OWNERS COMMENTS : I’ve been windsurfing on and off my whole life. I’m close to 60 now, and I started in my teenage years. Over the decades, I’ve kept my “mediocrity level” fairly stable—put to good use. You won’t see me jibing at 30 knots close to the beach, neither on my old boards nor on the Tabou Rocket I also own. What I enjoy most is going fast and embracing the challenges that windsurfing throws at both mind and body. I’m the type of sailor who can get out in any conditions—and make it back too. For me, blasting in straight lines is enough, at least until I finally master planing turns.

That said, I find myself riding the New Malibu more often than any of my other boards, and here’s why:

• Narrower than modern boards. Unlike today’s design trends, I love that it’s just a little over 50 cm wide. In my logic, a thin piece of plastic driven by enough wind should cut through the water faster than a wide one. Sure, you sacrifice some stability at low speeds, but the payoff when the wind picks up is well worth it.

• The daggerboard. It has a central daggerboard that’s precise, easy to operate, and perfect for going upwind or adding stability when uphauling. And speaking of uphauling—how many modern windsurfers can actually do that anymore? Most can’t, so they only go out when conditions help them. My Mistral New Malibu gives me the independence to get on the water whenever I decide.

• Build quality. Made in Germany in 1989, the construction is second to none. It’s still sharp, sturdy, light, nimble, and rock-solid. Just last week, I left it standing vertically in my garage when a gust knocked it down. I ran downstairs expecting to find it in two pieces—but no, it was perfectly intact, as if nothing had happened.

• Timeless shape. It’s got a subtle rocker, a concave spot up front, and two elegant rails at the tail that give it a distinct, beautiful outline.

• Weight as a feature. At around 13–14 kg, it’s heavier than modern boards, but I treat every step of sailing as both body and mind exercise. Carrying it overhead, flexing my arms and singing along, I think to myself: why go to the gym when I can do this outdoors?

• Value. The price–benefit ratio is unbeatable. I paid less than 100 euros for mine. Just last week, I picked up a 6 m Bic sail from the ’90s, plus a Bic Veloce 290 in great shape—for free! Compared to the cost of modern boards and sails, classic windsurfing gear is a bargain. With less than 150 euros, you can get out there and have serious fun. I remember I got my Mistral Competition for ELEVEN euros. You can get most old boards for little or no money as original owners left the house, parents want to clean up the garage… and some other domestic reasons.

• Durability. I love how well these boards age. It’s amazing how many have spent 30+ years abandoned in garages, gardens, or under trees—only to come back to life with a little cleaning.