In addition to the familiar shapes in 115, 125 and 155 litres, which will remain the same in terms of shape and construction for 2022, two further sizes will follow with a slightly different shape philosophy and a more affordable HD construction. The genetic lineage remains clearly recognisable, but there are more than just subtleties in which the two latest creations from Australia differ. Namely in the - not insignificant - volume distribution.
In previous tests, the 115cc and 125cc sizes were fully convincing, with only the very thin bow section requiring a little more feeling and nimble feet when hauling up and turning. This is exactly where designer Ben Severne and his team came in. The side view of the 2022 Alien 120, which we were able to test at the surf festival on Fehmarn, shows the very even volume distribution. The rear has been kept thinner, but the front has been padded out a little. As a result, even with a weight of just under 90 kilos, you are more relaxed when hauling up - and tacking is also noticeably easier and quicker.
What has remained - in combination with the "Red Wing" foil (supplied in a practical bag, 1099 euros) - is the very early take-off, the extremely stable flying position, which is currently hard to beat, and the stable glide through the jibe, even at very slow speeds. The foil runs well upwind, not as heavily canted as a freerace foil, but still looks sporty and fast. It is certainly not intended for regatta use, as it lacks a bit of top speed. But it is super easy to foil and has a wide range of use.
The long 85-centimetre mast provides plenty of ground clearance in chop and gives you time to react if the board does rise too high. However, the movements "up and down" are particularly measured, predictable and controllable. Should a "crash" nevertheless occur, the strongly curved nose section with plenty of volume and lateral bevelling at the edges absorbs it quite gently.
surf conclusion: An excellent freeride setup that we find particularly suitable for early foiling with sails of four and a half to six and a half square metres.
Severne Alien 120 + 145 HD
Length:205/210 cm
Width:74/80 cm
Weight:7.5/8.3 kilos
Price:2049 Euro
Info: www.severnesails.com
