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Following on from the bar-raising ‘Mako’ collaboration, the AXIS Frank Mini Dart takes some of Frank’s early takeoff DNA and puts it into a parawing-focused midlength board. Easy to overlook when comparing spec sheets, the Mini Dart packs a little magic which makes it quite special for parawing focused riders.
With a well-balanced volume which is loaded with stability, right to rails and a crisp deck feel which is only possible from its full carbon construction, the Mini Dart’s biggest stand-out features lie at its tail.
On the top deck a down slope at the rear gives a noticeably comfortable feel even for the most abused of ankles. Allowing the rider to kneel further back and then lean into its voluminous nose makes both stalling and gaining speed on the knees much easier.
When stepping to the feet the deck pad feel both comfortable and flexible to adjusting stance. The nose and rail volume aids low speed taxiing whilst its crisp and lively feeling underfoot make the Mini Dart feel like a board all levels of rider would love (so long as they’ve chose the right size). The magic comes when thinking about takeoff. The Mini Dart features quite a unique upward scoop at the underside of the tail, which on the beach looks a little strange, but on the water this equates to the most effortless takeoff characteristics. Adding forgiveness to even the most heavy-footed of riders, it’s possible to stamp off the rear foot to create lift without creating drag and temporarily compromising speed. Its takeoff ease is a stand out in its field, so much so that when returning to a different board riders will find themselves having to recheck their technique to get an equally efficient release.
A true solution to the problem in many people’s parawinging, the AXIS Mini Dart is stable, easy and fun, whilst also packing stacks of feedback and performance for those high-level riders who want something equally comfortable snapping turns and not biting an accidental touch down.
But it’s not all about the parawing – it wings well too. Clearly not a dedicated wave shredder and obviously a midlength in its characteristics, we could confidently call this a great crossover board, if it wasn’t so good at making parawinging easier.
