See below for the Reviews posted by Gazza back in 05.
Paul
www.hydrodynamix.com
Posted 19/07/2005, 8:03 pm
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.
Posted 15/11/2005, 6:30 pm
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Just a quick up date the hydrodynamix Skinny RD Wave boom is still going strong
Ive used it all winter in all conditions and it still feels very stiff even when fully extended on my 5.5
Ive used it in exmouth on a 4.0m sailing offshore waves on my own with total confidence on its strength.
Used it at Gnaraloo last week again apart from a few cuts on the grip from the reef (sorry Paul!) its still like new
i haven't tried a carbon booms to compare it to, but if you budget is aluminium then i can't recommend these booms enough super strong and comfortable and the weight is very competitive with other brands.
i know i wont go back to using a normal diameter boom after using the Skinny RD Wave boom as its definitely helped improve my sailing
so if your after a new boom this season or your usual model keeps breaking check them out you wont be disappointed
