Benefits of Riding a Thunderbolt

Thunderbolt technology surfboards offer several advantages to surfers of all levels, from beginners to rippers. Here's three key takeaways:

1. Super Durable

Thunderbolt surfboards are incredibly durable and resistant to dings and cracks.

Each build (Thunderbolt Black, Red, and Silver) features hand laminated fiberglass and a PVC shell that lock in the flex control and add strength and durability. 

This means that the board will last longer and require fewer repairs, saving you money and headache in the long run.

It also helps knowing that the board can take a beating when you paddle out into a crowded lineup, or a rocky Rhode Island surf break!

2. Nice and Light

Thunderbolt surfboards are lightweight, thanks to the advanced blank build and use of advanced laminating processes. This creates a board feeling thats easier to control + maneuver in the water when compared to traditional PU, and most other EPS builds. 

Fun to surf in a variety of wave types, from lined up points where you can link a few turns and even quick, punchy beach breaks! 

This is especially important for lighter weight surfers who may struggle with heavier boards.

The decreased weight also makes them a dream to travel with. 

3. Lively Performance

The advanced materials in Thunderbolt Technology surfboards really enhance the boards performance. 

The boards were engineered to have enhanced flex, allowing for a more lively feeling and maneuverability under foot. This let's you surf your best and continue to push the limits without worrying about the board holding you back. 

The enhanced performance of Thunderbolt Technology surfboards also makes them a great choice for competitive surfers who need a board that can keep up with their skills and abilities.

Different Construction Types

All Thunderbolts start with an EPS Blank, wrapped with fiberglass and paired with carefully placed carbon strips both on the deck and bottom that enhance the flex.

The deck and bottom are reinforced by a PVC shell, which is what gives it the high durability that we all are after.

Thunderbolt Technology surfboards come in three different construction types, each with its own unique benefits. They can be distinguished by the bolt color on the tail label, which are:

1. Thunderbolt Black

Thunderbolt Black is the lightest and most high performance in the Thunderbolt technology. 

It features a unique carbon fiber lamination that creates a board that is both strong and flexible without adding any weight. It's also got the quickest rebound rate, giving it a springy and lively feel under foot. 

Thunderbolt Black is designed for surfers seeking maximum performance, with a focus on speed, control, and durability across a wide range of conditions.

2. Thunderbolt Red

Thunderbolt Red is the original Thunderbolt Technology construction type. It features aerospace-grade fiberglass and epoxy resin, making it extremely durable and lightweight. This is a great all-around construction type that works well in a variety of conditions. It's a popular choice for beginner and intermediate surfers who want a board that is easy to handle and offers good performance.

3. Thunderbolt Silver

Thunderbolt Silver is a full fiberglass layup (of course including the carbon strips for flex). It utilizes a heavier glassing schedule than the others to give the board a bit more weight, which feels great on the boards designed for noseriding.

Thunderbolt Silver is the closest feeling to an old school/classic log. Enjoy effortless paddling and smooth trim and glide while you make your way up to the nose.

Quick + Dirty Breakdown

Black: Carbon Fiber layup (quickest response, lightest, and strongest) - performance longboards and shortboards

Red: Full fiberglass layup: 6/4 top, 6/2 bottom (all around performance, more flex than silver, great for smaller waves)

Silver: Full fiberglass layup: 6/6 top, 6/4 bottom (heavier weight, better glide and trim for noseriding)

For the Epoxy Skeptics

We understand you may have a bad taste in your mouth from epoxy boards of the past… but these are much different. Mass-produced epoxy boards can feel corky and stiff. While light and durable, they simply don’t ride well. But.... 

Thunderbolt’s hand-built boards take superior epoxy materials to an entirely different level. 

These boards provide the feel and sensitivity of a good poly board, but deliver performance far beyond traditional epoxy pop-out constructions. Pro surfers and rippers around the world who ride these high-tech epoxy boards claim they actually feel better than polyurethane.

CJ Nelson continues to preach that this tech has changed his life and made him surf about 30% better than he was on a poly.

Anyone who is open minded enough to jump on one will feel the same way he does.

With riders like CJ Nelson, Taylor Jenson, Harley Igleby, Ben Skinner, and more - you can trust that the boards preform at the highest level.

And the durability over PU is worth it's weight in gold. 

Give it a Go! 

Riding a Thunderbolt Technology surfboard offers several benefits, including durability, lightweight, and enhanced performance. 

The different construction types available allow surfers to choose the board that best fits their needs and skill level. Whether you're a beginner or a ripper, there is a Thunderbolt Technology surfboard that will help you take your surfing to the next level. 

We often have demos available in the shop - so give us a shout if you're interested in trying out the tech before you make the jump!

Ultimately what you get with Thunderbolt is the flex and board feel that we all love in poly, but built to last and maintain that lively feeling for life.