We compared seven brands for this test. Read on to find out which one offers the perfect combination of performance, manoeuvrability and the option of foilsurfing.
The designers obviously agree on one aspect: the V with a built-in double concave is the measure of all things in the freeride sector. In a slightly modified version, all shapers give the freeride boards an implied keel ("V"), which allows the boards to enter the water more smoothly and is intended to increase riding comfort. However, the outlines, i.e. the outer shapes, are very different. Starboard, for example, sends the Carve into the race as a very compact and wide board at 227 x 80 centimetres, while the Goya Volar is a full 23 centimetres longer, but almost three centimetres narrower. The RRD Firemove is also rather short and wide, with the rest of the test group levelling out between these two poles.
Here's an initial overview of the freeride boards tested 125