Windsurf MagazineDUOTONE SLICK 5.0 2023 TEST REVEW

DUOTONE SLICK 5.0 2023 TEST REVEW

The Verdict

The Duotone Slick manages to combine power, control, and an exciting dynamism in one package. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an enthusiast, eager to push your limits, the Slick is a ride you wouldn’t want to miss.

The Lowdown

Enter the Slick, Duotone’s answer to a boomed wing that is aimed at performing in the freeride and freestyle arena. The “Mini Boom”, one of its standout features, offers unrivalled hand placement versatility. Whether you’re learning the ropes or perfecting advanced freestyle moves, this adaptability is a definite asset. Constructed with MOD 3, the canopy sets with a tight and clean look, which is said to ensure that the profile remains steady no matter the conditions. A segmented leading edge also contributes to this stiffness, resulting in direct power transfer and a highly responsive wing. With a refined strut and wing tips, the power delivery of the Slick is said to be smooth, whilst the window placement provides good visibility. A number of the features on the Slick add to the sense that, whilst this is a performance wing, it will very much cater for those looking to progress their level too.

Present at the trailing edge of the wing are four small mini battens that aim to reduce flutter and drag, improving the wing’s upwind stability. The wing displays a clean profile and tight canopy tension and is produced in eight sizes from 3.0 to 6.5m and is also available in their premium D/LAB construction for minimal weight and maximum performance.

Brand Claim

“The 2023 Slick is our latest Freeride & Freestyle Wing featuring the Mini Boom – designed to enhance your flying experience with increased lift, power, and hang time.”

Performance

The Duotone Slick is a wing that brings together familiar features with some exciting new advancements. After the thrilling experience of testing Duotone’s Unit, we were keen to get our hands on the Slick. And it didn’t disappoint. The Slick, with its similarities to the Unit, felt immediately familiar, but the introduction of a boom added a fresh dynamic to the mix.

One of the standout characteristics of the Slick is its slightly stiffer feel compared to some of the other wings on test. It responds best to being pumped with a small range and high cadence at first, before transitioning to a gradual increase in range and power. This might feel familiar to many windsurfers out there, especially with the addition of the boom that enhances control and makes the pump a breeze. The magic of the Slick comes into play once flow is established in the wing. This flow is easily maintained and builds gradually, producing a noticeably grunty and powerful feel once it’s past that initial threshold. Once up and running, the Slick emanates power and dynamism, providing a ride that’s as thrilling as it is smooth.

What sets the Slick apart is the lack of any jerky feeling from the wing. This allows you to settle into a comfortable stance with ease and channel every bit of power into forward speed. This constant flow is also evident in manoeuvres, where the wing maintains impressive stability during the midpoint of turns, flying neutral when needed and offering ample useable power for a smooth and speedy exit.

In summary, the Duotone Slick manages to combine power, control, and an exciting dynamism in one package. Whether you’re a seasoned windsurfer looking to transition into wing foiling, or an enthusiast eager to push your limits, the Slick is a ride you won’t want to miss.

WEBSITE: www.duotonesports.com