RRD have been expanding their popular FSW range every year, and 2008 sees 8 boards in 5L spacings up to 115L. RRD comes with excellent DaKine straps, a G10 MFC 28cm powerbox fin and soft pads with raised gel cushions sitting under the rider’s feet. Two different constructions are available; glass/wood or a lighter carbon-kevlar construction tested here. The FSW retains its striking graphics, with the carbon showing through the thin paint layer on the deck. As with all the FSW range, the outline is very rounded, although RRD have narrowed the nose and tail from last year.
Ride and Handling :
The FSW is very stable and planes early, with the width and inboard footstraps options allowing the rider to step back easily. The ride is comfortable with excellent control over chop with the deckpads taking harshness out of the ride yet still retaining a good level of feedback. The relaxed nature of the ride makes the RRD a great board for just cruising
along, but is capable of a good turn of speed if driven hard. For jumping it feels light and corky, easy to pop or launch off waves.
Manoeuvres:
The RRD is a very easy board to initiate carves on, turning immediately with rider input and providing an excellent level of control. It doesn’t turn super-tightly, but the tail provides plenty of support throughout the arc to flatter the rider. In waves again the FSW is very easy to use and forgiving of mistakes and tentative riders who tend sit back on the tail. There is plenty of volume upfront to aid when tacking, and also provide a stable slide backwards for freestyle.
Target:
Ease of use and all-round ability are the FSW’s strongest points, making it suited to 1st time riders and experienced sailors wanting a predicable board that will let them concentrate on their sailing. With great handling in the waves as well as good bump and jump and carving performance and potential for freestyle, the RRD FSW is one of the most capable all round boards, with plenty of performance for everybody but the most radical wave or freestyle sailors.
