| We simply designed the new Kona 11 '5" around the parameters of our most popular board with the exact measurements of 350 x 70 cm. Not only familiar dimensions, but we also kept the step tail and outline of the very successful Kona ONE So far the boards are identical, but in order to create the light wind wave riding beast we were looking for, we slimmed down the volume by 50 liters, making the board a lot thinner and reworked the rails similar to short sailboards. Changing the rails was essential to increase grip through turns and enhance "cruising capabilities" in long wave rides. Being a big board, but still capable of executing instant turns, will amaze any rider. Big surf in light conditions, is adding a new dimension to windsurfing, as you do not have to wait for wind to go out and shred the big rollers. The Kona 11 '5" has enough volume to carry heavy sailors in all kind of conditions. Long boards make wave sailing look easy...and it truly is!! Easy to get off the beach, easy to go through white water and beach breaks and most of all; easy to take off on a wave without rig power. You feel the board respond and glide as soon as you catch it. To ensure super smooth rides, the 11 '5" is equipped with Double Density Shock Absorbers (DDSA) beneath the foot straps and the long half deck monopad is adding great comfort when using it as a surf or paddle board. The board is built to the highest standards in full wrap sandwich technology for extra stiffness and low weight. Due to the light, playful feel it felt responsive and could be controlled easily through foot steering and rig positioning. Tacking was easy as the board steered easily up into the wind, both on and off the plane. Gybing both on and off the plane was effortless as well and the board was very responsive but with plenty of stability and room to place your feet. For riding the 11 "5 was made for this....a delight light and responsive, smooth in bottom turns with thin rails for precision, and the wide nose whipped round well in top turn. A responsive and beautifully finished wave-oriented longboard, with enough volume for lighter intermediates to use, and with wave performance on tap for experts. Wind Magazine, 08.07 (11 "5) * Excellent surfing board in stand up paddle mode....much easier to wave ride than other board brands... * ...light weight, superb planing,..fast in free ride mode... |