Took the new 2014 Glide GX (carbon) down to our canals today for first test run. As you can see from pics the rocker is virtually identical to the LE23 below it on trailer. Board at the bottom is MC14, board on top is 2013 Glide. Rails are also reworked with a lot of cues from the LE ie. softer alot further back.

On flatwater the stability is very high, initial and especially secondary, rail goes to a point and thats it, no rolling. Had Grant out on it as well - he weighs 110kg and he paddled it with ease - he normally rides a 14' Dart and 14' SIC X. I weigh 84kg and I could walk the board and do buoy turns blindfolded.

Stand forward near edge of pad and the nose virtually engages and the tail lifts a fraction - perfect use of entire waterline. The board is way faster on flatwater than 2013 Glide - it accelerates and holds its glide much better - with the stability I reckon this board could even be competitive for me in churned up waters.

Haven't downwinded it yet but if it behaves anything like the LE23 then it should be all time. The LE23 has similar rocker and it's very easy to keep the nose out even in big steep conditions (I've ridden LE23 in everything and the only thing I can't handle is side chop). The LE23 footsteers much more willingly than old Glide and I think a lot of that has to do with the reworked rails which have been transferred to new Glide as well - so looking very promising.

Ideal rider weight is probably heavier than me but I found it so easy and responsive that if I didn't have choice of a MC14' it would be my one board does all. I reckon the heavier riders have a premium board which really surprised me with its flatwater abilities.

I'm sure DJ will provide a wider variety of pics.....and I'll report back when we get a chance to try it downwind.