The Blackbird and New Traveler are both designed for serious surf, but they solve different problems. Your choice should begin with the type of waves you plan to ride.
New Traveler: precision in steep waves
The New Traveler is thin, refined and heavily rockered. It is built for late drops, hollow reefs and situations where the board must fit quickly into a tight curve. Lower overall volume and a demanding rail make it best suited to advanced surfers seeking maximum control.
Blackbird: paddle power and range
The Blackbird carries more foam, uses less entry rocker and begins its single concave farther forward. It paddles efficiently, crosses moving water and accelerates when chasing peaks. The rail still holds through powerful turns, making it the more versatile step-up for most intermediate-to-advanced surfers.
Choose the New Traveler for perfect, steep and technical waves. Choose the Blackbird for open-ocean power, currents and a broader range of conditions.
View Blackbird dimensions or view New Traveler dimensions.
Adapted with permission from Rusty Surfboards USA.
