Pyzel "Phantom" Surfboard Review by Noel Salas Ep. 61

[@akelly1983]

ATTENTION PYZEL AND FUTURE! This year I have purchased a Ghost, Phantom, and Gremlin for my travel quiver. I have also purchased Futures JJ-2 Large Tech Flex, HS Quad Rears, and a set of the Legacy Series fins all because of Noel reviews and suggestions on these products. I live in North Alabama and luckily get to take multiple surf trips a year but I don't get easy access to surf shops for suggestions or even to feel the boards in my hands. I go strictly off Noel reviews and suggestions because I trust his opinion and knowledge. He has been accurate on all his reviews and I'm happy with every purchase I've made. I'm leaving this review only to remind the surf industry of his impact to us consumers. PLEASE PAY THIS MAN WHAT HE DESERVES!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Aaron Kelly Yewwww!! Cheers

[@MrB1019]

Awesome post

[@sdlegend9927]

Kook

[@mjm5791]

How did the Phantom hold up against pressure dents?

[@ianscottcastillo7709]

Here’s my question. Should I buy this board or the RNF 96 For a one board quiver daily driver here in Los Angeles. (Looking for my first hard top since I’ve grown out of my 8ft foamie and 5’8” fish foamie) As always thanks.

[@brandonbauman8813]

I still come back to watch this review. I think this is the best surfing I've seen in your reviews, the quad setup really looks magic

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Brandon Bauman Cheers... Phantom is legit and one of my all time Favorites

[@ejectoraircoasters222]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 great video! I'm personally an intermediate surfer. I can generate speed pretty well, do basic speed snaps and cutbacks on lefts and rights. I currently ride a gremlin and I love its paddle power while still being able to pull pretty snappy maneuvers. Sometimes I have trouble digging the rail in hard on a bigger wave though, and I know it's partially me and my skill level, but I do somewhat feel it may be holding me back a bit. I know this cause I rode a different high performance shot board recently and it was quite a bit easier to go vertical with. Would you recommend the phantom as a step up board? Also how does the ghost paddle in comparison to the phantom? Thanks

[@dadthelad]

@@ejectoraircoasters222 Yeah the gremlin has chunkier rails for small waves with less push. Phantom or Shadow, would be your go to board for shoulder up to head and a half, as they have thinner rails that will dig in at the higher speeds, and the rocker, shape, and concaves designed for those waves too. Ghost more for when it gets minimum head and a half and for double overhead+

[@ejectoraircoasters222]

@@dadthelad ok thanks! I don’t surf waves that much over head high too often, I’m in LA so waves over like 5-6 are rare. But thanks for the advice, it made a lot of sense. I like the gremlin because I can still carry a good amount of speed through slow sections and I can still paddle is very well. I don’t wanna lose all of that when moving up boards, that’s why I thought the phantom could be a good fit.

[@dadthelad]

@@ejectoraircoasters222 Yep, Phantom could be a good choice then.

[@bapple7844]

I feel like that quad went so well because you're definitely a back footed surfer and the ghost family of boards are more condusive to front-footed surfers like john john with the wide point forward and the really parallel rails. But when you stuck the quad on it, it gave you more lift off the tail so you could put more pressure and generate more speed off the back foot kind of like a Sub Driver. You were throwing down some pro level combos on that quad looking so spicy. Great review

[@karljakobsson2687]

Your reviews are just getting better. How you took time reviewing and comparing it with different fins is next level! Sick surf footage. Best KZbin channel.

[@sullivanfachner1937]

Just ordered one. Told them that you recommended it. Thank you so much for the effort you put in your videos. I’ve boughten a hydra, black baron and now phantom thanks to you

[@Eidref102]

I don't know how many times I watch this video before ending up buying one recently. I already have the pyzalien 2 because of your review and a mini ghost last year before you made a review out of it. Never been so happy with my boards 😁

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Epic sleds for sure

[@MsLeche86]

@Ferdie Mider can you compare the pyzalien 2, the mini ghost, and the phantom to each other after riding all three?

[@soulsurfer3102]

@@MsLeche86 yes this very good idea

[@darren3604]

Noel you are so attentive and generous with your responses to comments. A true gentleman. Loving my phantom. Bald doods shred.

[@JBOsurf]

I've watched most of your reviews and this board is by far the best I've seen you ride. Ordering one.

[@zjgvergara]

JBOsurf ordering another one

[@soulsurfer3102]

Jbosurf.how u like the phantom from 1 to10?

[@SecretReefs]

I think a pretty valuable takeaway is that comment about a shaper building out a quiver of boards that share the same DNA - it's very logical to alter a board to suit different waves without changing the core principles of the design and feel. Maybe similar to Rocket and Rocket Wide but this kind of takes it to another level where with the three boards you can pretty much handle everything without having to fully re-adjust your approach to suit a totally different board. I know you had the Team Lite glassing on there but durability is a big concern, especially for the travel boards. I think Pyzel has some durable options but I have a Pyzel in Firewire FST construction and after a year it has literally 0 pressure dents and barely a scratch even after a few run ins with super low tide reef heads. Too bad FW and Pyzel ended their shaping arrangement but hopefully more and more shapers will give options for ultra-durable closed-cell EPS for worry-free travel.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Great comments and I agree with you about all of it. Durability is very important to me too and the Firewire constructions are next level in durability and feel. So far I have tested the LFT, and Helium and they felt great and were very durable.Thanks for your comments.....

[@SecretReefs]

Word... I also have a Machado Almond Butter in TimberTek, arguably the most eco-friendly of the constructions (though no board is truly eco-friendly), and the longer we can make a board last without losing performance the better I think - part of the reason I think your show is valuable is because it helps people dial in to the right board for them and then hopefully have to buy less boards in total. The Almond Butter has been on trips and has taken airline abuse without any issues and also has no pressure dents. The closed cell EPS is a big bonus on trips as well because it doesn't need immediate repair and won't suck in water - so rather than a hack job during the trip and waiting for it to cure it's reasonable to wait until you get home to repair.

[@greglucero8714]

Quad set up is what I usually ride because the added traction really helps to produce down the line speed. your surfing was noticeably crisper, more powerfull and throwing more spray with the extra fin in there. Thank you for the review the boards look great

[@kcermit1]

Noel, have watch about 25 of your board reviews. Have appreciated your ability when reviewing given boards but the Phantom in quad makes you look like a top 50 international competitor. Definitely next level compared to your other vids. Gonna grab a Phantom based on this....btw, I am way north of SF, 60 @ 190lbs, and have a 6'8" Ghost as well as a 7'10" paddy - both game changers!

[@kingsofmayhem]

Riding that quad your backside flow looked unreal...complete speed but always under control...ripping..!!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

kingsofmayhem Yewww!! Cheers for the feedback. It felt so good too.

[@adamivancic7650]

Just bought my 6'0 Phantom today!! Many thanks Noel, eased my mind after watching your review and with a bit more research, can't wait to break it in !!

[@bajafresk]

How much do you weigh? i'm about to buy one too but can't decided between 6'1 (34.4) or 6'2 (35.9L). I'm 195 pounds

[@adamivancic7650]

​@@bajafresk I'm 155 and honestly I couldn't have chosen a better size. Gone from learning turns to drawn out turns and the little bit extra volume I opted for hasn't held me back in the slightest. It's definitely a daily driver that can handle a bit more so either will go fine. Stay safe and sus your local shop cause I'm stoked I went in and felt it under the arm before hand.

[@bajafresk]

@@adamivancic7650 Nice! I think I'll go for the extra volume with the 6'2 since we're 40 pounds different.

[@adamivancic7650]

@@bajafresk Nice man niceee, yea great call there. Best of luck!!

[@schtisoo]

@@adamivancic7650 how tall are you? I'm 155 too amd deciding between a 6'0 and the 5'10 (30.1l). I can do turns, but not snappy :-)

[@ryanbachman7196]

Hell yeah, Noel! Great review, solid surfing. I'm absolutely in love with my 5'8 Phantom Electralite. Best daily driver I've ever owned. I also surf Trestles on the daily, so the EPS/Expoxy construction is insane for our waves.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Ryan Bachman Stoked you found a nugget.... thanks for posting your experience with the Phantom too. Cheers

[@eamonshields2754]

Ryan Bachman hey man thinking about getting the electralite. How do you like it ?!

[@liamdonnelly670]

Oh man riding it as a quad looked game changing for you on those waves that were a bit smaller! Would love to hear how you go riding the ghost on a 3ft5ft day but with the same quad setup you had here! Great review.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Liam Donnelly I did ride the Ghost as a Quad with that same set up. It went good too!!!

[@jlepp]

Noel you could surf a fricken Mac Donald’s tray and make it look good .. No offence to Pyzel surfboards btw

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Hone Pepper This Phantom model goes mental... thanks for the kind words.

[@MrBreakthompson]

Lol so true, Noel is the kinda guy you see in the water and always mistake him for Slater :P (bald head helps of course)

[@rodrigogabaldon]

Hi Noel, great show and awesome reviews. I am 6’6 and +- 197 pounds. Athletic, about 30 years surfing. Most of my surfing is mexico and central America. Used to ride 6’4 CI black n white 35.6L and moved to 6’2 CI everyday happy 37.5 L and is lots of fun but i am missing high performance or want to get a board for when the waves get really good at point breaks and small puerto, punchy beach breaks. I am not truly convinced on the ghost due to my size 15 foot (12”) it will be located too far up the tail pad. That said, been looking at the phantom and radius from pyzel (pro dims) to get a bit more length and a round pin to use it as a step up. Liking the pyzel extra foam at front for the puerto/mex off shores paddles. I like the feeling of the CI happy is fun, floats a lot, I get to ride many waves per sessions. Thought of the CI too happy and also considering the …lost (driver, stub or sub drivers). What are your thoughts on those boards and situation mentioned? Also, want to get board to alternate with the 6’2 CI EH, when the waves are not for the above situation! Debating the rnf 96 or the pyzalien2. Any comment will be greatly appreciated. Thanks bud. Big help your analysis. The phantom looks good on your feet 🤙

[@monkeypawism]

Damn, those cutbacks on the quads....tight!

[@jeffryhiebert]

Big fan of your reviews. Bought a couple boards because of them. Keep it up.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jeff Hiebert Cheers

[@BluelleDeville]

That turn at 11:10 sold me 🌊🏄😉🤙🏼

[@mikewanner67]

Ok... I'm 43 and an ex-pro surfer sponsored by Oakley and I have to say: rarely are the young guys as good as me and others because all you get to see from them is air 36tv's (360 to reverse) but Noel man your style is solid, you keep the tightness in your turns from really good looking bottom turns and quick snaps show up more than it doesn't. You rip man! Kelly Slater used to call me the best La Jolla small wave surfer until the Brazilians made everyone look like peewee league, but I am about to pull the trigger on a 5'11 Greg Sauritch in Cardiff or a Rusty but after seeing you riding these boards I would like to know whether buying something off-the-shelf would work for someone used to custom boards? I road mostly hand me downs of Pat 'O. Pat O'Connell has some killer boards. If I am used to riding a 5'11 perfect for gutless Shores/Scripps in La Jolla or Trestles, what would you recommend? Sorry my name is Beatle.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Thank you for the kind words. The Phantom is mental... best in 3-7’ surf. For smaller gutless waves I like the Astro POP. Right now my favorite high performance 1-3’ sleds are the Modern Fish by Akila Aipa, CI Fishbeard, and the Dominator 2.0. Check out those reviews

[@brandonchan3053]

damnn after watching you riding the phantom as a quad. I really regret no buying my phantom 5 fin set up. you killed it as a thruster, but watching you riding it as a quad was a game changing

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Brandon Chan Cheers bro... the waves we got for Thruster testing were good but the waves for the Quad testing were Epic. Both felt good but Quad was next level performance on this Phantom.

[@Huwevans5209]

Another great review....just wish i could have ALL the boards 😄

[@Felix-mr1vs]

Top review and top surfing. Looked very good under your feet, especially as a quad!

[@busplay]

wow the quad set up really made a difference with down the line speed and flow of turns.......ripping!

[@richardembery]

Sick review. Definitely looks better as a quad. Looked sticky at times as a Thruster. Maybe Try the Jack Freestone generation series in it as a Thruster. They went great in my Pyzel Sure thing. To me the J Freestone couple better with the stretch quad rears compared to the Haydens though. I also like the Ando fibreglass fins when it gets punchier. Have a good one

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Richard Embery Cheers for posting the fins you like in yours.

[@kinjuk15]

Yeahhh Noel you are absolutely ripping it with that quad setup! It'd be cool if you reviewed weirder boards like the meyerhoffer. Also, a single fin 9/10ft longboard would be funny to watch just to see how your flow would turn out! Cheers

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

kinjuk15 Classic.... I suck at surfing long boards. Cheers for the kind words.

[@ggn2446]

I love your show. great job man. The feedbacks at the beach are mental. cheers from Brazil

[@everydaybettereverydaystronger]

GOAT turn at the 8:50 mark

[@sean8081a]

8:56 that second cutback is the best i've ever seen.

[@youdig-detection]

Good review waiting for the gremlin one now :-)

[@frankymacf]

Noel, helpful vid. It would be good if your surfing clips started before the wave entry so we could see the paddle and pop up.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

frankymacf Ok... I will do that on a couple waves in each review now.

[@frankymacf]

Surf n Show Reviews Thanks Noel, about to pull the trigger and order a Ghost here :)

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

frankymacf Yewww

[@rhidiandavies1991]

The best thing about these boards is how closely they relate to one another. So many shapers seem to shape individual boards in isolation so you end up with a groveller, daily driver, and step up that feel completely different to surf. Sure they might all work really well, but it takes a few waves to get used to a board every time conditions change. But with the ghost family each board flows into the other in a really logical way and preserves that same feeling so that surfing a gremlin in gutless waves feels weirdly similar to surfing a ghost in overhead surf. It seems so obvious but by shaping a family boards with forming the perfect performance-based quiver in mind, Pyzel is both lessening the transition between boards for customers and increasing the chances of repeat business e.g. if I buy a phantom and later on am in the market for a step up, the ghost is the obvious choice. Buy a gremlin for small days, a phantom or shadow for average days (depending on how high performance you want to be), and various lengths of ghost as your step ups.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Rhidian D Very well said and I completely agree. The transition between the boards in the Ghost Family is pretty seamless.

[@jasegalaxy74]

Great surfing on your forehand and backhand! Frothing !

[@jul1us_tv]

The Quad looks sooooo fun!!!

[@jwmclips9361]

Going on a trip to South Africa this winter and am looking at a 2 board HP quiver, a daily driver and mini step-up. For the the waves at home when it gets shoulder/head+ with some curve I use the CI OG Pod and like that board as it has quite some range with fin adjustments but at steeper take offs the nose width gets in the way. Otherwise I would have taken that and complimented that with the Pyzel ghost. Now to bridge that gap for the quiver at home and for SA summer breaks, I need a HP daily driver for anything smaller than Ghost material, and it needs to handle some degree of surface texture. I'm planning on the Ghost in PU, and the daily driver in epoxy construction. I've had the sci-fi 5'11 in LFT and loved the speed and projection out of turns but it doesn't like chop at all and the LFT flexed too much when pushing hard in bottom turns in overhead surf. Actually surf thruster all the time as never dialed the quads in to my likings (always too loose for my backfooted surfing, sometimes liked it on forehand but never on backhand). Thruster sets I use allround template FCS PG-5, PG-7 and PG-3 or combo of these to loosen/stiffen up the boards. Now after checking a bunch of your very well laid out board reviews I have the following on the radar; JS monsta box hyfi squash, pyzalien squash (looks very similar in outline and rocker profile as JS MB, Pyzel phantom, Tomo hydroshort. Pyzels I can only get in standard EPS/epoxy, should I worry about delam during airtravel with that construction? As I like rail surfing and good vertical projection but also speed what would you recommend?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

JWM Clips Phantom, NB2,

[@jwmclips9361]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel for quick answer, I'll check out the NB2 as well.

[@RyanVailMusic]

Bought a 6,1 phantom Noel after seeing your review . Super excited for the winter swells to arrive here in Ireland now. Few fins to try out on it . I’ve the CI am2 , JJF med and the captain fin Dane Reynolds in large.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Ryan Vail all your fins are solid. Try the JJF first

[@RyanVailMusic]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Got a few sessions on it now. Probably the best board i've bought based on your reviews, an thats saying something(they've all been great). Riding it in 2-5ft beach breaks that are quite fast. Started with the JJF fins and tbh i haven't changed them. Really responsive fins and are the perfect match. Literally ordered the Gremlin now ..

[@MrB1019]

@@RyanVailMusic hows the board going for ya now? i'm thinking of buying the same size one.. what is the biggest you have surfed it in? cheers

[@RyanVailMusic]

I’ve surfed it in a solid 6ft . Tbh for me it felt too small. Really like it in the 3-5ft range .

[@MrB1019]

@@RyanVailMusic any looseness off the bottom? Was it gittery or steady?

[@kevintyrer45]

I like these boards. I think Pyzel have nails the tre'o. Awesome into. Thank you

[@dh6172]

Second edit: After my fun sessions at JBay, I gave the Ghost another go at our local break. Overhead, hollow, sandbar breaks like a reef/point. Had four good waves on it....the board wasn't great, too directional and lacked drive. I reckon if you're intermediate or below, you'd probably be happy with the board as it's very stable and easy to surf, it just doesn't perform beyond a certain point for me. First edit: Just a quick update. Surfed the Ghost at JBay supertubes from head high up to maxing (huge). It went very well in clean head high supertubes, but wasn't the best in bigger stuff. On the head/just overhead day it came alive, did everything extremely well, however felt like it was out of it's comfort zone on the big day. Sold the Phantom by the way:) Original Post: Everyone has their own preference and there's certainly no "one size fits all" when it comes to board design, so what works for me might not suit you at all and vice versa. Recently got the Phantom and Ghost, surfed in various beach break conditions, from big, punchy to average chest high. The Phantom is dead, slow off the mark, doesn't project off the rails, extremely average board. I reckon if you're a beginner to intermediate rider you'll be happy with it. It's easy to ride, but dead boring (for me). Ghost I found very similar, slightly better than the Phantom, but also quite dead. Slow off the mark, doesn't project out of turns and just feels lazy. Both boards can generate speed, but it's a conscious effort to do so. I had some solid grinding waves on the Ghost and feel it's a very average board, zero wow factor. But that's just me, I'm sure there's many happy customers out there.

[@Asator66]

Thats interesting. Thinking about getting a phantom but scared to fork out and be disappointed haha. Are you sure you sized your boards correctly?

[@arthurvidal1180]

9:30 is the money turn !!

[@soulsurfer3102]

Can't decide phantom or p2. For 2 to.6 fit..winter

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

P2 offers more performance in the pocket. Phantom paddles better and Carrie’s a little more speed.

[@rbvallim]

Next level review mate!

[@koheimatsuda9223]

Thanx Noel for good review. Next board will be phantom. But why did you choose eps rather than pu? In general, eps is lighter therefore when wind starts blowing, take off can be hard. In small condition, it will be appreciated. Personally I prefer pu because EPS is too responsive for me.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Kohei Matsuda I like the pop or snap I get out of EPS. This board in PU would be great too. I say go PU and this board will go better in bigger surf.

[@brodie_turner_]

Great review, freakin love this show!

[@bonsummers2657]

I wonder how the Stubby Bastard compares to this. Phantom seems too wide, Ghost seems too narrow tail. I get the sense Stubby Bastard has the 'just right' in-between elements for most versatility for general SoCaL conditions,… and for 'going square off the bottom' with carry through drive.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Bon Summers The Pyzalien looks good too.

[@Robocopter_fpv]

jeez where this dude getting all these quality waves?

[@gabrielm.4554]

choosing this vs a CI fever. Intermediate looking for a solid everyday performance board

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Absolutely… the Phantom is mental

[@gabrielm.4554]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thank you, brotha

[@stone34]

I've seen alot of Noel's videos. But I think he may have rode the Phantom better than any other board I've seen him ride. He had more style too. Am I seeing things?

[@erickasheffield6483]

And I see they offer this board in a round tail. When would someone get the round over the squash? Thank you!. Jon

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

The round tail offers more hold and will shred steeper waves better. The Squash tail will carry more speed, offer quicker pivot, and more release through turns.

[@erickasheffield6483]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 so if you were surfing head high to overhead left point breaks which would you prefer?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@erickasheffield6483 Squash Tail

[@KrytpoSurfer]

Nice review Noel! I like how you always maximize every board to its full potential by using a variety of fins (quad and thruster). I'm about to get a custom phantom board in a round tail only b/c I always ride round tails, so my question is - will a round pin degrade or enhance the potential performance of the board? Or will it keep it inline with the shapers intended performance?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Lerosca01 The Round Pin on the Phantom will make it too tight. This board design is better suited to a Squash or Round tail. The Squash tail will pivot faster and surf more vertical in the pocket... I also like the release it offers with a good Quad set up. The Round Tail will have more hold and drive through turns but it will not have the release I like at the peak of a turn. That’s my two cents... cheers!

[@robscanlan]

Surf n Show Reviews makes sense...thank you Noel!!!

[@rickrunner2219]

Once again great review. hey Noel, can you do some high level surf technics, special reviews ? that will be great. thanks for such nice videos,

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Blade Runner We are getting more and more of these requests.... maybe in the near future.

[@freddesmet259]

Looks like the quad carved off the top best. Though all of them looked loose and fun to ride.

[@dillonk44]

Love the reviews! Placing a custom order, recommendation on PU vs EPS on this board?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

If this board is for 2-4’ surf then go EPS, if this board is your HPSB and your going to ride it in 3-6’+ surf and you surf a lot of choppy conditions then go PU/Poly

[@zach26]

Love the reviews! Learning a ton from your videos! Currently deciding between the P2 and Phantom. Curious about your Dim recco. I’m 6’1”, 200lbs, intermediate surfer mostly riding 2-6+ft waves from Newport through South OC. I’m looking to progress my surfing... stepping down from a 6’6” 42.5 liter epoxy hybrid.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Zach Kadletz I say Phantom 37-39 liters is a good start going down for you.

[@zach26]

Surf n Show Reviews rad - thank you!

[@mathieucoste2918]

Again a great review. Man you rock! I learn a lot and your show helps me to put words on some of my feelings in the water. I'm looking to purchased my next board and am looking for an everyday board but also a board that will help me progress. I'm looking at the Baby buggy, phantom and SCI FI. I would rather get all of them but my wife would probably kill me. Any advice?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Mathieu Coste Phantom is the most user friendly out of the 3 boards your looking at. The Phantom is a excellent paddler and has a big sweet spot under the front foot. The other two boards are good too but I recommend the Phantom for you and what your looking for. Cheers

[@Meteores7]

Could you Compare it to the uber driver please regarding usability?

[@eamonshields2754]

Amazing review as always man !! I think this is my next board. What size and volume would you recommend to a 6 foot 165 pound guy ? And how long do you think this board will last me. Thanks !!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Eamon Shields What are the dims on your board your riding right now in 2-6’ surf?

[@eamonshields2754]

Surf n Show Reviews it will be my first real shortboard actually. I am pretty new to surfing, but I usually rip my 6’8”. Rode my buddy’s 5’10” a few times. Had a blast Thinking about going with a 5’8” electralite. Haven’t heard too much about that construction though. Cheers !!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Eamon Shields I think that sounds good for you. It will paddle great and it’s very user friendly. Let me know how it goes after you get a few sessions on it.

[@eamonshields2754]

Surf n Show Reviews thanks man will do !! Reviews are amazing !!

[@dudeleboski2692]

Mte, if you call those waves “ Wonky” please come to the UK and see the slop that we have to surf. T

[@DavidHuntPHG]

I found a Thruster set up with the JJF Large in front and JJF Medium in the back working better than all large and all medium

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

David Hunt Epic!!!

[@manoelgriesbach1002]

Noel you are topline! I m from Brazil, here we have most beach breaks. I m 5,9 178 lbs! What do you think would be better for me to surf 2-5 feet beach break focus in surf at poquet: 5,8 Psycho Killer carbon wrap (lost) or 5,9 Phanton (Pyzel)? tnk

[@BAP785]

Manoel Griesbach what did you get in the end?

[@martinarjovsky98]

Thank you so much for your review, they are super helpful!! If you had to pick between the Phantom and the OG flyer for a beginner / intermediate (working on my cutbacks, top turns, etc), which one would you pick? Looking for a great daily driver to improve on, currently surfing several times a week. I’m on the small range, weigh 130 pounds, height 5’8’, reasonably good quality waves (3-6ft) but occasionally weak. Thanks again, you’re great :)

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Martin Arjovsky Phantom for sure... easy to surf and paddles great too.

[@martinarjovsky98]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you!!!

[@JM-ji7mc]

Hey Martin Arjovsky-curious what size you went for with your phantom? I weigh a little more than you (140-145 lbs) but similar skill level it seems. Would love to hear your experience as well. Thanks!

[@rog86]

Hey Noel, board looks sweet. Im 5'11.5, thinking of getting a 5'11 but slightly narrowerer than stock (from 19 3/4 down to 19 1/4). Should this be a decent move? Size8.5 feet, so not too long, which im sure is a factor that will one day be recognised when it comes to ordering boards. 😄

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Maybe only go down to 19.5 wide

[@rog86]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 cool, cheers :)

[@stephenkilty5911]

Hey Noel, Great view. Board looks awesome under your feet in each transition. If you were to have this with the fcs2 configuration what would be a comparable fin you would use?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Stephen Kilty For a Quad in FCSII I would go KA Large side fins with Medium Reactor Quad Rears. For Thruster I would go KA Large.

[@pedromgmatos]

How do you compare this board with a Sci-fi? I wanted something forgiven and that holds as much as the sci-fi. I have a 5.10 and I love it. Looking forward to your next reviews. Thank you.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Pedro M. The Phantom went way better for me compared to the SciFi. The Phantom is the most user friendly HPSB I have surfed to date. Excellent paddler and large sweet spots under foot.

[@pedromgmatos]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you so much for your comment. I will give it a try for sure.

[@imranesack1560]

Hi Noel. I’m muddling over whether I should take PU or epoxy, what would you suggest? Thank you!👍🏼

[@markmckeighan8572]

Thanks for all of the reviews, they’re super helpful. Have you ever tried the Phantom as a 2+1 with a trailer fin? If so how did it go?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

No sorry never tried it.

[@Bob-mj2jz]

Great show Noel. I ended up pulling the trigger on a JS Xero Gravity today , because of one of Wooly’s review. Not trying to have buyers remorse… But I bought a Pyzel Phantom not long back, in the same dimension (round tail/quad) from this review; which I have love for the speed and how userfriendly it is. Could you see both of these staying in the quiver, and working alongside each other? And if so, how would you consider using them. I.e) Phantom and quad/round tail and XG as standard thruster. Or… If there is too much overlap? Therefore, which would you hold onto/sell? And is there much of a difference to the two boards? Cheers

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

If you love your Phantom then DON’T sell it until your new JS board blows your mind. You might not like it better than your Phantom. After you shred the new board it… then choose one. There is overlap on these two sleds for sure.

[@Bob-mj2jz]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel for your prompt response, you’re a gentleman- much appreciated The phantom a round tail quad, so I was justifying it as using the phantom to just go straight. Whilst using the XG as the standard thruster/squash program. Appreciate all you’re doing with the show, it’s first class!! You’re helping a lot of folks in the community

[@hitmarkers1884]

can you do a graham smith surfboard review?(maybe the "44" and the "Firefly" models)

[@chrizh7162]

Hey Noel, great reviews. I think I learned a lot by watching nearly all of them. What size do you recommend for an intermediate surfer who could turn and gain speed? Traveler surfer for about 10 Years. 5.10 and 167lbs and I am athletic. Cheers from Germany

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

A good Liter range for your weight and skill level is 31-33L.

[@chrizh7162]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 thx for the quick answer. I was aiming for the 5.11 but this is at my lower limit I think. I already got a black baron in 5.8 Hyfi. Looking for a good combination when the waves are bigger.

[@fredsmith1322]

Would you say this board is similar to an OG Flyer And which would you recommend as a daily driver?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Fred Smith I think they both fit the same wave range but liked the Phantom better.

[@imranesack1560]

Hi Noel. Out of all the boards and different brands you’ve reviewed would you say this is your favorite board in this category or favorite board of all time? Thanks for the great reviews!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Imran Esack The Phantom is an excellent Daily Driver for sure. My favorite of all time for Daily Drivers is below... Pyzalien 2 NB2 The Pyzalien 2 review drops next month... could be the best 1 board quiver yet.

[@imranesack1560]

Thanks for the response Noel. I hear you, those are both great boards yes. I think I’ll be inclined to taking a Pyzalien 2 once it gets put on the market. If I’m 80kgs, 5”11 height, I can surf and my fitness level is decent, which Pyzalien 2 dim would you recommend? Thank you🤙🏽

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Imran Esack I say dims that are close to 30-31 liters

[@imranesack1560]

Thank you 🙏

[@julioflames4638]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Hello Noel, I've been riding pyzalien for the last 4-5 years now. First one was a square tail and then i costume ordered a 5´10 swallowtail which has become my all time favorite board. Question is: sometimes it gets pretty big around here (Basque country/hossegor) and i still want to ride my pyzalien. What would be the next step ?? ghost or phantom ?? thanx

[@diffc7595]

Thanks for your helpful reviews always. What are the dims of the Phantom that you’re riding? Thanks 🤙

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

It should be in the review or in the You Tube description field. I think it was… 5’7” x 18 7/8 x 2 5 /16 Sorry this review was years ago

[@GeniusUnleashed]

Phantom looks amazing under your feet. John John's seemed better for you though.

[@rtvanderhoven]

Hey Noel. Always love your reviews. I'm considering picking up the Phantom for my trip to indo since I'll likely only take 1 board due to airline fees per board. I figured this board in the round tail would be the best all around board for my trip. (Will have to go out in smaller surf with my girl) What do you think? This board a good call or do you have a better all around board you would take? Thanks for the help!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

R V You choice with the Phantom as a Round tail sounds good to me.

[@rtvanderhoven]

Thanks for the help and quick reply Noel. Much appreciated. 🤙

[@peterball2855]

Awesome review. Ripping as always. How does it compare to the sampler? And if u had to pick between this and the lost Uber driver. Which one would you pick? Cheers

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Peter.... sorry I missed your question. The Phantom and Sampler are really not comparable. The Sampler is a small wave board 1-3' maybe 4' max and the Phantom is a daily driver for 2-7" surf. The Phantom has a bit more tail rocker and will offer more performance in the pocket and off the bottom. I would pick the Phantom over the UD and Sampler as a Daily Driver.

[@12ffoeg]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Hey Noel. Sounded like you really enjoyed the Uber Driver too in your Uber Driver review. Any reason you would pick the Phantom over the UD as your daily driver? Thanks

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Geoff Walker UD is excellent but the Phantom paddles better and easier to surf. More foam under the chest and front foot on the Phantom so it’s very user friendly. The UD pivots better and would go better in Beachies. I like the Phantom better at Point Breaks with some open face to do big carves

[@joshuak3005]

Hey Noel. Love your work mate. I'm 6"2 200lb. I am beginner intermediate, starting to progress turns. I ride a 6"2 Hypto (38L) and a 6"4 Monstabox (38.7L) which was maybe a little to high performance for my skill level. Would you recommend the Phanton in this case, and if so what are your thoughts on volume? Cheers!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

I highly recommend the Phantom and volume around 40L.

[@paulglucina1184]

Hey Noel great review as always bro! I have my eyes on this phantom as a next board. Recently been surfing the lost uber driver epoxy with the carbon stripes. This was great and a lively responsive board. I had this at 31L at 6foot. I feel i can go lighter in volume. Largely surf point reef breaks anywhere from 2 to 6 foot and a couple beach breaks in between. I am tossing up whether to get an sharp eye inferno 72 or this phantom are they very different, what board will offer more in a variety of conditions? Ie; clean to cross shore surf.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Phantom has more glide, it paddles better and it’s faster. It’s easy to shred 3-7’ surf.

[@paulglucina1184]

Cheers Noel thanks for your reply. Greetings from NZ! Always enjoy your content!

[@MikaNL602]

Hello. Im 6.0 intermediate surfer and i have weight of 158 lbs. Because i surf in the Netherlands and the waves are generally a bit weak and low. I am really struggling with finding the right size Phantom. If you can help me, would be great🤙

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Mika Westenberg Your liters should be roughly 27-28 for your weight.

[@jorgeandrescoppiano]

Hey Noel! Great surfing and review! Sampler or Phantom? 5’11” x 20 x 2 1/2 32lts PU I am 179cm tall and weight 185-190lbs For 1 foot to shoulder high conditions

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

JorgeAndresCoppiano. I think for 1-3’ surf I would go Sampler. The Phantom is more of a Daily Driver for waves ranging 2-7’+.

[@jorgeandrescoppiano]

Surf n Show Reviews great thanks man!

[@xWaxxy]

Just bought this board after watching the review about a hundred times... I figured that because I’m a baldy too , maybe I’ll rip like Noel haha :p It was between this and the Lost Uber Driver,

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Waxfoot Sick Board!!! Yewww

[@alyo882]

Waxfoot how do you like the board after a few months using it?

[@soulsurfer3102]

So.waxfoot.how u like the phantom?

[@Shaun_vincent]

Had a question for you. Whats your thoughts on phantom compared to rusty miso. Ive got a phantom right now. Im mostly surfing Carlsbad beach breaks. Knee high super punchy. Which would you choose. Or are the boards pretty similar? Long time supporter appreciate all the wisdom. You have progressed me!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

For knee high punchy surf I say Miso. It’s shorter and a bit more of a hybrid style board.

[@mikamiharuhsia6494]

I am currently riding a sampler 5'11 32.9L. The buoyancy of the sampler is also sufficient! I'm looking to buy a Phantom xl 5'10" 32.3L Roundtail and a Gremlin xl (eps) 5'7"(32.3L) Roundtail in Peru. 48 years old, I want to improve (tears). I can't ride big waves, so what do you think about making these two rounded tails? I'm thinking of making Gremilin an eps! 168cm/78kg fat! I imagined a phantom for slightly larger waves! By the way, the round is a choice only by appearance! The sea enters every day! I've been struggling with the combination of the two for about a month hahaha

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Round tails offer more hold but Squash tails carry more speed due to the wider tail block. I say Squash tail on the Gremlin… keep it fast. Go Round tail on the Phantom for a bit more hold… it will still perform very well

[@mikamiharuhsia6494]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thank you for your reply! I ordered as advised! Gremlin is 1L bigger! Both boards are ordered with EPS stringers. Is it better to make the gremlin a stringerless EPS phantom for a PU? I don't know about this area at all, but I'm hoping for a sturdy board!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@mikamiharuhsia6494 EPS Gremlin with Stringer is good. Phantom go PU/Poly

[@mikamiharuhsia6494]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel !!!!!

[@karljakobsson2687]

Hi Noel. Big fan of your videos. Have another one of the “this vs. that” questions that you get a lot, and they are very helpful for comparison. How would you describe the difference between the CI OG Flyer vs The Phantom ? I’m looking for a daily driver in smaller 3 or 4ft conditions that are a bit faster then your local, I’m in oz but maybe more like blacks for comparison. Which board is more user friendly and paddles into waves easier? I have demoed a 6’0 stock OG Flyer a few times now and really liked it. Did not think it paddled great in bigger slower waves but easy to take drops so could just sit s bit deeper. Ps. My favourite all time board is the Pyzel Stubby Bastard, have it both in PU and Epoxy.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Karl Jakobsson The Phantom has more foam under the chest and a fuller outline on the front end of the board. The center of the board to the tail silvers like a HPSB. Great combo for the wave size you described. I say Phantom over the OG.

[@karljakobsson2687]

Surf n Show Reviews Thanks Noel! Much appreciated. Sounds like the phantom is more similar to the Uber Driver. Guessing UD has a tad more nose rocker perhaps.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Karl Jakobsson They Both have low entry rockers. The Phantom seems to have more tail rocker.... so a little more HP feel.

[@kristiankratt9550]

Hey Noel I was just wondering if you could do a review on the Panda B2. Also great surfing in this video that board looks sick!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Stoked you like this review... I will look into the Panda B2. Cheers

[@tardigrader88]

What is better for smaller waves with some punch phantom or shadow

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Noah Baird Phantom

[@guigui52854]

Hi Noel. I have a phantom with 3 fins boxes, using performers medium. I like it but i d like more hold and more speed down the line for steep beach break, 4-6ft. Do you think it would be better with large fcs am fins? Or any advice for other daily driver, happy everyday? Thanks for reviews and advices!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@guigui52854 Yes… get the Large AM fins if you weight 180 lbs and up. I recommend medium Mick Fanning in 4-6’ surf and bigger waves.

[@guigui52854]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks!

[@guigui52854]

Thanks!

[@wiserbudman]

Thanks for the great review! I was hoping you could give me some tips for size. I'm 5'10" approximately 160-165 lbs, athletic build. I've been surfing for 4 months. Started on Torq 7'2" mod fish (52L) and now I'm currently riding a 6'2" puddle jumper (46L) which feels very oversized for me and is quite easy to surf, but I bought it used and it was very cheap. I feel like it's definitely inhibiting my progress (I feel like I've progressed fairly quick from beginner to intermediate-ish), and I'd like to start riding a board that is sized appropriately for my height and weight and something that I can progress on for some time. I've been debating between a 5'10" Phantom, a 5'8" Hypto Krypto or a 5'8" CI Rocket Wide, which are all roughly the same volume. I surf mainly point breaks around Los Angeles area, that on good days this summer are generally 3-5 feet (most days this summer have been 1-3 feet). Which of these boards would you recommend? I've checked out all the shapes in person and they all seem great. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated on picking one! Thanks!!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jesse Yanco I like the Gremlin or Astro POP better for 1-3’ point breaks. Check out the Hydra by Lost too. It paddles excellent and really fast. Liter wides maybe drop down to 40L. Keep it easy and fun.... only drop a bit at a time.

[@wiserbudman]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks Noel! I don't want to make the mistake of buying a board that is too big for my size and then just wanting to sell it off for something smaller. In looking at the Lost Hydra, it seems like it would be a great board for my local point break. Do you think I'd be able to jump down to a 5'6" or 5'7"? That would be put me at 33-34.5L. I had no issues going from the 7'2" mod fish to the 6'2" puddle jumper, so I guess that's my point of reference.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Jesse Yanco Dropping 10 liters at a time is very drastic. I say drop to 38-40 liters and maybe buy a used board as you transition down in volume. I know boards are expensive so go used... most importantly is have fun. Going to small to fast can make surfing frustrating and it will take longer to progress.

[@skippywinters]

Best advice ever. Wish I would had it when I was younger

[@55suarez]

See the gremlin dims on the text, but Didnt catch the dims on the Phantom you were riding in the review..? Thx

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Alex Suarez Check the You Tube description field for the DIMS on the Phantom I rode in the review.

[@55suarez]

Surf n Show Reviews I only see the Gremlin dims in the Phantom review’s description field.. 5’4....

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Alex Suarez Good catch... sorry about the confusion. I will put the Phantom dimensions in the comment field. On another note.... you could just watch the Phantom review to get the dimensions like I just did. Phantom Dimensions 5’7” x 19 x 2.31 Liters 26.10

[@55suarez]

Surf n Show Reviews thank you! Watched it a couple times. Don’t know how I missed the dims. Sorry and thank yiu

[@chrismottau]

Love the videos! What's your opinion on a Monsta Box vs Phantom for SoCal surf?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Chris Mottau Phantom can handle bigger surf 3-7’ and the Monsta Box is more like 3-5’. The Phantom paddles better and easier to surf.

[@bushkey]

The phantom looked very stable and fast, the Monsta box seemed a little bit looser?

[@simondurkin7868]

Thanks Neil, great review. Based on your testing with Futures, what FCS2 set-up would you recommend?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Simon Durkin You could go with the KA, or Performers side fins and the Reactor Quad Rears for you Quad set up. For a Thruster I would go KA, or Performer in Large. Cheers

[@simondurkin7868]

Thanks Neil. Ive got the Performers and will give them a go. As you are a big fan of the KA, I'm going to buy a pair of them too. I'll report back. BTW I have a Ghost too. I question their respective ranges. Ghost for me is 4 to 5ft+, smaller go the Phantom.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Simon Durkin I agree... the Ghost needs a wave to go good....

[@bournebuirski57]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thoughts on using the seaside Machado quad set up here?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@bournebuirski57 Itwill be fast but not very pivotal

[@FLlacrosse85]

Ripping as usual man. Trying to decide between baby buggy round or the phantom as a daily driver, both of your reviews for these boards are super positive, but do you have a particular preference? I have a grovel board if that alters your insight at all

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

FLlacrosse85 The Phantom is easy to surf and surfs as good as any HPSB. I would go Phantom.

[@tommih]

Hi Noel, i have been long time fan of the first Neckbeard that came out. I have had blak box2 and Monsta box but i always go back to Neckbeard. Now im about to choose between ordering custom original Neckbeard squash or Phantom. I surf mostly 1-5ft waves. I surf Neckbeard 5,8 stock. Should i stay with Neckbeard or go Phantom. I would not want Neckbeard2 since it felt worse then the original to me. Thanks!!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Go NB

[@tommih]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 Thanks for fast reply!! One more thing i wanted to ask is about the glassing. Im stuck between ultra light or standard. Standard is tempting since it would be stronger. How ever is it going to be heavier or stiffer in a way that my kind average surfer will notice it? Thank you again!!! Love your reviews!!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

@@tommih Check with the board builder for best glassing options. I like team light for maximum performance but they fall apart quickly in PU/Poly. In EPS/Epoxy I go standard… it’s already light.

[@tommih]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 ok thanks!!! I will go PU and would like the board to last. My old NB is also PU with ultra light and its been great. But since i dont get to buy board that often (especially new one) so i started think about the standard. Only if its not that much more heavy thou. But will ask from the builder. Also fins im thinking if to choose 5 fin setup or thruster. When i normally buy second hand its somewhat easier to ”choose”. Thanks so much!!! Thanks again.

[@JaydCrochets]

curious on how you think the phantom compares to the holy grail?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Yarai Mendez The Phantom feels like it has a bit more rocker and traction off the bottom, so it can handle a little more size and hollow surf. The Phantom is easier to surf too.

[@JaydCrochets]

@@surfnshowreviews7777 sweet thanks was kinda stuck between the 2 as a new board

[@goog646]

@@JaydCrochets which board did you get? I'm trying to decide between the same two.

[@JaydCrochets]

John F I ended up getting the NB2 lol

[@goog646]

@@JaydCrochets do you love it?

[@yachinyphotography]

Great review as always. Have u been trying the FireWire new Slater*Tomo design?

[@jackd6372]

Great review! What size quad rears did you use ? M or L?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

jack olas Medium

[@MrBlake1984]

Rocket wide / Phantom / Ghost??

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Blake Frenkiel That’s a sick 3 board quiver.

[@azoressurfschool5133]

totally haha

[@coachpaul-vedicfitness]

What would you say about ordering it with a round tail instead of the squash ? I'm always a bit afraid with "wide" squash tail. I surf in Hossegor mostly, and we have a bit of everything, it can be a bit mushy, it can be very steep, size is rarely more than 6-7 feet and when it is, it is too hard to evolve in the water as it often gets very hollow and dangerous (without even talking of the currents) for non pros. This is why The Phantom looks like a perfect board, but I would be tempted to get the round tail to hold steeper faces without loosing the "daily driver" aspect of the board. The only real downside to the round tail would be to have more difficulty for tighter arc I guess ? am I right ? but is it very different ? Thanks for everything Noel, I always recommend your show to friends who think about changing boards.

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Paul James A Round Tail sounds good for your waves. The around tail will do Sick arcing turns but it will struggle to go vertical. Round tail boards want to carve and do more round turns... a Squash Tail enables you to pivot off the rounded corner as the breaks off the water. Water adheres to curves that’s why the round tail holds so good.

[@coachpaul-vedicfitness]

Thanks for the great answer. How would you compare the OG Flyer to the Phantom, because for the size I would need (6'2 - 6'3) they have the same dimensions and they look pretty similar. Thanks again

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Paul James The Phantom has less entry rocker but more belly and tail rocker compared to the OG. The Phantom is easier to surf and a bit more radical in the pocket.

[@coachpaul-vedicfitness]

Cheers, that sounds like my new board then :)

[@christopherhewitt9091]

Phantom or Dominator 2.0?

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Phantom is better in 5-7’… it paddles better and more stable. Dom 2 is better in 2-5’… it’s more agile, quicker top to bottom and has more flow

[@christopherhewitt9091]

Thank you!

[@bhonour81]

Hey Noel, Loving the reviews keep them up! I am looking for a new board, currently riding a lost baby buggy 80% of the time and I love it! But wanted to get a new board.. thinking a Pyzel Phantom or CI OG Flyer.. I surf in average conditions most of the time with a couple trips to Portugal and Morocco each year. What would u recommend? Cheers Ben from the UK!

[@surfnshowreviews7777]

Ben Honour Yea Ben!!! The Phantom is a great choice as a Daily Driver. I think you will love it. By the way the Baby Buggy is a great board too. Stoked you like yours. Cheers

[@bhonour81]

Good times, thanks Noel! Looking forward to the next review.

[@dkilla01]

69 likes already, Dang this channel is picking up some inertia!!!!!