Ion History
The unique shape of Ion originated from an idea born back in 1998 by a man named Eric Pearson. Eric invented the “Double Hull” bottom technology, which makes Ion the fastest board out in the market. This revolutionary “Double Hull” design is a patented design that is exclusive to Ion.
Eric had four reasons for the “Double Hull” design. One, was to design a board for crappy surf. The speed generated from the water flow gets you around sections like surfers do. The second reason was to make it a competitive board where you could do maneuvers like 360s. The third reason centered on large surf. The board is solid and tough enough to handle bigger waves. Lastly, he wanted to make a board with one quiver.
Whatever the reason for its inception, Eric had basically created a unique board with a three-part lift system. This system creates lift, reduces drag and increases speed. On each side of the board, a water intake system allows water to flow into a channel-like groove. As the groove deepens, an inside rail is created, enhancing control and maneuverability. The groove then tapers down to an opening at the back of the board called the “asslifter”. When water passes through that opening, lift occurs.

Another part of the lift system pertains to the rail thruster. The rail thruster is an extension of the rail into a long, tapered fin. The result is greater speed, acceleration and tracking. The rail thrusters stop a few inches from the back of the board to keep the board “loose” and allow for airs and spins.
The flat keel is also another valuable feature. This keel provides a pivot point for spins. It is the thickest part of the board and the only area of the bottom that is always in the water. The flat keel technology was a product of using technology from the fastest water vehicles on the planet.
The last component of the lift system is the cross rocker. The cross rocker reduces the wetted surface area of the board. When riding left or right, 40% of the bottom is out of the water, reducing friction and increasing speed. Controlling surfaces enables tighter turns without dragging your body and using it as a rudder. When riding in the flats, the lift system kicks in, providing lift, reducing drag and increasing speed.


The final product is a machine-sculpted board with precision and subtlety unachievable by hand. Its contours create corrugative strength resulting in a stiffer board without the use of stringers. Ion has been developed and tested by leading bodyboard scientists and has been a bodyboarder’s quality choice for years. Ion’s cutting-edge technology combined with its kick ass team contributes to its success. Ion’s current team lineup currently consists of Kap Sanderson, Phil Harnsberger, Jason Bitzer, Sebastian Slovin, Darren Moody, Guilherme Tamega and Jason Oh. These riders put these boards to the test and are well-known professionals pushing the sport. Ion is a force to be reckoned with and it has revolutionized the design of bodyboards. Ion will continue to progress and push the sport even further. Research is still being done on our shapes and more improvements will be made in the future. For now, grab your Ion and paddle out and test for yourself.