2014 RRD FREESTYLE WAVE V3 LIMITED 106L TEST REVIEW REPORT

THE LOW-DOWN

New for 2014 RRD have stretched the outlines of their FSW range, added nose scoop and evened-out the volume distribution. All sizes feature MFC Freewave G10 powerbox single fins. (32-cm model supplied with 106)

BRAND CLAIM
‘As the trend of wave boards shapes keeps going towards multi-fin hulls, RRD has preferred to retain a “classic”, reliable and fast planing single fin board line that would be suited for those who wish for a “do it all” type of short board. The new Freestyle Wave boards, Version 3, are four new simple, refined, retuned shapes that will cover the whole range of use of this program … V3 overall shaping changes have produced a board that is even faster, more maneuverable and easier to control in rough water.’ (sic.)

PERFORMANCE
Continuing with the overall trend in this category, this 106 actually feels like an even bigger board, almost like a 115, but once up-and-running it performs like an 100-litre board.  As soon as you jump on you feel the comfy pads and a nice ride with a good, modern, up-on-your toes progressive stance that will urge you to hunt down waves and chuck yourself into moves. The float off the plane is not only handy and helpful in lending confidence for those learning to manoeuvre in marginal conditions, or master those low-wind tacks and schlogging techniques – but also helps make this 106 an extremely early planer.

Upwind performance is also strong, but it’s the carving nature that drew the biggest compliments.We think that’s mostly because the outline is nicely balanced nose-to-tail in comparison tosome of the ‘nosier’ boards you might encounter, especially in wave boards of similar volume. Nearly everyone noted that the carve