On land:
The Puls Intro 100 is designed as a freewave board. The shape itself is "off the peg", all other parameters such as construction, stance and strap width, design or fin setup can be customised. Depending on the version, the Intro costs between 1270 and 1800 euros; we were out on the Baltic Sea with the basic version - called the Silver Edition. When ordering, 50 per cent of the purchase price is due immediately. The delivery time is six to twelve weeks and Puls offers a warranty of up to two years, depending on the design.
On the water:
The shape and finish look absolutely impeccable from the outside, and at 7.04 kilos, the heaviest of the three Puls designs is within the usual range, despite its low price. The shape appears to be more wave orientated, which is immediately noticeable. The Intro planes quite effortlessly, but its rather cosy acceleration doesn't really get the pilot's pulse racing. In strong winds and chop, we were absolutely convinced by the control and smoothness, but at the lower wind limit a little more liveliness would be an advantage. The Intro prefers to turn tightly around corners and runs smoothly and softly on the edge - tight jibes against the swell or fast hooks in small surf suit the shape exceptionally well. On the other hand, long carved, glided radii are not the absolute domain of the shape.
surf conclusion:
In any case, the Puls Intro is an attractive alternative for all those who expect tight turning and good control from a 100-litre board. The price and customisation options are also good arguments in favour of the board. For fast bump & jump or as a flat water board for heating with sail sizes beyond 5.5 square metres, it lacks some speed potential.
Info under: www.pulsboards.com
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf
