Single test 2021: Slingshot Wizard 130

The US manufacturer Slingshot is launching three new sizes of the Wizard in 2021 to win the favour of foil fans - with 90, 114 and 130 litres - we have already been able to test ride the Wizard V3 130 extensively and compare it with its predecessor model with 125 litres.

On land:

The designers have shortened the new Wizard by ten centimetres compared to its predecessor, to 188 centimetres. The width, however, has remained constant at 78 centimetres. The deck is flat and, thanks to its large pad, offers a real feel-good ambience. While the predecessor was still delivered with a deep shuttle box, the new Slingshot relies entirely on the double rail for attaching the foils. The loops have also been upgraded: Comfortable straps are now screwed onto the deck, for which there are now finally more options, i.e. plug positions - in addition to the familiar, manoeuvre-oriented inside position, there is now also a racier outside position. The smaller sizes (test to follow) even offer loop positions further forwards for wings.

On the water:

Although the Wizard V3 is significantly shorter than its predecessor, it is still extremely safe and comfortable on the wide, flat deck. However, launching and turning the sheet takes some getting used to and can be challenging, as the bow is short and the volume is concentrated far back. On the other hand, the foil-optimised volume distribution allows you to make yourself comfortable in the loops even at walking speed and get up to take-off speed with a few pumping strokes. How high this speed needs to be is of course primarily determined by the foil used. Our impression was that the new Wizard has to be ridden a little more actively, i.e. pumped, to achieve the necessary take-off speed, and the longer "old" one even had a slight advantage here. On the other hand, the 2021 version is even more compact in the air and conveys a lot of safety and stability around all axes. The board is also perfect for learning foil jibes, as it doesn't develop a disturbing life of its own and offers a lot of safety with its wide deck. The short shape is still surprisingly forgiving of unintentional touchdowns, as the wide nose with its bevelled edges does not dig in when it comes into contact with the water, but remains on the surface.

surf conclusion:

Actually, the very short Wizard V3 only takes some getting used to when launching the sheet and starting off. As soon as you are in the air with it, you experience the advantages of a very easy to fly and forgiving board, which is ideal for first flights, foil jibes and manoeuvres. The additional strap options were long overdue and extend the range of use from manoeuvre-oriented foiling to moderately sporty flights.

• Length: 188 cm
• Width: 78 cm
• Volume130 litres
• Weight8.25 kilos (surf measurement without straps)
• Available sizes: 90/114/130 litres
• Prices2049/2089/2139 Euro

Info under www.slingshot.com