The Panda was developed around the needs of powerful Brazilian competitor William Cardoso. At roughly 200 pounds, Cardoso required meaningful flotation without losing the precision and response of a high-performance shortboard.
Design approach
A generous rocker works with a pronounced single concave and extra tail kick through the final inches. This combination helps the board fit into steep sections and turn through tight arcs. The outline stays curvy, with a defined hip and a controlled squash tail.
Foam is retained through the centre beneath a domed deck, while the rails taper down so a stronger surfer can bury them with confidence. The result is support under the body without a bulky feeling at the point of contact with the water.
Best conditions
The Panda is aimed at surfers who generate power and still want vertical performance. Its useful range extends from waist-high surf into solid overhead waves when ridden in dimensions appropriate to the surfer.
Adapted with permission from Rusty Surfboards USA.
