The board’s curve
Viewed from the side, a surfboard is not flat. The nose and tail lift away from the centre in different amounts. That curve influences how the board paddles, enters a wave and follows the wave face.
Flatter sections
A flatter curve can create efficient glide and speed over softer water. It may also require more care in steep take-offs because there is less nose lift available to fit the curve of the wave.
More curve
Additional rocker can help a board turn within a tighter arc and fit steeper sections. The trade-off may be reduced straight-line glide, especially in weak waves or for a surfer without strong paddling.
Use the full design
Nose rocker, tail rocker and the curve between them all matter. Rocker should be read with the board’s outline, fins and bottom contours rather than treated as a single performance setting.