JS "Black Baron" Twin Fin Surfboard Review by Noel Salas Ep.92

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In this episode I put the JS “Black Baron” Twin Fin through the paces in 1-4’ surf. The folks at JS send me two stock boards (5’3” & 5’4”) in their Fusion EPS construction.
To my surprise the 5’4” at 26.3 liters felt big for me. On most of the waves I caught my turns felt long and drawn out with the board bogging in the nose area. The more I surfed it the better it felt but at the end of the first session in perfect 2-4’ surf I knew it was too big.
The 5’3” at 25 liters on the other hand was extremely responsive and surfed like the performance Twin Fin that I was hoping for. I noticed the board having more get up and go speed from the take off and quicker from turn to turn. The nose was free from bogging due to it being 1”shorter with less volume. This board is a GREAT paddler and has good glide so don’t let the lower liters scare you off to buying it bigger and getting less performance.
The Black Baron is a Favorite of mine for 2019 and I highly recommend it for intermediate - pro level surfers. Sizing for this model is crucial to maximize performance in 1-4’ surf. I suggest going with the same liters as your High Performance Short Board (HPSB) if you want true performance in a Twin Fin.
Board Sizes:
Stock 5’4” x 19 5/8 x 2 ¼ Liters 26.3
Stock 5’3” x 19 ½ x 2 3/16 Liters 25
My Height: 5’9”
My Weight: 160 lb or 72.57 kg
Recommended Fins:
Futures: Al Merrick Keels (AMK)
Futures: EN Fins
FCSII: Power Twins

[@andrewenglishsc]

Wanted to drop a quick comment for people considering this board. I'm 6'3, 175-180, competent surfer (cutbacks, snaps, learning airs). I ordered the 5'8 31.7L board and love it, HOWEVER just like Noel said in his review, I think I'm on too much board. I catch a rail every now and then on a cutback, and I *really* have issues with catching a rail generating speed, specifically frontside where the heel side rail drags into the wave and stops the board exactly like at 13:17. Even though I saw this review before I bought the board, I sized this board up about a liter above what I normally ride thinking 1) I'm not a pro at surfing 2) it'll be ridden in smaller surf... well I should've listened to this review lol. Still love the board and I'm having tons of fun on it, but I'm considering ordering another at the right size so I can surf it unencumbered. I should probably be on the 5'6 29L or 5'7 30.4L. Never knew how much of a difference that could make! If this helped you vote it up so other people don't make the same mistake!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Thank you for posting!!

[@kalebmannigel3924]

when noel says to get a drink. you get your fookin drink

[@hanaleiboy08]

Aloha Noel, how would you compare the baron to the seaside as a twin? Mahalo bruddah...as always, awesome review!

[@ArdyAryan]

Solid review Noel! 🤙, I've been so curious about this board, I ended up getting the Psycho Nitro which is kind of similar to Black Barron except for its not a fish. Thanks a lot for using the stand again .

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Ardy Aryan I use the stand 4-5 days a week. Always working on my boards!!! Cheers

[@adam_hr8231]

You could win a CT event on that board. You were killing it on that 5’3”.

[@Felix-mr1vs]

Surprised you have this listed as a fave. Looked decent under your feet, especially for a twin, but not off the charts. Maybe it just didn't come across as well on the footage. From the technical side one of your best reviews in my opinion, loved how you described all the details!!!

[@zenfiretrading3848]

Woah those comparisons with the 5'4 and 5'3 and the 5'4 nose catching and bogging were pretty.......mind boggling hahah. I'm 5"11 145lbs and riding a 5"9 30L HS Untitled. I love the fact I can literally have a smile on my face catching knee high waves in florida and getting some pumps in haha. But I think its time to start dialing in a correct size board for when the surf turns on here. It was head high yesterday and got some fun progressive waves for me, but I gotta see what a dialed in size board feels like. A board thats sinking the correct depth in the water. I just always figured a board that is sinking more due to less volume would be slower.

[@michaelgiuffre5354]

Great work mate. How does it compare to the astropop? Which do you prefer?

[@joelschmidt4624]

Thanks Noel great review! On the 5'4 where you had too much volume, how did that affect your surfing? would you say it reduced your ability to control the board which is why you were catching the rail etc?

[@dylanjamesobrien]

Sick review Noel, keen to see a review on the Bullseye or Raging Bull by JS?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

dylan james o'brien Working on the Bullseye now. Hang tight

[@kirakira1825]

sweet looking board.

[@soulsurfer3102]

Tnx for this video Best show I wish they give u to do bb2. U r the best

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

wave killer Thank you!!

[@kungfusurfboards3910]

Looking good on those Twinnies . Nice left little barrel 👍. I am shaping some boards that will be getting to the public soon. Would be awesome to have you try one . Think you would like.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Kung Fu Surfboards Thanks for thinking of me... I’m pretty busy with board reviews on the bigger brands at this time. Sorry but thank you again for thinking of me.

[@kungfusurfboards3910]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel . Understandable, Your show is more than focused on getting the public reviews of boards in the shops . Which really helps the people figure out which ones to purchase.

[@Jimmy22Hamilton]

Great stuff Noel, Any plans for a JS flaming pony or psycho nitro review?

[@samueldoeslife]

Hey Noel, revisiting this review - Black Baron or Seaside? I need a small wave board to complement my MonstaBox for better days. Excellent reviews btw. Still the best anywhere.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Cheers!! Both boards are so fun... tough one. I like the Black Baron better.

[@bluechipmurray]

Noel thanks for everything you do. Just bought a blak box 3 thanks to you. It fit my quiver well with the board above that being a lost pocket rocket. What do you think of this board for a hardcore groveler? Could the black baron fit in the quiver as the board beneath the black box 3, or should I look to something else?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

S Murray Absolutely... Black Baron fits perfect

[@roeehaiun2996]

Great review!!!! I am 1.73 and 67 kilo. 5.3/5.2? Would be better?

[@mattr506]

Thanks Noel. Another great review... I have the neck beard 2 and was contemplating getting either a puddle jumper HP or Black barron for extra grovel and summer fun. My feeling is that the black barron will be different enough to better compliment the quiver. (og flyer + neck beard 2 + .. black barron?). Would love your thoughts.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Black Baron for sure

[@ricardolaranjeira4648]

Noel thank you so much for this review. As i told you before i had a ci fish wich didn`t work out for me and you told me to try a black baron, thank you so much for your response, i`m glad i gave a twin fin another try, this board is so special. Even the reccomendation about the size was amazing cause i went for the 5`3`` and that was a precious feedback also to choose the right size, thank you once again. Just one thing, i`m surfing the MR´s, do the power twins have a bigger surface area than the MR`s? Are they much different in size, rake and foil? Thank you so much for everything . Have fun and keep surfing and reviewing boards.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Ricardo Laranjeira Power Twins off more hold and drive compared to the MR’s. The MR’s will pivot better though. The Power Twin are a better fit for the BB

[@MaxTheSurfGod]

Great review, be interested to see what you think of the Lost MR Cali Twin.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

MaxTheSurfGod That’s coming up next.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Liam Brown Stoked you found a good sled

[@cwr8618]

@@liambrown156 Dude, I loved the PK. I got one in the carbon wrap a couple years ago, and the only thing I wasn't stoked on was the channels I got. The board was sick in small to head high, but I like my boards super loose and could feel the channels working against me sometimes, so I sold it, begrudgingly. What dims are yours? PU/EPS? What is your feedback? I think I might actually do the same exact one but no channels on the next one...

[@cwr8618]

@@liambrown156 boom

[@robgiles9992]

Hi Noel, another great review thanks. How would this board go as a groveler in smaller weaker waves? Cheers

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

It will go good. Really fun board.

[@BobbyJetty1502]

I'm not trying to be a jerk by saying this but you can't force a twin fin to ride like your standard thruster or quad. I've noticed recently over the last decade a lot of guys are making that mistake. Weather there on a keel fin or a Stand-Up MRI twin fin template it's a huge difference between even those two and the way that they ride. Like my mom's 5-4 Steve Lis wooden keel fin rides completely different from my 5'8 MR up right twin fin template. Much Aloha from Sunset Cliffs/O.B. Jetty crew 🤙🔱

[@lorenzoromagosa3828]

Great review as usual Noel. Thanks for time and dedication on the sport. If starting to get back on the sport and wanting to go twin fin, would you recommend a Go Fish or a Black Baron. I know you have suggested before the BB but just wondering if I added to the question the Beginner part to it would you still go with BB or a Go Fish?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

LORENZO ROMAGOSA The best is the Fishbeard but if your just getting back get the Black Baron... a little on the bigger side too. Make it fun and easy to catch waves.

[@lorenzoromagosa3828]

Surf n Show Reviews thanks man. Appreciate it. So for me being 5’10 and 165lbs maybe your thinking a 5’10 35lts ?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

LORENZO ROMAGOSA A good liter range for you is 33-35. Do yes that’s on the high end for you

[@monkeysurfer8799]

Could you do a review on the Pyzel Super Grom? I’ve been thinking of getting it but just want some more knowledge and another opinion on the board.

[@monkeysurfer8799]

By the way you’re reviews are awesome and really detailed. Best surfboard reviews on KZbin!

[@gianlucasenes2264]

Awesome review. I actually have a BB, I personally feel it great in backside, and sometimes a bit catchy in frontside. Now I am winking at a 5.2 or 5.3 firewire seaside. What would you say are main differences in feelings, not on the charts. Greeting from Sardinia in Italy, come here test our rocky point breaks!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

The Seaside might be a little faster but the BB draws a sharper line with the right Twin Fin templates. I personally like the Seaside better….

[@gianlucasenes2264]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 got the seaside, it is electric, almost no learning curve! much more agile than expected

[@kevinsbears]

Hey noel! Quick question, I came up on a deal for a seaside but already have a black baron. What conditions/reasons would you take one out over the other if you had both?

[@lukewadham1726]

Hey Noel.a bit left field but what size would your reccomended for a bigger guy- 220 pounds 6ft 2 worried i could easily over volume it . iv ridden twins before but more traditional shapes around the low 40s in literage.

[@Brointhepow]

Hi Noel, Have you tried the Red Baron EPS? A comparison with the Black Baron can be? Love your channel, good job !

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Not yet but I hope to soon

[@teamcamaleon]

Hi Noel would you recomend your keel fins for this board? I guess the answer is yes but wich is the main difference i will feel compare to the fcs power fins?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Yes, my HP Keels offer more hold, drive, and release. The Power Twins do not offer enough hold backside for me. They tend to slide out at the peak of a backside top turn.

[@rhuanmartins6531]

Since you switched the size on your end... what size would be a good fit for a 5’11” 166lbs intermediate level surfer?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Rhuan Martins I would say 30-31 liters is a good range for you.

[@josesnowsneves5132]

Noel, one question. You recommend this board on the low volume side. What about if I really want this board for the small size surf (1 to 3 foot...after that I have my NB2)...should I keep my NB2 volume or should I go up 2 Liters ? thanks

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Going up 2 liters is a lot. I say go up 1 liter unless you’re NB2 is on the low side of your liter range.

[@olivierlaperine9870]

Hi noel, awesome review as usual!! Would you recomend bb for intermediate surfer? If so in wich size ? I’m 6’3 182lb. Cheers

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

olivier laperine Yes.... I say 32-33 liters is good for you.

[@olivierlaperine9870]

Surf n Show Reviews thanks!!! ✌️

[@jphrabe8327]

Hi Noel, Have you tried the AMT fins in the board? I don't have a black baron, but have other twins. I really like the AMT fins over the power twin fins. AMT fins to me seemed more responsive.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I like the AMT’s in certain board with the trailer… I have not tried them in the BB but I know they will not have enough drive for me. To upright for me purely as a Twin Fin for most Twinnies.

[@monkeypawism]

More Julian please!

[@jaysonwebsther2698]

Great review Sir Noel, how can you compare this JS black barron to CI Ultra Joe, for a 2-3feet groveller wave?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jayson Websther Black Baron is a Twin Fin..., no comparison to Ultra Joe at all. They both draw completely different lines and surf totally different underfoot.

[@jaysonwebsther2698]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks 🤙🏼

[@lukkeras]

Noel Salas makes really good reviews and he is an excellent surfer. The only thing is that he is very focused on high performance competitive styles of surfing (this is the way he surfs) but is lacking reviews more in style type surfing. Where one is looking for a board that can offer smooth, wide open turns and carving, i feel his reviews don't offer that. Anyhow, still he is a really good surfer and offers excellent points of view on all kinds of boards. Thanks!

[@cwr8618]

his style is CRUSH

[@TheDazboo]

Noel , have you tried the Mick Fanning newer TWIN fins from FCS? Just curious if you thought they may be good with the the Black Baron? I appreciate it

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I have not tried them yet but they look good. They might go good frontside but not sure they will offer enough hold backside. My HP Twins go mental in the BB… check them out here. surfnshow.com/products/twin-fins-hp-twins

[@izandevainmyheart1129]

Hi Noel. Sorry if you've answered this already but..... Barron or Fish beard for summer in SD? I'm riding a Neckbeard 2 that has been awesome during the past few swells so I'm looking at the Fishbeard.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

IzandEva Inmyheart BB will grovel better but the FB will our perform the BB top to bottom. The FB has a High Performance vibe to it.

[@izandevainmyheart1129]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Ok thanks Chief. Wow. I thought you were gonna go the other way. Now I'll have to choose between groveling or performing like Dane. Well....I am going to turn 57 soon and I weigh in at 200...ish. So I'll probably get the groveler. Reality....sigh

[@strengthsolveseverything8643]

what did you like more overall between the black baron and the lost hydra?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Strength Solves Everything Twin fins are faster and more fun. Both boards are epic.... my choice is BB.

[@Quinntheeskimoe]

Hey Noel, just grabbed a Black Baron and noticed I could use some back foot traction, any recommendations? Keep up the good work!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I like the Creatures Freestone pad... however it’s not a fish pad. I have not found a good fish pad at all. They all lack the arch and higher kick I want in a fish pad.

[@Quinntheeskimoe]

Surf n Show Reviews I have the same problem, I want a foot lock. Thanks for taking the time🤟🏻

[@julianhoward8724]

How much fun is this board

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

julian howard So fun... sick performance Twin Fin!!!

[@roschidominik]

Hi Noel. First of all you doing a great job very good review. What size would you recommend? I'm an intermediate surfer. I weigh 73kg . My height is 5'11". Normally I surf waves from 3 to 6 ft. I was thinking about a 5'9" or 5'8" or maybe smaller? Currently I surf a 6'2" Chilli Odyssey 32 liters. So it will be my first fish. Cheers

[@roschidominik]

Or would you recommend me the Firewire Seaside instead of the Black Baron. I know its not the same but maybe more stability on the Seaside because of the quad fins? But I'm also not shure wich size should I go on the Seaside. Or do you recommend somethingelse than a Seaside or a Black Baron? Maybe the Go Fish? Cheers

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Dominik Roschi Seaside offers more stability for sure. Ideal liters for both boards is 30-31(L).

[@Jorgevarelalabbe]

Noel, this board is similar to DHD "The Twin". Have you tried that one. Which one do you preffer.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jorge Varela I have not surfed the DHD Twin... Sorry

[@johnvallesteros2491]

Noel I'm going to put you on the spot....it is a foot overhead at your favorite break (6 to 7 foot faces), perfect and peeling, what surfboard do you grab? Seaside, Black Baron, Astro Pop, Lost Retro Twin, Akila Aipa Fish?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

John Vallesteros Tough one... only one of those boards can handle that size surf.. Seaside. The rest of them are small wave boards. Technically I could ride them all but it’s not ideal and I would have to nurse my turns a bit.

[@johnvallesteros2491]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel your board reviews are so informative and entertaining. I actually do grab my favorite drink and enjoy the show. If it was small day 2-4 feet, which board, of the ones I mentioned, would you take out?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

John Vallesteros Black Baron, Astro POP, Seaside... in that order. I am determined surf Twin Fins better.....

[@johnvallesteros2491]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel. Keep the reviews coming and keep on ripping. Aloha

[@justinlins4720]

Good stuff... could you pick in between this and a seaside 🤙🤙🤙

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Justin Lins Seaside is a Quad this is a Twin Fin. No comparison... if you want a sick Performance Twin Fun then get the Black Baron. If you want a sick Quad Performance Fish then get the Seaside.

[@justinlins4720]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 yeah I have a 5' 3 seaside... just was wondering if they kinda ride the same... I'm with you on the twin I ride twins alot... keep them reviews coming bro... Good stuff 🤙🤙🤙

[@gilbertrockstv8557]

For a minute there, thought there was some lost HG footage. ha

[@zakpatterson5274]

Hey Noel, great review🤙🏻 I’m having difficulty trying to choose a size with this board, im 5’7,66kg and usually ride a 5’10 29.7 L Pu I can’t drive between the 5’5 eps or 5’6 Pu?have you got any advice ? Cheers 🤙🏻🤙🏻

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Go with the 5’6” EPS.... it float like 29.5L. If your 29.7L PU feels good then the 5’6” EPS will go good.

[@zakpatterson5274]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you man 🙏

[@ItsJustBunny1]

Hey Noel, I absolutely love this board and have the red baron on the way. Are you doing the red baron review at all? Also what happened to the hypto krypto review? Is that on the way? Great reviews buddy. I really enjoy them

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I ordered the Red Baron... but I don’t have it yet. I hope to have it soon. The Hypto review will be done soon. I am waiting for 1 more board coming from Hayden.

[@liranlahav8439]

Great review! Now days I ride a Paddle Jumper 5.8, 33.1 litres. Im an average surfer and am looking for a new board. Im debating between the Seaside 5.6 or 5.7 and the Black Baron 5.9. I weigh 78 kg and 188 cm tall. What do you recommend?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Liran Lahav Seaside is faster and paddles better excellent wave range 1-6’ surf. The BB is so sick if your looking for a Performance Twin Fin Groveler for 1-4’ surf. Hard choice... I would go BB... I love Twin Fins.

[@liranlahav8439]

Surf n Show Reviews cool! Even for an average surfer? I’m not a pro..😅

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Liran Lahav Quads are easier to surf compared to a Twin Fin.

[@user-qe2ui1qs4r]

Hi, Noel! thanks fo review, Can you recommend size for intermediate surfer 5'11 175 lb

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Сергей Карпов Your liter range is roughly 31-32 liters. I say go for the 5’8” at 31.7 liters in EPS... it will float like roughly 32.2 liters.

[@user-qe2ui1qs4r]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you so much

[@nikitaivanov4110]

Привет, у меня есть новый black baron 5.8 ,интересен ?

[@brennanmoore6102]

5’3 Es 🌶 🌶🌶

[@geoffncarmenfleming6853]

Hi Noel- Black Baron vs a Cali Twin for 1-3 ft beach breaks?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I like the BB better.

[@theoverstoker3430]

Yessir

[@marcos2305]

Great review once again. Can you compare BB to Misc? Thanks

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

marcos2305 The Misc is not a true Twin Fin... it has a Trailer fin... that offers traction and something to pivot off of.

[@marcos2305]

Surf n Show Reviews ok, I got that, so it would a bit more “overall”? But no necessarily faster than bb? I’m after something more manouverable and pretty fast for 2-4ft. Not a groveler. I already have dms gherkin for that. Thanks

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

marcos2305 Yes then get the Misc

[@izandevainmyheart1129]

Lookn good on the twin! 1. I've seen footage of this board in bigger dredgier surf. Did you feel that you could surf overhead blacks type of surf on this? I have a short kg twinzer that I'm sure will come alive in san diego barrels. 2. I can guess the answer to this next question but how does this compare to hayden's twin?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

IzandEva Inmyheart Yes it will go good in some barrels! Haydenshapes Twin has a Trailer so no comparison for me. A Twin Fin should only be compared to a Twin Fin with not trailer fin. The trailer fin adds good hold... a true Twin Fin makes me use my rails more.

[@izandevainmyheart1129]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks chief! Have my had my eye on the black baron. Thanks for another great review. Note to self : Super interesting that there was so much difference between 5'3 and 5"4.

[@BobbyJetty1502]

Decent sized blacks should never be ridden on any twin. #1 twins should never have a cord. #2 Over head black's requires a board with paddling power and a round/pin tail #3 Enjoy north peak on a 6-8ft day on a -.2 or lower tide 🤙

[@izandevainmyheart1129]

@@BobbyJetty1502 i grew up at blacks never wearing a leash. Moved to the North Shore and surfed the outer reefs for ten years without a leash. I can surf maxed Blacks on a crayon ....without a leash

[@BobbyJetty1502]

@@izandevainmyheart1129 Good. Someone raised you right. My mother made sure growing up, " you have no business being in the surf if you can't swim in or out " much Aloha

[@henriquevert]

Hi Noel…. Great review! Black Baron or RNF96?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

96

[@lachlancashman9294]

hey mate, confused on whether to grab the 5'5 or 5'6 based on litres and whether its worth investing in the PU or EPS. im at an intermediate level, 6'0 and 160lbs who's surfing predominantly reefy point breaks. any help would be appreciated - cheers

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

lachlan cashman I would go 5’5”... floatation is there for you. If you go longer the nose will catch on your turns and slow you down

[@taibirius1723]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 hey Noel, I’m 5,7 intermediate 145 pounds, which would you recommend, 5’2 in 23.5L or the 5,3 in 25L. My current board shortboard right now has 26.5 litres and paddles very well, also very fit and a good paddler. thanks

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@taibirius1723 Go 5’3”

[@taibirius1723]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks! Also, should I get the eps or pu, I live in Sydney with beach breaks. A good friend who competes, told me to avoid EPS as they break easily, is this true? The differences between PU and EPS is $100. should I get the EPS? Thanks sorry for the hassle.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@taibirius1723 Both break easy if they hit the bottom just right. If you’re concerned then go PU

[@languille40]

Hello Noël from France Hossegor i want to buy a new board for summer surfing at home and for a trip this winter to sri lanka i hesitate between the seside in 5'5 and the Black baron in 5'8 I am 40 years old I am 1m81 for 75kg I have been surfing for 30 years I am of intermediate level ++ what do you recommend me? last time you gave very good advice for my cymatic in 5'7 thank you for yours reviews I never get tired for me the best Enjoy

[@yeeewchannel7741]

Hey Noel. Will you be doing a review on the JS Red Baron, interested to know your thoughts on how it compares to your review of the Black Baron.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I hope so... I ordered boards.

[@yeeewchannel7741]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Cool. I got the 5'2 in EPS and I'm 69kgs. There doesn't seem to be any PU models available yet here on the Gold Coast.

[@gabrielavalduga2506]

@@yeeewchannel7741 how are you feeling the board? I just got a 5’2 Eps I’m only 54kg surfed today for the firs time and I’m in Sunshine Coast. Yesterday I tried a 5’3 of my friend and I loved but I found a bit bigger for me at 28L Great board

[@michaelono7335]

What size would u recommend me for a black Barron? I’m 5’ 6” 175lbs My Standard short board Tokoro 5’ 9 19 1/2” 2 1/2” 27.9L Been surfing for over 35 yrs Thank you for your time.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Michael Ono I would say a good liter range is 32-34

[@michaelono7335]

So u think a 5’9” black Barron? That’s way too much volume. I’m thinking 5’4” or 5’5”. For 15-25mph winds, peaky then flat waves about knee to chest high. Want to be able to do tight turns in 1ft soft mush.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Michael Ono Sounds you know what you like...

[@Jorgevarelalabbe]

Thanks noel. Wich board do you preffer. Js or go fish?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jorge Varela JS without a doubt

[@Jorgevarelalabbe]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 cheers from chile mate

[@cwr8618]

just gonna chime in here, and I haven't ridden the JS (yet), but I LOVE my Go Fish. So much that I bought one when they first came out, then a year later got a custom in the same dims and left it at my moms pad in Florida for the shit surf over there...

[@andrecruz8380]

Hi Noel! Your reviews are always spot on! This model will be for sure my next surfboard for this summer...I always surfed PU surfboards but Im tempted to buy this one in EPS. Can you make my decision easier? I know that you've talked about both constructions but I still have some doubts. How it behaves in summer waves and how it is in terms of performance/ durablility. Thanks for your epic reviews. cheers!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Andre Cruz I love EPS in small waves but I’m used to the feel. If you don’t ride them much you might not like it. They are a bit more rigid but the pop, and projection through turns in small waves is epic. EPS is bit more unpredictable until you get used to it... now 1-3’ surf PU/Poly feels a bit slow and less responsive unless it’s Team light glassing for me. On the flip side if you don’t want to take the time to get used to EPS then just stay PU.

[@lukemitchell7375]

Hey Noel, I was wondering if you could do a review on The Volume 2 by Chilli. (its Mitch Coleborn's Favourite model)

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Luke Mitchell Sounds like a fun board. Working on getting the Hot Knife by Chilli first.

[@lukemitchell7375]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 I've looked at that board quite a bit, and it looks soo sick for punchy 2-5 foot waves

[@fernandoneyra5845]

Hi Noel - what board you think is better for and intermediate surfer in San Diego? Black Baron or CI Fishbeard?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Fishbeard with my HP Twins. Check them out here. surfnshow.com/products/twin-fins-hp-twins

[@fernandoneyra5845]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 got the board and got the fins! Can’t wait to get in the water… thanks so much, Noel!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@fernandoneyra5845 Yewww!! Stoked for you. Let me know how everything goes after you shred it for a bit

[@oriy8858]

Hey Noel! What do you think about the BB in HYFI construction? Is there a big difference from the normal EPS construction? I wonder why nobody online is talking about BB in HYFI. My store has only HYFI in my size and I'm afraid the HYFI would be too much buoyant for me cause the BB isn't the type of board you should take in HYFI. Cheers :)

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

The BB in HYFY will be mental… that would be my first choice in construction. The BB is a Groveler… I like all of my boards in EPS/Epoxy for 1-4’ surf.

[@oriy8858]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you for your answer! I’m 6.0 ft and 172 lbs. Riding normally weak beach break. Intermediate. My current board is 6.0 30 litres and I feel like I need more volume also on bigger days. I struggle with it. I wonder if I should pick the black baron in 5.8 31.7 litres in hyfi or 5.9 33.6 in PE. What do you think? 🔥🤙🏼

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@oriy8858 You should go 5’9” in EPS or PU.

[@oriy8858]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you for your time! Appreciate it

[@joshuaelder5803]

Hi Noel, if you could only have one "fish", would you get the black baron, or the lost rnf retro fish? Or something else? Thanks

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Fishbeard

[@sergioleon7771]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Hi Noel im looking for a Red barón. How strong is that EPS compare to the firewire Lft on presure dents? Thanks for your greats reviews.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@sergioleon7771 The JS EPS is similar to most other EPS/Epoxy builds. I would give it a 6 out of 10 for durability on pressure dents. The FW HE tech is 8 out of 10 and the LFT a 7 out of 10.

[@sergioleon7771]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thanks Noel

[@samuelmok6946]

I’m currently 179cm and 70kg (154lbs) and I was just looking for a board that kind of fits most conditions as I’m not a pro, I’d say I’m an in intermediate. I was just wondering if I want something fun and alive, would the black baron be a good shout? Also I notice how you said a shorter board actually helped so that’s when I was wondering if I can’t help some suggestion for dims thanks. Love your channel btw absolutely amazing content

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Some volume ranges at different skill levels for your weight. Pro/Expert 24-26L Advanced 26-28L Intermediate 29-31L The Bb is super fun… the RNF 96 is easier to shred and it has a way better wave range. You can shred it at roughly the same volume as your Daily

[@samuelmok6946]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thank you so much for your swift reply, I’m just seriously debating with regards if I should get the 5’8 (31.7L) or 5’9 (33.6L) as I recall from your video that foam is not my friend here and it hinders the performance and one inch made all the different for you but I just worry about the paddle ability, what would be your take on it?? Many thanks 🙏🏼

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@samuelmok6946 I say go 5’8”… it paddles excellent

[@samuelmok6946]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thank you so Mk y for your reply. I’m actually going to get a black baron today after your solid review, seems so much fun. Howeve just one more thing I have a Blak box 2 right now at 6’0 31.9L and I struggle a tiny bit to paddle, not a massive struggle but I’m just wondering what’s your take on paddle ability even with similar volume between the black baron and the Blak box 2? As I just worry that choosing 31.7L might be a tad too tough to paddle but if you say that even with similar volume it’s much easier to paddle due to the placement of foam and the middle point shifted forward? Many thanks once again

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@samuelmok6946 That’s your call… I think it will paddle way better compared to BB2

[@ryansmith9283]

Hey Noel, Another amazing review. What would you say would be comparable to the futures amk in fcs ?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

FCS AMK

[@alecdemoe2582]

Please do a review on the Sharp Eye Storms (Kanoa Igarashi pro model) it’s suppose to be a everyday performance board and perfect for the QS surfers.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Alec DeMoe I will talk to Marcio about getting one

[@sfipanema]

why do you get a twin fin if you can get the best of both world on a thruster?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jose da silva A Thruster does not off the sensation and speed a Twin Fin does. I never understood why some surfers love Twin Fin so much until now. I still love a Thruster... just completely different feel but both are epic to surf. Do yourself a favor and mix it up a bit if your up for the experience. Totally different

[@nunomendes2372]

Hi Noel tell me one thing how do you compare this to the akila aipa fish ? when you did the review on that board I noticed by your words that it was more of a performance fish like this one and the dimensions are similar Are they comparabale ? Great review as always Cheers !

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Nuno Mendes The Akila Aipa Winged Twin is 5’5” with a High Performance outline. The Winged Twin surfs like a HPSB.... linger bottom turns and pocket surfs like a Thruster even as a Twin Fin with NO trailer. The outline on the winged Twin has a pulled in nose with more rocker so it does not catch or Bogg in turns either. The Black Baron at 5’3” surfs like a Performance Groveler Twin Fin due to its outline and foam distribution. You will see the difference when we drop the Winged Twin review.... night and day.

[@nunomendes2372]

Surf n Show Reviews thanks for the reply Looking forward for that review and also the rad ripper Great surfing btw!

[@nunomendes2372]

Surf n Show Reviews do you consider the akila aipa fish also to be a performance groveler twin fin ?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Nuno Mendes Performance Twin Fin.... it will grovel but the outline makes more of a performance Twin. It’s unlike any Twin Fin I’ve seen or ridden.

[@nunomendes2372]

Surf n Show Reviews cool thanks

[@jaspervos4345]

Is that a seal at 0:25??

[@josephtube24]

Jasper Vos I also noticed that too? Had to replay a few times.... still not sure if a guy about to duck or a seal 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jasper Vos Lobster Trap... I almost landed on it.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

josephtube24 Lobster Trap...

[@jaspervos4345]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 brrrr, dangerous

[@dwaynepalmer6476]

Great review but could you get a big guy like 200lb on it review wise???

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

dwayne palmer Check our the reviews by Craig at the Surfboard Guide. He’s a bigger guy and does surfboard reviews... he also did the Black Baron. I will also try to get some bigger guys in our reviews in the future.

[@cwr8618]

good question, but wouldn't you just scale up? I'm 6'2" 215 and pretty much all of Noel's reviews have been accurate but I just add some volume. It does help that I know my sweet spot is 35-36L (through many $$ of trial and error) but now I can extrapolate what he's saying into ranges comfortable for me. I've owned a ton of the boards he's reviewed and found his info quite suitable...

[@michaelpemberton8898]

Go fish or black baron? I'm curious

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Michael Pemberton Black Baron for sure

[@xabierxabi2199]

And compareing with the seaside?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Xabier xabi Seaside is a Quad.... no comparison

[@UxMADxBROx]

I'm 6'3 so these sizes are ridiculous haha

[@taradead]

I'm 6'0 and they don't work for me, either. Boards that tiny are too hard to paddle into the waves we usually get...if I can't catch the wave, can't get into the pocket, anyhow.

[@Hotwire_RCTrix]

I think you should call a dog A Dog. Haven't seen anyone with that board rip. Who would paint a surfboard black?

[@cwr8618]

marketing for sure. but dude does seem to be ripping. I haven't seen many of these in the water

[@lucase84]

Black baron or fishbeard?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I like the FB better as a daily driver. It offers more performance. The BB grovels better and it’s a little faster down the line

[@catinthehat8412]

spice up your surfboards

[@ThePokersurfer]

Just not a fan of the lines this board draws ....... Evident in other videos as well. Needs to be refined IMO.

[@aaronwhitehead7484]

Check out Parko or Ryan Calinan ripping on their BB’s

[@ThePokersurfer]

@aaronwhitehead7484 still a flawed design IMO