Hydrodynamix Skinny RD Wave Boom Review

I’ve been given the opportunity over the last couple of months to try the hydrodynamix Skinny RD Wave boom. As with Davo I’m not getting a new boom I’m also just giving a honest opinion on my use of this product.

This was the first time I had used a skinny boom and it did take a while to get use to, especially after using a normal boom for 15 years. Once you get used to it, though, you won’t go back. It feels better for wave riding and the weight savings are awesome giving a whole new feel to your sail.

I’ve had to wait some time to write this review as I didn’t think it was fair to write a review until I could try it in heavy conditions that could actually break a boom.

I used the boom in all wind ranges from being under and over powered on my 5.5 to being fully powered on my 4.0. The boom felt very stiff at all times even when the boom was almost fully extended.

The size of the boom is 145-180 cm, which I felt is too small, as I could still adjust it smaller even when using my 4.0. The increase in size would give a bigger range as many guys own 5.7 & 6.0 sails.

The change in diameter looks like it could be a weak spot but after sailing a heavy beach break last week (which HAS cost me a boom in the past) I watched my gear going over the falls of a ½ mast set which snapped my middle batten and my out-haul rope, the boom which I was expecting some damage had none what-so-ever.

My gear got flogged all day by some heavy waves and the boom had no problems with this punishment. I have no doubt about the strength of this boom and would use it with confidence in all conditions.

I did find my hand landing on the part where the diameter changes size but Paul from hydrodynamix is redesigning this so it is further back down the boom and will solve this problem.

I’ve used the same head and rear fitting on past hydrodynamix booms for years and have had no problems at all with the boom or ropes slipping.

I think the change in diameter from a skinny to a normal diameter boom is a great idea as you benefit from the comfort and weight of a skinny boom but still retaining stiffness and strength due to the fact the extension is still the same size as a normal boom.

The booms are $300 for this model, which I think is definitely worth it for the strength and comfort factor.

Well done on a great design.

Greenroom,
The review by Gazza is great and shows how tough the RD Wave Pro really is.
This 28mm model is purely designed for WA Wave Sailing and based on the 32mm version "Survivor Wave" which has enjoyed a good rep in WA for surviving big wipeouts.
Hydro make booms for all types of sailing and don't just market the one type, in fact we currently have 9 different models and various sizes in each.
As a comparison to the Aeron, Hydro has the 29mm Pro Slimline in
150 - 195 and 170 - 215 at $290, generally a slalom boom.
To my knowledge all brands other than a couple from Europe come out of one or two factories in Asia, including Aeron.
We have checked out the Aerons and the finish is good, very similar to NP but the front fittings just don't look like they are up to it.
Having said that some of the crappiest looking fittings can surprise you with their durability, we repair a lot of booms and see some real gems.
How did you go getting the Aeron repaired?
A lot of people buy popular and colourful gear but don't consider the fact that you can't get parts for minor repairs.
We have a Carbon or should I say (Fibreglass)Boom in for regrip and repair at the moment and can't get a simple extension clip from the importer, now that sucks!
Good luck with looking for a new boom and give us some more detail on eating that boom!

Paul

www.hydrodynamix.com

Greenroom,
You are right about the length, Use the biggest possible boom and have the maximum stiffness and strength.
Booms with huge extensions are a compromise as the boom is only as stiff and strong as the weakest part and that is usually the extension tube, 25mm diameter and full of holes.
I would recommend the Slimline 170 - 215 as it would probably be lighter than the RD Wave Pro but still super stiff and strong with minimal extension. www.hydrodynamix.com/assets/images/pro-slim-boom.jpg.
The Slimline aluminium is actually thicker than any other brand but still slightly thinner than the RD & Skinny Wave which are 30% thicker than other brands. The Slimline purposely has only 45cm of extension to reduce flexing. Why have stiffness in the boom and loose it in a massive extension?
Hydro also make a lot of custom booms for people who want specific sizes and sail coverage so they don't have to carry a quiver of booms.
Feel free to drop into the factory and have a look at all the options available and compare with the imported brands before shelling out your hard earned!

Paul

Gazza,
Glad to hear the boom is going strong.
Don't worry about the grip, I know a guy that does good regrips.
We will swap it with next years model soon anyway.
We have now added a 155 - 190 to the existing model range in both the RD Wave and Skinny Wave, to suit the bigger sails.
Hope you can make it up to Greenhead this weekend for the Wave Comp, it's gunna go off like last year.
We will be giving away trophies and gear which will include wave booms!
Not just the winners of the various divisions will get prizes either.
We have included an under 21's division for the young guns too.

Any one interested can contact Geoff Golder for more info on 0408 900351

Call Paul at Hydrodynamix on (08) 9433 5450

Great bloke should be able to put you in the right direction