This 80L size, said to be Robby’s board of choice, is a brand new shape for ’08, though it fits comfortably into the existing range with no large-scale changes in design. The Pro Wave is the ‘pure wave’ range and Naish also produce the faster, flatter Global waveboards to complement these more high wind and riding-biassed ProWaves.

On the Water:

With a fairly narrow nose and tail the ProWave has a noticeably ‘trad’ feel to it, and at a quoted 80L was clearly one of the larger feeling boards on test here. It planes reasonably early if you avoid sinking the narrowish tail, and once going accelerates well with a very direct, slightly hard but edgy and fast feel. There is a slight nervousness to it that can either be interpreted as twitchiness or instant manoeuvrability, depending on your mood and ability. It goes out through the break well with good tracking and grip for decent jumping. It bites well in the gybe providing very fast exits for a waveboard. It was one of the harder boards to master in choppy waves, and definitely better at more drawn out turns than close quarters, snappy action. On bigger waves we got some great rides on it, finding it very smooth yet responsive with plenty of float.

Fittings:

The fin seemed to suit the board well, and the straps and pads are slightly harder than the majority giving a very direct attachment that is well suited to use with wetsuit boots.

Popularity:

While not a great hit with the guesters, it was quite well liked by the majority of testers.

Overall:

Although not the most relaxing or accessible board, the ProWave proved a good all-rounder that is fast and exciting and adept at both jumping and riding, preferring slightly faster, more drawn-out action than many of the stubbier planshapes. It’s an uncompromising board that delivers best when sailed positively and agressively in proper waves. It’s a good weight carrier and we would recommend it as a decent ‘one board’ all-rounder for the more proficient medium to medium-heavyweight (75- 85kg) wavesailor.