a stocky guy at 5'7 and 185 lbs... i normally ride 32.5... i surf pretty good after 30 years... i get frustrated at CI and other bc they almost always have a huge gap in liters in mu range... the average joe in Spine Tek is 31 to 34... im hesitant to go 34... prob best to find another model? thoughts?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Yea… 34L is too much ch foam. I suggest a different model. Maybe check out the Bobby Quad, Pod Mod, or BV2 by Chilli.

[@foromnii]

Hi Noel, I ride mainly small beach in Syd Australia, I have a 6’3 rocket wide 41.8 lt, love it but all swallow tails I’ve had have been easily damaged from rail saver, looking for a round / squash tail, what can I get that will be same as rocket wide eg ultra Joe ? I have found my good length volume combo. 6.3 / 42 lt my age is 57yrs. Any advice would be valuable, love the show. Thanks Steve

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Check out the Medina Round tail or the Neck Beard 3....it’s a round tail too

[@andregie6694]

Thanks for the great review Noel- for an intermediate surfer (5'10, 185 pounds) what board would you recommend for everyday beach breaks 1-5 foot? Was thinking of Ultra Joe, Astro Pop or RNF 96. Would you recommend keeping the board short say under 6 foot or if needed go to 6'2 to get enough volume say for a BV2. Any other boards you'd recommend?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

All the boards you mentioned here are excellent. You can go 6’ or 6’2

[@pinpintldc9863]

Nothing s coming on Stretch surfboard ? Cft tech shoud be interesting to compare with others eps tech you ve already tested !

[@paulcombes3782]

Noel , I have watched most of your reviews and I have to say they are all perfect . Having surfed for 30 years all over the globe , you learn a lot about surfing . Not only are you ripping , but your ability to explain the approach to surfing a wave at high level and how the shape/fins work is second to none . Thanks mate from Sydney Australia . Yew .

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Cheers for the kind words!!! Stoked you found our show.

[@joserivera-ox1so]

Noel, how would compare it to the Gremlin? Thanks 🤙

[@royrabinek6351]

How does it compared to the hydra?

[@rhubarbrhino]

Best board review show on the internet. I’d love to see some POV GoPro footage Noel!

[@jodyblackwell9012]

Noel, question i have been surfing for 59 years and have only surfed a longboard 9-0 and longer and only single fins what would you recommend for me i am 180 lbs and i am 6ft 1 in tall and i am 69 yrs old . I would like to go shortboard for traveling to costa rica and i go there two to three times a year .

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jody Blackwell The Ultra Joe is a great option for you but maybe consider the largest Stock size for easy paddling and stability. You can also order one custom. Maybe hit the folks up at CI to help with custom DIMS.

[@kidkiks6134]

Very thorough! How does it compare to the puddle jumper?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Kid Kiks I never tried the original PJ

[@mccauleybaker8622]

Noel's ripping getting me keen to go out this morning. Epic review yet again Noel!

[@moritzvolland8585]

How does it compare to the sharpeye disco cheater?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Moe That’s a good comparison... the DC has more flow and it’s so smooth rail to rail, but this UJ has more performance in the pocket and a little more flare to it.

[@moritzvolland8585]

Surf n Show Reviews thanks.

[@kaibain9665]

Hey, I’m 6,3 and 85kg what height and litres would you recommend? Thanks for another great review

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Here are some volume ranges at different skill levels at your weight. Pro/Expert = 30-32L Advanced = 32-34L Intermediate = 35-37L

[@jonoedwards4195]

Unreal! Twinny with Fangs Hooked It. Beauty Shredder.

[@reedh4010]

What size twin plus one in futures did you ride? Im 5'10 145lbs and am deciding between medium or large. What do you recommend?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

For the RW get the AMT fin set. They only come in 1 size

[@ThePokersurfer]

What an epic production of surfboards war preview ...... something out of motion picture theater preview! Well made.

[@lukevitale3643]

Hi Noel, thanks for this review. I'm looking to grab this board and I'm stoked. I'm the same dimensions as you: 5'9" 160 pounds. Would the 5’3” x 19 ½ x 2 ¼ Liters 26.3 be a good fit for me if I'm an intermediate - advanced surfer looking to maximize performance? I have strong athletic ability and know how to "work" the board if you know what I mean. It looks like you fit the board well at those dimensions.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

If your used to shredding boards this small and you ride roughly the same volume on your Daily Driver type boards then I say yes. If not… then go 5’4”.

[@lukevitale3643]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Awesome, thanks for the quick response and insight brother 🤙

[@oconcurseiroquevaipassar7673]

Nice work! Which one you prefer, LOST PUDDLE JUMPER or CI ULTRA JOE? Thanks!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I like the UJ better

[@KrytpoSurfer]

great videos but honestly your music selection sounds like it’s for the baby boomers generation.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Lerosca01 We Try to mix it up with music. Got any suggestions???

[@jonkennard8272]

Noel great review as always. I'm getting a 2nd hand ultra joe. Loved surfing the AJ for years in a crazy amount of different conditions. I've surfed quads before and have a love hate relationship with them. Been in thrusters for a few years now. My questions therefore are did you surf the board as a twin plus trailer in small conditions? In the video only large fin what I saw? If so how did it go? I'm reluctant to splash out on quad find if the twin and trailer and thruster set up normally work for me. That said I can see the difference in your surfing a quad versus the thruster. Thanks in advance Jon.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Twin + Trailer is best in smaller surf…. The fact that it went well in overhead surf is excellent. It will go good for you as a Twin+ Trailer in smaller waves. As a Quad just try…. Part of the fun is trying new fin set ups.

[@jonkennard8272]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks Noel for the really helpful and quick reply. I'll go thruster and twin and trailer first off. Then judge how it goes and maybe try as a quad. It's just the money involved is crazy hard to justify spending that much. Yet I appreciate it could be a magic combo and that's equally what we all want.

[@jaysonwebsther2698]

Hi Sir Noel, Good Day to you & your crew.. can you amke an review of the new DHD sweetspot 3.0 and whata the advantage of the 3.0 compare to the 2.0 and what fins would suit on it. thanks

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jayson Websther Sorry to say that the folks at DHD have decided not to participate in our show at this time.

[@jaysonwebsther2698]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 ohh i think they should and its will be helpful for the customer to know the review. feel sad for this news from dhd

[@surfmarko]

oh wow! A board review with actual surfing!

[@raycas1973]

Hi Noel ! Great review. I bought a Holy-grail Haydenshape and a seaside after i ve seen yours videos... Now, i would to know which is the best groveler ? Seaside or UJ ?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

raycas1973 Both boards are epic for Groveling. The UJ offered sharper turns b cause you can shred it as a Thruster. The UJ might also have a bit more tail rocker too... that will help with more traction off the bottom. The Seaside is much faster down the line and it paddles better too

[@raycas1973]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thank you for your quick reponse. I know i wouldnt buy another board but...... Yours videos are so great !!!!

[@lorenzoromagosa3828]

Great Reviews Noel. Excuse my ignorance but could you specify the diference between a Groveler vs a small wave performer board ? Wave size wise....

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

LORENZO ROMAGOSA It not about wave size for me... it’s about the two different board outlines. A Groveler from my perspective has a hybrid nose and most of the time a little more foam under the chest. Grovelers are a bit flatter rocker wise too. Some surfers want their small wave boards to have a HPSB outline and don’t like wide nose boards.

[@lorenzoromagosa3828]

​@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you for your answer Noel.

[@aquamegalodon45]

Just ordered a custom ultra Joe because of your review. Nice work

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

KryptoKnight Hood Yewww!! Let me know how it goes.

[@aquamegalodon45]

Awe yeah! I ordered it in a pintail and varial foam. I hope that setup works on the design

[@Robocopter_fpv]

@@aquamegalodon45 pintail? That is gonna be interesting...

[@aquamegalodon45]

APN Films Just got the board delivered recently it turned out sick IMO looks perfect. I live in Fla and it’s been flat so no review yet. I have some picture on my Instagram @phantomgram if you wanna see it.

[@maxladabaum3746]

one of the best videos so far

[@ridinmytoobs]

Great review man. I love the direction you’re taking it with the board category and comparison explanations

[@theoverstoker3430]

I need help!!!! I’m between the pod mod vs the ultra joe!! I’m getting back in the water after five years of living inland.. I’m a big guy but I used to be a pretty decent surfer for my size but I’m a bit outta shape and rusty from my time away from the beach!! I’m 6’3 and 230 lbs! If anyone can help me it would be greatly appreciated!! 🤙🏼 boards are so expensive I don’t wanna get the wrong stick! I have a 9’ cc rider longboard but I don’t like having all that length it’s too clunky! I was looking at a ci pod mod with 40.7 liters and it’s 6’2 🤙🏼🤙🏼🤙🏼

[@theoverstoker3430]

Oh and I’m surfing northeast Florida it’s usually 2-4 ft and kinda weak but I’m used to generating speed. I used to have a 6’5 ci tuflite epoxy and my wave count was insane but the board wouldn’t duck dive it was super floaty

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

William Hernandez That 6’2” PM will serve you well. Your liters should be around 40 liters for your weight.

[@theoverstoker3430]

Surf n Show Reviews 🙏🏻🙏🏻 good deal looks like I made the right choice!! Thanks for your info! Your channel is great I watch all the vids! You rip man!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

William Hernandez Cheers!!! Let us all know how the PM goes for you. Just post your comments a lifter a few sessions if you like.

[@Combostoked]

Great review! I notice you often use larger size for the side fins then the rear fins or center fins. What is the benefit of that compared to let's say having all fins in a size medium?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Max Frings A smaller center fin keeps the board loose and responsive. The Large side fins offer more resistance due to the wider fin base... so I can push harder to generate more speed through my turns.

[@netdoom]

Love this Noel you’re a legend

[@camz9014]

Just subscribed on your channel.. awesome review. any advice which one should i buy podmod vs UJ for beginners like me 5’5 at 60 kgs? I struggled at paddling and catching waves. More power to your channel!!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

The Lost Traveler Cheers!!! Go Ultra Joe

[@positivevibes5938]

Great review as always Noel...

[@lexmarkz25]

Hi Noel, love your videos! Btw I'm trying to decided between the Average Joe and a Rusty Dawrt, can they be considered in the same category as you said? I'm used to a mini simmons and first time going into a shortboard type in order to improve.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Lex Mark Not sure how the Rusty goes never tried one. The UJ is epic and you will love it.

[@lexmarkz25]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 awesome 😀 thanks!

[@ttomschreurs]

Yo Noel, love the show! Quick question: do you feel you have to adjust your stance a lot switching between the UJ and a regular (performance) shortboard? Best regards, Tom

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

tom schreurs Absolutely... riding short boards like the UJ makes my stance a bit narrower. Jumping on a HPSB takes a session or two to adjust with getting my stance wider again. Staying on Groveler/Fish type boards for a lengthy time can mess up my performance surfing a little. It’s worth it though... so fun to ride the right boards in the right conditions.

[@ttomschreurs]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel, that is very usefull information!

[@joeworthington6516]

Have you tried this board with your HP Twin fins?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

No but they will go mental in it for sure

[@ixine-fl3wb]

I’d like to see a review of the super brand toy x

[@mjstatic77]

Hey Noel, how much would you say to drop in size on the UJ for an advanced surfer (30+ years)?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Matthew Jones Go with the size that has the same liters as your HPSB. Don’t worry about length... unless your super tall and light weight. My UJ was 6” shorter than my height but I would go shorter if needed to keep my liters where I want them. My old Pod Mod was 5’2” and I weighed 170 back then... it went mental. I’m not worried about length as much as Liters in small Grovelers... a shorter board fits in tighter transitions to maximize projection through turns.

[@mjstatic77]

Thanks.....ideally I’d want to go 5’6 or mayb 5’5.....but I’ve seen a used 5’7 and wandering if it’ll be to much board?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Matthew Jones Sounds like too much

[@df238]

Nice intro, looks like a very fun and versatile board

[@chrisvanwart9917]

Excellent review, as always! If you can get your hands on a 5’1” Evo in either LFT or Helium I think you’d be pretty stoked - would be a worthy addition to the groveler review category. I was a little skeptical of the Helium tech, and honestly think LFT has a little more spice right out of the gate, but Helium may have won me over. I know it’s not the new kid on the block, but the Evo really blows my mind in small surf and continues to perform in head high+ conditions - I’d love to see you blow the back out of a few on one!

[@TheSchmuel]

i could not agree more... The EVO is the best daily surfboard Ive ever owned... 2 feet to head high it just goes wherever you want and does whatever you think. Id love to see Noel on one at Trestles. He'd rip the Bag right outta that wave

[@jagsanz]

yes, i would love to see a review on the EVO, i also have a 5'1 that bough recently but haven't used it much because i had a shoulder injury so have been riding boards with more volume until i improve

[@tiagocosta2]

Great review! I’m 5,8 with 147 as a beginner/intermediate more to the beginner side and deciding wether to get the ultra joe as a 5,11 (37Lts) or the 6,11(40Lts), could you advise? I’m afraid if the 5,11 will make me struggle and that the 6,1 will be impossible to manoeuvre

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Tiago Costa Check our the Pod Mod at 6’0”. That’s right in the middle for you and that board is mental

[@tiagocosta2]

Thank you so much for the quick reply. I’ve been so focused on either the ultra joe or the waterhog that I haven’t looked at anything else. Is the pod mod good for me as beginner at 6,0? Will it be easy to surf it?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Tiago Costa Yes

[@tiagocosta2]

Big thank you Mr Salas, amazing help and keep up the awesome channel!

[@Outdawrzman]

I'm 5,9 183 what would be the dimensions and volume I should get for a Groveler ?

[@JRCorominas]

I’m 5’ 9” 200LB will a 5’3” be able to hold me? Thnx

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

J.R. Corominas 34-36 liters is better

[@JRCorominas]

Surf n Show Reviews thank you. Great review btw!

[@davidkerman1732]

Hey Noel, love your reviews. I was kind of confused about your fin recommendations. I'm about to get this board and I used to have a High 5. I rode that mostly as a quad and thats what I was planning on doing with this board as well. However, I wasn't sure if you liked a quad setup over the 2 +1 setup. Which did you like better and what fins do you recommend? Thanks!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

David Kerman I liked it best as a Quad and second best with Twin + Trailer. I liked it with a good pivot set.... I recommend Futures Pyzel 5 fin set or FCSII Reactors. Twin + Trailer I like the AMT.

[@davidkerman1732]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel! Large fin size right? I'm 165LBs. Can't wait for the beaches to open.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

David Kerman Large side fins and medium Quad Rears.

[@michaelrobinson5268]

WOuld this board be a good choice to ride as a hybrid if I size up? I am 5'10 155 lb.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Yea… pretty good for 1-5’ surf

[@michaelrobinson5268]

What do you think for indo waves. I am there for all of October and would like a one quiver board if possible. Want to keep the wave count high and would not be able to do that on a short board yet.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@michaelrobinson5268 Hypto Krypto

[@robarnoldbik8014]

Cool I've been waiting for this :D