Phase 5 skim style wakesurf boards
built for riders who want to spin, shove-it, and push their riding further. With ultra-thin profiles, flat rocker lines, and Hybrid Carbon construction handcrafted in the USA, Phase 5 has spent decades engineering skim boards that perform as good as they look. At BoardCo, we carry the full Phase 5 skim lineup — from entry-level models to pro-series shapes — backed by our free shipping, lifetime returns, and price match guarantee.
Shop Phase 5 Skim Boards by Model
Every Phase 5 skim board is purpose-built for a specific riding style or skill level. Here's a quick breakdown of the models you'll find in this collection:
Phase 5 Diamond Turbo
Shaped by Drew Danielo, the Diamond Turbo is the go-to board for experienced riders and bigger surfers who need more push out of smaller waves. Its wider, boxed-out tail delivers explosive pop, and the Hybrid Carbon Innegra construction keeps it stiff, fast, and light. Available in 51", 54", and 57" to fit riders up to 220 lbs.
Phase 5 Hammerhead
The Hammerhead is one of Phase 5's most popular all-around skim shapes. Its aggressive tail design gives riders exceptional edge hold and speed, making it a strong choice for intermediate to advanced surfers dialing in their bag of tricks. Available in 50", 53", 55", and 58".
Phase 5 MVP
The MVP earns its name. John Akerman's pro model delivers a versatile skim feel that works across a wide range of wave sizes and rider weights. If you want one board that handles everything from basic surface tricks to more technical combos, this is it. Available in 47", 51", 54", and 57".
Phase 5 Key (Jett Shreds, Stewart Pro & Key CL)
The Key series offers four different options with two pro-collaboration shapes designed for smaller, lighter riders and those who prefer a quick, snappy skim feel. The Key Jett Shreds (46"–55") and Key Stewart Pro (42"–48") are ideal for youth riders and smaller adults looking for a board that's responsive without being heavy or overpowering. With the Key CL offering a price point construction of the same shape.
Phase 5 Matrix & Matrix Payne Pro
Parker Payne's signature pro model, the Matrix is a high-performance skim shape built around speed and precision. The standard Matrix suits intermediate to advanced riders, while the Matrix Payne Pro features upgraded layup specs for riders demanding a more elite-level feel. Available in 48", 51", 53", and 56".
Phase 5 Mindset
Ashley Inloes' signature model, the Mindset is designed with female riders in mind but works great for any lighter rider looking for a responsive, trick-capable skim board. Available in 43", 46", 49", and 52".
Phase 5 Hypsta
The Hypsta is one of Phase 5's most playful skim shapes — loose, fast, and built for surface tricks. Available in 50" and 54", it's a great option for intermediate riders ready to move beyond the basics and start exploring aerial maneuvers.
Phase 5 Diamond Luv
A women's-specific skim shape with the same performance DNA as the Diamond series. The Diamond Luv comes in 48" and 51" and is an excellent choice for female riders at the intermediate to advanced level who want a board that feels dialed-in from the first session.
Why Phase 5 Skim Boards?
Phase 5 has been building skim-style wakesurf boards in the USA since the early days of the sport. Here's what sets them apart:
- Handcrafted in the USA: Every board is built at the Phase 5 factory in Venice, Florida, with tight quality control and rider-tested shapes.
- Hybrid Carbon Construction: Phase 5's proprietary Hybrid Carbon Innegra layup combines carbon fibers with Innegra for a board that's stiff, lightweight, and resistant to impact.
- Ultra-Thin Profile: Skim boards are built thinner than surf-style boards — typically 3/4" — for quick edge transitions, effortless spins, and a looser, more responsive feel on the wave.
- PROPEL™ Bottom Technology: Phase 5's textured bottom finish reduces drag and increases board speed, keeping you locked into the sweet spot longer.
- P5 Techno Grip™ Traction: Engineered specifically for skim-style riding, this traction pad gives you grip where you need it without adding unnecessary weight.
- Pro-Developed Shapes: Most Phase 5 skim models are rider-designed in collaboration with top pros like Drew Danielo, Parker Payne, and Ashley Inloes.
Is a Skim Style Board Right for You?
Skim style and surf style boards feel completely different on the water. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:
- Choose skim style if: You want to learn surface tricks like 360s, shuv-its, and shove-it variations; you prefer a looser, more skatey feel; or you're an intermediate-to-advanced rider looking to push your progression.
- Choose surf style if: You prefer big, carvy turns and a traditional surfboard feel; you're a beginner who wants the most stable, forgiving ride possible; or you prioritize pumping and generating speed in the wave.
- Not sure? Read our complete wakesurf board style guide or call us at 385-354-7523 — we'll help you figure it out.
Phase 5 Skim Board Size Guide
Sizing a skim board is different from sizing a surf-style board. Because skim boards have less volume, you'll typically ride a slightly larger size than you might expect. Use this general guide as a starting point:
- Under 130 lbs: 42"–48" (Key Stewart Pro, Mindset, Diamond Luv)
- 130–160 lbs: 48"–52" (Key, Mindset, Diamond Luv, Hypsta)
- 160–190 lbs: 51"–54" (MVP, Diamond Turbo, Hammerhead, Matrix)
- 190–220 lbs: 54"–57" (Diamond Turbo, MVP, Hammerhead)
- 220+ lbs: 57"–58" (Diamond Turbo 57", Hammerhead 58")
Keep in mind that skill level matters too. Beginners to skim style generally do better on a larger size for added float. Experienced riders may prefer going a size down for more responsiveness.
Why Buy Phase 5 Skim Boards from BoardCo?
- Authorized Phase 5 Dealer: We're an official Phase 5 dealer, so every board is 100% authentic and covered by Phase 5's manufacturer warranty.
- Expert Guidance: Our team rides and tests these boards. Not sure which model fits your weight, wave size, or skill level? Call or text us at 385-354-7523 — we'll point you in the right direction.
- Free Shipping: All Phase 5 skim boards ship free to the contiguous US.
- Lifetime Returns: Shop risk-free with BoardCo's hassle-free lifetime return policy.
- Price Match Guarantee: Find the same board for less? We'll match it.
Frequently Asked Questions: Phase 5 Skim Style Wakesurf Boards
What is a skim style wakesurf board?
A skim style wakesurf board is a thin, flat-rockered board designed for surface tricks, spins, and a loose, skatey feel on the wave. Unlike surf-style boards, skim boards have minimal volume and a single center fin setup, which makes them highly maneuverable but less stable — they're best suited for intermediate to advanced riders.
What makes Phase 5 skim boards different from other brands?
Phase 5 builds every board by hand in the USA using premium materials like Hybrid Carbon Innegra. Their boards feature proprietary technologies like PROPEL™ bottom texture and P5 Techno Grip™ traction, developed alongside professional riders. Few brands at this price point offer the same level of construction quality and rider-input design.
Are Phase 5 skim boards good for beginners?
Most Phase 5 skim boards are built for intermediate to advanced riders. If you're brand new to wakesurfing, we'd recommend starting with a surf-style or hybrid board to build confidence and foundational skills. Once you're comfortable riding the wave, a skim board is the natural next step. Check out our full wakesurf board collection if you're looking for beginner-friendly options.
What size Phase 5 skim board should I ride?
Size depends on your weight, skill level, and the wave your boat produces. As a general rule, riders under 160 lbs typically start in the 46"–52" range, while riders 160–220 lbs do well in 51"–57". Advanced riders often go smaller for a more responsive feel. See the size guide above or call us for a personalized recommendation.
What is Hybrid Carbon construction?
Hybrid Carbon is Phase 5's proprietary fiberglass weave that incorporates carbon and Innegra fibers. It creates a board that's stiffer and lighter than traditional fiberglass, while the Innegra content adds impact resistance and durability. It's the construction used on most of Phase 5's premium skim models and is a big reason these boards perform the way they do.
Do Phase 5 skim boards come with fins?
Yes. All Phase 5 skim boards come with fins pre-installed. Most models use a tri-fin setup with a center skim fin and two smaller fakie fins. The exact fin sizes vary by model and board length — check the individual product pages for specs.
Can I wakesurf with a skim board behind any wake boat?
Skim boards generally work best on a well-formed, clean wave. Wake boats with good ballast systems and surf shaping features — like the Centurion Ri and Fe series or the Supreme S — produce the type of wave that lets a skim board truly perform. If your boat creates a mushy or inconsistent wave, a surf-style board may feel more satisfying. Browse our wake boat inventory if you're in the market for an upgrade.
How does BoardCo's return policy work for wakesurf boards?
BoardCo offers lifetime returns on gear. If you're not happy with your purchase, we'll work with you to make it right. Call or text us at 385-354-7523 for any return or exchange questions.
Ready to find your next Phase 5 skim board? Browse the full collection above, or reach out to our team directly — call or text 385-354-7523 and we'll help you pick the right board for your riding style, wave, and goals.