WOW 13" POD Handboard | Unrivalled Bodysurfing Performance

From the Designer

After decades of shaping, testing, and refining handboards, the WOW 13" represents a long-awaited convergence of material knowledge, design freedom, and functional intent. In this short video, the designer explains what led to its development and how it fits within the broader POD® philosophy.

From the Designer

After decades of shaping, testing, and refining handboards, the WOW 13" represents a long-awaited convergence of material knowledge, design freedom, and functional intent.

Material Choice – Custom PU Formulation

The WOW 13" is manufactured using a proprietary polyurethane formulation developed specifically for bodysurfing handboards. This formulation was chosen after extensive testing for its ability to balance weight, density, and rigidity, a combination rarely achieved in handplane construction.

Unlike heavier recycled plastics or sealed timber, this custom PU provides:

• Predictable flex characteristics

• Strong surface durability

• Consistent buoyancy

• Resistance to dents, cracking, and water absorption

The material choice allows the board to perform reliably without the care requirements associated with wood.

Weight, Buoyancy, and Control

At approximately 330–350 grams, the WOW 13" is around 25% lighter than comparable wooden handboards of similar size, while remaining robust and stable in the water.

For context, a handboard of this volume manufactured from raw polypropylene would weigh approximately 710 grams, significantly increasing the load on the arm and wrist. The WOW’s reduced weight improves paddling freedom and responsiveness without sacrificing control.

Despite its low mass, the board delivers strong net buoyancy, allowing it to sit higher in the water during paddling and transition smoothly onto the wave face.

Hydrodynamics – Signature POD Shape

The WOW 13" uses POD’s proven signature shape, the only curved handboard profile in the range, developed to convert water flow into usable lift.

A deep 18 mm concave bottom, combined with an integrated keel fin, generates hydrodynamic lift and directional stability while minimising splashback toward the face. This design allows the board to glide across the wave rather than drag through it.

Flat handboards lack this lift and tend to force water upward, reducing efficiency and comfort during bodysurfing and handboarding sessions.

Ergonomics – Palm Support and Natural Hand Position

Comfort and control are central to the WOW design. The convex deck features POD’s ergonomic palm support, shaped to mirror the natural curvature of the human hand.

This design:

• Supports a neutral wrist position

• Reduces strain during extended sessions

• Improves control without excessive grip pressure

The hand sits directly above the board’s pivot point and keel fin, allowing the board to work with natural swimming mechanics rather than against them.

Flex Rebound – Load Reduction

The WOW’s custom PU formulation provides controlled flex with measurable rebound. This characteristic helps absorb and return energy during wave engagement, reducing sustained load through the wrist, arm, and shoulder.

Rather than feeling rigid or unstable, the board responds dynamically, delivering a smoother and less fatiguing bodysurfing experience across varied conditions.

Strap System and Retainers

Custom recessed POD® strap retainers are integrated into the board, designed to suit a 50 mm webbing strap paired with a 65 mm double-padded neoprene hand strap.

This system:

• Distributes pressure evenly across the hand

• Improves security without over-tightening

• Reduces irritation associated with narrow straps

An adjustable wrist leash allows left- or right-handed configuration depending on preference and wave direction.

Who This Handboard Is For

The WOW 13" is suited to bodysurfers and handboard riders who:

• Want a lightweight, maintenance-free handplane

• Surf in a wide range of conditions.

• Prefer predictable lift and control.

• Value long-term durability over seasonal replacement

It performs equally well for regular use, travel, and demanding surf environments.

For riders interested in timber construction, the Hand Body Soul® wood handboards explore the same signature shape in cedar and walnut. If a maintenance-free option is preferred, the WOW 13" offers a lightweight alternative, weighing approximately 25% less than comparable wooden boards.

WOW 13" Handboard Specifications

• Volume: 788 cm³ (788 ml / 0.206 US gallons)
• Planing Lift: Up to 100 kg / 220 lb
• Upward Buoyant Force: Up to 30 kg / 66 lb
• Size: 330 mm (13") × 210 mm (8.25") × 43 mm (1.69")
• Weight: 330–350 g (0.73–0.77 lb)
• Deck: Convex with ergonomic palm support
• Bottom: 18 mm deep concave with integrated keel fin
• Finish: Matt
• Strap System:
• 50 mm adjustable webbing hand strap
• 65 mm double-padded neoprene
• Adjustable wrist leash

Note: Due to formulation variation, final weight may vary by ±5% without affecting performance or durability.

Care and Longevity

Rinse the handboard with fresh water after use and allow it to dry in the shade. Avoid leaving the board in direct sunlight or inside a hot vehicle, as excessive heat can degrade materials over time.