The Magic Wave model has epitomised the wave all-rounder within the JP range for several years now. The shape enters the new season unchanged, also in terms of construction, but has never been tested by us in this size - until now.
On land
Compared to the alternative Ultimate Wave model, the Magic Wave has been designed to be slightly shorter and wider, especially in the tail and bow area. In the underwater hull, designer Werner Gnigler has given the board a mono-concave in the rear area, which merges into a slight "V" further forward. The foot straps are once again impeccable and ultra-comfortable; they are all double-fastened with thick Torx screws - twisting the straps is not an issue here. The thruster fins (slot box) are also included in the scope of delivery, the centre fin is comparatively long at 20 centimetres. Thick, non-slip pads round off the positive overall impression.
On the water
The magic of the Magic Wave unfolds right from the first sheet in: the model pulls away effortlessly, reaches a very high top speed and combines a lively ride with convincing control. Thanks to the long centre fin, you can also put real pressure on the tail, which helps noticeably when jumping off and especially when going upwind. Even when really powered up with the 4.0 sail and in rough conditions, the Magic Wave stoically swallows up the choppy waves and ensures that you can go full speed in search of the first ramp. Jibes against the swell are smooth and the board scores points for its great control on the edge. It prefers medium and wide radii, through which the Magic Wave pulls with fine edge grip. The potential to maintain speed in front of unpressurised waves and with little sail pull is also above average. In typical sideonshore conditions - i.e. when the speed on the wave is normally not so high - you can also elicit tight snaps and a degree of manoeuvrability from the board that will satisfy even experienced wave riders. However, in side or sideoffshore winds and powered by small sails, the radii seem somewhat limited as soon as you carve over the edge with a lot of planing and speed. A slightly smaller centre fin and moving the fins forwards offers a slight improvement - but the stable brother Ultimate Wave offers significantly more potential for wave moves and radical radii.
JP-Australia Magic Wave 89 - the conclusion
Early planing, the best upwind performance, plenty of control and a high speed potential - the JP-Australia Magic Wave 89 offers the complete package to get the most out of rough days on the North and Baltic Seas. Even occasional excursions into shallow water or knee-high Baltic Sea chop are no offence to the board. If in doubt, it is better to choose the Magic Wave one size smaller, as the board feels slightly larger overall. If you regularly surf in solid North Sea waves and are looking for maximum turning ability and suitability for expert manoeuvres such as takas and 360s, you should look towards the Ultimate Wave.
Glide, control, speed
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JP-Australia Magic Wave 89 - technical data
- Test model: JP-Australia Magic Wave Pro 89
- Volume: 89 litres
- Length: 223 cm
- Width: 60 cm
- Weight (surf measurement): 6.34 kilos
- Finns: 20/10 cm (slot box)
- Price: 2699 Euro
- Available sizes: 68/75/82/89/95/105/115 litres
- Contact: JP website
- Special features: -
