Matt here from Auswind:
The Evo 75 is one of those boards that is such an amazing all rounder - it has consistently topped tests since it was invented 4 seasons ago. rider feedback from owners is consitently outstanding.
Ironically Evo style boards are more popular here in Windy and Swelly WA than on the East Coast - where i believe there is a misconception that these are light wind / onshore boards - fact is that they absolutely dominate in Cross on AS WELL AS offering the highest performance in cross off sizey surf - one look at the Standout sailors at Margs, lancelin, Greenhead or Gnaraloo will confirm that. With the exception of last year (where there were no evo riders) Evos have won the national Wavesailing title for the last 3 years running.
I'm not quite sure why so many sailors still ride narrow pins in the East Coast's moderate breezes - where an Evo Style design has so much to offer. Is it fashion?
Anyway - thats my piece- here is the review:
The Starboard Evo XTV 75 Wood
The new 2008 Evo line from Starboard continues in the same spirit as last year. Modifications to the shape are slight but very clear: new V distribution, and a 5mm narrower outline. There's 300 grams less weight, and the Drake Natural Wave fin is now 23cm. We've always liked the quick adjusting footstraps, as well as the dual-layer pads with integrated shock absorbers. We also like the smaller number of footstrap options which spares you a headache, and the tuning options available are also indicated to make it even easier to set the board to your own preference.
On the water, the planing ability is decent. You feel good straight away with this board that really offers cutting edge performance in a maximum range of conditions without being super technical - especially in side-onshore conditions. It's very maneuverable in the surf, and very comfortable when closing tight turns or spinning around at medium speeds. You can surf off your back foot or carve huge bottom turns off your front foot without losing any control.
The board allows you to change nicely the carve radius at will and we like this versatility. The grip in cutbacks and the control in highwinds is good for a compact board too.
As a result, the Evo has impressed us with its versatility, it's a very good waveboard for all conditions and for sails from 5.3 to 4.0. A sure bet
