STX stands for affordable inflatable SUPs and windsurf boards. The model iWindsurf RS In addition to the sizes 242/250/280 and now also with a length of 285 centimetres - we were able to try out the 280 with a volume of 280 litres (weight: 10.8 kilos). The WindSUP comes as a set with bag, pump, repair kit, straps and three fins, which seems quite attractive considering the price of 769 euros. The iWindsurf RS is designed as a windsurfing board for light to medium winds for adults and children. An additional centre fin can be mounted in the centre area. A hard tear-off edge has been glued to the tail area to prevent the board from getting too tight at higher speeds. Loops can also be fitted, but these are spartan and are fixed in terms of position and size.
How to ride the WindSUP STX iWindsurf RS
With a volume of 280 litres and a width of just under 85 centimetres, this iWindsurf RS is very stable even as an adult water sports beginner. Motorised with small sails, the centre fin doesn't quite manage to keep the lateral drift in check. However, with increasing wind and the right technique, it can also be used to cruise passably well. With its moderate length, the board can be used very well as a children's and youth board and with sails from 2.0 m² it also turns well. The connection between the board and sail is now much better than before: instead of a glued-in thread, a solid plate is now glued to the deck, which should better absorb the forces that occur and improve durability.
The board is also fun for manoeuvres such as tacking, jibing and sailing tricks in light winds, as it can be turned and manoeuvred very quickly. However, you shouldn't be blinded by the strap option - due to the construction and the unprofiled plastic fins, sporty planing experiences in both foot straps are only possible with a lot of sail pull/wind. If you want to glide surf regularly, you should therefore opt for a hardboard or an inflatable with full fins.
surf conclusion
STX offers with the iWindsurf RS 280 An attractive wind SUP with a good price-performance ratio - it is suitable as a good board for light and medium winds, as a children's board and also as a bathing island for the family or small laps with the SUP. First glides in the loops are possible, even if the full funboard feeling does not materialise.
