Test 2019: Neilpryde X:Series sail range

One point to reduce costs: the X:Series sails are only updated in shape every three years. This means you have to do without some "premium features", but the sails are manufactured to the latest industry standard, according to the NeilPryde promise. TheX:Wave HDis based on the Combat 2018 with an additional shot of gliding power. TheX:Move HD is the favourable counterpart to the freemoving sail "Fusion" and with the X:RydeNeilPryde appeals to the price-conscious freerider who is looking for an alternative to the classic "Ryde".

X:Wave HD and X:Move HD will have to face the tough comparison in the surf test in late autumn at the latest, but we have already been able to surf a first sail of the X:Ryde in the series shape in size 7.2:

With a lot of monofilm and only six battens, the sail looks light and airy on land and the trim forces (test mast: SDM 100) are at a low to medium level. The X:Ryde is a far cry from cheap looks, and some people won't even miss the missing "premium features".

On the water, the sail was convincing in light and medium planing winds with strong planing, good draft and easy handling. The slightly softer profile with the also not too stiff battens can be pumped well, forms a good belly and thus pulls well through wind holes even in light winds and stays planing upwind for a long time. The average speed in the lower and medium glide range also benefits from this characteristic. If the wind picks up, you have to pull a little at the back, but the controllability can be trimmed to a decent level even in good winds.

Nevertheless, we would not recommend the X:Ryde as an overpowered heat sail. Light and planing, it also cuts a good figure when foiling - but that's just a side note. First and foremost, it is a light, very gybe-friendly beginner, intermediate and freeride sail. Info: www.neilpryde.com