Windsurf Magazine FSW 94 (2006) Another winner

25th Oct 2005 @ 11:53:48 AM

At a Glance:
The 94 is an all-new shape for 2006, replacing the 90 of last season. Ten centimetres shorter than its predecessor, it has a very eye-catching and attractive design, seeing elements attributed for both disciplines. Holding a fair amount of width in its shoulders, it then adopts a particularly curved outline leading to a narrow rounded tail-shape, before ending in a raised spoiler tail. The deck is domed in the rear and plays home to RRD’s superb dual density deckpads that provide masses of comfort and incorporate raised-ridges, against which the rider can lock their heels and drive more power into the board. Finished with RRD’s usual attention to detail, including a polished hull, it was the lightest board on test here at just 6.55kg.

Ride and Handling

Tracking well at idle, the FSW94 responds well once the power comes on and releases onto the plane smoothly, demanding very little concentration or input from the rider. Accelerating to an impressive speed, it feels lively yet composed underfoot, efficiently absorbing any extra power from the sail and translating it into momentum. With a wide wind and user range, it can compliment any rider style, equally happy being loaded and driven forcefully around a break, or being sailed at half speed in a more manoeuvreoriented role. Once again RRD’s fittings must take credit for much of the board’s comfort, the pads absorbing much of the harsh impact of chop, whilst the straps are easy to adjust and provide excellent support. Exciting yet easy to sail on any sea state, the FSW94 will find favour across a broad spectrum of rider styles and abilities.

Manoeuvres:

Used around a break, the FSW94 is very accomplished on the wave face, displaying great versatility in the manner in which it turns in. Carving either off the front or back-foot, it feels much smaller underfoot than its volume suggests and could bite with real aggression if pushed. With a definite leaning toward carving manoeuvres on the wave, it is nonetheless also capable in a freestyle role, popping well and sliding predictably on its nose, although requiring a higher level of technique than some of the more freestyle specialist designs in this group. As such it has masses of user appeal, but is particularly suited to the heavier sailor as their light wind wave machine.

For: Superb versatility, wide wind range and masses of user appeal.
Against: It may not appeal to those that like a sharp hard ride!

Verdict

The FSW94 is in effect a large wave board, with the ease of use, liveliness and versatility to endear it to any rider weight, style or ability. A fantastic all-round contender, it has masses of range and can be used confidently on any sea state.