F-ONE Kiteboarding Trax HRD Lite Tech 137 x 42cm 2018
Reviews / Twin Tips
41,428
At A Glance
The Trax has been in the F-One line up for some time now, and it has seen many updates over the years. For 2018 the shape remains almost identical to last years model, but the construction techniques have been changed to increase the pop and further improve the ride.
The board utilises a unique technique in the factory to create the tired and tested Helical Rail Design or HRD for short. This means you get a shaped rail, that offers superior grip and improves the carving abilities of the board. The 3D shaped Paulownia wood core is wrapped in both unidirectional and bi-directional glass with a tough top and bottom sheet added for durability.
The ABS sidewalls further enhance the makeup of the board, and it is finished with the excellent UniBox fins and Platinum3 bindings. Out of the box, the finished package is exceedingly well put together, and the stunning looks are further enhanced by the Lite Tech which allows light to pass through sections of the board creating a cool effect on the water and in the air.
Sizes: 135 x 39, 136 x 40.5, 137 x 42, 140 x 45cm
On The Water
We’ve long been fans of the Trax since it’s very first incarnation and the addition of the HRD rails a few years back really changed the way the board rode. Last year we loved the polished finish and this year while the shape is almost identical it was interesting to see how the construction had improved the overall ride.
The Trax is a very smooth board through the chop, the rail helps the water flow, and the flex keeps things comfortable. Pop is impressive, while it isn’t as explosive as a pure freestyle board it is more than most riders will ever need. Set the edge push hard and release to get thrown into the air with force, it is as simple as that.
Upwind is good, the rail design allows for excellent grip, and the fins also help to drive the board upwind. Carving is an area where the Trax always impresses and this is again true for 2018. Set the rail and watch the spray fly, the harder you push, the better the results.
This board is also very forgiving, a competent beginner will be able to ride it with ease while for the advanced freerider you’ll find you can get away with the odd sketchy landing thanks to the grippy fins and flexible tips.
Overall
This board will suit a multitude of riders and will impress at every level. We love the finish and shape, you can see where the time has been invested in creating this masterpiece. Pop is impressive, and upwind the board drives well, if freeriding and a bit freestyle are your game then you won’t be disappointed with the Trax HRD Lite Tec from F-One.
Videos
This review was in Issue 70 of IKSURFMAG.
For more information visit F-ONE KiteboardingRelated
By Robin and Sukie
With years of kite sport experience combined, you can be sure you’ll be receiving the highest quality of knowledge on the best equipment the industry has to offer.
