RRD MORPHO 9’0 WOOD
RRD MORPHO 9’0 WOOD TEST REVIEW
Verdict:
A spritely smooth all-round COTAN board squeezing versatile performance into a compact size. Ideal for a lighter rider as a one board for everything, or a larger riders first time wave board. Easy longboard style surfing ability with enough flexibility to be the only board you’d need.
Overview:
The new Morpho 9’0 had the most volume of the group but the narrowest nose of the stubbies. Its long straight rails gave it the best glide of the bunch. On deck, a textured deckpad, deep ledge handle, twin leash points and Go Pro mount top off this stylish board. Underneath the vee to quad concave give excellent tracking, it has softish rails but a thin flat tail fitted with two Futures side fins and a large 8”US box centre fin.
Brand Claim:
Based on the outline of a modern COTAN surfboard or sup design for waves, these surf shapes have been stretched and made to fit a more “all round” length and width. Good floatation and easy paddling while keeping a straight line on flat water and very manoeuvrable behaviour once on a wave.
Performance:
We tested this in RRD’s wood construction. It was the heaviest of the bunch by over a kilo and the carry handle position makes it a little tail heavy, however the Classic construction is lighter and cheaper so the best option by far. This progressive shape from Italy really tries to bridge the first time wave board with an all rounder and it does the job well. We were pleasantly surprised with the glide and ease to pick up a wave. We found it had the most nose and tail rocker out of the stubbies, and once on a wave it seemed to float above the water on a cushion of air thanks to the quad concave bottom which we loved. Bottom turning was secure and predictable with the large centre fin and side bites and the board felt happy in the range of conditions we used it in. As a compact all rounder (with two bigger sizes in the range) it is a great modern looking alternative to your traditional 9’5 option. If you’re looking for a one board quiver for a lighter rider this new COTAN shape is bang up to date; it’s got great glide, easy all round surfing ability and was far better than we expected, and if you buy the Classic version it’s great value for money too.