GOYA ECLIPSE 5.3M 2014 TEST REVIEW
GOYA ECLIPSE 5.3M 2014 TEST REVIEW
BEST FOR
In riding terms, in the onshore surf conditions we had on test we found it paired best with drivier quad fin boards – although for general sailing around we found the drive converted more efficiently through faster rockered hulls.
RECOMMENDATION
Experiment with the full gambit of tuning options to control the power delivery to your liking.
BRAND POSITIONING
“Sizes 5.3 and larger put an emphasis on quick stable power alongside easy handling. The Eclipse has great low end power, a massive high wind range plus unlimited speed potential. 5 battens make the Eclipse a very stable sail with easy handling when very powered up. All wave and wave style sailing conditions suit the Eclipse just as well as freewave and freestyle sailing. The Eclipse gives stability and range, along with a highly durable construction. Well suited to single fin and multi fin boards.”
OVERVIEW
This model arrived late to the party and missed our full material and spec assessment session as we had to take it straight on the water! Needless to say it didn’t get the full range of conditions as the others in this selection, so please bear in mind this report is based on limited water time. The outline is quite tall with a straight luff, leech cut-out and ‘reduced’ head’.
Here’s some features in Goya’s own words: This sail comes in PRO Construction. Our most advanced sail construction combines light weight and excellent durability by blending the latest in scrim film technology and durable X-Ply. These premium sails are equipped with Carbon Stretch Control™ tendons, the Poly Clew™ angled outhaul system and Kevlar® Real Frame™ panels. This sail uses unique Goya Scrim, a super light alternative to regular materials, in extensive areas of the sails surface. The perimeter of this sail is reinforced with Kevlar X-Ply, creating a highly tear resistant framework. .
PERFORMANCE
One thing all the testers agreed on with the Eclipse was that it generates tonnes of pressure and power and is quite ‘throttle’ with the drive controlled by a noticeable backhand sheeting action. Overall the feel is stable but there is some forgiving spring and ‘spongier’ reaction for lighter riders to control that grunt. That pull feels forward and high – putting you in a ready-for-action stance that keeps you on your toes and agile. There is a wide tuning range to play with here so make sure you tinker with boom height, out and downhaul to find the best setting for your build – for example we found the larger/taller guys wanted their lines further back and each of us found a different draft profile sweetspot to suit our individual preferences. On the wave here’s some backhand feedback but overall it felt happier in longer turns, all suggesting the Eclipse could be a strong all-rounder.
THE VERDICT
The Eclipse is like a ‘Swiss Army’ knife type of sail that could suit a wide range of conditions and rider profiles with its extensive tuning range.
READ THE OTHER REPORTS
GAASTRA POISON 5.4
HOT SAILS MAUI FIRELIGHT 5.3
NAISH VIBE 5.5
NEILPRYDE ATLAS 5.4
NORTH IDOL 5.3
POINT-7 SADO
RRD MOVE 5.2
SIMMER STYLE HALO 5.3
SEVERNE BLADE 5.2
TUSHINGHAM ROCK 5.2