RRD MOVE MK6 5.7M 2019 TEST REVIEW
RRD MOVE MK6 5.7M 2019 TEST REVIEW
OVERVIEW
The Move Mk6 remains current in the RRD sail lineup for 2019, completely unchanged from last season. Classed as their freemove / freewave contender, it evolves through its seven sizes to provide the power and handling characteristics to match its intended use, from power wave to blaster. This 5.7m is described as a “5-batten power sail to bump, jump and blast”. The big change in its makeup last year was the introduction of ‘performance construction’ – carefully considered materials in the sail’s panels to provide the desired mix of light weight, strength and style. This also incorporated cross-panel techniques, so that the sail is reinforced along specific load lines to improve integrity. Build quality and attention to detail are excellent, the Move possessing many modern features, such as integrated battens, a seamless foot, a double-stitched window and custom printed x-ply so that the graphic is printed internally and won’t degrade over time. Available in two different colourways, it is recommended for use on an RDM mast, yet still compatible with an SDM. Easy to set thanks to the large trimming guide in the top panel, it is easy to downhaul the Move thanks to the reduced luff curve in the leading edge. Nevertheless there is plenty of skin tension in its panels, the draft shallow at rest, whilst the bottom two battens protrude beyond the leading edge of the mast.
BRAND CLAIM
“The Move offers plenty of power and huge amounts of stability. Whether it’s flat water blasting, bump and jump or waves, the Move does it all. … If you ever wanted one sail to do everything, the Move is the answer.”
PERFORMANCE
Used in marginal winds, the Move is light and easy in the hands at rest, relying upon the movement in the tapered Dacron luff panel to help allow the profile of the sail to expand and fill to a more meaningful shape. There is relatively little movement in the luff sleeve, yet the reduced luff curve enables the sail to respond well to a proactive pumping style. Once going, the Move quickly settles into a comfortable stance, its forward-positioned centre of effort combining with its long boom length to provide both balance and useable power through both hands. Acceleration is smooth and gradual rather than sharp or immediate, the motion in the luff panel providing an on-off response, its softness helping to cushion and absorb any harshness from the journey over the water. As the wind builds, the tuning range available in the Move can be used effectively, any additional tension helping to increase the twist and efficiency of the sail. Fast and slippery through the air, its low clew eyelet position furnishes the rider with the leverage to lock the sail into a more committed stance. In transition, the RRD’s ability to switch its pull off as it is eased out is a massive bonus and provides the time and poise to recover from any tentative misadventure of over enthusiasm. Easy to reposition and manageable as the power is turned back on, the Move would be a fantastic partner for the progressing intermediate, its tuneable range and amenable nature providing the confidence to explore. Nor would it be out of place in an experienced rider’s quiver, its fluid power delivery and light, balanced handling being highly desirable for all light to medium weight riders.
THE VERDICT
The Mk6 is no less relevant today than it was a year ago, with a wide tuneable range, handling ease and natural efficiency – a real blend of virtues that reward it with masses of user appeal.
Other sails in this test: