Are 100% carbon SDM 490 masts durable when using them for slalom/freerace on flatwater ?
I don't mean them getting smashed in waves or crashed hard and breaking. It's that in the past I have heard about them cracking and snapping on flatwater when gybing etc..and stories about them breaking within a year or so.
Yes, in my experience a higher content carbon mast has a higher breakage rate (especially with certain manufacturers). I wouldnt however sacrifice the performance of my equipment by buying a mast with a low carbon content. A bit of research into the manufacturer and talk on the beach will point you in the right direction of which mast t get.
Are 100% carbon SDM 490 masts durable when using them for slalom/freerace on flatwater ?
Are high carbon SDMs of any size more durable than low carbon SDMs - no. But, high carbon SDMs are lighter and quicker to react to wind gusts than low carbon SDMs. Treat them well, and they treat you well
I use 100% masts, have done for a while (over 2 years now) and each has been through some big crashes with no breakage (touch wood). I handle them carefully when not in use, never leave them rigged in sun etc and none of them have neil or pryde written anywhere on them.
Unless you have money to waste, have the top of the line race sails or desire the lightest; stick to 75%, a little peace of mind is good.
