From Windsurf Magazine (UK)
Goya FreeWave 95
At a glance
Thus is the first opportunity we had to try a member of Goya’s FreeWave
board range, the 95 being the largest of a three board line up. Wide and relatively long compared with the rest in the group, it has a very clean progressive appearance, very much like a large waveboard. With the maximum width placed behind the centre-line, it has a particular rounded outline, the deck being flat in the centre before becoming domed in the rear of the board, whilst the rails are fuller in the shoulders and thin down towards the tail, finishing in a distinctive squared off tail. Produced in the carbon/Kevlar double sandwich technology, the FreeWave in supplied with excellent fittings, including hight quality MFC fin and easily adjustable supportive straps.
Ride and Handling
Wit5h the provision of power, the Goya responds well, cursing onto the plane with ease and providing a consummately smooth, relaxing ride. Feeling relatively big underfoot, it nevertheless has a controlled and responsive nature, altering its course calmly with any change in foot pressure. The deckpads and footstraps promote a real sense of security and comfort (although the straps did twist slightly on occasion), encouraging the rider to drive power though the fin to reveal an excellent turn speed. Steady and balanced, the FreeWave has an easy freeride manner, cutting a smooth unhindered path through confused conditions, its shoulders sitting high above any danger. In severe conditions it displays a real versatility in stance and whilst the lighter rider may struggle to continue driving, it never bucks them off or loses its composure allowing the rider to sail with a more relaxed upright posture.
Manoeuvres
Gibing the FreeWave was effortless, cutting a smooth and progressive arc under minimal effort or input from the pilot. With the extended pads providing good adhesive support, the extra width around the front straps helps to maintain the board’s speed through the turn and annul any awkward footwork. In the bottom turn, the Goya prefers quite a steady drawn-out turn, we found it quite hard to get forward on the front foot and assert any real pressure for a tight sharp corner, despite making the front strap as big as possible. The aspect of the FreeWave’s performance that really surprised us was in freestyle. Whilst not the most instantaneous in its pop, it pivots beautifully and held a smooth predictable reverse slide, giving the rider plenty of time to finish the move off – something completely unexpected considering the 95 outline,
Verdict
With ease and accessible performance, the FreeWave 95 is a smooth and practical all-round wave machine that maintains its control, whatever the conditions
Ciao! A*
