SIMMER ICON 5.9M 2013 TEST REVIEW
SIMMER ICON 5.9M 2013 TEST REVIEW
THE LOW-DOWN
The Icon is described as the most versatile all-round sail featured in the Simmer wave range, designed to be taken anywhere and deliver in the widest range of conditions. For 2013 it’s been reworked for improved handling and is also lighter. We also featured the Icon in our 4.7 all-round wave test a couple of issues ago.
AT A GLANCE
• Full X-ply and Scrim
• Stretch Control System seam
• Kevlar reinforced head
• Moulded tack fairing
• High-cut foot
• Clew ring
• Five battens
The Icon has a medium-aspect, 5-batten shape and a lot of obvious attention-to-detail. The high level of build quality ensures this sail could stand-up to anything.
RIGGING
There’s a huge tuning range adjusted through both the down and outhaul settings. We used a 430 Simmer RDM10 mast.
PERFORMANCE
Stable in-the-hands, with a low and forward pull, it powered-up smoothly and was quick to get going. The wind range is very impressive and with an extra bit of tuning can cover a huge variety of conditions. As far as a wave sail goes, it’s pretty quick in a straight-line blast, but the most impressive thing is the level of control it delivers regardless of the wind or water environment. It’s no surprise that this is a very manoeuvre-orientated sail, with crisp, easy handling nature and an on/off power feed that’s great for throwing into any move, whether that’s cranking a carve on flat water or off a swell, launching into a freestyle trick or flying off a big, steep ramp.
THE VERDICT
The Simmer Icon clearly comes from a solid wave background, but it is a highly versatile wave sail that does also crossover easily into the freestyle and also freeride domains. It looks pretty much bomb-proof and capable of tackling anywhere with confidence. This 5.9 would suit any rider looking for a super-versatile big wave sail that can also deliver some fun action on the flat-water days.
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