These boards are included in the test:
(click to go directly to the individual reports)
We've now been racing side by side for over a kilometre without either of us being able to gain more than perhaps a metre or two on the other. Actually, the results in this speed duel between these two freeride boards are clear. So ticked off. Change. Next run. Actually. But somehow the freeride fever got the better of us during our everyday testing. Two kilometres ahead, a white beach on a small island shines in our line of sight, with a few boats anchored next to it, arousing our curiosity. What's more, it's going so well at the moment - and it's not getting really strenuous, despite full throttle on our comfortable freeriders. So we keep it tight for another two kilometres. I glance over and Nik doesn't show the slightest sign that he wants to turn round or let off the gas. After a good five minutes, we reach the small bay and moor up briefly. Shortly afterwards, the two other testers arrive, we have a quick chat, take a deep breath, enjoy and then it's back to the station in competition mode. "We're not just testing metres and inches here, we're authentically testing the actual freeride feeling of these boards," I think. So it works!
This test had already started in October on Lake Garda, but a weakening autumn Ora threw a spanner in the works and we were only able to complete the test in January. But the wait was worth it for this exciting, varied group. From beginners to really committed stokers, everyone will find a really good board here. Unfortunately, the Fanatic board was not yet available at the time of testing.
Click through all boards and fins in the gallery:
On land
Here we present the most important features. You can find even more information and moving images of the board shapes, equipment and features in the video below!
Shapes
Roughly divided into three groups of shapes. Two long, narrow classics from Lorch and Patrik, two particularly short and wide boards from I-99 and RRD, as well as a handful of shapes with very balanced proportions that seem to set the new standard. The Severne board remains the most difficult to categorise into a group. In terms of thickness, I-99, Starboard and Severne in particular rely on a very progressive progression from a very fat tail to a conspicuously thin nose, as found on race slalom boards. These three candidates also have the strongest "V" in the underwater hull and particularly striking concaves. The shapes of Lorch and Patrik are rather unspectacular with a very moderate "V" and discreet concaves in the underwater hull - classically clean - that fits in well with the picture.
Equipment
Only Tabou and Severne do without a foil box on these models, all others are "foil-ready". And there are also big differences in the pads. The range extends from thin, firm pads like Tabou to mega-fat pads like Starboard and Severne, which also affects the riding experience. Fortunately, all pads are at least large enough, but unfortunately those from I-99 are not as grippy as usual. Naish has laid a particularly generous amount of carpet on the deck.
On the water
Glide characteristics There are many excellent gliders in this group, but Lorch and Patrik's shapes have their very own glide characteristics. Very simple and without any technical tricks, these long boards start to glide very early, then accelerate rather moderately and in wind holes the whole thing happens almost in reverse: the speed is reduced early on when the wind drops, but this somewhat more leisurely glide is maintained for a particularly long time.
Short, wide boards like the Starboard Carve hesitate for a second in the start phase, but then accelerate further and further, maintain pressure on the fin for longer in wind holes and therefore stay at high speed for longer when the wind dies down a little. These differences in performance cannot be set off against each other, it just shows different characters that are easier to get to grips with either way.
Speed - and even more speed
With speeds of between 45 and 50 km/h under the fin, you are already travelling pretty fast in choppy water with large sails - and even then there is no hurdle for freeriders. Of course, most freerace boards are probably one or two km/h faster - but only with the right sail motorisation and a lot of sporting ambition at race level.
Those who also attach great importance to the best top speed on their freerider will find Starboard Carve, Severne Fox and Tabou Rocket boards that are already clearly poaching in the territory of freerace boards. I-99, Naish and Patrik, on the other hand, are less likely to encourage GPS top speed determination - also due to their freeride-orientated stance position - and are also unable to deliver the last per cent of top speed. However, without a direct comparison, you won't feel noticeably slower on them either. And the boards make up for this with other qualities.
Particularly strong in controllability & comfort
Apart from the Tabou Rocket, which requires at least a little more concentrated guidance from the ankles when overpowered at the limit - but also remains very controllable for experienced surfers - all boards offer outstanding control, which is new in this balance. These boards don't simply lift off even in heavy gusts, they don't bounce, only the differently direct planing position provides more or less comfort or damping when riding at the limit, depending on the model.
Lorch, Naish and Tabou have a particularly direct effect under the soles, while Starboard, Severne and RRD offer the most cushioning. All boards offer good and comfortable strap positions for "normal" freeriding. For powered-up free "racing", the front straps on the I-99 and Naish are probably not far enough out for some people.
Easy to jibe
If you want to learn the jibe as a beginner, you can take a risk-free approach with freeriders, but depending on your body weight, the volume must then fit and perhaps the next larger volume class should be selected. Because nothing prevents learning success more than a board that is too small. These boards are certainly suitable for sporty intermediates learning to glide and jibe up to around 70 kilos and also offer potential for more than one season. From 70 to 75 kilos at the latest, you are usually better off with the next larger model of around 140 litres. From 85 kilos, a board with over 150 litres is also a good choice.
The type recommendation
First things first: none of these boards have any serious limitations, but the finer details are also worth a look when making such an investment. That's why we've already sorted them out for the following target groups.
- Freerider, who are simply looking for a balanced mix of glide, comfort and good jibing characteristics will not go wrong with any of these boards. You therefore have no choice but to find your own personal "test winner" from the individual descriptions.
- Aspiring freeracers probably want the best top speed above all else and, fortunately, in this group you only have to accept a small loss of other characteristics. Take a closer look at the descriptions of the Severne Fox, Starboard Carve and Tabou Rocket in particular.
- Climber, who are looking for particularly easy jibing qualities and a lot of comfort are, according to our test experiences, very well served with JP-Australia Magic Ride, Naish Galaxy, Patrik F-Ride and RRD Firemove.
The most exciting details to click through:
Freeride boards 125 in the individual classification
I-99 Performa 125
A full 80 centimetres in width give the I-99 a very rounded outline. The thickness curve is concentrated towards the tail, the strap positions allow good fine-tuning for "classic" freeride use and do without very far-out race and particularly far-inboard positions. However, this suits the tamed characteristics of the Performa, as the board impresses first and foremost - probably also due to the exceptionally strong "V" and the deep concaves in the underwater hull - with particularly good control, smoothness and, on top of that, very fluid jibes in a wide range of radii. It also offers a lot of flat space on deck and the board is particularly stable in the water before planing. Even when fully planing, the riding position on the I-99 remains somewhat more upright and relaxed, the board hardly needs any lateral pressure against the fin and glides very light-footedly with very little drag. It can't be pushed as freely as would be necessary for racing top speed, but it remains particularly stable in every position. Unfortunately, the fin did not fit perfectly in the box and required a little more sensitive loading at high speeds.
Conclusion: The Performa is a classic freeride board that is very easy to surf and easy to neck, and can also accompany intermediates from learning the power jibe to the sporty carving jibe.
Plus:Controllability, foil suitability, jibing
Neutral: -
MinusSoft, but less grippy pads
JP-AUSTRALIA Magic Ride 119 LXT
Balanced in its proportions, with a moderately rounded deck in the standing area and large pads that are pulled far around the rail, as well as a balanced volume distribution right into the bow - the JP board not only offers a very harmonious look, but also probably the most balanced mix of riding characteristics. A particularly comfortable stance in the straps, maximum controllability thanks to the stable planing position right up to the limits and comfortable damping thanks to the clear "V" in the underwater hull, even at top speed, recommend the board to almost every freerider as well as to all intermediates in the planing board class. Although as the smallest board in the group it also appears more delicate on the water, it glides surprisingly well and harmoniously, making it very easy to get into the loops. The board then impresses with good performance over the entire wind range - even if it has to give up a few tenths at top speed - but it makes up for this with comfort and control. The smooth jibing characteristics round off the picture. The Magic Ride glides almost magically through medium jibes, which are initiated with moderate pressure, and the board cuts tight turns neatly.
Conclusion: Particularly easy to control and comfortable board with balanced performance - making it easy to surf fast. Very easy, true to track and planing in the classic power jibe.
Plus:Control, comfort, sliding neck
Neutral: -
Minus: -
LORCH Breeze 130
If you use the highest quality carbon, you want to show it - so the Breeze not only stands out with its long, narrow proportions, but also with its unusual carbon finish. With this shape, the volume is inevitably more in the thickness, which is why the rails are also steep. Due to the length, but probably also due to the almost flat underwater hull in comparison, the board planes particularly smoothly. Very, very directionally stable and evenly harmonious without any noticeable swell. This gives you plenty of time to sort yourself into the straps, and the ride that follows is sporty and direct right from the start - the firm pads support this. You are very comfortable on the outside and can apply good pressure to the fin. The speed potential against the wave is slightly lower than with a free-flying Starboard Carve, for example, but it is very close with more sideways-running waves. Surprisingly, the board is very easy to turn despite its narrow width and in the jibe, the "oldie" still shows some newcomers how to glide through fast power jibes in the best possible way: True to track, with very variable radii and excellent planing potential. Beginners and experts alike benefit from this.
Conclusion:Classic long shape, where the best planing behaviour, direct feel and good jibe characteristics are valued more highly than maximum performance in all conditions.
Plus:Gliding, all types of power jibes, weight
Neutral: Top design at a corresponding price
MinusFin costs extra
NAISH Galaxy 125
The Naish board probably offers the most manoeuvring space on the flat deck and therefore also looks a little bigger. The footpads are laid in luxuriously comfortable dimensions. With the Hawaiian Islands as a small design tattoo on the underside, but mainly due to the harmonious riding characteristics, the right relaxed, comfortable freeride feeling quickly arises. The loops, which are not quite so far out, ensure a slightly more upright stance, so you don't want to press too hard against the fin on the Naish, but rather glide smoothly and loosely or jibe nicely. And the shape is also really good at this. With wide and medium radii, the board glides very smoothly and stably, perfect for power jibes, duck jibes or to learn the planing jibe, with pressure even amazingly tight turns are possible. The board achieves good speed even with little body tension and is particularly suitable for intermediates because the planing position is extremely stable and the transition from bobbing to full planing is harmonious, with plenty of room for the feet to move - from the start to slipping into the straps. Under the soles, the board feels quite sporty and firm, with less damping than an RRD, for example, which makes for a fast feeling even in medium planing winds.
Conclusion: Easy to surf freeride board with a sporty feel.
Plus:planing, jibing, easy surfing, large pads
Neutral: -
Minus: -
PATRIK F-Ride 135
Classic freeride is back! With a length of 2.52 metres and a width of 71 centimetres, the Patrik board falls through all the usual cracks and the underwater hull also recalls classic shape virtues with a light, continuous V and only very small concaves. And these are particularly impressive with the very harmonious transition into planing. The board pushes over the planing threshold noticeably earlier and more gently than a Starboard Carve, for example, keeping a clean track and giving the rider all the time in the world to sort themselves into the well-positioned and comfortable straps. The acceleration does not come with a "kick in the back" like a sports car, but more like the first automatic saloon cars. The long shape carries the front end high above the waves, while the damping and ride comfort are from the "Extra Class" equipment line. However, the top speed lags behind the short, wide shapes and the board also loses more speed in wind holes - without completely losing its glide. And this applies even more to jibes. Regardless of whether you're a gybing student or for sporty power gybes, the shape does it all: gliding and stable on the edge, whether in medium or tight turns, you always come out of the turn with good speed.
Conclusion: A treat for friends of classic shapes and for glide climbers. Less for surfers with active competition genes
Plus:planing, control, comfort, jibing
Neutral: -
Minus: -
RRD Firemove 120 LTD
Particularly short and extra wide - this results in the striking rounded outline of the RRD board. The volume is distributed very evenly in the longitudinal direction, with the tip of the nose bending cheekily upwards over the last 20 centimetres. Only the I-99 has as much space on deck as the wide RRD, which means that the Firemove is particularly stable in the water when picking up sails and planing and does not resent minor missteps when tacking. From the wide, flat deck at the front, you can just as easily switch to the "cockpit" for a very smooth transition to planing. The narrow, rounder rear deck offers a comfortable stance, both in the far-out rear loops, which are only recommended for experienced freeriders, and in the inside positions. And the planing position is a pleasure to ride: the RRD flies over the water with great inherent stability and the shape dampens as comfortably as a luxury air suspension system when you hit the wave. At the same time, the board has a sporty feel. With plenty of pressure, the RRD turns well into tight jibes or glides quickly through medium radii with a moderate amount of power, while appearing agile and fast. The jibing requires a bit of sensitivity to get through the turn in full glide, but offers plenty of potential for different radii including real carving jibes.
Conclusion: A really good learning platform, with a lot of sporting potential and very well balanced.
Plus:Control, easy surfing, riding comfort
Neutral: -
Minus: -
SEVERNE Fox 120
The shape of the Fox is visually dominated by a huge "V", complemented by laterally bevelled rails in the front area. The pads are particularly fat and raised under the toes. The thickest point is at the rear strap, the board becomes significantly thinner towards the nose. Despite its aggressive red look, the Fox offers a lot of control and riding comfort. The feet find a very good grip and the connection to the board feels as solid as with clipless pedals. The shape and pads dampen equally, even at top speed the board remains very stable and provides maximum safety. The fin offers optimum grip and plenty of speed potential. This means that good top speed can be teased out without any great effort or racing experience. The board keeps the nose at a very stable height - even when powered up in choppy water - and the V-shaped hull absorbs all short bumps perfectly. Just as the narrower shape is more tippy than the wider brothers in this group when bobbing, planing and turning, the board is also more sporty and sleek, but also a little more demanding through the jibe. With practice, the board can be carved very quickly over the rails through the jibe, but needs to be kept on track with measured foot control.
Conclusion: For experienced freeriders who like to accelerate with maximum riding comfort.
Plus:Speed, control, sporty jibes
Neutral: No real inside position for climbers
Minus: -
STARBOARD Carve 129 WS
Fat at the back, thin at the front and with a deep trough in the deck, the Carve looks like a racing car. And the Carve really is the speed machine of this group. While the board takes it easy in the planing phase, there is almost no end to the acceleration that follows. You are not pressed into the straps, but the board accelerates more normally, but further and further until it leaves all pursuers behind at the end - especially with the right pressure in the sail. The outstanding smoothness and control - together with the very solid, secure hold in the straps - allow you to concentrate fully on the sail and let the board fly over the fin. There is almost more freerace than freeride under the blue bonnet, the very comfortable cushioning under the soles is combined with a free, sporty glide. With very good grip in the straps, the fin can be pressed properly and the board flies along on the narrow tail. Then - with full speed in the jibe - the Carve shows the best climbing qualities, the board glides snappily through medium radii, holds speed well and is stable in the turn, turning more over the rear rail. Carving over the front rail with a lot of rail input is not even one of its strengths, as this only reduces the good cornering speed.
Conclusion: Very fast freeride board with top control and riding comfort as well as good "easy jibing" qualities.
Plus:Speed, control, comfort
Neutral: Volume distribution for climbers
Minus: -
TABOU Rocket 125 TEAM
The Tabou Rocket is launched with very balanced proportions and even volume distribution, the pads are noticeably thin and firm. Perhaps the most "average" board in terms of dimensions and data, it achieves above-average results in almost all disciplines. During the evolutionary process, the Rocket has not lost its good gliding characteristics - the board planes particularly early and light-footed and accelerates rapidly - and has also gained sporty potential. Especially in light and medium planing winds, the board convinces with super speed, which is also maintained as well as possible in wind holes, the only 7.1 kilo board weight certainly helps here. The controllability of the free-flying board remains very good despite the sporty direct sole contact. Only at top speed in the real limit range does the board require the tension and guidance that is often necessary on sporty boards to prevent it from taking off. The shape is similar in the jibe: Very agile, variable, glides particularly well, but with the requirement to be guided cleanly through the turn. The Tabou does not have an "automatic radius" like on a JP-Australia or Starboard Carve in favour of more sporty variability.
Conclusion: Very powerful, sporty board that can also be mastered quite well by intermediates. Top glider on the straight and in turns
Plus:Driving performance, sporty jibes
Neutral: Very thin, direct pads
Minus: -
You can find the complete test of these nine freeride boards 125 from SURF 3/2022 with all overview tables, data and grades here as PDF for download