Lost RNF Retro 23
The Lost RNF Retro ’23 is Matt Biolos’ updated “Revamp” of the RNF Retro — keeping the fast, glidey, 70s-inspired fish feel, but tightening the screws for more drive, hold, and control in modern surf. Think of it as the RNF Retro with a bit less excess and a bit more precision.
With subtle changes to the outline, rocker, rail volume, and bottom contours, the RNF Retro ’23 still paddles easily and flies down the line, but feels more composed, positive, and responsive under pressure. It’s built for surfers who loved the original RNF Retro concept but want a slightly more performance-tuned version.
Who Is the Lost RNF Retro ’23 For?
- Surfers who like the RNF Retro but want more bite, control, and versatility.
- Intermediate to advanced surfers who want a fast fish with better hold in real waves.
- RNF fans who want a “quiver killer–adjacent” retro board for everyday surf.
- Anyone who wants fish speed with a bit more refinement than a pure 70s throwback.
Lost RNF Retro ’23 Design Features
Refined Retro Fish Outline
The RNF Retro ’23 keeps the wide, retro DNA but trims some of the excess:
- Still full through the chest for paddle power and glide.
- Slightly less extreme width in key areas than the original RNF Retro for smoother, more neutral turning.
- A tightened swallow tail that blends retro feel with more positive engagement through turns.
Updated Rocker & Flow
- Overall rocker remains low and fast, ideal for small-to-medium surf.
- Entry and tail rockers are subtly tuned to sit better in the pocket and feel less tracky.
- Still planes quickly, but connects sections with more control and composure.
Rails & Foil
- Rails are slightly more refined than the original RNF Retro — less chunky, more performance-minded.
- Volume still carried under the chest for paddling, but thinned out toward the tail for better sensitivity.
- Rail apex and tuck are dialed in to give a mix of forgiveness and sharpness depending on how hard you push it.
Bottom Contours
While exact contours can vary slightly by size, the RNF Retro ’23 typically features:
- Single concave starting under the front foot for lift and projection.
- Double concave / spiral vee through the fins to balance speed with smooth rail-to-rail transitions.
Fin Setup
The RNF Retro ’23 stays true to the fish / retro roots with:
- Twin + trailers (quad-style) or split keel-style options on many stock boards.
- No traditional center thruster box — this is meant to be ridden as a twin/quad fish, not a thruster.
Ideal Wave Conditions for the RNF Retro ’23
The RNF Retro ’23 is built to be a realistic daily driver for retro fish fans:
- Knee-high to overhead surf.
- Mellow to punchy beach breaks where you want to generate your own speed.
- Long, running points where trim, flow, and cutbacks are the focus.
- Days where your high-performance shortboard feels sticky or underpowered.
Compared to the original RNF Retro, the ’23 Revamp holds better in steeper sections and feels more precise at higher speeds.
What Size Lost RNF Retro ’23 Should You Ride?
As a starting point:
- 2–4 inches shorter than your everyday shortboard.
- Similar or slightly higher volume than your normal daily driver.
- If you’re coming from the original RNF Retro, you can usually stay in the same size and enjoy the added control.
If you’d like personalized sizing help, tell us your height, weight, and typical board volume — we’re happy to help dial it in.
Compare the RNF Retro ’23 to Other Lost Models
- RNF Retro – More generous, cruisier, extra “retro” feel.
- RNF ’96 – Faithful 1996 RNF reissue, more performance twin fish.
- Shop All Fish & Grovelers
Shipping & Pickup Options
We ship Lost surfboards nationwide via UPS with live rates calculated in your cart. Typical ranges:
- Boards under 5'11": generally $65–$120 depending on destination.
- Boards over 5'11" or over 21" wide: typically $150–$240.
Pickup options:
- Free in-store pickup at Rider Shack in Los Angeles.
- Free Central Coast pickup in the Santa Barbara, Pismo Beach, Morro Bay, and Lompoc areas.
See our Shipping & Returns page for full details.
When you order from Rider Shack, you’re supporting a small, surfer-owned, family-run core surf shop.
Lost RNF Retro ’23 FAQ
How is the RNF Retro ’23 different from the original RNF Retro?
The ’23 Revamp keeps the same retro fish spirit but features a more refined outline, tuned rocker, and slightly more performance-oriented rails and bottom contours. It has more drive and control in modern waves compared to the looser, cruisier feel of the original RNF Retro.
Is the RNF Retro ’23 good for beginners?
It can work for motivated beginners in the right size due to its paddle power and stability, but it’s best for progressing to advanced surfers who will take advantage of the performance updates.
What fin setup should I ride on the RNF Retro ’23?
It’s designed to be ridden as a twin or quad (often twin plus trailers). There’s typically no center thruster box, so you’ll get the classic fish speed and feel with modern hold.
What wave range is ideal for this board?
Knee-high to overhead surf, especially beach breaks and points where you want fast trim, smooth cutbacks, and the ability to lay it over on rail without losing control.
How should I size the RNF Retro ’23?
Most surfers go 2–4 inches shorter than their everyday shortboard, at similar or slightly higher volume. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help recommend the ideal size for your height, weight, and home break.
Do you ship Lost RNF Retro ’23 surfboards?
Yes. We ship nationwide via UPS and also offer free pickup in Los Angeles and the California Central Coast.
