Introduction: The CrazyFly Allround 2011 board is aimed at the beginner/intermediate rider. The board comes in a range of sizes from 135-145cm which will suit most adult riders in a variety of heights and weights. CrazyFly describe the board as high quality and low price. But cost isn’t everything – read on to find out more.

Talk the Talk: The CrazyFly range are renowned for their great build quality and accessories but they also offer a fantastic ride without paying big bucks for a new board. This particular model comes in a range of sizes that would suit most beginner / intermediate kitesurfers out there. The board is relatively lightweight for its size and does not feel overly big on your feet at all. In terms of flex this board is one of the softest in the range, designed primarily for freeriding this insures a comfy ride no matter the water conditions. Due to its size the board performed well in light winds with a 15m Speed and 17m Zephyr although we would normally go for something a bit stiff for true light wind kiting. Each time we rode the board it seemed playful and agile on the water cutting upwind well and providing a solid landing platform for some hooked and unhooked freestyle. This is the type of board many people will be able to learn on without out growing for quite some time, there is no excuse not to dial your first rotations, upwind tacks or raileys on this board. CrazyFly really have delivered a great Allround board.

The Accessories: One of many great things CrazyFly do well on are the accessories. Putting these boards together is an absolute dream, everything fits together seamlessly and the pads and straps are brilliant. Not only is the build quality great for the price, its great if you were charged another £100 on the board. The straps are easily adjustable from each side so you can really pull them down to cover your foot shape well. The pads are nice and soft when your feet are in but have quite a firm outline and ridge which your toes sit over. Because of the way the footpads are shaped it is best to tighten the straps right down and slide your feed in at an angle. Thankfully even kiting in boots was a great experience with this pad/strap combo.

Liked: The overall board feel, graphics and super comfy pads and straps.

Would Change: It would be great to see more available stance options as found in the higher end CrazyFly board range.

Overview: The Allround really is a great “allround” kitesurf board, whether you are doing your first upwind tacks or practising jumps and unhooked tricks this really is a great choice for a board you will not out grow to soon and at a very affordable price.

Size on test: 138cm x 43cm

Board provided by www.ATBShop.co.uk