| The 32.5-inch-wide Star Board Go is a good freeride board. It’s big, stable, quick to plane and pretty fast. In fact, we reviewed it along with other big freeride boards in our last issue. So why review it again? Why call it an all-around board this time?
The answer lies in the Go’s optional light-wind fin package. It includes a short, wide tail fin in place of the 22-inch blade that normally comes with the Go, which permits the Go to be used in shallow water. It also includes two asymmetrical fins that screw onto each side of the board just a bit behind the mast track. Called Stabilizers (misleading because the fins don’t affect the board’s stability), these side fins provide the board with good upwind ability in light air. In fact, a Go equipped with side fins can match or beat the speed of a number of centerboard-equipped boards.
Given its wide, foam-covered, uncluttered deck to learn on, most novices will find it refreshing. Unfortunately, the Go has only 176 liters of volume, which means it’s ideal only for lightweights to learn on. However, for its combination of good light-air performance and good freeride speed, the Go is a compelling option for just about anyone. |
