FLO 375mm 15inch Wood POD Handboards - Bodysurfing Handplane

The FLO 375mm 15inch Cedar Walnut POD® Handboard – Engineered for Powerful Wave Riding

Discover the scale, control, and authority of the FLO 375mm (15-inch) Cedar and Walnut POD bodysurfing handboard. This is the largest and most powerful board in the POD wooden handboard range, designed for riders who demand maximum lift, sustained speed, and stability in stronger, more demanding surf. The FLO is shaped to harness the full energy of the wave while maintaining a composed, predictable feel in the water.

Maximum Planing for Speed and Stability

The FLO 375mm handboard is built for bodysurfers who ride with intent. Its expansive 375 mm × 218 mm hydrodynamic planing surface delivers exceptional lift and early wave entry, allowing riders to maintain speed through open faces and critical sections. This increased surface area generates up to 110 kg / 242 lb of lifting force, translating to confident take-offs, extended rides, and controlled flow across powerful waves.

• Experienced and Elite Bodysurfers: Designed for riders who regularly surf larger or more powerful conditions.
• Big-Wave Confidence: Increased stability and drive when conditions demand commitment.
• Extended Flow: Sustained speed and glide across the wave face.
• Maximum Lift and Propulsion: The highest lift output within the POD wooden handboard range.

Signature POD Wood Craftsmanship

Like all POD wooden handboards, the FLO reflects decades of refinement in material selection and structural design. A solid walnut centre acts as a structural stringer, delivering strength and resistance to torsional load, while lighter cedar wings contribute controlled flex and responsiveness. This balance ensures the board remains stable under load while still feeling alive beneath the hand.

Each FLO handplane is produced using CAD design, precision CNC machining, laser engraving, and careful hand finishing. Natural variations in grain and colour ensure every board is unique, reinforcing the FLO as both a high-performance bodysurfing tool and a crafted object.

Comfort, Control, and Hydrodynamic Design

The FLO is engineered to support relaxed body positioning and efficient energy transfer, even at higher speeds.

• Ergonomic Palm Support: A convex deck with integrated palm hold supports the natural curvature of the hand, reducing fatigue associated with flat-deck handplanes. The hand is positioned directly above the pivot point and keel fin for balanced control.
• Purpose-Built Strap System: Custom 50 mm hand strap retainers secure a wide 65 mm double-padded neoprene strap, distributing load evenly across the hand and minimising pressure points during longer, faster rides.
• Hydrodynamic Bottom Shape: A deep 20 mm concave with integrated keel fin is engineered for rapid lift versus force, improving speed, maintaining hold on the wave face, and reducing spray toward the face.

FLO 375mm Handboard Specifications

• Volume: 953 cm³ / 953 ml / 0.2517 US liquid gallon
• Lifting Force: Up to 110 kg / 242.5 lb
• Size: 375 mm × 218 mm × 45 mm (15" × 8.25" × 1.61")
• Weight: 460–480 g (varies with timber grain density)
• Deck: Convex with ergonomic palm hold and support
• Bottom: Deep 20 mm concave with keel fin
• Strap System: Natural swimming hand position above pivot point, custom POD 50 mm retainer, 65 mm double-padded neoprene strap, adjustable 50 mm webbing
• Wrist Leash: Adjustable, reversible for left-handed use
• Finish: Laser engravings, satin protective coating

Longevity and Care

Consistent care ensures your wooden handboard maintains both performance and structural integrity.

• Strap Adjustment: Set the strap snugly once. For regular use, slide your hand between the strap and palm support to preserve Velcro longevity.
• Protective Storage: Supplied with reusable packaging foam and hemp drawstring cover offering impact, moisture, and water resistance.
• Avoid Excess Heat: Do not leave the board in hot cars or direct sunlight. Excessive heat can damage timber and protective finishes.
• Inspect and Maintain: If signs of grain movement, dull patches, or water ingress appear, lightly sand and recoat with a marine-grade satin finish to restore protection.

The Final Ride

The FLO is built for riders who embrace power and flow equally. Treated with care, it will deliver years of controlled speed, confident lift, and enduring natural character. This is a genuine POD® original, designed to perform at the upper end of bodysurfing conditions and to be passed on with pride.

A Legacy of Bodysurfing Design

For more than three decades, POD founder and designer Shane Vassallo has shaped and refined handboards using select-grade cedar, walnut, and limited timber species. This evolution and design philosophy are documented in our long-form article Successful 30 Years.

Learn More

• Choosing the Right Handboard: Explore sizing and design principles in Human Hydrofoil.
• Technique and Use: Read How to Bodysurf with a Handboard.
• Freestyle or Assisted Riding: Learn more in Bodysurfing the Waves Without or With a Handboard.