Hi,
I am up and foiling (using a slalom board) and planning to invest in a dedicated foil board. I have my eyes on the JP hydrofoil 135 and am wondering whether buying the cheapest version (9.4kg) is going to be a disadvantage?

I guess I'm looking for opinions on whether board weight makes much difference?
THanks!

I do not think board weight is a crucial as other factors like sail size, wing size, strap and track positions.

I think I only really notice the weight getting in and out of the water.

How much do you have to pay to save 1.6kg?

I foil with both heavy and light boards. Yes, light is better for carrying to the beach. It is also "a bit" better for pumping and maneuvering.

"A bit" is the operative word here. When I foil with my heavier board, I don't feel like the weight is a drag on performance. It all works.

The other issue not mentioned is that the heavier JP 135 is probably more durable. That alone might be worth the 1.6 kg. This, of course, depends on how you store and transport your board. I carry and store all boards in bags to prevent van rash.

Thanks, that's hugely useful. The slalom board I'm currently using is carbon and v light hence the question. I am looking for more comfort as am finding the stance on this board tricky.

Heavier slows response time, something I need at 105 days.
My really talented friends want light ad short

My windsurf boards weigh in the 12-14 lbs. range.
My windfoil board 19 lbs., add 9 lb. foil.

Swing weight matters a whole lot more than total board weight. Foil weight matters the least so long as it's in the water.

I had a pretty light board then had to do a repair to the bottom creased it under the mast tract i figure it added about 500 grams to the over all weight really can't tell any difference in the performance. How far do you have to carry the board + foil +sail to the water that's what maters the most.Yes swing weight matters buy the shortest lowest volume board that you feel you can grow into and use at your local sailing spot.

I've got the jp135 in wood construction and it's not a crisp as I'd like it to be.. the paint is still a bit chippy - although better than the previous versions.
ive got a carbon jp120 as well , and it's so much reactive, being a stiffer and lighter construction.

perhaps try to get last years jp135 in carbon?
i don't think the shape change is that radical. The foot straps are further back which helps if you're on a back footed foil, but in my experience limit the board to certain foil setups