[Whitey]

These boards are designed to go upwind at a very tight angle to the wind first. (First man to the weather mark wins most races) Then the secondary design criteria just allow you to survive down wind at high speed so you can go upwind again.

The large size and number of fins is the result of riders finding that by riding the board flat ( top not tilted towards you) they are able ride at a higher angle to the wind, at faster speeds.

So the big difference here is they are not using the rail or an edge of the board, they are trying to keep the board flat and out of the water and they are creating resistance for the kite by using the surface area and angle of the fins in the water. Like the rudders on a Hobie Cat.

I wouldn't think that these would be the best choice for mostly downwinders. Not much rocker and they are made for tacking up wind not carving a jibe downwind.

I think each of us should get one and learn how to ride it well, then race with each other.

Would love to hear from Kent or Damo on this topic.