Verdict 
Classic in its feel, JP’s Freestyle Wave Pro likes to be driven off the fins, where it feels fast and lively. Flying over chop with ease or directed at the next ramp, the Freestyle Wave is certain to provide exhilarating rides in lively conditions. Take it into a turn and the board will do the talking, making maintaining speed in the midpoint second nature.

For the 2023 season, JP states that this year’s Freestyle Wave Pro is not only faster, but also more comfortable than its predecessors. When we tested this board last year, it was clear it was a plug-and-play pro allowing riders to drop and drive the moment they set foot on the board, so it is great to see that JP has retained some of the board’s key design features. The major change, however, is in the board’s bottom curve. At the nose, the board possesses a significant vee combined with double concave. As you look back under the straps, the vee becomes less pronounced, where the rails are very curvy and thinned out to improve the board’s manoeuvrability. In the centre of the board, the rocker has been reduced, increasing the flat section, and suggesting that the board’s blasting ability has been a focus area.

Fairly parallel in its outline, particularly in the midsection, the Freestyle Wave Pro is sure to offer some great early planing and speed performance, whilst its narrow tail will ensure that control is not an issue in choppy waters. In addition the thin rails at the tail of the board are said to provide some extra bite as riders get stuck in and dig deep into their turns. The Pro edition on test here is produced with a Carbon Innegra deck, along with a JP Foil powerbox, making this one of the most versatile boards on the market. Produced in six sizes from 78 to 124 litres, the Freestyle Wave Pro range offers any rider a board that will get them on the water in almost any conditions.

Brand Claim
The hunt for versatility stops right here! JPs have always been THE true classics in the Freestyle Wave class because they are super balanced and incredible fun in the widest possible wind and water range.

Performance
JP’s Freestyle Wave produces a very classic windsurfing feel. For the riders out there looking for a versatile board that likes to be driven, this one is for you. Get the board going, and you can instantly feel the grip and lift provided by the G10 fin. This allows the rider to really commit to the rig and drive through the fin with the feeling that the more you push, the more you get. The board is fast and, when positioned over the back foot, flies over choppy water assertively. Thanks to its impressive speed, the Freestyle Wave has great jumping potential.

As the board hits a ramp, the drive qualities really allow the rider to push on the back foot and kick the nose up towards the sky. Additionally, the board pops well, making for great flat water jumps or even some contemporary freestyle moves. Through manoeuvres, the thin rails provide crisp feedback encouraging the rider to dig deep as it slices through any messy terrain. The board maintains its drive well through a long driven arc, especially through the foot change. Where many intermediate riders may find the board slowing down in the middle of the turn, the Freestyle Wave almost commits itself in this area, making for a smooth transition into the exit. This board could be a real game changer for heavier riders.