MITU Pro Model Essentials
5’8 x 18.5″ / 7.8lbs / 20L
The Mitu Monteiro Surfboard range has expanded over the years and for 2017 there are now three construction options to choose from!
- The standard MITU PM (Pro Model) that has been in production for 4 years now – In 4 sizes 5’4 – 5’6 – 5’8 – 5’10
- The MITU PM Carbon – In 4 sizes 5’4 – 5’6 – 5’8 – 5’10 – New for 2017
- The MITU ESL – In 2 sizes 5’6 and 5’8 – New for 2017
ESL stands for Essential which is exactly what F-One decided to do with this board; bringing back the original bamboo sandwich construction and eliminating the pads and inserts; for the riders who prefer a direct contact with the board and use wax for traction. This board also shares the latest shape and design of the Mitu range and is built to be resistant to dings and offers great comfort while riding. The board has a double bamboo deck to reinforce the areas that receive constant impact.
Rider: Billy Ackerman – 6’ / 185lbs
I am stoked on the Essential construction option featuring a traditional molded bamboo layup with no inserts or deck pad. This gives the board the optimum performance and allows the rider to wax the board, making it the perfect option for those 100% strapless riders. The ESL is available in two sizes, 5’6” and 5’8”. I choose to ride the 5’8” because I am 6’ tall, 185 pounds and I feel that this is the optimum size for almost all conditions. For the smaller guys and gals, I recommend the 5’6.
Under the feet this board is very stable and responsive, feels great rail to rail, is very maneuverable and features a good amount of rocker making it excel in even the best conditions. The 5’8 size feels very balanced to me when riding waves, throwing air ticks, or just sailing out to sea. Like I said, for the larger rider this is an excellent size choice. Another highlight worth mentioning are the subtle bottom nose channels, this gives the board just enough grip and up wind performance.
The ESL comes as a thruster (3-fin) Futures fin boxes allowing you to put which ever Futures Fins in the board that you would like (comes with the stock white fins). I have been riding the Large JJF template or the Craig Anderson Black Sticks and have been very pleased with the performance.
~ Billy
Learn more about the complete 2017 Mitu Surfboard range here
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