Living in the heart of Rincón, Puerto Rico, Darren’s backyard isn’t just a backyard—it’s literally surfer’s paradise. Picture this: world-class reef breaks, punchy beach breaks, and waves that range from playful to world class . Rincón truly has it all, making it the ultimate playground for Darren’s research and development of new board models. And it doesn’t hurt that he and and his partner in crime, Anna Posada, don’t mind taking turns behind the lens to capture those moments. We’ve been working on a few variations of the Go2 model to see how it handled the variety of waves and conditions. Featured in the video are a 5’8, 5’10, and 6’0.
Design Origins
Originally crafted by Blake Ferraro of the Solid Surf family in San Diego, the Go2 model was conceived as the perfect all-around shortboard, capable of tackling anything from knee-high mush to overhead barrels. Darren’s involvement in the refinement of this board has led to the creation of variations tailored specifically to the diverse waves and conditions of Rincón.
Performance in Various Conditions
Darren’s been fine-tuning variations of the iconic Go2 model to see how it performs across the diverse array of waves and conditions that Rincón has to offer. Featured in their latest video, the 5’8, 5’10, and 6’0 versions of the Go2 model showcase its adaptability across a spectrum of wave sizes and shapes. Darren describes the Go2 as his favorite model for its ability to power through flat sections, maneuver with ease in the pocket, and provide a satisfying release at the end of each turn. Whether it’s riding a smaller wave or charging into heavier surf, the Go2 delivers performance and reliability. Darren usually opts for the 5’10 size, but he’s not afraid to mix things up, occasionally stepping down to a slightly wider 5’8 or bumping up to a 6’0 or 6’2 for those meatier waves.
When describing the shape he stated, “My favorite model is the Go2 because it has good drive for getting over flat sections. It’s loose in the pocket and has nice release at the end of your turns. I normally ride the Go2 as a 5’10, but I’ve also tried it as a 5’8 Step Down slightly wider. It also works really well as a step up 6’0 to 6’2. If I’m surfing a point break I will use the AM One fins, but if I’m surfing a hollow faster breaking wave, then I use the MB Large.”
Where To Find A Board
If you find yourself in Puerto Rico and are looking for a Solid Surf stoke distributor, be sure to head over to Mar Azul Surf Shop and say what’s up to Bobby! You can find a variety of our board models or order yourself a custom surfboard through the surf shop. Or if you spot Darren in the lineup, be sure to pick his brain about the other models in his quiver. Additionally, the Solid Surf crew will be embarking on both East and West Coast Tours in the coming months, providing you with the chance to snag your very own custom surfboard.
A Must Have In Any Quiver
Innovation and performance are key when it comes to dialing in your equipment, and the Go2 model embodies both qualities. Designed with the waves of Rincón in mind, this versatile board offers the opportunity for more high performance surfing, whether you’re carving up playful beach breaks or overhead barrels. Excited about getting your hands on a custom Go2? You’re in luck! The Solid Surf crew will be hitting the road, touring both the East and West Coasts in the coming months. That means you’ll have the chance to snag your very own custom creation while we’re in town. Keep your eyes peeled for our stops at all your favorite local surf shops. And hey, if you’re itching to chat with the team behind building the boards, now’s your chance. Schedule an appointment to Talk To The Shaper and pick our brain about all things shaping.
