I’ve been riding some of the new 2008 Spleene Boards: 34 Rip, 38 Rip, 54 Door, 39 Session. The construction is very different from last year and the feel of the boards is different as well. At first I was not sure if I liked them as much as the 2007 boards (which were a little more flexible throughout the length of the board) but I am now really liking the new feel, which is mostly due to the dampening effect of a thin wood core. They feel so solid! I think the boards are even better with respect to early planing and upwind performance. And the finish is beautiful…very simple and clean looking. Improved pads and straps also allow for really good adjustment for all foot sizes, and super secure grip. If you want to purchase or demo a board please track me down.
For the past few weeks I have been spending a lot of time riding the new Spleene ZONE directional board. This board is a completely different ride than any other board I have owned. It took a little time to really dial it in, but it goes upwind almost as well as the Session 141, but requires some work and concentration at first – and of course good toe-side technique. While this board can be ridden in light conditions it takes a whole different technique. It’s very important to keep the board moving, not edging too hard when losing power, and also picking your way carefully thru chop to avoid being slowed.
If you are looking for any new gear this year I encourage you to take a close look at the RRD Kites and Spleene Boards.
I recently decided to sell (only) this gear because it performs so well. There is a lot of good gear out there now, but I feel these products are exceptional. I’ve been using the Spleene boards for teaching and riding for over a year now and like them more and more. I recently began using the Hypertypes and I am thrilled with their performance.