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SEVERNE Blade 6.2m ::
Tested by Windsurf Magazine,UK 01/02.06
At a Glance
The Blade is Severne's power wave sail designed around the demands and aggressive riding style of Scott McKercher. Impressed with the performance of the 4.7m and 5.3m versions tested earlier in the year, we were interested to see how the 6.2m- handled, being the largest in the range. Built to withstand considerable abuse, it utilises the brand's new aramid reinforced Metalex-ll material, along with various grades of Kevlar x-ply to give It a very bold eye-catching appearance on the water. Weil-engineered with excellent attention to detail (including the latest fold-over seaming in the foot), it incorporates everything you expect from a high-quality product.
Rigging and Set
With a good tuning range on both downhaul and outhaul, the Blade boasts masses of pre-shape throughout and requires significant outhaul tension to allow the main two battens to rotate smoothly. Loose in the top two panels, the leech is tight in its mid-section irrespective of the tension applied.
Ride and Handling
Supplying masses of constant forward drive, the Blade has a stunning bottom end, capable of un-sticking the most stubborn hull. The centre of effort is incredibly low and forward in the draft, transferring every bit of power directly to the board, leaving the sail to feel perfectly balanced in the hands. The clew eyelet is also very low, encouraging the rider into a very locked and commanding stance, ideal for covering great distances. In severe conditions, the Blade's stability remains rock-solid, the effort not shifting for a moment, and sailing through a gust you can physically feel the sail accelerate in the hands, pinning the board down to maintain control in confused sea states. Providing such constant energy, the Blade is best suited for more decisive riding styles, never once going neutral or letting the rider cruise at half speed. This is the same in transition, the sail's low-down power lending it to expressive carving manoeuvres, rather than 'on-off' flicky stunts associated with 'new-school' freestyle.
For: Low-down drive, balance and control over an impressive range. Durability to handle the harshest surf break.
Against: Constant power and high-energy return may unnerve the intermediate.
Verdict:
The Blade is a sensationally stable sail, providing constant balanced power over a massive wind range. Ideal for decisive riding styles, it can be used to great effect in any sea state, with the straight-line comfort to match its superb wave riding capabilities.
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