Hi,

I'm looking for the shortest performance board I can get around 24L. Im a stocky 5'3, experienced surfer. The board is for 2-5ft hollow beachies. To buy a stock board would require a length of around 5'8". Unfortunately there just feels like too much nose to pull around in the turns etc.
Since we are on the topic and I'm such a tiny leprechaun; Does anyone know of a decent shaper that can custom make a beefed up grom outline performance board (maybe 5'5") around 24L, "without compromising the rail shape or profile"?

I also have an interest in a groveler board to suit my size, weight and skill level.

Just got back from a surftrip that I really enjoyed a 5'10 Firewire Spitfire I bought second hand last week. I had a 6'0 Hellfire about 8 years ago which was one of the best boards I've ever ridden & the spitz just a shorter wider version of it. I believe you have to order them now, they're not stocking shelves with'em. I assume the Hellfire might also be a available on order & I'd recommend the Hellfire for hollow beachies. Very versatile board I used to surf it from waist to triple head (clean conditions). I'm 6'2, 78kg, 48yo.....imo firewire went downhill when they stopped stocking these boards & went way too funboard/hybrid...more boards should have step down rails imo, I think thats the secret to having higher volume while having a rail to gouge off surfing a shorter board.....ultimately though I think you need to email a shaper & maybe just offer money up front to show your not a tire kicker coz they're absolutely flat out at the moment.