The Starboard Ultra underwent a major update last season, but the shape will remain unchanged for 2024. This makes it all the more exciting to see how the board can hold its own against the new competitors.
At the beach
The outline of the Ultra is quite round overall. The board is available in two constructions and is delivered as a thruster. The side fins are in the so-called Starbox, which is compatible with US box and (slightly modified) slot box fins - so if you have accessory or weed fins, you can continue to use both systems. The pads are exceptionally well padded, the straps are fastened with very thick torx screws and the rear strap is double-bolted. All in all, the stance width of the Starboard Ultra is slightly wider, but if you use non-matching plugs, you can also reduce the stance. The short mast track is slightly lower, which is supposed to improve the control of the board. The bottom shape is slightly mono-concave at the front and changes into a V with slight double concaves in front of the fins. At the tail, the shape also has a lot of curve (”tail kick”), which is done to improve the turning characteristics.
On the water
Given the round bottom curve, it is still surprising how well the Starboard Ultra Carbon planes. Not a trace of planing threshold - the board accelerates to top speed in a lively and sporty manner, the planing on the reach is quite free and lively. This makes the board ideal for scoring high in the jumping rankings even on days with light wind. The good performance is also noticeable on the waves, the Starboard Ultra holds its speed really well in front of mushy waves and ensures that you arrive at the cutback with plenty of speed and can also generate enough power for wave moves such as 360s.
The turning characteristics are also outstanding: The Ultra can be pressed into tight radii with little force, remains variable to turn even at high speeds and pulls off radical turns on every wave face. However, to make the most of the board's great turning potential, the conditions and riding ability have to be right. When the waves get choppy and the wind gets strong, the Ultra becomes increasingly difficult to control. Then you would wish for more grip and smoothness both on the straights and when riding the waves.
Starboard Ultra Carbon conclusion
The Starboard Ultra Carbon scores with above-average planing and turning characteristics both in small waves and in large ocean waves and is therefore a great toy for skilled wave riders. If you are looking for a board for rough conditions or to start your wave surfing career, you should check out the alternatives with better control.
Planing, variabilty
Control in choppy conditions
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Technical data Starboard Ultra Carbon (surf measurements)
- Weight: 6,31 kg
- Length: 224,2 cm
- Width: 58,4 cm
- Price: 2999*/2499** Euro
- More Info: star-board.com
