JP SLATE 8’0 WOOD
JP SLATE 8’0 WOOD TEST REVIEW
Verdict:
As close as you can get to a ‘Tomo’ SUP; short , stable and fast on a wave. It generates speed and control in abundance, easier to surf than you’d expect and a great addition to a wave SUP quiver. A fine option for making the most of B grade conditions.
Overview:
The compact board that started it all, true to the ‘Tomo’ design, low rockered, parallel railed board with the widest nose and tail in the test. This 8’0 Slate has a single concave throughout, with a channel in the tail too. This year comes with a tri fin set up (which works best) but still has quad boxes. New subtle look for this year with a shallow ledge handle which could be deeper, textured deckpad with centre arch and kickpad, Go Pro mount and the only board in test with windsurf insert. The lightest board in the test and good value in wood.
Brand Claim:
The super parallel outline of the Surf Slate creates unbelievable speed while at the same time providing generous stability. The short length ensures lightning fast reaction and allows the boards to fit into any size of wave. Use the extra speed to glide across flat sections of the wave or to hit the lip with full power. The double diamond tail allows for instant acceleration and a good amount of drive off the bottom. The tail releases very easily when busting the fins out.
Performance:
Once you get used to paddling these compact boards with their wide flat noses it’s really nothing to worry about. They track very well with their parallel rails; the JP is the shortest here but still wasn’t the slowest in our glide test. At 130litres the Surf Slate is surprisingly stable when you stand in the correct place. In the waves this channel bottomed JP is pretty good at catching waves with its wide double diamond tail, and once on a rail it soon speeds off down the line. As a tri fin it turns loosely on the top turn and kept good speed. If you’re after a quick compact down the line board that’s stable, this larger Slate may well fit the bill; it may look bizarre and door like but it’s very close to a proven ‘Tomo’ shape that works well. Not as manoeuvre-orientated as a standard shape board but it’s great fun in less than perfect conditions. Would you sell your existing wave board and replace it with this? Doubtful, but it would fit in very nicely with another wave board in your quiver.