My converse 6'4" died after 3 years of abuse so I need to replace it - tossing up between the 5'10" Wainman Gambler, 5'10" Airush Quad or a Firewire 5'8" Dominator Kiteboard...
I wont get an opportunity to demo all of the boards so would appreciate any feedback from guys that have ridden any of them.
Cheers
Lance
Have a look at the Underground Kipuna, tough, quality construction and ride really well in mush, chop or clean down the line.
Constant winds,
Baz.
Thanks ended up with the Airush Quad and I have to say its pretty good, enjoying it in small waves so far but its working well - once you get used to the way it rides - its quite loose in the front - but you do adapt pretty quickly - its nice off the top and snaps with a bit of slide which is great.
Will do Bene - so far its a great fun board for surfing and carries my weight (95kgs) on small waves with minimal kite fairly easily. I like the way it turns and will slide when you ask it - its not out of control though which I also like.
High speed its a little wayward - but that may have more to do with my style and its something I avoid - I try to use the kite to get me to a wave then ride with minimal kite power after that point.
I was hesitant on the 5'10" sizing having come from the 6'4" converse but it easily floats the same on the wave as its fairly wide through the tail. The grab line on the top rail is a nice touch - makes grabbing the board both in the surf and when doing moves that much easier.
Construction is typical of Airush - it feels strong and looks it, finish is nice, my only gripe is fitting with the fins - but this is going to be the same of most fin systems - there is a small gap between fin and board allowing seaweed to get trapped - which turned out to be an issue in Augusta the other day - no show stopper, just frustrating and an issue with other boards too.
After 2 weeks with it - its been a great board - Im happy and it suits my surfing style.
I got a brand new "jack" board from a surfshop at karrinyup shopping centre for $299. I've done a few downwinders and except for a dry land dent, is still hundreds and it goes like a bomb. At that price its throw away at the end of the season.
