David’s Review: Aquaglide’s Amundson 11′3″ Stand Up
Board Tested: 2008 Aquaglide Amundson 11′3″ Stand Up
Paddle Used: 80″ Werner Spanker
Dates: Winter/Spring 2008
Location: Baja California Sur, Sea of Cortez
Conditions: Surf, small wind chop, and lightwind windsurfing
Rider: David
Gender: Male
Height: 6′0″
Weight: 170 lbs
Skill Level: Expert stand up paddler, expert windsurfer, expert kiteboarder
In small on-shore wind chop, the Aquaglide Amundson 11′3″ is a very stable stand up paddle board. It is easy to paddle into the wind thanks to its fairly straight center rockerline. When you’re moving around on the board it feels less floaty than the Mistral Pacifico, but it pivot turns with less effort. Riding wind chop is incredibly fun because the Amundson has so much planing surface, and with the straight, efficient rockerline it gets gliding quickly and maintains speed well.
In small surf, the Amundson takes off on a wave immediately. With its straight rockerline you definitely need to step back a couple steps to keep the nose from pearling, especially on days with bigger surf. The board rides very fast and stable on the wave, and you can milk even the smallest waves all the way into the beach. It is so stable while surfing waves that it is perfect for walking around while riding, and even going for headstands! With its ASA bottom, full-wrap EVA deck and paddle guard, this board is completely bomb proof.
Windsurfing on the Amundson 11′3″ is also a blast. It feels very stable, yet turns incredibly well on swell. It pinches upwind with ease, especially if you put one foot up in front of the mast track. Trimmed like this the board is quite slow, but you can go almost directly into the wind! Riding downwind is also effortless and fun.
For an all-around board, the Aquaglide Amundson 11′3″ Stand Up is an awesome choice for riders of all levels up to 195 lbs, or for heavier riders who have a bit more experience.
