V-12 Flying Turtle
A long board alternative that zips and rips!
I appreciate the zip, glide and paddle ability of the Mini Simmons’ template, but I wanted to make a version that was a little more practical in its turning ability. The V-12 Flying Turtle has that classic “bar of soap” outline with a tip to tail double barrel concave on the bottom, enabling the straight outline to turn and hold on rail. The deep bottom contours on this board make it so much more maneuverable than it looks! This board is insanely fast, fun, and can bank it hard on a corner! The V-12 is the original Flying Turtle made for small mushy waves! Ride this board short, that is where the magic happens. This template packs a ton of volume in a small package, the overall design elements of the V-12 work together to make you inspired to go out in weak surf and have a blast. (A friend was asking me where the Turtle name comes from and the squareness of the template looks kind of like a turtle to me.)
Doc's Board Recommendation*
- Quad Fin
- Swallow Diamond Tail
- No Channels
PU Polyester
- The standard blank, offering a classic feel and smooth ride. Known for its flex and responsiveness in a variety of wave conditions.
- Polyester Blank
- Polyester Resin
Poly with Epoxy Resin
- Stronger than polyester resin and makes the board more durable.
- Polyester Blank
- Epoxy Resin
EPS Epoxy
- Great strength to weight ratio.
- Lighter and stronger than a polyester board in the same dimensions.
- Slightly more flotation.
Single Slot Channel
- A single slot channel is a singular, short groove starting about 10 inches from the tail and getting deeper as it exits out the end of the board.
Benefits:
- Improved Drive: The single slot channel helps direct water flow, providing the board with extra drive and speed, especially in smaller, weaker waves. A great alternative to having a center fin on twin or quad fins.
- Control: It offers enhanced control by channeling water more directly under the board, making it easier to maintain a stable line during turns.
- Versatility: This channel design is versatile, performing well in various wave conditions, from small beach breaks to bigger surf. Adds a little grip to your rip.
4 Channel
- A 4-channel design features four grooves on the bottom of the board. A slightly longer center channel. The outside channels are a little shorter starting from the back quarter of the board, starting shallow and progressively get deeper as it exits the tail.
Benefits:
- Speed and Lift: The 4 channels create lift by directing water flow more efficiently, allowing the board to plane better on the water's surface, which results in increased speed.
- Enhanced Grip: This design provides additional grip and hold during turns, making it excellent for carving and generating speed through sections of the wave.
- Responsiveness: The configuration of the channels offers more responsiveness in turns, allowing for sharper, more precise maneuvers.
- Aesthetic Appeal: High-gloss shine enhances visual appeal and makes the board stand out.
- Durability: Offers a little bit of strength and durability.
Protects the crucial area of the board under your back foot. It’s worth the price if you are hard on your boards and have a tendency to crush the tail with your back foot.
DRIVE SPEED
4/5
WAVE HEIGHT
0.5-4FT
MANEUVERABILITY
3/5
PADDLE POWER
4/5
