Updated May 14, 2025
I’ve bought and sold a lot of boards over the years. Some were fun for a season. Some I barely remember…
But my 2019 Bataleon Surfer??
This one’s staying with me!
I get it—gear progresses, shapes evolve, and brands want you to believe that whatever’s new is automatically better. And sure, the updated Surfer for 2024–25 looks great on paper. It’s lighter, a bit cleaner design-wise, and apparently “refined.”
But here’s the thing: the 2019-2023 Surfer already nailed it.
Why I Still Reach for It
It floats like it was built for bottomless days—which, let’s be honest, it kind of was. That oversized nose and deep swallowtail aren’t just there to look cool (which they do).
It rides like a board designed by someone who actually spends time chasing storm cycles.
It handles deep snow with no back leg burn, no fighting the nose to stay up. Just smooth, easy lines and zero drama.
Pop is another bonus. Most “stub-tailed” powder boards struggle in this department, but the surfer has enough length and rigidity to retain some snap. Granted, it feels a little weird if you take off off-centre. But you’re being picky now!
How about the supposed “3D base” shaping? It’s one of the few tech features I’d actually miss if I rode something else. It makes the board playful without being unpredictable. Loose when you want it, locked-in when you need it.
The kind of ride that makes you drop into lines you’d usually second-guess.
Tradeoffs
It’s not perfect, though. It’s a big board, and if you’re used to something quick and playful, it can feel a bit tank-like in tight trees or slower terrain.
And yeah, the swallowtail doesn’t exactly love riding switch—no surprise there.
But here’s the thing: for a board this surfy, it still holds its own on groomers. It carves surprisingly well. Edge hold is solid, and it doesn’t get too squirrely unless things get really firm. I wouldn’t call it an all-mountain daily driver, but it’s not just a one-trick pow pony either.
Final Thoughts
I’ve ridden newer boards—some of them really good—but none of them made me rethink keeping this one. Every time I take the Surfer out, especially on a deep day, I end up wondering why I even bother trying anything else.
There’s a reason you rarely see the 2019 model up for sale. People hang onto them. I don’t blame them. It’s not just nostalgia—it’s because the thing still absolutely rips.
So yeah, maybe the new version is technically “better” by a few grams or whatever. Doesn’t matter to me. My 2019 Surfer still puts a stupid grin on my face every time I ride it.
And no, it’s not for sale!
Legendary board! Sadly I sold mine when I bought my Rossignol Sushi. WHAT HAVE I DONE!