SIMMER 2XC 7.8M TEST REVIEW
SIMMER 2XC 7.8M TEST REVIEW
OVERVIEW
The 2XC is Simmer’s twin-cam freerace sail, inheriting much of the technology, shaping and concepts of the brand’s race sail – the SCR. Rigged on a sample Simmer 460cm SDM yet requiring more extension than quoted, it sets beautifully, with plenty of depth low and forwards in its draft. The two big developments for 2018 are the use of the latest cambers (going by the catchy name: TEKCAM V2 EDT3), which are said to improve stability and stiffness, whilst their compact design also encourages a smoother rotation. The second design refinement can be seen in the vertical cut of the luff panel, said to enhance vertical shaping and extend the sail’s profile into a larger area when downhaul is applied. In doing so, Simmer say the cut “helps to lock the centre of effort in the lower sail body.” Available in either a yellow or orange colourway, the 2XC was straightforward to rig, albeit the mast taking longer to sheath up the sleeve, given its tapered profile and the extent of the curvature to the 2XC’s leading edge. Once fully downhauled, there’s plenty of progressive looseness in the leech, all the way to the batten above the twin clew eyelets. Simmer’s signature Kevlar Stretch Control System is in place, with a tendon radiating from the clew to the front of batten three, and x-ply is used in the integrated upper batten pockets to reduce weight. It’s a well-finished good-looking sail, and also comes supplied with an extra cam (the TEKCAM Reduced) so that it can be used with
an RDM if desired.
BRAND CLAIM
“The 2XC is a high performance freerace sail for the more experienced windsurfer looking for the extra power and stability that a cambered sail offers. It offers quick and simple rigging, great low-end power, stability when under max power, and smooth camber rotation.”
PERFORMANCE
On the water the 2XC provided easy accessible performance over a very impressive wind range, demonstrating just how relevant twin cams still are in today’s market. In marginal winds its deep, forward-aligned centre of effort generates a good deal of bottom end grunt, ploughing power into the board and forcing it out of the water. And despite the high skin tension in the 2XC’s panels, there’s still a noticeable amount of give and breathability, allowing the sail to be pumped and moved around the rider. It also provides just the right amount of give, tempering the power delivery and softening the handling to make the sail forgiving. It settles into a very comfortable position and was easy to use for long periods, whatever the sea state, requiring little rider input and enabling them to conserve energy. At 220cm, the 2XC has the second largest boom length in this test, yet this is hardly noticeable whilst sailing, such is the low and forward locked position of the draft. Granted, it does result in a slower rotation mid-gybe than most here, but this is soon forgotten as the 2XC’s cams rotate smoothly and effortlessly into position, enabling the rider to power out of the turn. Any increase in wind strength can be met with an increase in downhaul and outhaul tension, which seems to improve the amount of twist in the sail without impacting on the depth or forward position of the draft. It’s an impressive trait, allowing the sail to retain its ease and balance over a very wide wind range. It may not have the same slippery nature as some others on test here, but you won’t care as you’re having such a relaxed and enjoyable ride on the Simmer.
THE VERDICT
Ease, range and practicality, the 2XC demonstrates just how much fun accessible performance can be, and at £639 it represents excellent value for money.
Other sails in this test:
TEST OVERVIEW PAGE