Torq The Don HP ACT - Futures - 4 + 1 Fin - Longboard

In the Don longboard series, the HP is the high-performance model.

It features a slimmer outline and foil, lower rails, and slightly more rocker, making it razor-sharp for dynamic, modern longboarding. The Don HP can still be ridden from the nose when the right section comes up, making it a board for experienced longboarders seeking the highest performance.

Available in the exclusive ACT pre-preg technology for the lightest, most responsive re-flex, or in TEC, Torq's vacuum-bagged epoxy for lightweight combined with strength.

Fin(s) included: None.

Construction - ACT

Torq's ACT surfboards are the world's first EPS/epoxy pre-preg surfboards. Pre-preg is the highest-performing composite process, offering the best strength-to-weight ratio and the best reflex (spring) of any fiberglass layup.

That's a bold claim, so here's a bit more:

“Pre-preg fabrics virtually eliminate all process variation seen in traditional layups or vacuum infusion. As a result, pre-pregs have revolutionized composite production.”

They possess “maximum strength properties” and lead to “less mess and less waste. All the excesses of hand lamination – cups of resin, messy rollers, drips – are no longer an issue.”

“Without the pitfalls of human laminating techniques, there are no resin-rich spots and no dry spots.” “Pre-pregs are considered the most advanced system of composite production.”

These are quotes from industry sources, websites, and information manuals. Search Google for 'pre-preg composites' and you'll find pages full of information. It is unanimously considered the most advanced composite process.

What is it?

Pre-preg is short for pre-impregnated. Resin and hardener are mechanically applied to the fiberglass fabric, creating a fiber-resin matrix.

This matrix has a perfect ratio of resin and hardener, and perfect resin content and distribution.

The matrix is machine-cut – Torq has cutting files for every model and size, ensuring the exact correct fiber and resin weight is used on every board – and then laid onto the surfboard blank and cured under high heat and pressure in an oven.

What are the benefits?

Reflex or spring:

Even vacuum-bagged hand laminates retain a significant amount of excess resin. This adds weight, makes the whole thing more brittle, and limits the properties of the fiber, as it is trapped in a thick shell.

Pre-pregs are mechanically impregnated with the perfect resin density. Whatever fiber is used – glass, carbon, or basalt – the pre-preg process allows the fiber to perform without the limitation of excess resin.

In surfboards, this translates to a springy, responsive feel. Every flex you push into it in a turn returns instantly as a reflex and is not dampened by the resin. They return all the energy you put into them. Because the board can flex naturally, they absorb much more of the chatter often found in lightweight epoxy boards.

Strength-to-weight ratio:

The other benefit of not having unnecessary extra weight from excess resin is the additional amount of fiber that can be used at the same total board weight. ACTs have a heavy-duty fiber layup, making them significantly stronger than a surfboard of comparable weight in any other construction.

There is 2 to 3 times more fiber in these boards than in a lightweight PU of the same weight. They are not Torq's strongest boards, but they do have a much better strength-to-weight ratio.

How do they surf?

They feel lively from the first meter.

The feel is between a light PU and epoxy, with an extra spring not found in either technology. They feel quite familiar to both, so you don't need much time to get used to them. But once you are used to them, every other board feels flat.

About Torq

Torq is a European surfboard brand known for its epoxy and EPS constructions: TET, TET-CS, TEC, and ACT. The brand builds shapes for every level, from first waves to competition longboards for team riders like Edouard Delpero, always with an emphasis on lightweight and high strength. At Hart Beach, this fits perfectly: boards that withstand the North Sea year after year without compromising performance.