In addition to the Poison model optimised for wave and freestyle the manufacturer GA has a declared all-rounder in its portfolio with the Cross. This wing is also available in two colour variants and in sizes from 2.7 to 6.2 square metres. In addition, there is also a model for marginal wind conditions, the Cross Lightwind, which we will be presenting here shortly.
The GA Cross is slightly more compact and designed with a lower aspect ratio than its sister model, the Poison. The strut has become slightly longer, while the wingspan has been reduced by around ten centimetres. The profile tension of the Cross is also moderate, so even light riders (<75 kilos) can inflate the wing to the recommended 8 psi. Keyword InflateThe wing is ventilated via two insulated SUP valves, which also allow the air to be released quickly. The Wing is supplied with two fixed handles, which are comparatively long, allowing you to paddle with one hand. If you prefer a continuous boom, you can purchase this additionally for 99 euros. A short boom is recommended for sizes 4.7 m² and smaller, while sizes 5.2 m² and larger are equipped with a longer boom variant. The view to leeward is good, the two windows provide a wide viewing corridor to leeward. The seams on the front tube are well protected with solid Kevlar patches. We also had no complaints about the stretchy leash, which is fitted with a long Velcro strap.
Even though the Cross is not one of the lightest wings in terms of sheer weight, it produces a noticeable amount of lift even in light wind conditions and is correspondingly light in the hand. The wing takes pumping pulls excellently, the profile works extremely efficiently, making the wing one of the strongest in light wind conditions. Once lifted off, the Cross always offers a noticeable ground pull on the back hand and an overall freeride-orientated basic characteristic, which means: it always conveys a lot of power, is stable in the hands without major load changes and also offers a high speed potential. Only in strong gusts can the Wing, with its comparatively softer profile, not quite make it into the league of control wonders - but overall the wind range is absolutely impressive.
In manoeuvres, the wing can be directed with pinpoint accuracy using the firm handles, but when jibing and riding downwind from swell waves, the trailing edge tends to sink a little earlier than on its sister model, the Poison, for example. Manoeuvres into the wind are absolutely flawless because the GA Cross Wing flips tip-to-tip with ease. From a freestyle point of view, the Cross also has nothing to hide: With its fairly compact wingspan and powerful basic pull, high jumps and rotations are possible without any problems. Only those who trick at a very high level, i.e. have flips and double moves on their agenda, will probably want an even lighter and more neutral wing. When riding swells, the Cross-Wing is not quite as neutral and balanced in the hand, unfortunately the front handle is too soft and prevents better control of the wing.
With the Cross model, GA has another good all-round wing in its programme. This offers a clear focus on freeride, primarily due to its strong light wind performance. If you want to take off early, make big hits quickly and only occasionally celebrate freestyle rotations or downwinders, the Cross is the perfect choice. On the other hand, the Poison offers a little more neutrality and agility for those who want to tackle more downwinders in the waves.
Light wind power
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Front handle too soft