The Future of Surfing: Introducing the Diamond Drive 2.0

Key Summary

• Improved performance: Enhanced speed, maneuverability, and control
• Balanced plan shape: Wide point slightly moved back from the original DD and a wider tail for better support and stability
• Slight Teardrop nose concave: Improved speed control and noseriding capabilities
• Versatile fin setup: Suitable for various wave conditions and surfing styles
• Easy to ride: Suitable for surfers of all levels, from beginners to pros
• Designed for all-around performance: Performs well in small, weak waves and larger, more powerful waves

The innovation in longboard surfing: the Diamond Drive 2.0. This new model, designed by renowned shaper Billy Tolhurst and champion surfer Harley Ingleby, brings subtle yet impactful changes to enhance your surfing experience. Let's explore the evolution from the original Diamond Drive to the improved Diamond Drive 2.0, and dive into the insights shared by Harley Ingleby during our recent Zoom call.

The Original Diamond Drive

The original Diamond Drive was a groundbreaking longboard that combined performance and versatility. It featured a narrower tail and a wider nose, which provided excellent stability and control. This design made it a favorite among surfers for its ability to handle a variety of wave conditions, from small, weak waves to larger, more powerful ones. The board's three-stage rocker and balanced plan shape allowed for smooth transitions and easy maneuverability, making it a reliable choice for surfers of all levels.

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What's New with the Diamond Drive 2.0?

Harley kept the bottom part and the curve (rocker) the same because, why mess with something if it's already great, right? But they did add a neat little feature at the nose (the front part of the board) called a slight teardrop nose concave. This fancy term just means there's a slight dip at the front that helps you control your speed better when you're riding the waves.

Harley Ingleby's Insights on the Diamond Drive 2.0

In a recent Zoom call, Harley Ingleby, a two-time world longboard champion, shared his thoughts on the Diamond Drive 2.0. Here are some key points from the discussion:

• Balanced Plan Shape: Harley emphasized that the biggest difference between the original and the new Diamond Drive is the balanced plan shape. The wide point has been moved back, making the tail wider and the nose narrower. This change provides better support for nose riding and improves performance in weaker waves. Harley noted, "The wider tail helps with nose riding and lower power waves but also straightens up the plan shape, making it more parallel. This makes walking, trimming, and paddling more comfortable."

• Enhanced Rocker: The board retains the classic three-stage rocker but with slight adjustments to the curve. These tweaks ensure smoother transitions and better performance across various wave conditions. Harley mentioned, "We've made minute adjustments to the rocker of the board, fixing up the curve with very slight changes."

• New Sizes: The Diamond Drive 2.0 is available in two sizes: 9'2" and 9'6". The 9'2" model is slightly thinned out compared to the previous version, making it suitable for smaller surfers while still offering excellent paddle speed and performance. The 9'6" model caters to larger surfers or those seeking more volume. Harley explained, "The 9'2" is now a little bit more thinned out than the old 9'2", making it a bigger board with a similar rail profile to the old 9'1"."

• Versatile Fin Setup: Harley discussed the versatility of the fin setup, stating, "I do play around with a single fin if it's waist-high or under and just sort of pretty tight and running like hollow little pockets. For larger waves, the two-plus-one setup provides added stability and control."

Why Choose the Diamond Drive 2.0?

The Diamond Drive 2.0 is designed to be an all-around performance longboard suitable for surfers of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this board offers:

• Improved Nose Riding: The wider tail and balanced shape make it easier to stay on the nose, even in weaker waves.

• Better Paddle Speed: The refined rocker and plan shape enhance paddle speed, making it easier to catch waves

• Versatility: The board performs well in a variety of conditions, from small, weak waves to double overhead faces.

• Ease of Use: Despite its performance capabilities, the Diamond Drive 2.0 is easy to ride, making it a great choice for weekend warriors and everyday surfers alike.

Choosing the Right Fins

For everyday surfing, Harley recommends using a set of three fins called the FCS Harley XL tri set. But if you're planning to tackle bigger waves or want a bit more speed, even on smaller waves, there's another option called the FCS Harley XL quad set, which has four fins.

Why You Might Love This Board

Whether you've been surfing for years or just thinking about starting, the Diamond Drive 2.0 has something for everyone. It's designed to make surfing easier and more fun, no matter the conditions. Plus, it's got the backing of Harley Ingleby, a big name in the surfing world, so you know it's a quality board.

Visit Hawaiian South Shore today and experience the Diamond Drive 2.0 for yourself. Our team is always happy to help you find the perfect board for your surfing needs.

SHOP DIAMOND DRIVE 2.0 SURFBOARDS

Frequently Asked Questions about the Diamond Drive 2.0 Surfboard

1. How does the Diamond Drive 2.0 perform in small vs. large waves?

The Diamond Drive 2.0 is designed to be versatile, performing well in a variety of wave conditions. Its balanced shape and subtle nose concave make it easier to catch waves and maintain speed in smaller surf. For larger waves, the recommended quad fin setup can provide additional stability and control, making it suitable for more challenging conditions as well.

2. Can the Diamond Drive 2.0 be used for competitive surfing?

Yes, the Diamond Drive 2.0 is designed as an all-rounder and can be used for competitive surfing. Its design caters to both ease of wave catching and maneuverability, which are essential for surfers in a competitive environment.

3. What are the maintenance tips for keeping the Diamond Drive 2.0 in top condition?

To keep your Diamond Drive 2.0 in top condition, rinse it with fresh water after each use to remove salt and sand, store it out of direct sunlight to prevent UV damage, and keep it in a padded board bag to protect against dings and scratches. Regularly check for any damage and repair it promptly to prevent water from seeping into the core.

4. How does the balance and shape of the Diamond Drive 2.0 enhance its performance?

The balanced plan shape of the Diamond Drive 2.0 ensures even volume distribution, which enhances stability and ease of paddling. The refined plan shape allows for smooth transitions and turns, while the teardrop nose concave aids in speed control during noseriding, making it a well-rounded board for various surfing styles.

5. How does the Diamond Drive 2.0 handle noseriding and speed control?

The Diamond Drive 2.0's light teardrop nose concave is specifically designed to enhance noseriding and speed control. This feature helps to lock the board in place when on the nose and provides a smoother ride, allowing for better control of the board's speed across different sections of the wave.

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