Rider: 69 kg Level (intermediate - advanced)
Style: Freeriding/Freestyle
Weather: 14-17 knots (on a Flow 10 meters) choppy
Build Quality: 10/10
Satisfaction: 8/10 (this will probably increase close to a 10 when I try it in proper winds)
My Comments:
I lost my x-pact couple of weeks ago and was thirsty for another board. I really enjoyed the x-pact with its overall ability and would recommend it for any level. That said, I decided to buy a new Airush protoy at Airborne after contemplating buying a x-pact again...
I tried the protoy only once in 14-17knots (I was the only soul at Pinnaroo). At first, it felt very nervous and slippery compared to the x-pact. But the more and more I got into it, it felt really good. Better than the x-pact because is was so much more smoother with its double concave bottom shape. Which is good considering my spot is always choppy.
I had the shortest stance, and I have since then put it on the larger ones and will see how it goes. I found that the footpads where very slippery... hopefully this will wear off for next time.
I still have to find the sweet spot (finding the right tack) since I was concentrating (impressed) on the agility of the board; I was having a blast. A combination of a new board and low wind conditions resulted in my going down wind most of the time.
Jumping - it felt much lighter and agile than my x-pact (its not just a vendor's myth - I believe it now). In fact, it felt easier to pop. This really fel;t like a freestyle board to me (I know it sits between the x-pact and the FS). And for the rider that loves freeriding and freestyling... I believe this is the board for you.
Overall, I am very happy with the Protoy.
Cheers
Jim
Tried the protoy today in 19-30 knots
(still on a 10m) and it behaved perfectly as expected.
Managed to go upwind easily, but I have to admit the x-pact is a lot easier to get upwind. I also changed the stance to wider. Beside 2 first nose dives, I think I prefer this stance now ![]()