Pod Mod X-Lite Channel Islands Surfboard Black

The second release in the Torq × Channel Islands collaboration, the Pod Mod arrives in Torq’s advanced X-Lite Epoxy technology. The Pod Mod has long been one of CI’s most fun small-wave performers, and now it’s been reimagined in a construction that’s lightweight, ultra-strong, eco-conscious, and full of lively flex.

The Shape

The Pod Mod takes the original CI Pod and pushes it even further into the performance-groveler category.

• Shorter and wider than the original, with more volume forward for easier paddling.

• A wider tail increases glide and speed in smaller waves.

• Bottom contours move from a flat entry to concave vee, giving the board rapid rail-to-rail transitions.

• Generous surface area through the nose and mid-point, blending back into a classic swallow tail.

This modern-day “fish” outline combines easy wave-catching ability with sharp, skatey performance.

Where It Works

The Pod Mod thrives in small-to-medium waves, from sloppy summer mush to clean chest-high peelers. Push it into chest to overhead surf and it’ll still deliver, especially in hollow, glassy conditions. If you want a board that handles the fun stuff but doesn’t tap out when the swell builds, this is it.

How It Rides

• Rocker: Low and relaxed, built for speed and flow.

• Concaves: Flat entry shifting into vee = quick rail-to-rail response.

• Fins: 5-fin setup for versatility—run it as a quad for drive and small-wave speed, or as a thruster for added pivot and control.

This board is the definition of fun and fast, making average days feel electric while still holding its own when conditions turn on.

The X-Lite Difference

Torq’s X-Lite Epoxy construction brings a new dimension to performance boards:

• 50% thinner Shield Skin for reduced weight.

• A wood composite layer sandwiched between biaxial decks = serious ding resistance without stiffness.

• More durable, lighter, and greener than traditional PU.

• Even, responsive flex that absorbs chop—no “corky” epoxy feel here.

The result is a super strong, eco-forward board that feels alive underfoot and built to last.

Why You’ll Love It

The Torq × Channel Islands Pod Mod in X-Lite is the ultimate small-wave weapon—fast, forgiving, and ridiculously fun. Easy to paddle, smooth through turns, and durable enough to handle heavy use, it’s a performance groveler that keeps the stoke alive from mush to magic conditions.