Hip Jell
The Hip Jell Thang is a performance mid-length. A custom surfboard designed to bridge two normally-incompatible riding styles: the effortless trim and glide of a single fin, and the responsive turning ability of a thruster.
Most mid-lengths force you to choose. You can have the smooth, hypnotic glide of a long single-fin trim line, or you can have the snap and rail response of a shorter performance shape. Doc designed the Hip Jell Thang to give you both. The deep double barrel concave running underneath lets this mid-length transition rail-to-rail with the kind of speed you don't expect from a longer board. While the glassed-on Thang keel side fins, Doc's signature wide-base keel-style setup that provides the drive and hold to push through turns like you would on a thruster.
The result is a stylish mid-length that works in all kinds of conditions. Trim it through a long, lined-up wave and it sets a smooth, fast, single-fin-quality line. When the section opens up and you want to turn, the board responds immediately, committing to rail, holding through the arc, and coming out with speed.
This is the performance counterpart to the No Bad Days. Where the No Bad Days emphasizes paddle, ease, and forgiveness, the Hip Jell pushes harder into responsiveness and turning. Same Thang fin signature, two different rides. Pick the one that matches how you want to surf.
Doc's Board Recommendation:
- Glassed on Thang Keels with a Center Box
- Round or Diamond Tail
- No Channels
Best for:
- Waves from 1 to 6 ft
- Surfers who want single-fin glide with thruster-style response
- Anyone tired of choosing between trim and turning
Specs:
- Fin setup: Center fin box + glassed-on Thang keel side fins
- Outline: Performance mid-length template
- Bottom: Deep double barrel concave for quick rail-to-rail transitions
- Drive Speed: 4/5
- Wave Height: 1–6 ft
- Maneuverability: 3/5
- Paddle Power: 5/5
- Construction: Available in PU/Polyester or EPS/Epoxy
Custom shaped to order in Huntington Beach, California. Typical build time 3–4 weeks.
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
1-6FT
MANEUVERABILITY
3/5
PADDLE POWER
5/5