GEAR: GUIDE TO CHOOSING YOUR MID-LENGTH

Focus on a core piece of modern quivers.

The days when the surf world was divided between shortboarders and longboarders are now over. While this binary vision shaped the market for many years, mid-lengths have gradually carved out their place to become a major part of today’s offerings.

A shift toward a practice more in tune with surfers’ needs. A way to refocus on the essential pleasure of glide, without the constraints of pure performance, and a way to explore new styles.

In this guide, discover the richness of shapes covered by the term mid-length, and learn how to identify the one that will make you rediscover surfing.

Contents:

• Origins

• Definition

• Why surf a mid-length?

• How to choose your mid-length?

• The GONG mid-length range

Surfer: Vilayta, GONG team rider, on the Steve EPS.

The origins of the mid-length

In the early days of surfing, longboards were the norm. The arrival of polyurethane foam and fiberglass sparked a true revolution: shapers began experimenting with freer outlines, reducing length and refining board profiles to gain freedom of movement and maneuverability on the wave.

The shortening of boards perfectly illustrates this evolution. In the 1960s, the first so-called shortboards were actually around 8’ long. Then, in the early 1970s, competition boards dropped to around 6’.

Two major trends clearly emerged:

• On one side, traditional longboards, focused on glide and style.
  

• On the other, shortboards, designed for performance and radical surfing.
  

For several decades, mid-lengths were seen as boards in between these two worlds. These shapes took many forms, Eggs, funboards, mini Malibus, and were often regarded as transitional or learning boards, not always considered “noble” shapes.

Today, that perception has completely changed. The mid-length has become a deliberate, modern, and high-performing choice, capable of delivering committed, fluid, and incredibly versatile surfing

Surfing: Moritz, GONG team rider, in Carter EPS.

What is the definition of a mid-length?

A mid-length is literally a board of intermediate length, positioned between shortboards and longboards. And since a mid-length is neither a shortboard nor a longboard, length becomes the key boundary.

• A shortboard is no longer really considered one beyond 6’5.
  

• A longboard is generally considered as such from 9’ onward.
  

Mid-lengths therefore typically range between 6’6” and 8’11”, which leaves a very wide spectrum of shapes, and thus riding characteristics.

But more than its length, what truly defines a mid-length is its versatility. It’s the board you can grab without thinking, whatever the conditions, the spot, or the wave shape of the day.

Surfer: Malo, GONG team rider, in Acidolly EPS.

Why surf a mid-length?

Let’s be honest: if conditions delivered perfect shortboard waves every day, or if your local little point break served up clean, consistent peelers for hanging ten in 50 cm, the question might not even come up.

But surfing is usually a very different reality. Conditions change, our desires evolve, and so does our physical shape.

That’s exactly where the mid-length truly shines: a board that can adapt, remain effective across a wide range of conditions, and always deliver pleasure. For many surfers, the holy grail is being able to combine:

• Easy paddling to catch more waves,

• Early wave entry,

• Glide when it’s small,

• And enough maneuverability to have fun when conditions turn on.

A good mid-length therefore needs to blend:

• The responsiveness and maneuverability of a shorter board,

• The glide, stability, and ease of a longboard,

• Extra glide in small conditions,

• Higher paddling speed,

• Earlier wave entry, especially appreciated as swell size increases,

• While remaining easier to store, transport, and handle than a longboard.

Surfer: Vilayta, GONG team rider, in Carter EPS.

How to choose your mid-length?

Sitting between shortboards and longboards, mid-lengths naturally blend influences from both worlds. That said, two main families of mid-lengths can be identified:

• Performance-oriented mid-lengths influenced by shortboards
  

• Glide-oriented mid-lengths influenced by longboards
  

Performance-oriented mid-lengths (shortboard influence)

These boards are closer to the fish or shortboard mindset, where freedom of movement is key.

They glide well but require a more active approach:

• You need to pump to generate speed,
  

• Engage the rail more,
  

• Make the most of rail-to-rail transitions.
  

These boards:

• Allow you to explore more sections of the wave,
  

• Respond better when the surfer inputs energy,
  

• Deliver a more lively and precise style of surfing.
  

Who are they for?

Shortboarders looking to:

• Increase the number of waves they catch,
  

• Avoid an overly “longboard” feel,
  

• Keep their surfing fast, dynamic, and committed,
  

• Gain forgiveness without sacrificing performance.

In the GONG range, these mid-lengths include models such as the Indra 6’6, Carter 6’8, Vibe 7’2, and Fury 6’9.

Surfer: Mateia, GONG team rider, with his Indra PU.

Glide-oriented mid-lengths (longboard influence)

These boards clearly inherit longboard DNA (glide and stability) packaged in a more compact format.

They:

• Offer a huge amount of glide,
  

• “Do the work for you,”
  

• Allow for early and easy take-offs,
  

• Are very accessible.
  

They combine the ease of use of a longboard with the versatility of a shorter outline.

Who are they for?

Longboarders looking to:

• Shorten the length of their board,
  

• Keep easy paddling,
  

• Ride a board that naturally glides,
  

• Gain maneuverability without losing the longboard spirit.

In the GONG range, these mid-lengths include models such as the Acidolly, Gumball, and Steve.

Surfer: Moritz, GONG team rider, with his Gumball EPS.

Size, volume, and quiver considerations

A mid-length works thanks to its volume, which translates into:

• Easier paddling,
  

• Greater forgiveness,
  

• More waves caught.
  

Accepting a bit more volume often means more fun and less frustration.

Choosing the right size and volume also depends on how you plan to use the board:

• To complement a quiver (alongside a shortboard or a longboard),
  

• Or as a single, do-it-all board.
  

If you’re going for a one-board quiver, it’s usually best to accept a bit more volume to maximize versatility.

Key points for choosing the size and volume of your mid-length:

• The higher your skill level, the more you can reduce volume,
  

• The heavier the surfer, the more volume becomes a priority,
  

• Length influences style (maneuverability vs. glide),
  

• Volume influences ease of use (paddling, take-off, forgiveness).
  

Volume guidelines:

• Shortboarder → 40–48 L
  

• Versatile surfer → 48–55 L
  

• Comfort / flow → 55–65 L
  

• Maximum glide / larger riders → 65 L+
  

To sum up

The tail: a key indicator

One of the first things to look at on a mid-length is the tail. By observing this part of the shape, you can already understand the conditions in which the board will excel and the type of surfing it favors.

A wide tail

• Ideal for soft, weak waves
  

• Promotes speed and drive
  

A narrower tail

• Designed for hollow or powerful waves
  

• Provides greater control and hold

Surfer: Moritz, GONG team rider, with his Gumball EPS with a wide and buoyant tail.

Choosing your GONG mid-length

• Longboard-inspired mid-lengths

Gumball 7’0 / 7’2 / 7’4 / 7’6 #compactlongboard

The Gumball is an ultra-compact longboard designed to deliver the glide and lift of a traditional longboard in a shorter, more maneuverable format. Easy to paddle, highly buoyant, and incredibly playful, this shape allows for early take-offs, effortless glide in small conditions, and smooth linking of turns and noserides. It’s a progressive, fun, and accessible board, ideal for surfing often and maximizing enjoyment while developing style, flow, and timing.

Wave type: soft, low-power waves; mellow beach breaks and relaxed point breaks. The Gumball truly shines in small to medium conditions, when lift is key and you want a board that “does the work” without demanding much energy.

Wave size: 30 cm to 1.20 m

Which Size?

Gumball 7’0 – 51 L

The most compact and playful option, ideal for light to medium-weight surfers looking for a nimble mini noserider. It prioritizes responsiveness and fun while maintaining easy paddling and the ability to lock in noserides.

Gumball 7’2 – 56 L

The best balance between versatility and maneuverability—perfect for medium builds or surfers wanting an easy board without excess volume. It offers an excellent blend of glide, stability, and freedom of movement, making it an ideal everyday board.

Gumball 7’4 – 60 L

With more volume, this size suits heavier riders, progressing surfers, or those looking to maximize ease and early take-off. It allows for relaxed surfing, effortless speed retention, and makes the most of small conditions.

Gumball 7’6 – 64 L

The most generous version, designed for larger riders, surfers seeking maximum comfort, or those wanting to approach longboard sensations in a compact format. Ultra-stable and very comfortable to paddle, it turns soft waves into an incredibly playful playground.

Surfing: Servane, GONG staff, in Gumball PU.

Acidolly 7’0 / 7’4 / 8’0 / 8’4 #minilongboard

The Acidolly is a mini longboard–style mid-length that blends ease, glide, and modernity in a compact format. Fast to paddle, smooth through turns, and maneuverable thanks to its round tail and well-defined rails, it allows you to link maneuvers just as easily as set up clean noserides. Accessible yet high-performing, it’s a versatile board that delivers the spirit of a modern longboard with the compact efficiency of a mid-length.

Wave type: soft, low-power waves; mellow beach breaks and relaxed point breaks. The Acidolly excels when maximizing glide and ease is key. It takes off early, maintains speed effortlessly, and remains extremely enjoyable in small conditions.

Wave size: 30 cm to 1.20 m

Which size?

Acidolly 7’0 – 49 L

Designed for light to medium-weight surfers or skilled riders looking for a compact mini longboard, this size prioritizes maneuverability and active surfing. It preserves the longboard spirit (glide, noseride) with controlled volume to stay playful and precise.

Acidolly 7’4 – 51 L

The versatile sweet spot, ideal for medium builds or those seeking a balance between ease, glide, and control. Fast paddling and stable, it offers great forgiveness while remaining performance-oriented for turns, maneuvers, and noserides.

Acidolly 8’0 – 62 L

With added volume, this size suits beginners, progressing surfers, or those prioritizing comfort and glide. It takes off very early, keeps speed effortlessly, and fully unlocks small to medium conditions.

Acidolly 8’4 – 70 L

The most generous version, designed for larger riders and beginner to intermediate surfers. Ultra-buoyant and stable, it approaches the feel of a modern longboard while remaining more compact and maneuverable.

Surfer: Malo, GONG team rider, in Acidolly EPS.

Steve 6’6 / 7’1 / 7’6 / 7’11 / 8’6 #single #downtheline

The Steve is a single-fin mid-length with pure seventies DNA, built for glide, style, and clean down-the-line surfing. With its low tail rocker and 50/50 rails, it promotes smooth, fast, continuous glide, far from modern pumping-based surfing. You take off early, draw long lines, engage the rail, and savor every curve. A mid-length with character: technical, elegant, and dedicated to flow, positioning, and the very essence of surfing.

Wave type: ideally long, peeling waves, beach breaks, point breaks, and mellow reefs. The Steve thrives on clean lines and flow, favoring waves with length where you can engage the rail and maintain speed without effort.

Wave size: 50 cm to 1.20 m

Which size?

Steve 6’6 – 35 L

Designed for lighter, advanced surfers, this compact version emphasizes control and precision while retaining the single-fin spirit. For those seeking stylish, committed surfing with low volume and maximum feel.

Steve 7’1 – 45 L

An excellent compromise for medium builds or technical surfers wanting more glide and paddling comfort. This size fully expresses down-the-line surfing with fluidity, speed, and clean lines.

Steve 7’6 – 55 L

Ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers or heavier riders, it offers early entry and composed surfing without losing the board’s character. Perfect for working on positioning, flow, and long arcs.

Steve 7’11 – 65 L

With added buoyancy, this version targets surfers looking for comfort, glide, and style in softer waves. It promotes smooth, relaxed, highly aesthetic surfing focused on rail and trajectory.

Steve 8’6 – 75 L

The most generous size, designed for larger riders, glide enthusiasts, or those wanting an easy, elegant board. Ultra-stable and very fast to paddle, it turns every wave into a long, flowing line.

Surfer: Vilayta, GONG team rider, in Steve EPS.

• All-rounder mid-lengths

Carter 6’8 / 7’3 / 7’8 / 8’3 #carving #oneboardquiver

The Carter is an ultra-versatile mid-length designed as a true one-board quiver. Easy to paddle, fast, and fluid, it combines continuous glide, elegant turns, and real acceleration in all conditions. Comfortable on all wave types, it delivers comfort, style, and performance without compromise. An efficient, intuitive mid-length built for everyday surfing, everywhere.

Wave type: all types, beach breaks, reefs, point breaks. The Carter is the most versatile board in the range, performing in nearly all conditions, from everyday small surf to more powerful waves.

Wave size: 60 cm to 2 m+

Which size?

Carter 6’8 – 48 L

The most compact and reactive option, offering sensations close to a shortboard with added buoyancy and style. Fast, fluid, and capable of being pushed hard across a wide range of conditions.

Carter 7’3 – 53 L

The mid-length sweet spot, combining paddling comfort, natural speed, and outstanding versatility. Perfect as a one-board quiver, it allows smooth linking of turns while remaining highly capable in many conditions.

Carter 7’8 – 62 L

With increased buoyancy, this size suits larger riders and those prioritizing ease. It offers very early take-off, relaxed surfing, and long, effortless curves.

Carter 8’3 – 70 L

Designed for larger riders, surfers seeking maximum comfort, or pure glide enthusiasts. This size delivers exceptional stability and buoyancy, ideal for cruising, long sessions, and fully enjoying the waves.

Surfing: Vilayta, GONG team rider, in Carter Pure Origin. 

Indra 6’6 / 7’0 / 7’6 / 8’0 #everydayboard #allroundmidlength

The Indra is a pure mid-length, elegant, modern, and built for flow, speed, and true versatility. Its sleek outline, progressive rocker, and balanced round tail deliver fast, smooth, and instinctive glide without locking surfing into a single style. Easy to paddle, quick on take-off, and a real pleasure to ride, it’s an all-around mid-length designed to draw beautiful lines with style across all types of waves.

Wave type: varied waves, clean beach breaks, reefs, and point breaks. The Indra adapts to almost everything, equally at ease in small surf and more powerful conditions.

Wave size: 50 cm to 2 m

Which size?

Indra 6’6 – 40 L

For those wanting a very compact feel, almost shortboard-like, with tight, precise turns. Designed for skilled surfers coming from shortboards who want a highly maneuverable mid-length. It retains a lively, precise ride while adding more glide compared to a pure performance board.

Indra 7’0 – 46 L

An excellent compromise for surfers looking for easier paddling and comfortable wave entry without too much length. This size delivers smooth, versatile glide, perfect for balanced, everyday surfing.

Indra 7’6 – 50 L

Designed for surfers who prioritize paddling speed and early take-off. It allows for long, flowing arcs with smooth control and maximum efficiency when waves lack power.

Indra 8’0 – 61 L

Ideal for larger riders or those wanting an ultra-easy, stable, no-fuss board. It blends buoyancy and maneuverability, offering the best balance between comfort and liveliness.

Surfing: Mateia, GONG team rider, on his Intra PU.

Shortboard-inspired, pumping-oriented mid-lengths

Vibe 6’8 / 7’2 / 7’6 #hybrid #performance

The Vibe is shaped to retain shortboard-level performance while adding more glide and forgiveness in average conditions. Fast, playful, and free, it generates speed effortlessly thanks to its wider outline and forward wide point, while remaining stable and controlled with its swallow tail. Chosen in these lengths, it becomes a modern, versatile, and radical mid-length that blends fun with high-end performance.

Wave type: punchy beach breaks, short waves, sections to attack. The Vibe thrives in waves where you can pump, re-accelerate, and hit the section.

Wave size: 70 cm to 1.80 m

Which size?

Vibe 6’8 – 39 L

Compact and snappy, it keeps the Vibe’s shortboard DNA with plenty of speed and responsiveness. Ideal for technically confident surfers looking to perform in average to good conditions with committed, radical surfing.

Vibe 7’2 – 44 L

The best balance between performance and ease, offering more paddling comfort and more forgiving glide. Perfect as a versatile mid-length, capable of scoring in small surf and opening up when conditions improve.

Vibe 7’6 – 49 L

The most glide-oriented and accessible version, with early wave entry and consistent natural speed. Designed to maximize fun and fluidity, it delivers free, efficient, and stylish surfing across a wide range of conditions.

Surfing: Vilayta, GONG team rider, in Vibe EPS.

Fury 6’9 / 7’4 #twin

Ultra maneuverability in a generous format. Shortboard-inspired, the Fury delivers natural speed and exceptional freedom of turns. It accelerates instantly, adapts to all wave types, and turns every section into a playground. A fun, efficient board built for pure enjoyment.

Wave type: short to medium waves, soft or fast sections, beach breaks and reef breaks. The Fury excels when quick acceleration and tight turns are key.

Wave size: 60 cm to 1.80 m

Which size?

Fury 6’9 - 47 L

A size that prioritizes responsiveness and speed, with sensations close to a shortboard but added glide. Ideal for scoring in average conditions, it suits surfers looking for dynamic, fast, and highly maneuverable surfing.

Fury 7’4 - 55 L

More buoyant and forgiving, this version suits larger riders or surfers seeking more paddling comfort and versatility. It retains the Fury’s lively character while offering easier wave entry and smooth surfing across a wide range of conditions.

Surfer: Mateia, GONG team rider, on a Fury EPS.

“Fishy” mid-lengths

Pie 6’11 / 7’6 / 7’11 #longfish

All the advantages of a fish in a longer format, that’s the definition of a long fish. In soft, peeling waves, a fish naturally delivers plenty of glide, but smaller sizes require active input to maintain it. The added length of these sizes increases glide without sacrificing the skatey, fun fish feel, just more ease.

Wave type: soft, peeling waves, long sections, point breaks. The Pie is perfect when waves lack power but offer length.

Wave size: 50 cm to 1.20 m

Which size?

Pie 6’11 – 54 L

Instant speed and very playful surfing, ideal for surfers looking for a maneuverable board with volume. It offers easy glide, strong acceleration, and active surfing while remaining forgiving.

Pie 7’6 – 61 L

The best balance between glide and maneuverability, with early take-off and steady natural speed. A versatile fish capable of doing it all, small conditions, long waves, and effortless surfing, for those prioritizing ease and comfort. Very stable and fast paddling, it allows relaxed surfing while keeping flow and drive.

Pie 7’11 – 65 L

All the downsides of small boards disappear, leaving only glide and flow. In this size, you take off very early, maintain speed effortlessly, and excel in long, open waves. The perfect choice for smooth, composed, and efficient surfing focused on lines and continuous glide.

Surfing: Evelin, GONG team rider, with her Pie EPS.