Discover the Best Channel Islands Mid-Length Surfboards for Every Wave

If two’s company, is three a crowd?

Two midlengths. One brand. Two totally different rides. The Channel Islands Mid and the Mid Twin share a common DNA — refined design, Devon Howard influence, and that signature CI polish — but they diverge when it comes to performance, feel, and intention. Whether you’re chasing trim lines or twin-fin flair, this side-by-side comparison breaks down which board suits your style, waves, and approach.

The Channel Islands Mid: Classic Lines, Modern Flow

Image: CI Mid with a 2+1 FCS2 Fin set up

The Channel Islands Mid Length was shaped as a true modern classic and is a seriously beautiful board. Co-designed by Britt Merrick and Devon Howard, it blends elegant, old-school mid-length style and egg-inspired designs with subtle high-performance tweaks.

CI went back into their archives to craft a “clean, classy outline” utilizing some of Al Merricks' classic templates. The result was a board that delivers the long, swooping glide mid-lengths are known for. But beneath the surface, it’s a different beast — refined rails, a pulled-in tail, and a double barrel concave bottom give this board unexpected lift, effortless trim speed, and drive.

With a low entry rocker, generous foam up front, and a foiled tail, the CI Mid paddles with ease and holds in the pocket. The 2+1 fin setup, developed with True Ames, provides both hold and release. The side bites add control without overpowering that trimmy single-fin glide.

What really sets the CI Mid apart is its wave range. From cruisy peelers to double overhead walls, this board holds its own. Ride a longer one for drawn-out flow or size down for snappier, pocket-friendly surfing.

It delivers sharp, responsive turns, impressive speed and glide, and gives you more freedom to surf critically in the pocket than most mids on the market. Check out our shop manager, Justin's board review for a better under-the-arm look and feel right HERE!

The Channel Islands Mid Twin: Speed, Release & Twin-Fin Fun

“A really great board just got even better” - Devon Howard

Image: CI Mid Twin with Futures plugs

The Channel Islands Mid Twin is a refined evolution of the original CI Mid, developed through a collaboration between Howard and Merrick. It was born from custom orders: surfers loved the Mid, but wanted it looser, faster, and more playful. Channel Islands delivered — and it’s since become a fan favourite, especially in crumbly, down-the-line waves.

Still based on the Mid’s DNA, the CI Mid Twin version swaps out the 2+1 for a twin fin setup, which changes EVERYTHING. With no centre fin, you get way more speed, less drag, and a looser tail that whips through turns and flies through flat sections. Let's just say with the CI Mid Twin, you’ll be scoring the best waves of your life on this guy! Extra lift from the twin fins allowed for the board to be ridden shorter than the original Mid, delivering sharper turns and enhanced responsiveness. Subtle tweaks to width, dimension, thickness, and tail rocker maintain paddle power and improve rail-to-rail sensitivity. 

Many riders are now choosing Mid Twins up to 4” shorter than their original CI Mid for a more dynamic feel.

Devon Howard believes this twin-fin version will carry speed and allow you to get around those crumbly sections a lot more easily. That’s a huge deal in less-than-perfect waves, especially beach breaks or soft point waves, where you’re looking to keep momentum and stay light on your feet. Seems a perfect fit for UK waters!

Based on Channel Islands' recommendation, the best fins to use with the CI Mid Twin are either the AMK or BMT. Choose the AMK if you prefer fuller, rounder, more drivey turns — or if you have a medium to larger build. The BMT is a great option for lighter riders or those who enjoy a looser feel.

While it’s still capable in solid surf (just watch Devon’s clips in The Katin Diaries), the Mid Twin really shines when you're looking for speed, freedom, and drivey pocket turns. Be sure to check out the full CI Mid Twin review by our shop manager, Justin, for some epic insight into this speed demon.

Key Differences at a Glance

While both the CI Mid and CI Mid Twin share the same core DNA, there are a few distinct design and performance features that set them apart. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key differences to help you decide which board best suits your style and the waves you ride.

Ride Feel: Mid vs Mid Twin

Both boards carry that CI craftsmanship and share Devon Howard’s fingerprints, but their ride feels couldn’t be more different.

• The CI Mid excels in clean conditions and rewards rail engagement. It invites you to draw longer lines, stay high on the face, and flow from section to section.

• The CI Mid Twin adds liveliness, speed, and freedom. You’ll notice the instant acceleration, how easy it is to beat a section, and how quickly it turns off the tail.

Which One’s for You?

Choose the CI Mid if:

• You want a modern mid-length that feels classic

• You love drawn-out turns and rail surfing

• You ride a mix of waves, from shoulder-high to overhead

• You like the control of a centre fin with extra bite

Choose the CI Mid Twin if:

• You want to go fast and loose

• You surf softer waves or crumbly beach breaks

• You’re after a modern twin-fin with extra length and paddle power

• You value responsiveness and flow over hold

Two Mid Lengths, Two Vibes

When it comes to these models, they are two of our all-time favourites. Both are highly versatile and perfectly blend that classic mid-length and traditional egg feel with modern-day performance.

The CI Mid Twin certainly adds some increased freedom, both in the pocket and out on the open face, providing excellent speed down the line. Moreover, its ability to drive through soft flat sections can be hugely advantageous on our local beach breaks. 

But equally, the classic 2+1 mid also excels in anything from knee high to as big as you want to take it. This board truly captures that quintessential mid length vibe, making you feel as though you can emulate the smooth lines of Devon Howard or Mikey Feb.

Either way, you’re not just getting a surfboard — you’re getting a refined ride shaped by decades of Channel Islands Surfboard designs that have been tested and reviewed by some of the best CI team riders in the game. Boards are our passion, and we pride ourselves on service, so feel free to give us a buzz or pop into the shop for any queries, board, gear or surf-related, and we would be more than thrilled to help you out!

Channel Islands CI Mids currently in stock