Looking at getting one of the new "Stumpy" shaped front end booms. Has anyone tried the new one from North in the silver series, or the Naish CT Freeride?

I'm looking at going with a 160-210 in a 28mm diam.

Any advice appreciated.

Bondi - I was doing a bit of research on booms lately. Noticed some riders complaining of bent North iFront booms and warranty issues. Do a search on UK boards forums for North iFront.

I'm not saying they are no good as I always take whats said on forums with a "grain of salt" so to speak but you might find it interesting. They certainly seem well made when looking at them in store.

Actually, I've just found out that the North Silver doesn't come in the "New School" shape in 160-210 model.

So it looks like I'll be getting the Naish. I demo'd it a couple of weeks ago and the 28mm diameter felt great.

It'll be sad, but the trusty Z boom may have to go into retirement - the 32mm is the only downside of it.

I think I prefer the old school shape, especially for free ride and bump n jump sailing. My gybes seem a lot smoother when using our "old school" boom as my front hand slides forward towards the mast easier.

Had a Naish CT 180-230, and really liked the new shape a stiffness of this boom, I did manage to break one arm sailing in shallow water and grounded at 30kn. I don't blame the boom for breaking and would buy another anytime. They just weren't in stock when I needed it so got a Prolimit Assault which is also good but I preferred the Naish.

i have a new school north silver 150-200 and it comes into its own when wave riding... if your using it for freeriding then stick to the old school shape