We’re stoked to give you the inside scoop on the brand-new 2026 Duotone waveboard range, freshly reviewed inside the Worthing Watersports shop by Sam Latham, owner of Worthing Watersports, alongside NIK Baker, Vice Windsurfing World Champion and founder of NIK Baker.
This is more than just hype — these are pre-release boards, and you’re getting an exclusive look at how they feel in real UK conditions, along with an in-depth review of what’s changed.
Boards Reviewed:
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2026 Duotone GRIP Ultra (tested in D/LAB 82L – three bin construction)
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2026 Duotone GRIP 3 (tested in SLS construction – 88L)
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2026 Duotone FreeWave Ultra (tested in D/LAB construction – very important new performance version)
Each board comes in multiple constructions, and this review breaks down the differences in feel and performance between D/LAB, SLS, and standard layups.
"The GRIP Ultra is the board I’m going to be riding the most – it’s compact, responsive, and perfectly suited to my lighter weight and style. But the GRIP 3 and FreeWave Ultra also impressed – especially the FreeWave in D/LAB construction. It’s a serious performance option now." – Sam Latham
Test Session Summary:
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Location: Hot Pipes, Hove (near Brighton)
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Date: July 2025
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Conditions: Surprisingly solid for summer, perfect for pushing the boards in real UK surf
While the GRIP Ultra is the most radical of the three, ideal for high-performance wave riders, the GRIP 3 has had a big update and now feels easier, more forgiving, and more accessible for everyday UK conditions. The FreeWave Ultra, particularly in the D/LAB construction, bridges the gap between control and radical performance – and it’s a game changer for those who want a freestyle-wave feel with waveboard potential.
Key Highlights:
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GRIP Ultra: Shorter nose, longer tail, very compact and technical. Slower to plane but excels in powerful waves. Ideal in D/LAB construction.
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GRIP 3: Fast, easy to plane, forgiving through jibes, and stable – a great board for progressing wave riders. Updated shape makes it even more versatile.
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FreeWave Ultra (D/LAB): Super light, highly capable, and now a real option for those who want one board to do it all. Great for jumps, wave riding, and freestyle.
Construction Insights:
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D/LAB – Ultra-light, ultra-reactive. Best for technical riders and aerials.
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SLS – Slightly heavier but great control and durability. Perfect for UK conditions.
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Standard – Solid all-round option at a more accessible price point.
This review video was filmed inside our shop at Worthing Watersports and offers an honest breakdown of how each board feels, who they suit, and what’s changed in the 2026 range.
Pre-Orders Open Now:
As a Duotone specialist store, Worthing Watersports is now accepting pre-orders for the full 2026 Duotone waveboard lineup. Whether you're pushing hard in solid surf, want a forgiving platform for progress, or need a light, powerful one-board quiver, we can help you choose the right setup.
👉 Visit www.worthingwatersports.co.uk or drop by the shop to reserve yours.
Don’t forget to watch the full review on our YouTube channel and hit subscribe to stay up to date with the latest gear tests, rider interviews, and Duotone news.
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