Hobie Positive Force explained: "Long before surfing was a mainstream sport, and just another corporate venture, it was an art; a declaration of a way of life, and a liberating means of self-expression. Surfing was regarded as the physical form of jazz, rebellious yet graceful, strangely poetic. The Hobie Surfboards Positive Force echoes this spirit, channeling the artistry of the past with the innovation of today. The P. Force is a modern adaptation of the Aussie design genius, Bob McTavishs ground breaking Plastic Machine. Its flattened rocker and unique tail design delivers explosive acceleration and precise maneuverability. The almost ball bearing-like sensation of the full panel vee invites surfers to rediscover the pure joy of riding waves!"
This particular Hobie Positive Force (the PF-IV) surfboard is a 1960s to 1970s transition era board that was designed by Mickey Munoz. Its an early wide-tail, parallel fin shape with the eccentric surfer/designer George Greenoughs innovative adjustable fin box guidance system. The fins are removable and adjustable using the original fin spacers (one fin spacer is missing, but the fin holds securely in place). Two handcrafted 5 wood fins are included with the surfboard.
The board features a beak nose with accentuated nose rocker, 12" tailblock, and 80/20 performance rails, all of which were breakthrough design ideas at the time. The tripped out "Positive Force logo featuring artwork by Bill Egden is in amazing condition and has vibrant coloring. The surface polish has aged very nicely and still shines. Black pinstripe outlines the boards retro blue rails, and the colorful wave tint and bottom graphic are simply stunning!
There are some chips in the surface coating on the rails and right side of the nose (see photos).
Dimension are approximately 53 x 21 x 3 .
These are super rare! To find one with bright, trippy psychedelic coloring, excellent graphics, and in fantastic condition is super-super rare! Truly a great piece of surf history and art for any vintage surfboard collector.
