New shapes, new sizes - compared to the previous model (HERE there's a test), no stone is left unturned.
On land:
The X-Winger Pro is available in six sizes from 88 to 144 litres. In addition to the Pro model tested (1849 euros), the board is also available in an IPR design that weighs around a kilo more, but is also 550 euros cheaper. Compared to the very short predecessor model, the new X-Winger is a few centimetres longer and, above all, much narrower, which should improve the planing characteristics. The bow and stern areas have been significantly slimmed down, so the new X-Winger no longer looks so boxy. The manufacturer JP-Australia has retained the long box, which guarantees that there is a suitable position for all types of foil on the market. The board has also been equipped with many plug positions for the straps to match. Keyword "loops": These are pleasantly soft and comfortable. The carrying handle on the underside has rather minimalist dimensions - it is narrow and therefore optimised for low drag. At a measured 6.53 kilos, the JP X-Winger 88, built in a PVC sandwich construction, is pleasantly light.
On the water:
Compared to the previous model, the X-Winger is no longer quite as stable in the water, and the narrower bow and stern sections mean that a little more balance is required when standing up. As soon as you stand up, however, the board stabilises well. The straps are comfortable and, in combination with the grippy deck pad, offer good contact with the board. When pumping up, the shape generates pleasantly little resistance, allowing the X-Winger to reach the required take-off speed - the good performance of the previous model continues in this respect. The fact that the board has been given a few centimetres more length is not noticeable in the air - the board hangs compactly on the foot with its narrower designed nose and feels smaller than it actually is when flying. The adapted outline of the X-Winger also works much better than its predecessor model for downwinding in swells, as the touchdown behaviour has been noticeably improved - the round nose forgives unintentional water contact generously without slowing down too much. If you are an ambitious freestyler and prefer a board with less volume, you will automatically end up with the F-Winger (55/66/77 litres), but the X-Winger 88 is also perfect for freestyle moves. Due to its low weight, it rotates nimbly through the air, and the dipping behaviour is also very forgiving.
JP X-Winger - the conclusion:
The JP X-Winger is a convincing all-round wingboard for freeriding, waves and even freestyle tricks. If you are not focussing on jumps and freestyle, you should also consider the IPR version, which is significantly cheaper at 1299 euros.
Touchdown behaviour; long box
