JP ALLROUNDAIR WINDSUP SE 10’6’’ 2018 REVIEW
JP ALLROUNDAIR WINDSUP SE 10’6’’ 2018 REVIEW
OVERVIEW
The AllroundAir series of iSUPs remains unchanged in the JP lineup for 2018, available in three different constructions – Superior, Light and Light Economy editions, albeit the windsurf versions are only available as a 10’6” in their premium construction (tested here), or in an 11’0” version in Light Edition construction. JP are keen to describe the SE as “the most advanced inflatable technology” available, using a pre-lamination process so that their boards have an accurate amount of glue, mitigating margin for error (not to mention health hazards for workers during a manual application). Using three layers of either PVC or 1000D polyester, and a couple of layers of polyester reinforced PVC on the rails, this 10’6” is said to ooze durability, yet remains one of the lightest and stiffest boards around. It certainly still looks the part in its blue and orange colourway, with a single padded grab handle in the middle of the board, a tow eyelet under the nose and D-ring for a leash on the tail. There’s an elastic carriage net on the nose just in front of the diamond-grooved EVA deckpad and two US boxes on the hull, housing the two plastic fins (the larger 10” blade to be used as the central fin). Coming complete with a wheeled bag, double action pump and repair kit, the JP was one of the easiest here to inflate to the required 15 P.S.I. There’s also a real quality about the feel and visuals of the JP that entice you to try it on the water.
BRAND CLAIM
“Narrower nose allows for minimal push of the water in the front, resulting in a faster glide with each paddle stroke. The parallel outline ensures great traction and less paddle-hand changes. This also brings another advantage – a wider tail that significantly improves stability of the board. Choose one of the two models with the windsurfing option to double the potential of these great boards.”
PERFORMANCE
At just 9.0kg, the JP remains one of the lightest boards on test here and it is noticeable on the water when used for SUP’ing. The AllroundAir glides incredibly well, its tapered nose seeming to exhibit little to no drag. As with last year, we found this effectively reduces the board’s waterline length, meaning it is highly responsive and will change its path with every stoke, if your paddling technique isn’t very clean or accurate. This could be perceived as a negative, but with some easy refinement and concentration to improve your technique, you benefit from the board’s efficiency to enjoy a fun energy-reserving paddle. In transition, the square tail provides the volume and support to move your weight back and really force an expressive, dynamic turn. It certainly encourages you to sink the tail and experiment with tight pivotal manoeuvres, making use of the board’s crisp response. Place the 10” fin in the central box and the AllroundAir is a pleasure to use in windsurf mode, retaining its light and responsive nature. Being light it accelerates willingly as power is delivered, tracking easily and coping admirably in heavier seas, the nose and shoulders of the board experiencing less deflection from the chop than others. A real all-rounder, the JP provides a safe dependable platform to tutor the light to medium weight beginner, before being fun and lively enough to captivate the more experienced rider.
VERDICT
A versatile performer with a wide range of use, the JP is a quality bit of kit, rewarding good paddling technique and capable of fulfilling various windsurfing roles, from tutor to explorer. Fun for all the family!
Other boards in this test:
• FANATIC VIPER AIR PURE 11’0”
• RED PADDLE CO WINDSURF MSL 10’7”
• RRD AIRTOURER CONVERTIBLE V4 12’ X 32”
• STARBOARD SUP WINDSURFING INFLATABLE BLEND ZEN 11’2”