GOYA VOLAR PRO 130L 2021 TEST REVIEW
VERDICT
A plug and play freeride giant, the Volar is the dream tutor for those that want quick progression in planing conditions. A real benchmark design that has stood the test of time well.
THE LOWDOWN
The Volar was introduced into the Goya fold way back in 2017, its range of four sizes unchanged since, albeit having a graphical update in 2019. They are the brand’s pure freeride range, allowing the user “to grow, learn and enjoy the greatest sport on earth on all levels”. The three larger sizes are also available in a wood sandwich construction at an eye-catching price and are joined by a 160-litre version with a wide tail, targeted for lighter conditions and the progressing rider. This Pro version has a full carbon deck, making it lighter and stiffer and weighing in at a very respectable weight, similarly making its price tag all the more noteworthy. The longest, widest and thinnest board of this test group, it has a rounded harmonious outline, whilst its fin’s Powerbox is placed the furthest forward in any board, giving some hint of the board’s intended nature and riding style. There is a wealth of footstrap placement options provided to suit all abilities, mounting the superb MFC straps above the brand’s thick dual density deckpads. Sporting their sanded back finish, for reduced weight and improved water release on the hull, its clean orthodox design is also upheld underneath, with a blend of pronounced double concaves and vee running throughout its length. Coming complete with a quality MFC fin, it is time to see whether the Volar’s design has stood the test of time.
BRAND CLAIM
“On a straight line or gybing, the Volar Pro rides naturally, giving the rider all the confidence to push their level at every move. With its thinner profile, on the water or in the air, the new Volar Pro feels like an extension of your body.”
PERFORMANCE
Wide stable and balanced at idle, the Volar’s strength immediately becomes apparent as the sail’s power is delivered – it’s as if the board is possessed and has an autopilot engaged! It glides up onto the plane requiring little to no effort from the rider, trimming itself flat intuitively and gathering speed progressively. The ride is smooth and tempered, the shoulders keeping clear of any danger as the Volar cruises over chop almost impervious to any external influences. There’s a real sense of ease and enjoyment about the 130; nothing is too stressful, no gust too violent or environment too challenging. If the conditions are pushing you out of your comfort zone, you buy yourself time and regain control by simply standing over the board and sailing at half-speed – and the Volar will be perfectly content. In the gybe, it is a similar story, the board’s wide rounded outline and thin rails helping it to bite effortlessly and retain speed throughout the turn, even if the rider’s timing or technique are clumsy at best. It’s an incredibly flattering board to sail, comfortable for hours of use and ensures that all who use it will come off the water with a smile on their face. Experienced riders wanting more flight on the fin or a more demanding ride should look to the other boards in the Goya range such as the Bolt, not that the Volar’s straight line speed is any embarrassment. It just doesn’t have that extra gear or zip if you plough more power into it. Instead, it is all about ease, practicality and ensuring every session is worthwhile.
VITAL STATS
Volume (Quoted): 130 litres
Length: 250 cm
Width: 77.3 cm
1ft off: 51.0 cm
Bottom shape: Pronounced double with vee throughout, the double most pronounced in the shoulders, the vee most pronounced in the in the mid-section.
Weight (Naked): 7.68 kg
Fin: MFC LP 42 (Powerbox)
Sail Range (Quoted): 6.0-9.0m
Sizes Available: 105, 115, 130, 145.
Price: £1249.00 PRO: £1675.00
OTHER BOARDS IN THIS TEST
THE LINE UP
JP AUSTRALIA SUPER RIDE 124 LWT
STARBOARD CARVE 125 WOOD SANDWICH