SIMMER 2XC 7.8M 2015 TEST REVIEW
SIMMER 2XC 7.8M 2015 TEST REVIEW
OVERVIEW `
Rigged using Simmer’s 100% SDM mast, the 2XC was easy to downhaul, displaying slightly less luff-curve than others in this group. The mini-cams popped onto the mast effortlessly before applying the rest of the downhaul tension so that the leech dropped away to the fourth batten. Any more tension than this and the clean deep profile in the draft quickly diminished, whilst the mid-leech became overly loose.
BRAND CLAIM
“The 2XC offers quick and simple rigging, great low-end power, smooth rotation and easy handling. With research and development directly linked to that of the Simmer Race Program, 2XC features all of the most recent innovations found in our full-bred race machine.”
PERFORMANCE
On the water the 2XC provides an wonderfully endearing combination of performance and handling that confirms twin-cams fulfil a truly important place within a sail loft’s quiver. Light and responsive at rest, it accelerates smoothly as a gust hits, feeling balanced yet positive and active in the hands. With plenty of crisp bottom end power, the 2XC can happily partner any type of board, from a modern wide-thin style board to an efficient freerace / slalom hull. There is a real lightness and ease to its handling, enabling the sail to move around the rider and adapt to different riding styles and stances. Cruise around with an upright stance at half-speed or lock it into a more purposeful position, the 2XC is equally happy with both. The Q-ply scrim used in the sail’s upper panels also reduces its swing weight making it feel more user-friendly and easier to reposition in transition. As the wind increases, the Simmer can be retuned to cope, using the dropped clew eyelet position and more tension through the outhaul. In severe conditions a small amount of extra downhaul was useful, opening the mid-leech without pulling all the shape out of the draft. But it was the 2XC’s softer character that really made the difference, making it easier to live with in these conditions, absorbing any impact in hard chop without adversely affecting the rider’s stance. A well-made, dependable all-rounder, the 2XC just sits in your hands providing the balanced power for you to blast around and cover great distances on all points of sail.
THE VERDICT
A well-designed, well-built twin-cam than has true all-round appeal, the 2XC offers a fantastic blend of easy crisp handling and wide ranging dependable performance.A favourite amongst the team for easy, uncomplicated fun on the water.
Other sails in this test: