2021 Cabrinha XCaliber: Wood vs Carbon
This article will breakdown the 2021 Cabrinha XCaliber, the wood version vs the carbon. It will highlight the features of each board. In another post, we will go over the differences between the 2020 and 2021 Cabrinha XCaliber. We tested the 138cm model in carbon and wood to get a feel for the differences.
Carbon Analysis
Both boards have a similar feel, but the carbon model is noticeably stiffer. This translates to a board that feels more aggressive on the water. What this means is that the board will respond to any input. This could be a good thing or a bad thing depending on perspective. If looking for the most control, then the carbon will provide that function. The downside is that the carbon bounces more through choppy conditions.
Carbon is a stiffer material and this will help increase the amount of pop between the two models. The carbon version will have more pop than the wood version. This comes at a cost. The downside to the carbon version is that the landings feel harder than the wood version. The carbon may be a little better in lighter winds due to the stiffness.
Wood Analysis
The wood model is softer and smoother. This model is much more forgiving on the knees through chop and on landings. Landings feel smoother and less harsh than the carbon version. The wood model has more flex than the carbon, which makes it smoother in choppy waters.
Overall Analysis
If you ride in flat waters and want a board that has the most pop, then the carbon model is the way to go. If you want a board with great pop but is softer on the landings, then the wood model is the way to go. The XCaliber was redesigned in 2021 with a shape that is overall more aggressive and has more pop. Either one of these models are fantastic and fun to ride. If you are really torn, demo one from your local shop.
