The GunSails Hy-Flate Wingboard is available in a total of three sizes with 145/156 and 171 litres. Depending on the size, the board regularly costs between 849 and 889 euros.
On land:
In addition to the straps and a pump, the scope of delivery also includes a bag with wheels. At 73 x 73 centimetres, this also offers very attractive packing dimensions. The bag also has enough space to stow a foil or even a wing. At a measured 9.14 kilos, the 145-litre version we tested is slightly heavier than other models in this size.
There is a non-slip deck pad and a carrying handle on the top of the board. Straps are also included in the scope of delivery. These are quite wide, double-bolted and fixed in one position. The shape of the GunSails Hy-Flate looks stretched, with a length of 173 centimetres (5'8'') and a width of just 69 centimetres. It is noticeable that the board has very little flex in the bow area. You won't find a suitable carrying handle on the underside, which makes it a bit awkward to carry the board with the foil mounted on the foil mast. The box is comparatively short, which means that with foils where the front wing is very far forward or close to the mast, you can sometimes reach the limit in terms of the right position.
We also present the Hy-Flate Wingboard in a short clip on our YouTube channel before. Click inside!
On the water:
The comparatively narrow GunSails Hy-Flate 5'8'' is quite tippy in the water when bobbing and standing up, it doesn't look like a 145-litre board in this respect. Once upright, however, the board stabilises itself reasonably well. Thanks to its flat bottom curve, it harmoniously reaches the required take-off speed - at least in smooth water. In choppy conditions, the flat nose tends to enter the waves and slow down a little. Once lifted off, the standing position is quite comfortable and relaxed sightseeing flights are possible without any problems. We found the touchdown behaviour to be below average: Here too, the flat nose sets in noticeably and slows the board down, which repeatedly results in unnecessary skidding. In manoeuvres, the flat deck offers enough space, the straps also ensure good contact with the board and even allow for the first jumps.
GunSails Hy-Flate 5'8'' - the conclusion:
The inflatable GunSails Hy-Flate should be chosen one size larger if in doubt due to its smaller width. The planing behaviour and freeride suitability are convincing, the equipment is above average for a board in this price range. However, the behaviour during touchdowns noticeably reduces the fun factor. The bed is best combined with cosy cruiser foils rather than fast high-aspect wings.
Price; equipment
Somewhat tippy; short box
Touchdowns; No carrying handle at the bottom
