Dive deep into the resurgence of retro surfboards with this review of the MTF, a Channel Islands model from 1995. This isn’t just any board; it’s a Rob Machado TwinFinner, and it’s catching waves of renewed interest, thanks to surfers like Dane Reynolds and his crew. Discover how this classic design,with its unique combination of foam and a thin swallowtail,enables incredible speed and maneuverability.See Eithan Osborne and Matt McCabe put the surfboard through its paces, proving its enduring appeal.Learn what Reynolds, known for his critical eye, thinks about the MTF’s performance. For the latest insights into surfing trends, News Directory 3 has you covered.Discover what’s next in the world of retro boards.
Retro Surfboard Model gains New Life with Top Surfers
Updated June 20,2025
A few years ago,a trip to the Channel Islands factory sparked something among surfers. The idea that older surfboards, even those with a yellowed tint, still have value is gaining traction. The Rob Machado TwinFinner, or MTF, a Channel Islands model from 1995, is a prime example of this retro surfboard resurgence.
Dane Reynolds described the MTF as “like a gun with a twin fin on it.” While Reynolds isn’t shown riding the board in a recent video, he highlights its appeal as his friends Eithan Osborne and matt McCabe enjoy it.
Reynolds first rode his MTF, measuring 5’8″ x 18 ⅛” x 2 ¼”, more than a decade ago at Mexican pointbreaks. However, the model has remained relatively obscure until recently. Osborne and McCabe’s surfing at Rincon and Emma Wood,respectively,demonstrate the board’s effectiveness.
The design, featuring ample foam in the front and a thin swallowtail, allows for effortless speed. Osborne noted, “I got so much speed where I’d just stand up and not move. I was just going so fast.” This unique combination makes the MTF a standout among twin fin surfboards.
Reynolds, known for his critical eye, said the board “goes so sick.” He added, “Look at how thin that tail is. Honestly, at the time I was just into trying different stuff… But more so for the challenge. Its so small for me now,but you can tell when a board has the hydrodynamics.” He emphasized the board’s smooth flow over water and its excellent turning point.
What’s next
The renewed interest in the MTF highlights a broader trend of surfers rediscovering older surfboard models. This suggests that surfers may continue to explore and appreciate the unique characteristics of retro surfboards, finding new ways to enjoy classic designs.
