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The Mitu board range from French ocean sports powerhouse F-ONE has been present in their range for a long while, and has seen gentle incremental evolution over that time. The 5’6 we tested sits exactly in the middle of the size range at 22.8l. The carbon construction version we tested has no inserts and a very stern ‘not for jumping with’ label printed on the base, reminding us in no uncertain terms that this is a pure strapless wave riding tool, and a lighter construction not designed for heavy landing freestyle work. On paper the board weighs in just over 3kgs and it feels as light in the hands as it does underfoot.
It is presented in an exclusive feeling brushed matt finish, and has a fairly rounded traditional surf rail up front, chiseled down to a very thin and quite aggressive rear end. The versatile micro fish tail that has always been Mitu’s signature, continues to perform immaculately in a multitude of wind and wave angles, and always produces a satisfying response. The base sports a light single into double concave, and slices well through the full range of water states. A fair amount of the board’s volume sits under the front foot and balances well. The EVA pad sits on top of the lightly convex traditional surf deck and runs down the entire rear three quarters of the board. A hump in the front of the pad helps place your front foot without having to glance down.
In the water, the board planes early for the size and volume. It lends itself to engaged flowing carves and snappy top turns and feels controlled. The bottom contours make for a smooth ability to smash through chop, but what’s most notable is how much increased feedback you get through the carbon version when going rail to rail. The board feels energetic and snappy underfoot. It is definitely the most performant all-rounder for cross conditions within the F-ONE surf selection.
The Mitu Pro Carbon is a timeless and reliable shape now produced in an exquisite carbon build. It’s as light, lively and electric feeling as you could hope for a modern kiteboard and more than does its namesake justice. Sometimes you pick up a surfboard, and the shape and proportions just look correct – the Mitu is one of these instances. The enhanced construction takes that classic shape and makes it ride with even more clarity and response.
