Formula 162

Question
Hello,  I have been using a Hifly Maxx 152 Lt. for years.
Usually with a 6.2 Mt. sail. I fell that I have out grown
it. The rides are just to sluggish, even on plane. I have
been checking out the Starboard Formula 162 video on their
site. The board looks like it is cutting through the water
like a jet ski. Would you recommend this board? I weigh
160 lbs and go out in 12 to 15 mph winds.

Answer
Hey Mike,

Sounds like you are ready for an upgrade. You are right about the Starboard cutting through the water like a jet ski. They are designed to go fast. Excellent upwind and can plane in very light winds. The one thing about Formula boards is that they are designed for racing. This doesn't mean that you have to be a racer to own one and enjoy it. It just means that there may be a bit of a learning curve to get proficient. Jibes will be a new learning experience as the board is wider and takes a little different technique to get it to jibe. The only other drawback is that you may need to get a larger sail to push the bigger, wider board onto a plane. In 12-15 mph winds, a Formula board can probably plane with your 6.2 but you might do better with a 7.5-8.5. Because of the size of the board, you can handle quite a bit more sail than a conventional size board. All this said, for the winds you sail, a Formula board may be just the ticket for the fast planing you seem to want. If there is any way that you can test ride one, do that before you buy. Understand that a Formula board is a bit more to carry and load on your rig. If you need to replace a fin, they are more expensive.

Also, do some research on some of the other light wind boards out there. You may find something in a freeride that would suit your needs just as well. Check out the board reviews at windsurfingmag.com under equipment. They have the current year as well as a couple years back.

Hope this helps.
Keep on sailing,
Windlover