Windsurf Magazine Test Results for the 2009 Ezzy Wave Panther 4.7m

24th Jun 2009 @ 01:31:40 PM

EZZY WAVE PANTHER 4.7M Target Intermediate to Pro A superbly engineered sail with great ease of use and range for a wide host of users in wave and high wind freeride conditions At a Glance 1) 5 battens 2) 3 mini leech battens 3) Bomb-proof Ezzy design: x-ply throughout except one PVC window 4) Slightly more heavy-duty build quality than the Ezzy Freewave, for dedicated wave application 5) ‘Endo’ batten system (where the battens run inside the middle of the sail rather than one side or the other) 6) Double stitched seams for strength 7) Measured increments on boom cut out for easy boom height positioning 8) Improved Ezzy downhaul and outhaul visual trimming system: more visible and user-friendly for 09 Rigging and Set The Wave Panther rigs easily and is simple to tune with the visually improved trimming systems. The sail sets with some pre-shape, albeit less than in previous years, with a progressively loose leech. Performance The Ezzy Wave Panther develops smooth, progressive power early, helping to get you away from the beach quickly, especially in onshore conditions. Despite the impression created by visible pre-shape in the foil on the beach, the effect of this shape on the water is negligible, the sail stretching gently into shape, with the power easy rather than intimidating, feeling light and balanced in the hands. Drive comes from central to the sailor and chest to shoulder high, encouraging a manoeuvre-oriented position. As the wind strengthens and sea state becomes harsher, the sail seems to absorb everything, the rider remaining composed. When the conditions get really overpowering, the Ezzy continues to maintain fantastic control, demonstrating a huge natural range, but ultimately feels slightly back handed: signifying the need to re-tune, either with both downhaul and outhaul as normal, or alternatively just the outhaul. The latter is a unique concept within modern sails, well appreciated by the testers and results in no loss of sail stability. In transitions the sail de-powers well, offering easy power for more drawn out bottom turns or longer gybe arcs. It feels light and easy to re-position in the hands, the power coming on smoothly and progressively as the sailor sheets in. There is a small rotation in the camber of the sail, but it really is minimal and has to be focused on to properly notice it! Verdict + Very well designed and built, the Wave Panther has great range, ease of use and performance for superb wave and even high wind freeride application for a wide range of users - Not much to fault here – a testers’ favourite!