Goya Slim Base Pro put to the test: The lightest mast base of all those tested by surf-Tests

With the Slim Base Pro, Goya Windsurfing is introducing a completely new mast base, designed to suit all disciplines from wave riding to racing. The system is based on a simplified design principle, featuring fewer individual parts than conventional models.

Design: Lightest mast base in the surf test

The mast foot system is made from 316 stainless steel for all metal components, whilst the base plate is made from nylon. According to the manufacturer, the black TPU line is also said to offer better UV resistance than materials typically used. The surf test crew’s experience does indeed show that dark tendons often remain more elastic at low temperatures and, overall, last longer than transparent ones. The tendon on the Goya Slim Base felt easier to bend in our hands than the predominantly rather stiff, transparent tendons, which makes rig assembly easier. Thanks to its special shape, the tendon is designed to flex primarily in the middle, ensuring that the force is not concentrated solely on the attachment points (at the through-pins). During our initial assembly, the mast foot’s four grip ridges provided a firm grip; whilst it doesn’t quite offer the same grip as more angular models, it does nestle against the deck extremely elegantly. Here, the foot seems to glide over the deck rather than bumping against it. The reduced number of components is intended to lower the weight and minimise potential weak points. We can fully confirm the weight-saving effect. In 239 grams The scales stopped at this figure, which is by far the lightest weight compared with the models in our last major test of mast bases in 2021 (many of which weighed well over 300 grams).

“The black Tendon feels a bit more flexible and not quite as stiff as many transparent models.” Stephan Gölnitz, surf tester

Height: 7.7 centimetres

With a measured height of 7.7 centimetres, the Slim Base Pro is clearly one of the lowest mast bases available. The majority of models actually require more than nine centimetres between the board and the extension. Only the new NeilPryde X-Base (in this review) So far, in the surf test, we have recorded a figure of six before the decimal point.

Security policy

A double-looped Dyneema rope is integrated into the line and secured with triple knots. This internal safety rope ensures that the board and rig remain connected even in the event of line failure, allowing the windsurfer to paddle back to shore. Goya Windsurfing points out that damp conditions, warm climates and the intensity of use could affect the line’s lifespan. However, the line’s black colouring offers improved UV protection compared to undyed materials. The safety concept is based on decades of experience with stress tests. The central bend in the line makes wear and tear visible earlier than with conventional systems, where the stress is primarily borne by the fixing bolts.

Ergonomics and handling

The Slim Base Pro lies flat on the deck with no corners or edges whatsoever. According to the manufacturer, four grooves on the top provide a secure grip even in cold or wet conditions, when several fingers are needed to tighten it. This has worked well for us this summer. The Tendon is made of black TPU, which bends more easily than many clear models. Goya has also made the Tendon thinner in the centre so that most of the bending deformation occurs there, thereby relieving stress on the outer areas where the screw connection passes through and wear often begins. Only an endurance test will show what benefits this brings.

surf’s verdict on the Goya Slim Base Pro

The Slim Base Pro is super-light, elegant and ergonomically well-designed. It has a very low profile, with no sharp edges, yet is still easy to grip. Its functionality is thoroughly impressive at first glance. The promised increased durability, thanks to the black modified Tendon, has yet to be proven.

Technical Specifications

Weight: 239 grams (as measured by surf)
Height: 7.7 centimetres (as measured by Surf)
Price: 89 euros