Oppinions: Mistral Vision 150 vs HiFly 282

gusgoodsport · Joined: 17 Mar 1996 Posts: 2

Does anybody out there have any experience with either of these boards? I am considering purchase of one of these (or maybe a Xantos 290). On observation, the mast track on the Vision 150 looks like it is placed alot further aft than on similar sized boards. Im wondering if this would make it difficult to use w/ large sails (e.g. an 8.5).

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Thanks!

artofwindsurfing · Joined: 10 Apr 2000 Posts: 182

I would need to know more about you, in order to help you. Please, give me an idea of your skills and the conditions where you sail.

Looking forward to hear from you,

Sylvain Pilon, windsurf instructor,HI

gusgoodsport · Joined: 17 Mar 1996 Posts: 2

I am 6 7 and 270 lbs and am an advanced intermediate which I take to mean making ~75% jibes dry, ~20% with planing exit. Working on duck jibes. Like to drag race as well as play in swell/chop and jump some (am not yet comfortable in air). No true wavesailing. Sail at home (S. Calif.) in winds 15-22 mph most of time on 7.0 to 8.5 m sails. Take yearly trip to Maui and sail upper Sprecs mostly on considerably smaller gear.

Appreciate your feedback.

Gus.

artofwindsurfing · Joined: 10 Apr 2000 Posts: 182

Dear GUS,

Since you sail in light wind at home and are a big guy ( pretty big in fact ), I would recommend something bigger than the HI-FLY 282 or the XANTOS 290. Those boards would be great for stronger wind considering your weight or great for someone around 175-180 lbs.

The VISION 150 look like a good option to me. I just wonder if the board will hold under your weight. I would think not. MISTRAL doesn’t have the best reputation for construction, guarantee and service…

Before making any decision, check out the “MEGA” BIC TECHNO 293 You would be kicking butts with that, anytime, all the time! The advantage of the TECHNO 293 over all other wide boards in your weight category, is the fact that it come with 2 X 28 cm fins instead of these 50 more cm fins that all other models. It’s easier to get started in shallow water and there are less risk to hit underwater obstacles with 28 cm fins as opposed to daggerboard size fins.

If the 293 is too outrageous for you, check the 283 but I am sure that you would be able to keep the beast ( 293 ) under control in 15-22 mph conditions, considering your weight and ability. Sure thing you would be laughing at everyone with their “small board”. Then you could upgrade your quiver with mega sails like 8,0 or bigger. Well, at least an 8.0 to start with.

BIC is reknown for great shape, tough construction, excellent fins but the footstraps may twist ( poor anti-twist device ).

Be bold and daring,

Sylvain Pilon, windsurfing instructor,Hawaii,

realkitty · Joined: 10 Apr 2000 Posts: 25

You might want to talk with Carl C, a jumbo Cabrillo sailor who rides a Mistral Vision 170. Now in only his 2nd year of sailing, Carl can rip upwind to the bell buoy and jibe too! Best thing to do is to DEMO, then youll know for sure. There are also a lot of new HiFlys at Cabrillo this season, and every single person who has one RAVES about them!
Bics are not the best for SOCAL because of #1: their excessive weight, and #2: their very limited top end speed.