Tokyo 8-Oh – Free ’n’ Easy
The Tokyo 8-Oh takes the performance thinking behind the Tokyo 9'1" and translates it into a shorter, more relaxed package.
Originally designed by Phil Hodge and later revisited and refined by Steve Hendon, the 8-Oh combines the speed, response and rail sensitivity of a performance longboard with the freedom and versatility of an 8' midlength.
It carries enough length and volume to paddle easily and enter waves early, while the medium rocker, refined rails and performance-oriented bottom contours keep it feeling surprisingly agile once you're on your feet.
The slight nose flip allows the 8-Oh to handle steeper, later entries without feeling unwieldy, while the single-to-double concave generates speed and feeds smoothly into the subtle V through the tail.
The result is a board that can trim, turn, accelerate and change direction without demanding that you surf every wave like you're competing.
It's got the performance. It just doesn't take itself too seriously.
That's the 8-Oh.
Free ’n’ Easy.
Design Philosophy:
The 8-Oh was developed to occupy the space between a performance longboard and a traditional midlength.
The design retains much of the performance DNA that makes the 9'1" so responsive, but shortening the overall length changes the way that performance can be accessed.
The medium rocker provides a good balance between paddle speed and manoeuvrability, while the small amount of nose flip gives confidence when taking off late or positioning further inside.
Underneath, the single concave accelerates the board through the centre before flowing into double concave and subtle V towards the tail.
Harder rails provide positive engagement when turning, allowing the 8-Oh to be surfed with much more intent than its size might suggest.
The 2 + 1 fin setup gives you another way to tune the board. Ride it as a single fin for smooth, flowing lines, add the side bites for extra hold and drive, or push it further towards thruster territory when you want a more positive response.
It's a performance board without the performance anxiety.
Design & Construction:
Original Design: Phil Hodge
Revisited & Refined by: Steve Hendon
Master Shaper: Steve Hendon
Concept: Performance Midlength
Construction: Individually hand-shaped in Britain.
Rocker: Medium, with subtle nose flip for later take-offs.
Rails: Refined performance rails with a defined edge.
Bottom Contour: Single concave flowing into double concave and subtle V through the tail.
Fin Configuration: 2 + 1 Futures setup.
Glass Specification: 10oz deck / 6oz bottom.
Construction Options: Available with custom resin tints, pigments and bespoke artwork.
Designer's Notes:
The 8-Oh came from the desire to take the performance characteristics of a high-performance longboard and make them feel more relaxed and accessible.
It still has the ability to generate speed, hold a rail and change direction quickly, but it doesn't demand that you spend the entire session thinking about your next manoeuvre.
Trim it.
Turn it.
Move around the board.
Take the late one.
Or simply find a good line and enjoy the ride.
The 8-Oh is happiest when you're surfing instinctively rather than trying to prove something.
The performance is there when you want it. The rest of the time, just enjoy the wave.
Ideal Conditions:
Wave Size: Hip to over head 3–8'.
Wave Type: Beach breaks, reefs and points with enough shape to allow the board's speed and manoeuvrability to shine.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced.
Best For: Surfers wanting a responsive midlength with genuine performance characteristics without the intensity of a dedicated competition board.
Not Designed For: Beginners looking for maximum stability or surfers seeking a traditional, purely trim-oriented midlength.
Size & Dimension Matrix:
8'0" × 21" × 2¾" • Approx 68 ltr — The balanced performance midlength, combining easy paddle power with lively rail-to-rail response.
Custom dimensions are available upon request.
Tokyo Design Philosophy:
Every Tokyo Surfboard begins as a conversation.
Ideas are sketched, prototypes are built, outlines are refined and details are questioned until every element earns its place.
We don't chase annual model releases or passing trends. Every design in the Tokyo collection exists because it solves a problem, offers a unique surfing experience or reminds us why we fell in love with surfing in the first place.
Each board is individually hand-shaped in Britain by master craftsmen using carefully selected materials and construction methods chosen for longevity rather than planned obsolescence.
We believe the most sustainable surfboard is one that remains in the water for decades, not seasons.
Tokyo Surfboards was founded on a simple belief:
Build better boards. Build fewer boards. Build boards worth keeping.
