The custom FX that Braly is paddling looks to have less rocker than the production version, perhaps? He's standing slightly ahead of the handle but the tail still looks as if it is firmly in the water rather than in perfect trim. But it's hard to tell from just one pic of course.

And is the FX on the roofrack really pointing it's nose in the air, or is it just the angle of the photo?

It's just the weird angle brought on by my poor photograhic skills Area10.
It was a quick shot as I walked back to the car after picking up the board.
You can see the accentuated tail rocker though, from just forward of the white/red stripe.
This really stands if you look at the board at eye level.
At home I have it in a floating rack with my F16 directly above it. I thought of you when I noticed the difference in tail rockers of both boards. I'll take a shot and post it for you.
This should get us at least one more page of frivolous banter!
25c and 5 knots forecast today - Nozza has given me odds about skiving off work early to get a paddle in...

Another Big Winds video. Clearly favors the Allstar. TJ is just gushing about it and says that it was unanimous among the 5 or so "testers". Not a lot to say about the FX. Seems to like the Bullet better. I know it was a best seller for them in 2015. Time will tell if there is any bias here. I know that this FX is my favorite board so far. Hopefully, I will get a chance to test an Allstar next weekend at Carolina Cup to see what all the fuss is about. I have never ridden ANY Starboard boards. I will try to remember to wear my Garmin GPS watch and post up my impressions.

http://www.bigwinds.com/sup-downwind

In all fairness Rideordi, it was a downwind test only.. The comments he made about the FX was that it was "technical" to downwind.. Which makes sense given the full on conditions, and that the FX is not designed as a downwind board. I'm guessing it's hard rails are pretty grabby in any reflected waves coming in on the quarter.. And that lots of movement by the paddler is required given the minimal nose rocker.. . Thus "technical".

I do think that there may be some conditions bias here. I have not paddled "The Gorge", but that is where the testing took place. I can tell you that the FX is much faster and easier to ride downwind than my X 14 Pro, my X 14 or my Glide V 2. This video did not sound like test results, but more like a vendor presenting what he had to sell. Even so, it seemed pretty clear that everyone really liked the Allstar. I will keep watching for more reviews.

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Rideordie said..
I do think that there may be some conditions bias here. I have not paddled "The Gorge", but that is where the testing took place. I can tell you that the FX is much faster and easier to ride downwind than my X 14 Pro, my X 14 or my Glide V 2. This video did not sound like test results, but more like a vendor presenting what he had to sell. Even so, it seemed pretty clear that everyone really liked the Allstar. I will keep watching for more reviews.

Your third sentence is all I need to hear.. ... Perfect. I agree it was a blatant sales pitch, but it's a start.. Apparently BigWinds will post a more "comprehensive " review on their blog..

Two shops (101surfsports & Bigwinds) that sell SIC and Starboard have both made very similar comments for reviews in regards to the FX and Allstar in downwind conditions, stating the FX requires more attention and the Allstar is easier as conditions get rougher. This is for both the 12'6" and 14' boards now. At this point, I don't think it's coincidence or pure bias. Too many accounts saying the same things now for the Allstar being a really comfortable board in rough conditions. Paddleboard specialists also put up a comparison video for the Vapor and the FX, stating that the FX requires more attention and footwork compared to the Vapor. The test states the Vapor seems to push a bit more water than the FX on the flats. Pick your poison. The comments make sense given the board shapes.

I don't think these comments reflect poorly on the FX at all, because the reviews also state the FX is a competent board in conditions and a lot of fun, but it just requires a bit more movement and attention as it gets rougher. 101 surfsports also states while the Allstar is easier to use in DW conditions, and would probably be faster for most, an advanced rider would likely be faster on the FX, so some may prefer the FX once they get comfortable on the board. It's all subjective, but once again given the board shapes, I'm not really surprised much by these comments from owners and shop staff. The FX has much sharper rails for most of the boards length, and a more defined/leaner/sharper nose entry, whereas the Allstar has more rounded rails and a much more rounded nose, with more volume up front, and concaves underneath to help with stability.

The Allstar may be a bit more user friendly in rough conditions, but I'm not really seeing a loser in these reviews and paddler comments at all. Those who like the Allstar, really seem to like it as an all conditions board, but the FX gets big time praise too and came out ahead in certain categories for the 12'6" test 101surfsports did. Bigwinds and 101surfsports also mention the high price of the carbon Allstar as a downside, so the FX is the better bargain if you are looking for a lighter board that is capable in multiple conditions.

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Rideordie said..
Another Big Winds video. Clearly favors the Allstar. TJ is just gushing about it and says that it was unanimous among the 5 or so "testers". Not a lot to say about the FX. Seems to like the Bullet better. I know it was a best seller for them in 2015. Time will tell if there is any bias here. I know that this FX is my favorite board so far. Hopefully, I will get a chance to test an Allstar next weekend at Carolina Cup to see what all the fuss is about. I have never ridden ANY Starboard boards. I will try to remember to wear my Garmin GPS watch and post up my impressions.

http://www.bigwinds.com/sup-downwind

In the previous, FX vs Allstar, flatwater test they said they expected the FX to be turn due to the kick in the tail.

Tables turned.

Yes, they clearly were excited about the AllStar for DWs. Those rocked chines on the AllStar seem to be working when turning the board. That’s exactly what I was waiting to hear. I had Cobra windsurf boards with similar rocketed chines around flat center channels and it turned on a dime yet well straight nicely too.

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Helmy said..
It's just the weird angle brought on by my poor photograhic skills Area10.
It was a quick shot as I walked back to the car after picking up the board.
You can see the accentuated tail rocker though, from just forward of the white/red stripe.
This really stands if you look at the board at eye level.
At home I have it in a floating rack with my F16 directly above it. I thought of you when I noticed the difference in tail rockers of both boards. I'll take a shot and post it for you.
This should get us at least one more page of frivolous banter!
25c and 5 knots forecast today - Nozza has given me odds about skiving off work early to get a paddle in...

Report and photos due

I tried the 2015 All Star in upwind/DW smallish conditions (around 20 knots and 1-2ft swell) and was struck by how good it was upwind. It was pretty decent downwind as well, even though I thought that the previous years' model kinda sucked downwind. So why didn't I buy one? Well, the graphics and fit and finish of the All Stars just can't match those of eg. SIC or Jimmy Lewis. They just don't look like they are worth what you pay for them IMO. They are not objects of beauty that you'll want to admire on the rack. But I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I just wish Starboard could make them beautiful as well as effective.

Big Winds did seem hugely keen on the Bullet V2. I'm surprised actually. I have one, and it is indeed really great in smaller stuff downwind (surfs very well too). But you can find conditions where it doesn't work quite so well. So I guess that the conditions that Big Winds face are just right for the Bullet V2. It makes sense that if you only DW in one location then you'd end up really liking a board that worked well there. Maybe the same is true of the All Star. I've yet to ride a board that works in *all* conditions downwind (although the Bark Vapor is pretty close).

So I don't think that those who've stumped up for a FX need worry that they should have bought an All Star. The All Star is probably aimed at a more general audience, hence the reason why the FX is called the "FX Pro". And I'm quite sure that there will be conditions where the FX outperforms the All Star. In the meantime, the FX *looks* better in all conditions :)

As if the graphics and paint scheme weren't bad enough, but calling a board the All Star? Really? Then putting "All Star" in big ass, cheeseball lettering near the tail. Brutal. The hybrid color scheme looks a bit better than the carbon, but SB can do much better.

Lol! You guys worry too much about looks. Take my 2014 JP surf sup......whoever designed the colours on that clearly has no taste and a headache but boy is it a fun ride...would never swap it.

Some SUPs look better than others that is for sure.....can't say many of these higher volumes nosed raceboards look nice but if they work great then I am a happy chappy.

i think the V2 is probably one of the most pleasing to the eye of SUPs......and the M14.....but then compare it to a nicely foiled custom longboard with great glassing and gloss finish....no comparison. SUPs are just more a functional bit of kit to me.....mostly mass produced. Just my thoughts of course.....like reviews....all have diff opinions.

(ps. Hope to pick up my new Allstar soon.....I won't agree with anyone who tells me it is cracking looking board......doesn't do it for me.....but it has **** loads of design into it which seems to be working well for the masses so hopefully for me too. It is a tad ugly....but if ugly works )

Area 10..... interesting you got to try one....those are exactly the conditions I hope to use it in.....and general coastal paddling for fitness. Save the DW days for real DW boards.

At the price these boards come at, I think appearance is relevant.
Helmy's FX 14, even though I have not even seen a photo of it (OK 0ne on top of the car) from the photos of the demo board, I got an "I just want one" feeling.
This is a board I have no interest in ever owning, or paddling, but it looks nice.

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Nozza said..
At the price these boards come at, I think appearance is relevant.
Helmy's FX 14, even though I have not even seen a photo of it (OK 0ne on top of the car) from the photos of the demo board, I got an "I just want one" feeling.
This is a board I have no interest in ever owning, or paddling, but it looks nice.

yup, I suppose what I am saying is that if a board was not the prettiest it wouldn't put me off buying it if I thought it was the right one. I can't get hugely excited about mass produced SUPs....just not the same feeling as getting a custom board made for you. The price of these top end carbon jobs are well silly.

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Slab said..

Nozza said..
At the price these boards come at, I think appearance is relevant.
Helmy's FX 14, even though I have not even seen a photo of it (OK 0ne on top of the car) from the photos of the demo board, I got an "I just want one" feeling.
This is a board I have no interest in ever owning, or paddling, but it looks nice.

yup, I suppose what I am saying is that if a board was not the prettiest it wouldn't put me off buying it if I thought it was the right one. I can't get hugely excited about mass produced SUPs....just not the same feeling as getting a custom board made for you. The price of these top end carbon jobs are well silly.

Call Charlie!!!

Ha haaaa.....got an Allstar to pick up.

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Nozza said..

Slab said..

Nozza said..
At the price these boards come at, I think appearance is relevant.
Helmy's FX 14, even though I have not even seen a photo of it (OK 0ne on top of the car) from the photos of the demo board, I got an "I just want one" feeling.
This is a board I have no interest in ever owning, or paddling, but it looks nice.

yup, I suppose what I am saying is that if a board was not the prettiest it wouldn't put me off buying it if I thought it was the right one. I can't get hugely excited about mass produced SUPs....just not the same feeling as getting a custom board made for you. The price of these top end carbon jobs are well silly.

Call Charlie!!!

I would definitely own an Allstar, but have always thought the paint scheme and graphics to be very ugly. This year's hybrid looks better than the carbon imo. With prices getting jacked up this year, I think appearance factors in more than usual for many buyers. With multiple rave reviews for the Allstar, I definitely fall into the function over fashion half of the crowd, but the FX is a beautiful board and looks to be the goods for paddling in varied conditions.

Throw up a ride report when you get a chance.

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Slab said..

Nozza said..
At the price these boards come at, I think appearance is relevant.
Helmy's FX 14, even though I have not even seen a photo of it (OK 0ne on top of the car) from the photos of the demo board, I got an "I just want one" feeling.
This is a board I have no interest in ever owning, or paddling, but it looks nice.

yup, I suppose what I am saying is that if a board was not the prettiest it wouldn't put me off buying it if I thought it was the right one. I can't get hugely excited about mass produced SUPs....just not the same feeling as getting a custom board made for you. The price of these top end carbon jobs are well silly.

Slab with the price of boards these days I think you have to also think about durability (as well as looks), and that is the point some are trying to make.
IMO the SIC carbon construction is far superior when it comes to knocks and durability c.f the brushed carbon.
I still own naish LE, DC 14, and have ridden a sic pro lite this season during our summer. And we race twice a week, close quarters technical with lots of mark roundings/ paddle and board hitting as per usual racing and I haven't had to repair the SIC once. Have seen others repairing their boards every week!

So it's not just about the looks ;) Go for durability if you are spending your hard earned cash (I am), as sup prices are just going crazy now!

Totally agree re durability.....

Did I mention the fin on the FX? It is an an 8.3 inch weedless carbon fiber, thin and light as a feather. More evidence of attention to detail.

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Rideordie said...
Did I mention the fin on the FX? It is an an 8.3 inch weedless carbon fiber, thin and light as a feather. More evidence of attention to detail.

The SIC weedless carbon 8.3" is a very good all-round fin IMO. I have two. I actually prefer the 7" version for most applications though. Less drag, but still does what it needs to do - surprisingly, for such a small fin. I've got two of the 7" ones too... That's how much I like them :)

The new SIC FX in front and the Bullet V2 coming into the flat after a DW race. Both 14ft.

Area10, the FX fin is the same shape as my X 14 Pro fin, but I believe the FX fin is carbon fiber. I also have the 7.3. The Fx fin is much lighter and thinner than either of those two. I like them both, but love the new light weight carbon one.

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Rideordie said...
Area10, the FX fin is the same shape as my X 14 Pro fin, but I believe the FX fin is carbon fiber. I also have the 7.3. The Fx fin is much lighter and thinner than either of those two. I like them both, but love the new light weight carbon one.

The fins I was referring to are carbon. Two of my SICs came with fibreglass fins, but my Bullet V2 14ft came with a carbon weedless 7". And then I bought some more. So now I have a fibreglass dagger type fin (came with my X14) that is pretty awful and picks up all the weed going, a fibreglass weedless 7" that came with my Bullet 14 V1, and four carbon weedless fins, 2x7" and 2x8.3" that I bought straight from the European SIC distributor.

I think it is appropriate that the FX came with the 8.3" carbon weedless. Mostly the 14ft boards are supposed to come with the 8.3" fins and the 12-6s with the 7" fins. So I suspect that I have not been sent the correct fins with any of my three SICs (which are all 14s and all came with small fins). But in fact this has turned out to be a happy co-incidence because I probably wouldn't have tried the 7" fins otherwise because I'd have thought them too small for 14fters. But in fact it turns out that I like the 7" fins better than the 8.3" ones in everything except "Victory at Sea" conditions.

You can buy the carbon weedless fins that came with your FX separately from SIC. They've been on sale for a couple of years now. As I say, they are a very good all-round fin IMO, and are much cheaper (at least in Europe) than carbon fins by many other brands. They look gorgeous too...

Come on Helmy, how about a paddle report while you are nursing your sore head?

Yeah, where is Helmy? It's been at least 5 days now since he got his FX...

Maybe he's too busy enjoying paddling to go on the interweb.

Last report was walked in to Sandringham Jetty at 5.50 am on way to paddle - 4 stitches to head.
From what I have heard, it is good!
The board, not the head.

Interesting. I may have to pick up a 7.3 weedless in carbon as well. I know what you mean. It is surprising how well that little one works. And so little drag!

Interesting. I may have to pick up a 7.3 weedless in carbon as well. I know what you mean. It is surprising how well that little one works. And so little drag!

Here is a current picture of my quiver. Naish Glide 14 V2 on top, SIC FX Pro 14 (x 25) in the middle and SIC X-14 SCC on the bottom. Notice the ridiculous looking rocker on the Glide and how the nose rocker on the FX is almost imperceptible. FX clearly has more tail rocker than the X-14, but it is hard to tell the difference on the nose.