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

24th Jun 2009 @ 01:32:42 PM

EZZY WAVE PANTHER 5.2M Target Advanced to Pro An extremely well built and designed sail with superb handling for a broad range of abilities and in a wide range of conditions, from onshore to sideshore waves and even high wind freeride. At a Glance • 5 battens • 3 mini leech battens • Fantastic, bomb proof build quality, including x-ply throughout with the exception of a pvc window opposite the rider • Ezzy ‘endo-batten’ system involving battens running through the middle of the design, rather than either side of the sail • Double stitched seams for strength and durability • Comprehensive reinforcement down the leech • Visual trim systems for the downhaul and outhaul • Measured increments on the luff cut out to aid boom height positioning Rigging and Set The Wave Panther is easy to rig and tune, with an improved visual trimming system for the downhaul and outhaul. The sail sets with slightly more pre-shape than the Freewave, and has a progressively loose leech. Performance The Wave Panther develops progressive, early power – fantastic for making a quick get away in onshore conditions, balanced and easy in the hands when up to speed. The power delivery is constant and smooth, rather than solid or brutish, contrary to any impression made by the sail’s pre-shape on the beach. Drive comes from chest to shoulder high and central to slightly forwards of the rider, encouraging a more upright, manoeuvre oriented position. Despite this feel of manoeuvre style sailing, the Ezzy is also smooth and comfortable as a high wind freeride option, although the Freewave is more suited in this area. As the wind strengthens the sail seems to absorb any harshness, demonstrating an impressive natural range. When very overpowered the sail does need retuning, but this is simple and can extend the range even further. Ezzy are the only brand that can be tuned effectively with the outhaul, alongside the downhaul and outhaul together. In transitions, the sail de-powers easily, or alternatively offers smooth, useable power for drawn out gybes and bottom turns. Mid-transition the sail is light and easy to reposition, with a relatively short boom length. There is a small rotation of the foil as the sailor sheets in, but as it is accompanied by smooth, manageable power, this is negligible. Verdict + A superbly well built and designed sail with a massive natural and tuneable range for a wide range of user abilities; great application for sailing in waves, from onshore to sideshore, and even potential for high wind freeride. - Not much to fault. Although some might criticise the pre-shape, on the water the camber is immaterial: don’t judge it on how it looks!