DNA vs LIGHTNING
Top Line Comparison
Both boards share Mick’s proven foundation, tuned for different waves and surfing styles.
3–6ft Quality Waves
Control · Flow · Precision
- Made for pockets
- Smooth, controlled, flowing surfing
- Best for performance in powerful waves
1–4ft Everyday Surf
Speed · Snap · Precision
- Made for speed in softer surf
- Creates speed in weak waves
- Snappy and precise
PERFORMANCE COMPARISON
Technical Comparison
Design details and performance characteristics of each board.
Design Features
- Tail Rocker: Smooth, even curve that holds pace at high speed.
- Concaves: Flattened under front foot → earlier planing; deeper through fins for control.
- Foam Distribution: Subtle push under front foot to boost paddle without bulking rails.
- Rail Foil: Mid-low for hold.
- Deck Profile: Slightly flatter between feet for stability at speed.
How it Surfs
- Excels in 3–6ft, quality pockets.
- Links sections with flow; accelerates through carves.
- Locks rail in solid surf for confidence under load.
Quick Size Reference
Mick (80 kg, 178 cm) rides 5'10". Order similar to your standard HP shortboard.
Quiver Role
Your “waves are on” performance blade.
Design Features
- Rocker: Same tail rocker as DNA; straighter between the feet for speed; extra nose flip.
- Concaves: Flatter under front foot; deep single between fins for lift.
- Outline: Narrower squash; no hip; slightly narrower nose with extra flip.
- Foam & Rails: Flatter deck foam; dropped rails for sensitivity.
- Fin Placement: Rear fin moved forward 1/8".
How it Surfs
- Fast, sharp, lively; holds speed through turns.
- Thrives in weak-to-medium waves; reactive in the pocket for tight wraps.
- Maintains control at high speed thanks to tail/rail refinements.
Quick Size Reference
Mick (80 kg, 178 cm) rides 5'10". Order similar to your standard HP shortboard.
Quiver Role
Your everyday “get up and go” board.
Born from Championship Pedigree
These aren’t just surfboards—they’re the refined evolution of Mick Fanning’s championship-winning designs. Each model represents years of testing at the highest level of competitive surfing.
The MF DNA earned its reputation in powerful waves at iconic breaks like Bells Beach and Snapper Rocks. The Lightning emerged from Mick’s post-competitive years—fine-tuned for everyday surf where performance in smaller conditions matters most.
Both boards carry forward the DHD shaping philosophy that’s powered multiple world champions, now refined specifically for the waves you surf most.
Find Your Perfect Board
Answer a few questions to discover which MF model suits your surfing style.
What wave size do you surf most often?
Your Perfect Match
Ideal for quality waves with power. Smooth, controlled, and flowing — this board excels at washing off speed and maintaining control in bigger surf.
Ready to Choose Your Board?
Both the MF DNA and Lightning are available now at DHD Surf. Get expert guidance and find your perfect match.