Future 155 or iSonic 150

[Jared]

Kevin,

I'm super excited about this year's Starboard board line up!! Here's my quick question . . .

Which board would be better for me, the Futura 155 or the iSonic 150?

I am an intermediate windsurfer. I am hoping to move closer to becoming more expert this summer, and taking my windsurfing to a much higher level. I weigh 240 pounds (109 kg). I have sailed mostly formula or formula-style boards (Bic Techno Formula and Bic Nova - 170 to 180 liters of volume).

I want to begin sailing fast with bigger sails, doing small jumps (hopefully), and work on quicker, better and smoother jibing and turning.

1. Will I still be able to uphaul either the iSonic 150 or the Futura 155 with 100% flotation/buoyancy?

2. Will I still be able to take one of these boards out in all conditions (very light winds to high winds)? I am married with 2 kids and work full time, so I go windsurfing whenever I can, regardless of the quality of the wind/weather.

3. Also, will both of these boards go upwind well, and not just beam reaching?

Thanks so much for your help! You and your brother are amazing windsurfers and I enjoy reading your columns in Windsurfing magazine!!

- Jared

[Jared]

Hi Kevin,

I know you must be super busy, but if you get time, I'd love an answer to my post, so that I can have some guidance before I make my board purchase.

Have a great summer of windsurfing!

- Jared

[AlexWind]

Hi, I know you're waiting for Kevin's reply but meanwhile I can try to give you some tips (just to let your post up ok? :-) )

If I were you I'd chose the Futura 155. It's a great board, very fast and I think it'll satisfy all your needs..
I think both iS and Futura would anyway give you the chance to uphaull.
Futura will give you the chance of some more jumping, and has a less technical ride to improve in jibing and a longer nose for better tacks.. (it helps..).
In stronger winds.. I dunno, with boards of this size (wide 85 for Futura and 93 for iS) it depends on rider skill and water conditions.. Maybe Futura is a bit more confortable for being narrower and less technical..
For reaching upwind, both are quite good, it depends on fin you're putting on..

Hope this helps! Bye!

[Kevin Pritchard]

I agree with Alex. I woud go with the Futura. It is designed just for what you are describing. Some small jumps some progressive stuff, go for it I think you will enjoy!