SEVERNE DYNO 105L 2019 TEST REVIEW
SEVERNE
DYNO 105L
2019 TEST REVIEW.
THE LOWDOWN
The Dyno is in its second season of production, labelled as Severne’s freewave option. Modelled on the brand’s all-round wave board, the Nano, it boasts all the main hallmarks of a modern compact design, plus some additional features that make it stand out from the crowd. Short and narrow, with parallel rails and masses of width retained just in front of the back strap, it then tapers quickly to a diamond tail, which combined with the angular nose gives the Dyno a strangely alluring appearance. Adopting a fast rockerline to boot, the efficiency of the board’s design is said to have allowed “the addition of some manoeuvre enhancing tail kick.” The rider’s stance is certainly moved towards the rear of the board to help accentuate this, joined by the fin boxes, which are easily the most rearward in this test group. Supplied with four straps and a variety of options in which to fix them, the thick dual density deckpads and constant dome in the deck offer comfort, whilst all fittings (including straps, fins and even the battens on Severne sails) are secured and adjusted using the same Hex4 tool – a neat touch. Turn the board over and the novel detailing continues. The most prominent feature is the raised spine that extends through much of the board’s length, and punches the vee of the board out to redefine what should be considered pronounced. Like the Nano, the rails are incredibly sharp in the tail, before tucking quickly and merging into broad bevels in the nose. Described by Severne as “progressive rail design” it transitions from hard release for speed and efficiency, to softness in the nose, whilst the rail line is moved higher to mitigate the chance of catching. Using a Powerbox for the central box to facilitate the use of a larger fin is desired, the side boxes are SlotBox Plus, with a locating bar in the front, said to increase durability in impacts.
BRAND CLAIM
“The Dyno transcends the conditions to expand your windsurfing possibilities.”
PERFORMANCE
Despite its new-school appearance, the Dyno feels balanced and conventional underfoot as soon as you step on. Tested initially on flat water, with outboard straps and a larger 32 cm fin, it accelerates smoothly as soon as power is supplied, the fittings comfortable and rider’s stance located in a purposeful position from which to drive and load the fin. With its flat stumpy nose it gives the impression of quite a gunny posture, yet the Dyno’s shoulders actually sit relatively high above the water’s surface, clear of tripping on any rogue chop. The central fin box is right at the rear of the board, providing plenty of feedback and drive when partnered with a quality fin, resulting in a flighty and engaging ride. Capable of pointing high upwind, it is fast on all points of sail, the extra tail width helping the Dyno to remain buoyant and punch through prolonged lulls. In the gybe its speed and innate stability combine to provide the impetus and clemency to cater for all abilities and riding styles – whatever your taste and preference, the Dyno can adapt. If it were solely a high wind blasting board, we’d stop there, happy in the Dyno’s credentials … yet change to inboard straps and the thruster setup supplied and it has so much more to offer. It is one of the first ‘modern compact’ designs that everyone seemed to really get on with and enjoy. Planing early and adopting a longer cruising waterline, the deep vee in the hull parts the water beautifully and comforts the ride over violent chop. Lively without feeling nervous, it feels smaller than its quoted size both underfoot and in the air … but it was on the wave that the Dyno really grabbed us. It is just so playful, feeling balanced and grippy without losing speed, and providing the control and connection to vary the carving angle throughout. The fins supplied are excellent, offering just the right amount of drive and flex for full complete turns and release when required.
THE VERDICT
Extolling the best virtues of modern compact design in an easy to use, balanced package, the Dyno offers incredible versatility for all abilities and conditions, deserving particular praise for its inspiring nature in cross to cross-on waves.
Other sails in this test:
• RRD FREESTYLE WAVE V5 104 LTD
• STARBOARD KODE FREEWAVE 103 FLAX BALSA