Kiteworld Magazine | The original international kitesurfing magazine

Airush Compact 2016 review test kiteworld magazine issue 81

TEST TEAM NOTES

We rode the Flytech model, which is the most basic construction that this board comes in, featuring a lightweight EPS foam core with high-density veneer reinforcements underfoot, making it both light and durable (but not as light as the more expensive Active carbon options). The honeycomb fins and low key graphics alongside the matt, almost brushed carbon-esque finish, exude quality.

Two testers had quite contrasting experiences because the Compact is a very full shape, designed to be ridden a couple of inches smaller than a normal board. Jim is light at 70 kilos, whereas Matt is over 90, and in the windy Cape Town conditions Matt was much more comfortable on the 5’9”. Skipping around a bit underfoot in bigger, windy waves for Jim, he found the width quite a lot to contend with and had to work hard to really bite through turns.

Matt however had a riot! The simple squash tail offering loads of snap off the top of the wave, while also putting in nice, tight turns without hanging up in all sorts of wave sizes.

Matt on the water

The general shape is reasonably wide and the Compact feels quite voluminous towards the front of the board – we’ve tried smaller versions in years gone by and found them to be a beautiful mix for riding with or without much kite power, aided by a nice pulled in tail for powered, tight carves, too. This year the Compact is right at home when working with the wave’s power. Spritely and light on the wave, if you ride with a wide stance you can exert good pressure over the rail.

Rail to rail it’s pretty smooth but it’s not lightning quick and if you’re smaller, or you like riding with kite power you might wish for the speed and accuracy of a slightly ‘gunnier’ board like the Converse. However, there’s good pace upwind thanks to pretty straight rails and in the correct size you’ll hold down power effectively while also benefitting from the Compact’s undoubted high-performance tuning. No doubt at its most comfortable in waist high to just over head high waves, the Compact is super playful yet assured, allowing you to edge the fins out at the top of the wave while the accentuated nose rocker makes for good hacking without digging the nose in, even in short, steep waves.

The Compact offers a great combination for riders looking to ride in a really natural surf style, while the stable platform is very easy to gybe on and has excellent upwind ability. Choose a size or two down and you’ll really enjoy this board on onshore or cross-shore conditions as the board’s natural volume and drive really helps it carry its own speed through slower sections when underpowered, in light or gusty winds.