Skate
Name: Norbert Jandl (NORBY)
FBC Center: Big Blue Surf Center - KOS
Favourite Board: SKATE 98 (2009)
Why? I have been riding exclusively with the Skate for the last 5 years and have seen the shape evolving with the sport and all the new tricks being created. Every year a new toy and every year a lot of new moves and challenges, that’s what it is all about ! The Skate has always been very stable, while still turning really nicely, which are two necessary qualities in a good freestyle board. Overall, it also gets on the plane with ease and likes to jump - the pop it delivers has always been one of the finest and makes the board fun and performance for all types of freestylers! On top of this, it is good in both light and strong wind, so yes, unless real waves pick up, you really only need one board for the whole summer here in Kos.
I really feel the improvements compared with last year’s model – it’s more action-oriented and easier for New School tricks, whilst turning much better and delivering a faster ride. Speed has become increasingly crucial for advanced freestyle manoeuvre combinations, Gollito is the best example of that ! The double screw on the back strap is a real problem solved. I work my straps hard on my freestyle moves and last year I sometimes had problems with the one screw coming out. Added bonus is that the board feels smaller this year, so you can get more radical if you feel like it.
Favourite Move: One handed flaka
Best Wind: 25 knots
Ideal Sail: 4.7-5,4 Duke
Trim Tips: I like to put my mast foot a little more forward – then the board goes upwind easier and less pressure at the back makes tricks easier (sliding). For advanced freestyle on the new Skate it’s recommendable to put a smaller fin ….
View more information about this board.
Review By:
Name : Norbert Jandl
Job : Chief Instructor Windsurf
Nationality : Hungarian
Languages : Hungarian, German, English
