Best for: Riders who want a predictable, stable platform that slows the game down and makes learning new skills manageable.

The Darkside Freeride is the ultimate all-rounder for anyone looking to build confidence on the water. This setup provides a more controlled feel that gives the rider more time to set their position and prepare for the wake, making it much less intimidating when you’re learning to jump. It’s a board that rewards technique over brute force.

• Subtle 3-Stage Rocker: By utilizing a 3-stage rocker profile, the board creates a more distinct pivot point. This design helps the board sit slightly deeper in the water, providing a stable, 'locked-in' sensation that prevents the board from feeling too fast or out of control as you approach the wake.
• Freeride Bindings: The included Freeride boots are built to offer high levels of ankle support and power transfer. While they feature an open-toe design for versatility, the primary benefit is the secure fit that allows you to drive the board into turns with total precision. They ensure your movements are translated directly to the water without any 'slop' inside the boot.
• Customizable Stability: To help with tracking, the board features a removable centre fin. For those starting out, this fin helps to keep you pointing straight. Once you’ve mastered your edges and want a more reactive feel, you can remove it to completely change the board's personality.
• Built for the Long Haul: This board is engineered to handle the wear and tear of regular boat use. It's built with a durable construction that maintains its stiffness and shape season after season, ensuring that the board remains as responsive on day 100 as it was on day 1.

Our Verdict: This is a high-value all-rounder that prioritizes rider control above all else. By pairing a stable, predictable board with supportive bindings, the Darkside + Freeride package offers a professional level of response in a way that is easy to manage. It’s the perfect setup for the rider who wants to master the basics and move into jumps without the gear feeling like it's running away from them.