How it surfs
That distinction is the whole review. Most retro fishes go fast in a straight line and then wash out when you try to turn hard. The RNF '96 was designed for performance surfing first, so the pulled tail lets you commit to a rail at speed and the accelerating vee releases you out of the turn.
Reviewers on YouTube — including Cory Lopez himself talking through the design — land on the same conclusion: it is the fish for someone who does not want to give up their shortboard turns. Ride it a few inches shorter and a couple of litres up on your everyday board.
It is not a step-up. Above head-high the classic fish outline runs out of hold, and that is where the Twin Pin takes over.
Volume & sizing chart
Use the chart below as a starting point. Add half a litre if you are less experienced, subtract half a litre for a looser feel.
| Size | Volume | Rider weight | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5'2" | ≈ 26 L | 55–65 kg | Advanced |
| 5'4" | ≈ 28 L | 62–72 kg | Intermediate+ |
| 5'6" | ≈ 31 L | 70–80 kg | Intermediate |
| 5'8" | ≈ 34 L | 78–88 kg | Intermediate |
| 5'10" | ≈ 37 L | 86–96 kg | Improver |
| 6'0" | ≈ 40 L | 95+ kg | Improver |
How it compares
| Board | Best at | Wave range | Aggregate score |
|---|---|---|---|
| …Lost RNF '96 | Performance retro fish | Knee to head-high | 9.2 |
| Firewire Seaside | Small-wave keel twin | Ankle to shoulder | 9.0 |
| Channel Islands Twin Pin | High-hold twin pintail | Waist to well overhead | 9.0 |
| …Lost Rad Ripper | Punchy small-wave groveler | Waist to shoulder | 8.6 |
Recommended fin setups
- Futures Rasta Keel — Classic drive and glide — the traditional fish setup.
- FCS MR TFX Twin + 1 — Upright twin with a trailer; the closest to the MR lineage Biolos cites.
- FCS II Modern Keel — A looser, more modern keel option for weak beach breaks.
Verdict
Verified …Lost design notes, a live European retailer listing at €775, and three confirmed video reviews all point the same way: this is the fish for surfers who refuse to give up their turns. Best below head-high, and best ridden short with volume.