SUNOVA SPEEED 8’5”
I had only recently bought a Sunova Acid XL, and had had it out half a dozen times when I bought a SPEEED on impulse. I thought it would be just a novelty for me, when conditions were still and small. However, for the past few weeks, I have not been able to get off the thing, regardless of conditions.
Firstly, the construction and feel of the new XXX Tec Sunova Series is very impressive. They are relatively lightweight and tough. The Speeed 8’5” weighs in at 7.7Kg with fins and wet. (my scales) The upper deck feels strong and solid and the deck pads are not overly “spongy” allowing enough cushioning for extensive sessions, but retaining the feel needed for surfing. The bottom surface actually has some give in it, the theory being that it is strong and light – but has the ability to absorb bumps and drops to some extent. I have only had one or two occasions when Ive noticed any such effect, but certainly is not as ridged and unforgiving as a full carbon board.
As for the actual design of the Speeed, I am almost a loss to compare with any other styles of boards. I think the overall shape might suggest what I have found, that it has some of the attributes of various known shapes/styles all at the same time. Versatile, would be a good label when describing the surfing characteristics. But most importantly, the name Speed is not misused. It certainly can be driven fast when the need arises and then pulled up and thrown around. The plan profile might seem that it’s a slab like design, however it has quite ample amount of rocker, which gives its suitability to getting down those faces.
I am yet to really put it through its paces, and I am not exactly the most skilful surfer to test it, however, if anything, this board is making me (forcing me?) to become a better surfer.
It is the narrowest sup Ive ever owned at 27 ¾ inches and at first I was working hard to stay upright – but again, its been worth improving my balance skills, just to enjoy the benefits once on a wave. I have been taking the Acid XL 8’8” with me each session, but only once have I felt the need to grab it from the car instead of the Speeed, to take advantage of its wider profile of 30+”. Mind you, its an awesome board as well (but not reviewing it until Ive given it more time).
The standard fins that come with the Speeed, are good quality and totally suited. It already has the ability to slide around a fair bit, however the largish fins (S9 thruster set equivalent?) are geared towards lifting the back end to drive down the line.
One more issue that has been asked within the forum, is that of the “Liftsup” handle. Ive had over twenty sessions (three of them yesterday) and Im pretty much sold on the system. I had always been in the habit of reaching for the hand hold when out in the water, when remounting the board, but it did not take long to get used to simply reaching across the board. The handle has never popped up while out in the water and I find it very secure way of carrying to and from the water. It also acts like a ledge, where you can rest your paddle, without actually holding it. I doubt mine is ever going to get stuck down, as I always wash out after every use – but for those that don’t, it would be advisable. It does tend to retain water within the handle, if the board is not placed vertically for a while, to allow water to drain.
I humbly suggest that there are some gun surfers out there, that will make a Speeed come alive and rip – far more than this 56yo un-coordinated try-hard with an inner-ear balance disorder and limited surfing skills.
Sunova Speeed 8’5” x 27 ¾ “ x 4 3/8 112litres
Please consider!


Sups of Additions: The Acid (L) and Speeed (R)