Windsurf Magazine 4.7 sail test - Ezzy SE 2006

17th Oct 2005 @ 12:41:44 PM

At a Glance
The Wave SE continues to evolve year upon year at the experienced hands of David Ezzy. Sticking to his principle of using no monofilm in his sails, the 2006 SE includes a new type of X-ply in the foot, with double the amount of Spectra yarns so as to reduce the risk of any rips occurring as a result of impacts. Designed for manoeuvreoriented sailing on any sea state, from flat water to idyllic cross-off wave conditions, it is a beautifully engineered sail with a build quality and attention to detail second to none (although there is a lot of Velcro present in the tack fairing, making access a little fiddly).

Using a 400cm RDM (although said to be compatible with a standard mast as well), the new SE is designed to be set under less downhaul tension so as to make rigging easier and improve its low-end performance. Whilst working very well in this set, we found that the tuning range available on the SE is exceptional; with more downhaul applied the centre of effort is locked securely in the front of the sail, providing unfaltering top-end stability.

Irrespective of the downhaul tension, a reasonable amount of outhaul must be used, whilst pre-shaping is permanently present in the lower half of the sail.

Ride and Handling
On the water, the new SE gave a very rounded performance that impressed everyone who tried it. Generating plenty of drive low and forward in the foil, it feels incredibly positive yet crisp in the hands, any increase in power instantly being transferred to the board. Cutting efficiently through the air, it is fast and comfortable over distance, the constant steady power delivery enabling the rider to concentrate on their next transition, rather than worry about control issues. On the wave, the SE’s energy can be utilised to drive confidently into the turn, and whilst not going completely neutral, its balanced nature makes it easy to reposition in preparation for a dynamic cut-back. In overpowered conditions, more downhaul allows the leech to open progressively, which in turn locks in the stability and unveils the sail’s awesome wind range. The draft simply doesn’t move, holding its shape and manners superbly in the most adverse conditions.

For:
Controlled, constant and precise power delivered at your very fingertips.

Against:
Fort Knox to get into the tack fairing, and the outhaul indicator string is of
little use.

Verdict:
A real gem of sail, providing constant, balanced power across a simply massive wind range!
It comes very highly recommended by us.

Windsurf testing the Wave SE 4.7