130-LITRE FREERIDE / BLASTING BOARD TEST 2023
Secret Weapons
In this issue, we’re excited to present our 130-litre freeride / blasting board test, where we put some of the hottest designs to the test. From flat water cruising to high-wind blasting, we’ve tested these boards to their limits, and we’re excited to share our findings with you. Whether you’re looking for a board to guide you through the perfect carve gybe or something to help you leave your mates in the dust, the industry has you covered, with brands creating innovative designs that excel in a variety of areas. So sit back, grab a coffee, and get ready to dive in. We’re confident that you’ll find something to suit your style and take your windsurfing to the next level.
EDITOR: ROB YORK // SECOND TESTERS: TRIS BEST, MAURIN ROTTENWALTER, SCOTT STALLMAN // TEST LOCATION: PORTLAND HARBOUR // PHOTOS: ROB YORK, SCOTT STALLMAN
Findings
Freeride boards have become increasingly popular in the windsurfing market due to their versatility and ease of use. These boards are designed to be fast and stable, making them ideal for cruising around in a variety of conditions. They also provide excellent upwind performance, smooth gybing and are capable of planing in lighter winds, making them a great choice for recreational windsurfers looking to maximise their time on the water. It becomes clear as you dive into the specifics of each board that designers have focused their efforts in particular areas, meaning each board has its own secret power!
Summary
First up is the Starboard Carve, which offers an engaging and modern design with its fast release, the ability to drive against the fin, and fast off the wind pace; the Carve is lively and exciting to ride! The Fanatic Blast also impressed us with its super early planing, low planing threshold, and amazing performance in the gybe. While it may not love being driven hard, its upright stance makes it easy to ride. The Tabou Rocket + is one of the best all-rounders in the test, with its wide and thin design that allows for easy planing and great upwind performance. You can easily put a big sail on it, and its fittings are fantastic and easy to adjust. The Goya Volar glides at a low planing threshold, making it a great cruising board that covers distance with ease. It’s user-friendly and a great gybing tutor. Whilst it also carves beautifully, it doesn’t grip and drive hard, making it extremely forgiving. If you are looking for a good entry board for comfort in any conditions, the Simmer Freemove is a great choice. It is super easy and predictable and will definitely help you hone your skills and become a better windsurfer. Finally, the AV Boards Nuvolari is the most race-ready of the bunch, with an impressive ability to take big sails. It’s a little more technical to gybe, but is super comfortable at speed and oh boy does it go, making it the perfect board to race your mates. Overall this test offers a great range of boards that will suit any rider looking for different features and performance levels. Check out our individual reviews to find the one that suits you best!
The Lineup