Wayne Rich The Checkmate

While the Checkmate is a high-performance longboard, its design is geared toward intermediate to advanced surfers looking to progress. Beginners might find the performance-oriented rails and concave features less forgiving than a dedicated beginner-friendly foamie or high-volume cruiser.

The 60/40 rail offers a versatile balance. It provides enough hold for traditional trimming and smooth gliding while remaining responsive enough to engage the rail for turns, giving you the best of both classic and modern surfing styles.

This board is highly versatile. The hard edge in the tail gives you the drive needed for head-high walls, while the nose concave provides the lift and acceleration required to keep speed in smaller, weaker beach breaks.

The NFT construction uses natural fibers to add strength and durability to the board without sacrificing the lightweight, responsive feel of the Fused Cell EPS core. It creates a robust board that resists dings while maintaining excellent flex characteristics.

No, the Checkmate is sold as a board only. You will need to purchase your preferred fin setup separately to match your specific surfing style.

Choose based on your weight and desired maneuverability. The 9'2" offers a slightly more nimble ride for lighter surfers or those prioritizing tighter turns, while the 9'6" provides extra volume and stability, making it better for heavier surfers or those who want maximum paddle power and glide.