Chris Ward Flat Top 33 Kick Tail w/Traction and Arch Support
This package is more than traction—it’s a high-performance gas pedal for your surfboard. By replacing a soft, compressible foam kick tail that absorbs energy with a rigid-core kick that transfers energy, the Stingray mounting plate and interchangeable kick tails that attach to it deliver 100% of the energy from your back foot directly to your tail. Experience the massive increase in power and control that only a rigid-core system can provide.
This package consists of a Stingray™ Mounting Plate that attaches to your board with adhesive like you're used to with traction pads, an Interchangeable Kick Tail and a Grip 1 front deck pad. Swap between waxed or EVA foam covered rigid-core kick tails in seconds to perfectly match the conditions or your riding style.
30-DAY SURF WITH CONFIDENCE GUARANTEE
Install it. Surf it. Push it. If you’re not completely stoked, return it used or new within 30 days and we’ll give you a full refund.
We know that trying something new takes confidence—so we’re taking all the risk. Feel the difference in your carves and power transfer. If this package doesn't upgrade your performance within 30 days, send it back, used or new, for a no hassle refund.
🏆 MODULAR PERFORMANCE: Once you own a kick tail, additional boards only cost $29 each to set up (if you don't need the Grip 1 front deck pad). One kick tail. Multiple boards. A future-proof, modular quiver.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
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RIKT Stingray™ Mounting Plate: The ultra-low profile, rigid foundation for your board.
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1 × Interchangeable Kick Tail: Select Flat Top or Vertical Rise above.
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1 × Grip 1 front deck pad
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Installation Hardware: Includes stainless steel screws, L-key, sandpaper, and RIKT power clamps. One set of clamps per customer.
COMPATIBILITY
Designed for shortboards with squash tails, swallow tails, and round tails. Not designed for foam boards. Kick tails are 8.75" wide. Make sure your board is at least 10.5" wide 4.5" from the tail to insure a good fit.
COMPATIBILITY
Designed for shortboards with squash tails, swallow tails, and round tails. Not designed for foam boards. Kick tails are 8.75" wide. Make sure your board is at least 10.5" wide 4.5" from the tail to insure a good fit.
- In stock, ready to ship
This is our patented Chris Ward signature Flat Top 33 Kick Tail w/Traction and Arch Support. All of the RIKT kicks work great with wax for grip but for those of you who prefer EVA foam traction under your rear foot, this kick is for you! The arch support area allows you to cup the bottom of your foot over the ramp for an even greater connection to your board. The 33 degree ramp creates tremendous leverage so when going for a vertical snap or power carve, they're much easier to do without falling. Check out the video of Chris Ward executing that first backside snap. You can see his foot planted right on the ramp of this kick tail as he blows his tail with complete control.
The 50mm high ramp is angled to make it easy to push against the tail of your board without having to bend your ankle when surfing with a basic stance, and minimal ankle bending for maneuvers that require a lower stance with your back knee closer to the board. For vertical snaps, you can stand on the kick for increased leverage and power.
Beginning and pro surfers should expect an immediate improvement in their surfing. This flat top kick tail is a great transition from a traditional traction pad. You can push harder against your tail without falling and pull off much more aggressive maneuvers with the confidence of knowing their back foot is secure.
This kick tail is interchangeable with any other RIKT kick tail. Shown with and without optional RIKT front pad.
This kick tail requires a RIKT Mounting Plate 23.
Note: This kick tail is 50mm high, which is great for power and control, but you have to be aware of it so you don't hit your shins when when paddling, duck diving or hopping up to catch a wave. Pic below shown with optional Grip 1 Front Deck Pad.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
RIKT interchangeable kick tails deliver the highest level of performance in the RIKT system, but they require a smooth deck surface for proper adhesion.
For best results:
- New boards are ideal.
- Used boards must be free of deep pressure dings where the mounting plate will be installed.
- The deck must be completely clean and free of wax or residue before installation.
If your board has heavy pressure dings in the tail area, we recommend choosing a Grip 2 traction pad with an integrated kick instead of an interchangeable setup.
Following these guidelines ensures maximum performance and a secure, long-lasting bond.