Find out everything there is to know about the Kode FreeWaves here!

Length: 234 cmWidth: 65 cmTail Width: 41.4 cmThickness: 12.5 cmWeight: 7.0 kgVolume: 103 litersFins: 2 x Drake Natural Wave 110 + MFC TF 20 / Drake FreeWave 30 (2 x Slot Box 10 + US Box 8")Sail range: 5.0m² - 7.0m²

Low Down:

The Kode 103 is the second largest in the all-new Kode FreeWave line-up and is available in three different constructions. This, the Carbon version, coming complete with both single and thruster fin options. A successful series for Starboard in the past, the Kode FreeWave gained a reputation for being super fast and incredibly tuneable. Taking a closer look at the 103’s new design, Starboard never shy away from challenging convention and this Kode Freewave is no exception. It has quite a stepped outline, angled sharply at the nose and tail, yet with parallel rails in the mid-section. The nose of the board is also super flat with little visible rocker or kick, whereas the tail houses plenty of volume in its domed deck, finishing in a pin tail.

Performance:

More than any other board in this group, the feel and character of the Kode FreeWave can be altered dramatically by changing the fin set-up. Using the Drake 30 cm single fin initially, the Kode 103 feels broad and dependable underfoot, carrying weight and tracking well. Turned off the wind to encourage early planing, it accelerates smoothly to an impressive top speed. It really does feel gunny once lit up, trimming beautifully as the nose sits low and skims over the surface of the water, whilst the dome of the deck in the tail encourages a powerful locked in stance. Driving efficiently off the fin, it is certainly rapid, particularly off the wind; you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re on a more straight-line dedicated board, such is its directional confidence.

Enter a gybe with speed though and you gain a glimpse of the board’s alter ego. It simply yearns to be put on its rail, seeming to bite and engage instinctively before you really commit properly to the turn. Suitably inspired, we changed to the thruster fins and were surprised at just how instant the change in stance was. With the deck plate back in the recommended place, the Kode FreeWave encourages a more upright stance over the board, feeling compact and easy underfoot. It has a very planted nature and the dome in the tail helps support rail-to-rail transitions, whilst the assured dependable response inspires you to push harder and harder. It seems you can be as aggressive as you dare with the Kode and it will simply lap it up.Verdict:

The 2016 Kode FreeWave challenges convention and in doing so redefines adaptability. With small changes to its set up, its character and stance can be completely altered to suit differing conditions and riding styles. The more we use the Kode FreeWave, the harder it is going to be to give it back!