Read Windhunter's thread with interest. I'm a little heavier at 80kgs, 178cm. My smallest board is a 93 Futura (and a 122). Looking to get out onto the lumpy stuff this season. Can nail most of my gybes (except in twighlight slaloms where I'm lucky to nail one ). I was thinking an RRD FSW or JP FSW. Can't quite decide between the 78-80 (56-7w, 23 fin) or the 85 (58-9w, 25 fin). I lean to the 85 for an easier transition to waves but I also want the board to be a high wind B&J so then I lean the samller one. Anybody been there?

An RRD wave cult may be worth a look - thers a 2008 one for sale on seabreeze - I've got an 07 83 that I can use with 5.4 - 4.2 - and I'm 85kg and it's pretty floaty, planes reasonable early - problem with freewaves when it gets windier and bumpier its harder to keep them on track in a bottom turn - great to get you out there - the wave cult / RWW (JP) / Evo are a bit of comprimise between the freewave and full wave - definately consider one of them.

My other board is a 104 freewave fanatic - believe me the fanatics aren't to shabby in small waves as well when you need the float.

Just a thought.

Paddy, you need to think carefully about when you are going to use this board.

If you are sailing somewhere like Dutchies in summer the wind is often not that strong on the inside and so you need a board to get you planing quickly to make the most of the jumps and stay upwind.
As a newbie I made the mistake of going too small and always getting a frustrating sail. When I bought the JPFSW 91 I was able to get far more time in the waves and get out when there was less wind and therefore less people giving me the freedom to learn without being under pressure. When the wind picks up it gets pretty choppy and then you will be hanging on rather than learning.
However if you are talking Lano or Gero then go smaller as there you will find stronger wind and proper waves where a board that is too big will outrun the wave as you will find it hard to turn as tight.

In conclusion. I am 78kg and would not recommend going smaller than 85 if mainly sailing in Perth. TOW is the biggest booster to your skills. Get more out of the board by going for a smaller fin for better on wave performance.

Thanks guys. Ended up with an 08 RRD FSW 85 for $795. Looking forward to getting out on it.