The new M-Winger model is available in three sizes (105/120/135 litres) and complements JP-Australia's RS mid-length board. The M-Winger was designed as a crossover concept for SUP foiling and light wind wing foiling.
On land
While the RS model (formerly R-Winger (HERE is a test) is available in the smaller sizes of 65/80 and 95 litres, the M-Winger is available with more volume, which underlines the model's light wind claim. The size we tested with 105 litres will only be of interest to very experienced paddlers for SUP foiling, but should be suitable for a broad target group in terms of wingfoil aspects. With a length of 6'8'' (203 cm) and a width of 22'' (56 cm), the shape is not quite as slim as a pure downwind board - but still very stretched. The large cutouts in the tail area are striking and are intended to reduce the surface area and thus the riding resistance. Shaper Werner Gnigler has given the board a sharp tear-off edge in front of the cut-outs to prevent the board from getting stuck during the acceleration phase. Round edges dominate the front of the underwater hull, the rocker line is flat and optimised for maximum early planing.
A carrying handle has also been integrated on the underside, which is small but fulfils its purpose - it is a compromise between acceptable carrying comfort and the lowest possible braking effect. Thanks to a long foil box, there is plenty of room for mounting a wide variety of foils, and large and very solid track nuts are supplied for mounting the foil. On deck, the JP M-Winger offers the option of attaching foot straps, which are soft and comfortable, and the large-area glued deck pad leaves nothing to be desired, as it is grippy and well-structured.
On the water
Despite its narrow width, the board is more stable in the water around its longitudinal axis than you would initially expect from its width. However, the stabilising effect of the foil is primarily responsible for this. Around the transverse axis ("nose up, nose down"), the board is pleasantly forgiving in the event of load errors due to its greater length. What is immediately noticeable: even with little pull in the wing, the board converts propulsion 1:1 into speed, the nose cuts through the water without any noticeable resistance, which means that the board reaches the required take-off speed very early on. Once lifted off, the board is admittedly not as stable and compact on the foot as is the case with compact wingboards. Nevertheless, the board is easy to control when equipped with the appropriate foil, and the shape forgives unintentional touchdowns generously. As you would expect, the board is a little more sensitive to ride with very stretched high-aspect foils, as the narrow tail width means there is a lack of leverage to counter the foil's own life. However, this characteristic is typical for slim mid-length and downwind boards. Thanks to the strap equipment, a small jump is also possible, but overall the board is particularly impressive for sporty freeriding and as an absolute light wind weapon.
JP-Australia M-Winger - the conclusion
The JP-Australia M-Winger scores as a very planing wingfoil board with which you can get the maximum out of marginal wind conditions. The board is ideally equipped with powerful wings and high-lift foils. The shape is also suitable for downwinding, but in combination with slim high-aspect foils, you will need a higher level of riding skill to stabilise the board in manoeuvres and when riding waves.
JP-Australia M-Winger - technical data
- Test model: JP-Australia M-Winger 105
- Length: 6'8'' (203 cm)
- Width: 22'' (56 cm)
- Weight (own measurement, without loops): 6.46 kilos
- Volume: 105 litres
- Available sizes: 6'8''x105 // 7'0' x120 // 7'3'' x135 litres
- Scope of delivery: Board, loops, track nuts
- Price: 1899 Euro
