The X-Winger from JP on land:
JP-Australia has opted for a very compact design with the Wingboard X-Winger. Our test model with 95 litres is comparatively short with a length of 152 centimetres (5'0''). To accommodate the volume, the board is quite chubby, with voluminous rails extending far into the bow area. At 1649 euros, the tested Pro version is one of the wingboards in the upper price segment, but is also pleasantly light at a measured 6.68 kilos. Alternatively, all sizes are also available in a 500 euro cheaper and around one kilo heavier IPR construction.
In terms of features, the X-Winger leaves nothing to be desired, the straps are soft and comfortable, there are plenty of strap plugs available and the large carrying handle on the underside is also impressive. What makes the board special in any case is its longer than average double rail, which should allow suitable tuning for all foils. For the test, we rode the board with three foils from Naish, Slingshot and RRD with very different pressure points and had no problems finding a suitable position in the box with any of them.
We also present the JP X-Winger wingboard in the video. Subscribe to our YouTube channel so that you never miss a test and driving technique clip again!
This is how the JP X-Winger travels on the water:
For a board with a length of 5'0'', the X-Winger is surprisingly stable. The volume distribution appears to be very balanced, and the fact that the edges have been pumped up with plenty of volume right up to the nose area is a particular benefit when launching and starting off. Even less experienced pilots can therefore get to grips with the short board. With a passive riding style - i.e. without pumping over the foil or with the wing - the wingboard achieves the necessary take-off speed above average compared to other 5'0" boards, also because the shape in the tail area has been optimised for a clean water release. However, if you want to pump over the foil, you will notice that the voluminous tail is quite difficult to push into the water to generate the necessary rocking motion - wingboards with a bevelled "pump tail" have a slight advantage in this respect.
However, if you add both active and passive starting together, the JP X-Winger is the kind of board that allows you to reach the required take-off speed relatively early and easily. The standing position on deck is comfortable and the compact length makes the board feel wonderfully light in the air and smaller than a typical 95-litre board. This is especially true for more ambitious moves, with freestyle tricks such as 360s, the X-Winger spins impressively light-footed - always against the backdrop of its volume.
Conclusion:
The JP X-Winger 95 Pro combines good tipping stability and easy take-off with great potential for manoeuvres and tricks. The wingboard is therefore particularly recommended for those wingsurfers who are looking for a board with compact dimensions for freeriding, tricks or waving, but still don't want to or can't do without the corresponding volume for bobbing.
Compact & light in the air
Price d. Pro version
