Windsurf Magazine Test Results for the 2009 Ezzy Free Wave 5.2m

24th Jun 2009 @ 01:29:42 PM

EZZY FREEWAVE 5.2M Target Intermediate to Pro A fantastically designed and built sail with a huge range and massive user appeal across a wide range of disciplines. At a Glance • Typically well-designed Ezzy build quality • 5 battens • 3 mini leech battens • All x-ply layout with the exception of a pvc panel adjacent to the rider • An improved visual trimming system for the downhaul and outhaul • Measured increments on the luff material for setting boom height • Ezzy ‘endo-batten’ system where they run down the middle of the sail rather than one side or the other • Double stitched seams for strength and durability Rigging and Set The Freewave rigs easily with improved visual trimming systems for the downhaul and outhaul. It sets with some pre-shape, although slightly less than the Wave Panther and far less than the previous Ezzy Wave SE, with a progressively loose leech. Performance The Freewave offers early, smooth, progressive power that is easily applied for good early planing and getting going at onshore locations. When up to speed the sail feels balanced in the hands with a good compromise of power and manoeuvrability. Any misconceptions regarding the sail’s pre-shape are quickly dismissed on the water, as it provides a constant, user-friendly power. The drive comes from chest high and central to the rider, allowing you to channel power down into the board for freeride purposes, or stand upright, ready for manoeuvres. In gusts and choppy water states the sail seems stable and unaffected, the leech working effectively and sail absorbing any harshness. As conditions worsen and the Freewave becomes overpowered, the sail continues to handle without complaint, demonstrating a superb natural range. As it gets very overpowered the sail can be easily tuned, which unleashes a massive range. Ezzys are the only design on the market that can be tuned effectively using only the outhaul, alongside both the downhaul and outhaul together. In transitions it can depower well, or alternatively offer smooth easy power for more drawn out gybes and bottom turns. Mid-transition the sail is easy to reposition with a relatively short boom length, as the sailor sheets in, the power comes on smoothly for clean exits. There is a slight rotation of the camber in the sail as the rider sheets in, but this does not affect it’s performance. Verdict + A superbly designed and built sail with a massive range and huge user appeal across a broad range of abilities and disciplines, from freeride to wave and freestyle. - Not much to fault! More dedicated freestylers who prefer a flat foil might find the shape of the Freewave not to their taste.