RRDFREESTYLEWAVE95

T: +44 (0)121 288 9965 (UK)T: +34 922 179 401 (Tenerife)

W: www.otc-windsurf.comE: info@otc-windsurf.com

• RRD have extended the Freestyle Wave range significantly for 2008, going from five to eight models in the range, increasing in 5L increments from 80 to 115L.

• The 95 is the fourth smallest therefore, and it would be interesting to see how they have altered the design of one of the most popular boards in 2007.

• Slightly shorter than its predecessor, the width remains the same. It is said to have been made narrower in the nose and tail and possess a more rounded outline.

• All the Freestyle Wave boards are available in either LTD version (full custom sandwich including the use of glass, wood and Technora) as the one tested here, or the slightly heavier single shot X-48 wood sandwich. The way to distinguish the two is that the Wood version has whiter graphics.

• Like the Wave Cults, the fittings on the Freestyle Waves are excellent – the Da Kine straps are comfortable and supportive and last a lot longer than their white nylon predecessors; the deckpads seem more hardwearing without being abrasive on bare feet and provide good adhesion to the board. They also include the double density shock absorbers, although aren’t countersunk into the deck as on the Wave Cults. And finally the 29cm G10 MFC fin supplied is of the highest quality.

• The bottom shape of the 95 is similar to that of the Wave Cults, with vee throughout, only tempered by slight double concave between the shoulders and the mast track.

• The FSW 95 has a very similar nature to the 95 of last year, which was undoubtedly one of the best received boards in The OTC last year.

• Safe and predictable at rest, it planes progressively, riding cleanly and smoothly over chop.

• In the straps it feels incredibly comfortable and secure – the deckpads giving the board a very soft ride with measured feedback. It’s as if you have just spent all your money on the best suspension system money can buy!

• An observation that is more obvious now that the Wave Cult’s dual density heel cushions are receded into the board – on the FSW they aren’t and so the extra padding actually raises the heels of your feet up. The makes the boards respond a bit quicker as the deck is a little flatter, but some found it a little

uncomfortable on the ankle after prolonged use.

• Nevertheless, this is still one of the best crossover designs on the market for recreational users – safe, confidence building and retains its manners in any conditions. Has an adaptable versatile character and suits any rider style - can be sailed at any speed from half speed with upright stance, to fully cranking and loading it.

• Good feedback by the fin to push against and release the board well. In freestyle mode it could do with a smaller one.

• On the wave it can turn off the front foot a bit more this year – turning back up the wave face smoothly without stalling.

Suitability: A real confidence builder for the progressing sailor getting into high wind conditions. Safe, smooth and comfortable.

+ Smooth, early planing, comfortable to sail and fun...and did we say smooth?!- Expert riders would be craving more direct feedback.

Safe, practical, and confidence building, the FSW 95 remains a great all-rounder that will flatter most riders and provide the comfort to tackle the most confused conditions.

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THEVERDICT

The Official Test CentreWindsurf Holidays. With Purpose

El Médano, Tenerife

What is The OTC?CONCEPTThe OTC is a unique windsurfing centre offering the first real opportunity for you to compare the boards and sails from each major brand for yourself … and all in the relaxed atmosphere of a holiday environment. It was the brainchild of Tris Best, who, acknowledging the privileged position he was in whilst testing all the latest windsurfing equipment for magazines, wanted to extend the same opportunity to a wider audience.

EQUIPMENTThe centre stocks the very latest equipment from all the major board and sail manufacturers, including:

Boards: F2, Fanatic, Goya, JP Australia, Mistral, Naish, RRD, Starboard, Tabou, Witchcraft

Sails: Ezzy, Gaastra, Neil Pryde, Naish, North Sails, Severne, Simmer, Tushingham

From wave to freestyle and crossover, into the expansive realms of freeride, almost every discipline and equipment category is represented, catering for all rider styles and abilities.

LOCATIONThe centre is situated in the town of El Médano on the island of Tenerife just ten minutes transfer from Reina Sofia Airport in the south. With an average air temperature of 22 degrees Celsius, the OTC is open throughout the year, and benefits from three fantastic windsurfing areas to cater for every windsurfing ability and preference.

South Bay is a true windsurfer’s playground ideal for intermediates and above, providing a large bump-and-jump sailing area with the added benefit of having a safe, enclosed sandy beach.

The Harbour Wall is easily accessible from the centre, and offers a clean smooth face at the right tide state. A good introduction to wave riding for the uninitiated, it is a great deal of fun to ride, with the added security of a safe exit channel within easy reach at all times.

Cabezo is the northern most bay of the town, which, with its typical European cross-onshore conditions provides the ideal test arena for wave and crossover equipment. Hosting World Tour events in the past, the sailing standard in the bay is awe-inspiring and is sure to captivate even the non-windsurfer’s imagination.

THE CENTREContained in a modern building directly on the beachfront of South Bay, the centre caters for a limited number of clients each week, ensuring every opportunity to try the desired kit.

WIND STATISTICSBoasting over 250 days of planing conditions (force four and above) a year, El Médano is Tenerife’s primary windsurfing location and is well exposed to the influence of the Atlantic, offering some of the most consistent conditions found in the Canarian archipelago.

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I can’t recommend the OTC enough. While I was there I tried about 8 boards and quite a lot of sails. The range of kit and the lads who run the place are just brilliant.

Ken Morton iwindsurf.co.uk Forum

T: +44 (0)121 288 9965 (UK)T: +34 922 179 401 (Tenerife)

W: www.otc-windsurf.comE: info@otc-windsurf.com

The Official Test CentreWindsurf Holidays. With Purpose

El Médano, Tenerife

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The OTC.