Windsurf MagazineTABOU DA CURVE 88 TEST REVIEW 2023

TABOU DA CURVE 88 TEST REVIEW 2023

The Verdict

Compared with the 82 Da Curve on test last year, the 88 certainly opens up more speed and forgiveness in those tricky conditions. However, the board still comes most alive when powered down the line for more radical tuns.

: TABOU DA CURVE 88

The Lowdown

Tabou’s Da Curve remains unchanged for the new season, besides a graphic update that aligns with the rest of their 2023 lineup. Last year we tested the 82, which along with the 76 has “more curvature for tight turns and lighter riders”, whilst the 88 on test this year is one of the two larger models that comes with a straighter rocker-line for “enhanced planing performance for heavier riders and light-wind conditions”.

The board has a narrow nose and pinched tail that gives the Da Curve a slightly classic look; however, on the underside, you will see a very modern bottom shape. With a multi-curvature concave providing more curve near the rails, this board is said to provide impressive grip whilst using the rails. Its medium width combined with lower apex rails allows the rider to quickly move from rail to rail, making initiating carves easier.

The Da Curve comes with a thruster setup that fits into three slot boxes that aim to reduce the board’s overall weight significantly. On top of the board, the fittings provide plenty of opportunity for tuning with six footstrap holes for the front footstrap to cater for what Tabou calls a ‘Classic’ or ‘New School Stance’. Like many modern wave boards, the rear strap has double inserts that avoid twisting and improve the rider’s connection with the board.

: TABOU DA CURVE 88

Brand Claim

“Radical cutbacks, tight turns and outstanding control are more accessible than ever before with the Da Curve. Its unique wave riding performance in perfect down-the-line conditions is well-known by windsurfers around the world, but the Da Curve also unfolds its immense agility in less than ideal waves and onshore winds.”

Performance

The Da Curve’s sweet spot was not hard to find. On the wave, its turning ability from rail to rail was fast and easy. It turned particularly well when weighted over the front foot giving the rider a feeling that may be familiar to surfers. Due to the forward-positioned riding stance, finding speed on the wave was second nature, coming in very handy when trying to accelerate out of turns or find power for the next. This feature came into its own as the breeze picked up, permitting the rider to dig in more and drive heaps of power into the bottom turn. When powered, the narrow tail of the board inspires the rider to whip the kit around them, allowing for tighter, snappier turns on the wave.

Similar to when wave riding, the board requires a more forward stance on the way out to encourage the board onto the plane. Once up and planing, however, the Da Curve has good acceleration and, with its reasonably long outline and narrow tail, provides a controllable platform whilst navigating choppy waters.