TUSHINGHAM X-15 7.0M 2013 TEST REVIEW
TUSHINGHAM X-15 7.0M 2013 TEST REVIEW
The low-down
The X-15 is Tushingham’s dedicated speed and slalom sail range that’s featured in the line-up for a number of seasons and benefited from constant developments year-on-year.
At-a-glance
Seven battens with three micro battens and four cams
Moderate width luff sleeve
Large clear film window
Tack pulley
Dacron sleeve
Square low cut foot
Higher aspect shape
Padded tack fairing
Two outhaul options
X-ply reinforcement in critical areas
Progressive leech twist
Rigging
Largely due to the narrow sleeve the X-15 is easy to rig considering it’s a 4-cam race sail. Tush supply a comprehensive tuning guide which is helpful as the sail is designed to work with two of their recommended masts (one for top-end and downwind performance and the other for low-end and acceleration) but for most conditions it’s best tweaked largely using the outhaul. We tested the sail with the Ultimate Pro 100% carbon mast that’s intended more for all-round slalom use rather than all-out speed sailing.
Performance
Feeling neutral and light in the hands the X-15 has impressive low-down torque for early planing that would also be useful to drive wider boards than most we had on test. We found it stable at the top end and capable of pulling some serious high speeds when pushed. The wind range is impressive and, with a bit of fine tuning, it covers a wide variety of conditions. The light handling comes into its own when gybing, the higher aspect shape (one of the shortest boom lengths on test) being easy to flick around aided by a smooth rotation, ready for rapid acceleration onto the next straight.
The Verdict
The X-15 is a very competitive speed and slalom race sail that delivers extremely easily accessible top performance to all riders. It is one of the easiest sails to use – which for many will directly translate into faster reaches. Suitable for all levels of racers and freeriders hungry for some extra speed and power.
READ THE OTHER REPORTS!
Gaastra Vapour 7.1
Naish Bullet 7.0
NeilPryde H2 Racing 7.2
North Ram F13 7.0
Point 7 AC-1 7.2
RRD Firewing 7.0
Severne Overdrive 7.5
Simmer 2XC 7.1
TEST OVERVIEW PAGE