"The Javelin is not a departure from the classic wing with handles" - as the manufacturer Slingshot makes clear from the outset on its website. Instead, both systems are now available - the Javelin as a boom wing, the Slingwing V3 ( HERE there's a test) with soft handles.
On land:
The Slingshot Javelin is available in ten sizes from 2.5/3.0/3.5/4.0/4.5/5.0/5.5/6.0/6.5 and 7.5 - we tested the 5.5 square metre size extensively. The centrepiece of the Javelin V1 is a boom system which, at first glance, resembles that of the Duotone Slick with the difference that with the Javelin the boom is not only plugged in, but is fixed to the wing with press studs before inflation.
The boom is divided into two parts; the boom can be shortened accordingly for the smaller sizes. For this reason, you only need one boom for different wing sizes, which is therefore not included in the scope of delivery and must be purchased separately (price: 189 euros). A small strap is attached to the centre of the boom, which can be used to adjust the tread depth. Overall, the Slingshot Javelin V1 is not only much more compact than its stablemate, the Slingwing V3, due to its comparatively small wingspan, but is also noticeably tighter. Deflation is extremely quick thanks to an additional valve on the centre strut. All other features are also impeccable - the leash is long enough and well padded on the Velcro, and robust patches on the seams of the front tube ensure that the Wing should survive skate sessions undamaged.
We also present the Slingshot Javelin V1 in detail in a clip. Click here.
On the water:
Inflated to the recommended 8 psi, the Javelin is very direct, even when heavy riders (>90kg) pull on the spar, nothing distorts when pumping. In light winds, you can therefore confidently give the wing a little more elasticity; by reducing the inflation pressure to around 7 psi and loosening the tensioning strap on the centre strut, you can inflate the Slingshot Javelin even more efficiently. Either way, the wing offers plenty of performance in light winds and ensures that the fun starts early. As the wingspan is comparatively small and the wingtips are visibly bent backwards, the wing also has a pleasingly low tendency to drag with the wingtips in the water during inflation.
Once lifted, the Javelin V1 sits comfortably and quietly in the hand, the grip system allows the hands to be moved with millimetre precision, which contributes significantly to relaxed freeriding with an even distribution of pull on both arms. You also benefit from the direct power transmission of the boom system during manoeuvres: Intuitive gripping is always possible, steering impulses are implemented 1:1 - this helps beginners and cracks alike. The diamond-shaped window also allows a good view to leeward during manoeuvres. Despite the boom, the Javelin is also absolutely competitive in terms of manoeuvre handling; with a measured weight of 2.95 kilos, the wing is well within the average range for its size.
The only thing that spoils the fun a little with increasing time on the water is that the boom is quite thick, because gripping it is a little more forceful than necessary, especially with small hands or gloves.
The Javelin also impressed us with jumps and rotations. Even though its stablemate, the Slingwing V3, seems a little more playful and lighter for tricks, the Slingshot Javelin is no slouch here either - the compact dimensions and the very direct connection to the wing are particularly strong arguments in its favour.
And in the waves? The wing also leveled out well when drifting and flies well behind when riding swell waves. However, if you ride surf waves to leeward, you will notice that the rather long centre chord in combination with the weight of the boom causes the trailing edge of the wing to drop earlier than with the featherweights on the market (e.g. Duotone Unit , F-one Strike V2 or the Slingshot Slingwing V3 ) is the case.
The Slingshot Javelin V1 Wing - the conclusion:
With the Javelin V1, Slingshot has succeeded in creating a very well-balanced wing. The freeride and manoeuvring performance is absolutely top thanks to the great performance potential in light winds, the smooth flight attitude and the boom system. The Wing can also be used for tricks and on the wave, resulting in a wide range of use. If your personal focus is fully on freestyle and wave riding, you can expect even more potential from the Slingshot Slingwing V3.
Range of use; very direct
Boom must be purchased once
Boom quite thick
