Boards UK
September 2006
::2007 RRD Freestyle Wave 78::
This is the smallest of the '07 range of RRDs fast-tail all-rounders that have done so well in our tests over the past couple of years. The fundamental style of performance remains very much the same as last year, but a couple of design elements have undergone considerable change. The nose widths have been upped noticeably and the vee has been increased a lot. At the same time, the rocker appears to have been flattened slightly in the tail but raised slightly towards the nose.
On the water: Compared to the previeous FSWs, the 78 feels quite big with its extra nose width and is very stable. It's now an extrememly early planning board for its size. The extra vee makes a relatively high grip board that is extremely easy to sail, good upwind and very easy to steer off the back foot.
Though fast, it's a board that gets to speed early and holds that speed well rather than a real racer. Nevertheless, it allows you to charge around the break or swell picking off jumps at will. Gybing performance is excellent since it grips very will yet will tighten up and still exit really fast.
The short length and good carving make it very nippy and agile and a great board for high adrenbaline quick action. Therefore, although very controllable, it does become a bit frantic (fast and bouncy) in stronger winds.
Backside riding is very good and frontside is OK. It lets you keep speed, get into position brilliantly and turn quickly and reliably even if it's certainly not the loosest on the wave.
Freestyle suitability is particularly good this year with the extra stability in the nose.
Fittings: The fin seemed very suitable though we are a bit disappointed that RRD have gone over from Powerbox fittings to classic. The straps can twist a bit and seem to wear quickly but are very comfy. the deckpads are super-comfortable and a very positive feature.
Popularity: An extremely popular board with two or three testers and well liked by most.
Overall: Another classic fast-tail all-rounder from RRD. The changes seem to make it even more versatile and easier than previous years' boards, if perhaps a little bigger in relation to the volume. This year's 78 doesn't feel all that much smaller than last year's 85. The extra vee has perhaps cost a little looseness in the waves but for freeride, jumping and freestyle it's just as good or better and only the snobbiest of the waveheads would call it too stiff to waveride. Best suited as a medium wind coastal board or wave-slalom / all-rounder for light to medium weight sailors (65-75kg) with 4.7-5.7 sails (best with 5.2/5.5).
Windsurf Magazine
January 2006
::2007 RRD Freestyle Wave 78::
Test location: Gorge
Test sessions: 3
Length: 238 cm
Width: 56 cm
Volume: 78 Liters
robertoriccidesigns.com
Impressions on the water
Lightweight – noticeable the moment I picked it up
Well balanced underfoot for slogging and transitions
Planing was smooth and predictable
LOVED the heel pads – good mix of comfort and feedback underfoot
Carving – felt smooth and controlled; could really dig into swells
Speed – it's there, though it took more coaxing than Mistral
Freestyle – had the control and comfort right away to try maneuvers
RRD FSW 78 versus Mistral Beast 76: A tough showdown, as both offer similar performance. Props go to the RRD for its controlled carving and freestyle comfort, though some of that was a hollow victory – the Mistral felt a bit faster and, as a result, freestyle and carving swells weren't on the brain. RRD's comfortable heel pads were flat-out winners, as was its mix of speed and maneuverability.
RRD FSW 78 versus Naish Global Wave 78: The RRD's more traditional outline wins for comfort while slogging, and for its smooth transition onto a plane. The Naish, however, planes sooner and faster – though its all-or-nothing burst to speed requires more skilled riders than the RRD. The Naish won me over in outright carving, but the RRD was a close second.
More on the RRD FSW 78: It challenged the carving performance of the Naish and the speed of the Mistral – no easy task. That's why I felt the RRD's best attribute was its easy-going mix of speed, comfort and maneuverability. There's nothing it won't do, and there's nothing it won't do well.
Buyer beware: I can't think of any real purchasing pitfall, other than that RRD's "wow" factor was that it did a lot things well, without doing any one of them exceptionally.
Bottom line: If you're someone who likes bump and jump, waves and freestyle riding equally, this is a great option. It truly balances it all, without sacrificing much of anything to one area. It's also a great fit for novice high-wind sailors, as its smooth easy-going ride welcomes all abilities and gives them ample room to grow.
: check out the specs :
