Windsurf MagazineDUOTONE DUKE 6.2 2023 TEST REVIEW

DUOTONE DUKE 6.2 2023 TEST REVIEW

Verdict

With some innovative design, Duotone has really produced an interesting sail in the Duke. Extraordinary in its low-end, thanks to its smart batten spacing, and composed at the upper ends of its limits, the Duke has an exceptionally accessible entry to various disciplines.

The Lowdown

“Jump ‘n’ ride” is where Duotone lays its claim for the Duke, which is produced in eight sizes from 4.2 to 6.7. After a year and a half of intensive development, the Duke is back for the 2023 season and Duotone has combined their expertise with feedback from consumers who use these kinds of sails regularly at surf centres to develop a sail that really hits the sweet spot for this area of the market. At the top of the list is maximising the wind range. Using the batten free centre concept, the sail possesses a larger panel area in the window panel, allowing the boom area to inflate more readily whilst also increasing the stability at the top of the sail due to more batten density. This means the sail possesses the normal stability of a 5-batten sail without the negative effects on low-end power. Next, looking to weight, the Duke boasts a one-piece mast sleeve reducing weight by 300g.

The sail’s draft is positioned high and forward to help the rider lift and encourage the board onto the plane and assist in maintaining control whilst on the water or in the air. Another really nice feature of the Duke is its tuning guides which help riders tune the kit to the conditions due to providing guidance on the optimal tuning range. Produced in two constructions, the regular Duke is designed with 50% monofilm, while the high-stress areas use x-ply to ensure durability. On the other hand, the Duke HD is produced entirely out of x-ply to ensure the sail is bombproof, an excellent feature for riders looking to push it to its limit.

Brand Claim

The ultimate jump ‘n’ ride sail being an ideal match with freewave and small freeride boards.

Performance
At rest, the Duke sets with a modest amount of luff curve with the battens protruding forwards of the mast. Step on the water and you immediately notice the window panel producing power, with the high and forward draft position lifting the rider onto the plane with ease. The Duke is certainly a sail for those riders looking to hook in and let the sail do the talking. However, the Duke also possesses an incredible pumping ability with the luff breathing well, so working the sail is incredibly effective, increasing its wind range even more.

The increased batten density at the top of the sail is a real asset as the breeze builds. The sails tuning range is truly exceptional, allowing the rider to crank on the downhaul without causing leech flutter or instability. This ensures that the rider can confidently lock in at speed as the Duke really encourages the rider to commit hard to the rig when the pressure hits. Through the manoeuvres, the sail has a clear on/off feel. Sheet out with the back hand, and the power shuts off instantly, producing a light and free feeling through the turns. On the exit of the gybe, draw the back hand in to receive the power back and accelerate onto the plane.