SIMMER S-MAX 8.5 2023 TEST REVIEW
The Verdict
The S-Max is a sail that doesn’t skimp on power, while still remaining incredibly manageable. Its robust bottom end, comfortable speed, and easy use make it a great choice for windsurfers seeking a balanced, enjoyable sailing experience.
The Lowdown
Designed for high performance, the S-Max is the ideal choice for freeracing and wind foiling. The S-Max shines with its dual-purpose capabilities. With a short boom that optimises control and a robust sail profile focused towards the front, the S-Max offers an enticing blend of performance characteristics.
In terms of construction, the S-Max stays true to Simmer’s commitment to innovative design. The sail features the latest vertical shaping profile and lightweight monofilm batten pockets, all aimed at minimising stretch and maximising performance.
Moreover, the S-Max stands out with its adaptability. It can be rigged on both SDM and RDM masts, courtesy of the extra camber, the TEKCAM Reduced. This means whether you prefer an SDM or an RDM mast, you can rig your S-Max and achieve ultimate performance.
To further fine-tune your foiling experience, rig the S-Max with slightly less downhaul to achieve a tighter leech. This adjustment creates a more stable draft that enhances stability for foiling.
Once rigged, the sail boasts a pronounced profile with a moderate amount of luff curve. The leech falls away progressively to the clew, where two eyelets can be found to help riders easily adjust the twist in the leech.
Brand Claim
“The S-Max is the ideal dual-purpose high-performance sail for both Freeracing and Wind Foiling. If you want to go fast, whether on a foil or a fin, you need control.”
Performance
This powerful yet comfortable sail manages to toe the line between performance and ease of use with finesse, making it an excellent option for windsurfers of all skill levels.
Right off the bat, the S-Max shines in its accessibility and user-friendly design. Its superb ease of use makes it a joy to sail with, allowing you to focus on enjoying your ride, rather than wrestling with a challenging setup.
The S-Max’s power may not make it the fastest sail on the water, but it doesn’t have to be. The sail has a knack for maintaining a comfortable and consistent speed that is by no means slow, providing a reliably steady experience rather than a harried race. It offers a robust bottom-end performance, ensuring you won’t be left wanting in the lighter airs.
Despite its ease of use, the S-Max still manages to feel its size, making it a weapon when the wind is light. It’s substantial without being unwieldy, providing a robust presence on the water without sacrificing its manageable nature.
However, the S-Max does require initial tuning. The sail benefits from some adjustments to its settings and twist, so don’t be shy about tweaking these aspects to achieve optimal performance. This might entail some experimentation at first, but the payoff in performance is well worth the effort. Either play with which clew eyelet is used, or apply more downhaul to optimise the leech profile for the conditions.
WEBSITE: simmerstyle.net
SIMMER S-MAX 8.5 2023 TEST REVIEW
Vital Stats
Price: £849.00
Size: 8.5m
Luff: 498 cm
Boom: 227 cm
Battens: 6
Cams: 2
Ideal Mast: Simmer 490 cm SDM/RDM
Available Sizes: 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.1, 7.8, 8.5.
OTHER SAILS IN THIS TEST: