This year RRD split their range between the bigger Cult range (the stubbies) and the smaller Cult HC (hardcore) waveboards (narrower trad style with single concave), with this 75L size being the only crossover where both styles are available. This year’s 75 Cult is longer and narrower in both nose and tail than last year’s 77, making it much more of a compromise shape. The other notable difference over last year’s board is the substantial reduction in vee.

On the Water:

The Cult was widely acknowledged as one of the earliest planing and easiest of the waveboards to get up and running.The mild rocker, decent grip and (still) relatively wide tail mean that it’s stable and secure but quick to accelerate. It is smooth to blast, being lively without feeling skittish. It was therefore one of the more rewarding boards for heading out through the break, easy to get to speed, hold on line, take upwind and carve into jumps on. It was widely commended for its gybing, able to take both a tight and wide arc, giving every possibility of carrying speed even in difficult conditions. Although innately a controllable board, its rocker and width suit it more to 4.5-5.5m than really strong winds with 5.0-5.3m being its best match size. Although not as loose and ungoverned as some on a wave it is very easy to keep speed with and responsive enough to give good riding in small to medium onshore conditions, yet small enough to not be too bouncy in larger, faster waves. Fittings:The G10 fin, comfy straps and very comfortable recessed pads make an excellent package.

Popularity:

Very popular with the guesters who found it a flattering board to sail. Almost as popular with the majority of testers due to its enjoyable ride and versatility.

Overall:

A very popular board that seems highly suitable for UK conditions and the average UK sailor being well balanced between riding, going out and overall control, and slightly biassed towards onshore conditions too. Compared to the 77 of last year it seems not quite so attached and controlled but freer and looser on a wave and a little bit smaller. We can strongly recommend it as an all-rounder for medium to heavier sailors (75-90kg) or the larger of two waveboards formediumto lighter sailors (65-80kg).