SOFTLITE SURFBOARDS Hybrid Vader 7’2 Thruster

SOFTLITE SOFT SURFBOARDS HYBRID VADER 7’2 – 2022 Model

The Vader is a new Model for 2022 and features Softlite’s new Hybrid Construction. 

About The Vader

The Vader is based more on a Retro Style Mid Length Template. This shape is super popular and we feel lends its self perfectly to the Hybrid Softboard construction style. 

It is ideal for surfers of most levels, and is suitable to use in a variety of wave conditions (either big or small).

The template is user friendly enough to provide some extra paddle power, stability and drive, allowing you to squeeze a bit of juice out of the smaller, weaker days.

In saying that, the longer rail lengths are sleek and racey enough for for fast, down-the-line speed, and allow smooth, clean turns on open faces in bigger conditions. 

It’s got a relatively low, continuous rocker,  allowing the board to glide at speed and turn with ease.

We’ve opted to use a Rounded Pin tail on this model.  This tail design provides the benefit of a Pin Tail as it creates a small reduction in surface area to maintain control, while keeping it rounded provide a bit more release enabling smoother, more drawn out turns.

We’ve also done our best to solve the #1 problem of softboards – the rails! The Hybrid Range features an updated version of our Parabolic Rolled Rail Technology.

These are then hand shaped, allowing softer rails near the nose tapering down to a sharp, harder edged rail at the tail. Similar to regular fibreglass surfboards, it allows if to be forgiving and not catch rails up front, but gives it a bit more bite making it easier to turn off the tail.

Similarly, to a stringer it also provides extra stiffness in the board, and generally helps to increase the durability of the board. 

This board features a Thruster Fin Set up using Futures Fin Boxes.

As well as all the usual Softlite features, this series has a few to extra’s setting it apart from the rest.

Suggested lengths will depend on height, weight and skill levels. For more info on sizes, check out our Size Recommendations page.

Specs:
CORE: 100% Waterproof Moulded EPS Core
DECK: 10lb PE Deck
STRINGER: Double Reinforced Moulded Bamboo Stringer with Fibreglass Taping
SLICK: Mesh Infused Slick. This is technology derived from bodyboarding, who lead the way in using EPS / HDPE Slick combinations. The Reinforced mesh is infused into the Dura HD Slick. This provides a frame of strength, which not only improves stiffness but also recoil, so making it easier to pump from rail to rail with the right amount of tension.
RAILS: Rolled Parabolic PE Rails This is one of the biggest advancement in soft surfboards. Each board contains 4 crosslink rails. These rails are then hand shaped, allowing softer rails near the nose tapering down to a sharp, harder edged rail at the tail. Similar to a regular shortboard, it allows if to be forgiving and not catch rails up front, but more performance and easier to turn off the tail. Similarly, to a stringer it also provides extra stiffness in the board. Previously, these features could not be properly executed properly on soft surfboard.
TAIL: Rounded Pin Tail
FINS: Future Fins Thruster Set up with Bones & Shanks Fin System
ADDITIONAL FEATURES: Edge Trim system, exoskeletal strength membrane, Comes with 3 pack of removable Fins and plug for attaching leash.

Dimensions
7’2″ X 23″ X 2 3/4″

Volume: 49L

Features

The boards are constructed using exclusive Softlite Moulds – This ensures that every board comes out identical with no imperfections. It also creates a harder shell of EPS foam on the outside making Softlite boards stiffer and more durable than competitors who use similar cores.

No screws on deck -No kicking your toes on screws, looks good and is easier to wax deck.

Bones and Shanks Fin System – Easy to install and remove fins. Compatible with other fin two tab systems, allowing you to change your fins to suit conditions or alter board performance

Bamboo Stringer System – This is re-enforced with fibreglass sheeting and epoxy resin to give the perfect amount of flex.

Colourways:
White Deck// White Slick
Black Deck// Black Slick

Here’s a clip of this board: