The board conveys a wonderful hardboard touring feeling. In mirror-smooth water, the bow wave splashes quietly and audibly against the hull, the water position is optimal for a paddler weight of 84 kilos, the board glides flat and stretched on the water. The trim should also suit lighter paddlers without losing any of its effectiveness; for well over 85 kilos plus luggage, the board wall is not particularly high above the water's edge. The standing position is always close to the waterline, which basically ensures good stability, the board rolls agilely and light-footedly around the longitudinal axis, but only with a low maximum heel angle.
As soon as the rail approaches the water surface, i.e. one foot is almost at water level, the board stabilises noticeably and offers very good overall stability. With plenty of contact surface due to the continuous width, the board doesn't sink in too deeply, which enables smooth turning even without changing position on deck, and the gently rounded bow glides well sideways through the water. However, you can also take the big step towards the wide tail on the Ray and make good turns. Not quite as safe as on the Naish Touring or JP GTS, but with a feeling of playful ease, with a good mix of challenging and forgiving.
Conclusion on the Fanatic Ray Pure Light 12'6" x 28.5":
A successful touring board for touring with light luggage with plenty of space on deck, which is also fun for tight pivot turns.
Nice glide, easy to turn, sporty and easy to paddle.
Info:
- Price: 1949 Euro
- Length: 381.0 cm
- Width:. 72.4 cm
- Weight: 14.7 kg
- Volume: 325 litres
- Web: www.fanatic.com
Stephan Gölnitz
Deputy Editor in Chief surf
