Last year we tested the 83L version of the same range and found it very similar – though obviously a bit bigger – to the 74 tested here. On the water: Underwater it goes from vee in the tail, flattening to become single concave forward of the front straps. Although short at 231cm the MWX 74 feels sleek with a relatively narrow nose and tail. It is small, probably best with 5.0m and below, although with its relatively quick rockerline it planes up early for its size, and did allow some good sessions with 5.2/5.3m. It is enjoyable to blast around on, feeling alive and dynamic yet controllable, and it’s very easy to gybe, giving a smooth turn and exiting with plenty of speed. The combination of positive grip, good speed and generous nose rocker make it a very satisfying jumping board. In the waves it felt reliable, easy and nicely loose. While compared to many of the other boards in the test it is a bit less slashy, tight turning and a bit stiffer off the top, it does keep speed well for its size and feels secure in the bottom turn.

Fittings:

The pads, straps and fin are all of good quality (though the fin is about to get an upgrade) and the board itself, one of a select few on the market not to come out of the Cobra factory, looks very classy. We had a problem with the screwless, breather valve on the test board but this would be a simple warranty issue.

Overall:

A very accessible waveboard all-rounder with a lively and pleasant feel. It ticks all the boxes, cruising with comfort and control, giving good jumping performance, fast, easy gybing and loose and satisfying riding that is slightly biassed towards bigger waves and cross-shore winds but is loose and fast enough to be fun in smaller onshore as well. We can strongly recommend it for all abilities and most UK venues. In this size it will probably best suit sailors of below about 72kg unless partnered with a larger wave or freestyle-wave board.