Shinn Ultrasonic Diamond 136 x 41cm 2016
Reviews / Twin Tips
10,413
At A Glance
Shinn’s super impressive board range needs no introduction, and the Ultrasonic Diamond makes no exception. Billed as an all-round freestyle board for new and old-school riding, on paper, it seems to tick all the right boxes as a freestyle fun-maker. Shinn have added just the right amount of tech to this board, keeping it lightweight and versatile without it being too much board to handle for those progressing through their moves.
The board features a Constant Curve rocker with a medium to firm flex which lend themselves perfectly to a freestyle board, that works brilliantly both hooked and unhooked. The new Hydro2Flo shaping creates huge pop off the water while still ensuring fantastic grip to keep you tracking upwind.
Though the Ultrasonic comes equipped with the insanely comfy Sneaker5 pad and strap set, you can also use the board with wakeboard bindings for those who are that way inclined. The Bite fin set, though a little larger than many fins on the market, ensures excellent control in all water states.
On The Water
Shinn have hit the nail on the head with this one! In pretty much all conditions you can chuck yourself and the board around and land smoothly and cleanly. It’s not designed as a beginner board, nor a contest board, but it could do both very well. Super smooth control for those first rides with plenty of grip, but then load it up and it will launch you into the sky to get your latest trickery dialled.
The medium flex and Shinn’s reputable smoothness ensures easy riding through chop, and even unstable unhooked landings are soaked up like a sponge. The Ultrasonic is incredibly lightweight, and this becomes apparent when going for those old-school moves, where a heavier board often has added swing weight.
For unhooked power moves the Ultrasonic loads up well and pops fantastically off the water. The Hydro2Flo tip shaping has created a cracking combination of grip and release, which is a pleasure to ride!
Overall
We were very impressed with the Ultrasonic. It handled everything we threw at it from flat water, waves and monstrous chop with ease and style. And it handled them well. If you want a truly high performing board for all your riding styles, you would be hard-pressed to find something better.
Videos
This review was in Issue 55 of IKSURFMAG.
For more information visit ShinnRelated
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.
