NoveltyStrong wind freemoveboard - the JP-Australia Magic Move in test

Surf Testteam

 · 03.11.2023

The JP Magic Move convinces as a gliding, well controllable and manoeuvrable freemove board.
Photo: Manuel Vogel
With the new Magic Move model, JP-Australia wants to reinterpret the freemove category. The board is designed to combine early planing and effortless jibing. We test rode the new model for the first time and tell you what you can expect from it.

In addition to the Freestyle Wave model and the Magic Ride freeride board, manufacturer JP-Australia has added a new model, the Magic Move. Background information on the new model can also be found in an interview with JP shaper Werner Gnigler, available at HERE to find.

The features of the JP-Australia Magic Move

If you are looking for a small board from JP-Australia for bump & jump and strong winds, you have to choose between the Freestyle Wave and the new Magic Move models. Compared to the Freestyle Wave, the slightly longer Magic Move is equipped with wider nose and tail sections, making the edges more parallel - this should ensure better jibing and carving characteristics. The Magic Move can be ridden with three straps or mounted with four straps slightly offset to the outside. At 6.89 kilos, the 100-litre model we tested is quite attractively light. The scope of delivery includes a 31 mm Powerbox fin and very comfortable straps that are attached with Torx screws.

How the JP-Australia Magic Move rides

With the first tight turn, the Magic Move glides effortlessly, but is immediately controlled enough to slip into the footstraps in a relaxed manner. The board converts gusts into speed beautifully and has a really good average speed that is easy to control. With the 31 mm Powerbox fin, it can also take a lot of pressure on the fin, which is a positive factor both when jumping off and when going upwind. Although the board carries the bow a little higher above the water in full planing mode, the Magic Move remains surprisingly easy to control even at the upper wind limit.

Overall, the board feels light on its feet when it comes to turning. Steering impulses are implemented superbly, even with little effort the board can be placed on the edge and manoeuvred through the power jibe. The board also manages tight radii really well. Conversely, the aforementioned turning ability means that a certain amount of riding skill and some power jibe experience is required to manoeuvre the board cleanly through the jibe. But then the board can be chased through all planing manoeuvres at high speed, and the planing potential is impressive. The wide deck is also well suited for classic moves such as monkey and duck jibes.

surf conclusion

The Magic Move 100 impresses as a planing, controllable and manoeuvrable freemove board for sail sizes between 4.5 and 6.5 m2. If you are looking for a sporty manoeuvring board for strong winds and don't want to use it in the surf, the Magic Move is the perfect choice. Those who are just learning power jibing should look towards the Magic Ride.


Technical data JP-Australia Magic Move

  • Sizes: 90/100/110 litres
  • Lengths: 231/235/237 cm
  • Widths: 61.5/63.6/66.5 cm
  • Prices: 2399*/1799** Euro
  • Info: jp-australia.com

*Wood Pro ** ES


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