At a Glance
Last year the Shark 129 really impressed us with its
all-round performance, giving it a lot of user appeal.
Using his CAD/CAM software, shaper Sebastian
Wenzel has evolved the design (mainly through a retuned
rocker-line) for the new season to become the
Shark 130. The smallest of three, it is produced in
two different constructions – high resistance skin
(tested here) and limited carbon sandwich
technology. With a domed deck throughout
(particularly so in the tail) the board has a fairly even
volume distribution, with an appreciable amount
stored around the front straps, before tapering down
to the tail. The rails of the board are well tucked in
the nose and shoulders, hardening up by the mast
track to finish with a defined edge throughout the tail
of the board. Supplied with supportive straps, a
46cm fin and excellent adhesive deckpads, the
Shark offers a superb number of footstrap options,
catering for many sailor abilities and styles. The one
point of issue is its weight in this HRS version, easily
being the heaviest in test at 10.80kg.
Ride and Handling
As the wind increases and power is supplied, the
Shark rises steadily onto the surface of the water to
reach a slow, steady planing speed – ideal for the
nervous intermediate. Cruising over chop easily and
absorbing any real impact, it does prefer to be
partnered with a sail that provides constant low
down power, its weight noticeably stalling it if you
enter a prolonged lull. Comfortably powered, the
Shark is very easy and forgiving to use, holding its
course well as the rider progresses down the board.
The footstrap options available really help in this
respect, giving the progressing sailor plenty of
realistic targets to achieve and get comfortable with
before they advance into the blasting strap
positions. Like its predecessor, the 130 has quite a
diverse character, providing plenty of room for
growth for the improving rider. Smooth and forgiving
to the point of being sedate when comfortably
powered, as you begin to load the board it is
transformed into a more performance-oriented hull,
feeling increasingly lively and responsive underfoot.
Pushing the extra power into it, the Shark releases
that little bit further, sailing on its fin (which
compliments the board well) and the last 30cm of its
tail to cover distance with ease.
Manoeuvres
With its low planing speed, the Shark can be put to
good use to tutor the intermediate through the gybe
safely, helping them to get the feel of their first
planing manoeuvre without intimidating themselves.
It does however require a positive style to get
through the turn convincingly, such is the stalling
effect of the board’s weight as soon as power is
released. In the tack the 130 has the width to
provide plenty of stability, and whilst certainly feeling
its size, gives the clumsy rider a good chance of
getting round the front without issue.
For: Wide user appeal and excellent performance
range at a competitive price(?).
Against: It is held back by its weight – look to the
lighter version for even more performance.
