NeilPryde Zone 4.7

On land: Particularly striking on the 2009 Combat is the visibly straighter mast curve. On the leech, the slightly concave cut directly above the boom is striking. The mast protector and all reinforcements look well dimensioned, the transparent X-Ply solid and classy.

On the water: Like all other NeilPryde wave sails, the 2009 Zone has also been "relaxed". With less luff curve and on the X-Combat mast, it now appears a little softer and more damped. It has a flatter cut than the Combat and thus remains the most neutral sideshore sail within the brand, recognisable by the best "off" even within the entire group.

With the sail pressure point a little further forward, the sail pulls slightly forwards when accelerating, which takes a little getting used to, but then you can enjoy the excellent handling and above-average agility on the wave.

Less stable to ride, but light as a feather in the hands, it is one of the sails that allow the fastest sailing manoeuvres on the wave with the least amount of effort. The fact that the propulsion can be switched off at lightning speed if required further enhances the wave qualities.

The Zone is not a real powerhouse, but a very light, neutral and also lively wave sail that also works very well when trimmed flat in strong winds.

surf tip: For good to very good wave areas.

Mast used: NP X-Combat 400 cm, IMCS 19,

1.70 kilos, 90 % carbon, price: 619 euros

Web: www.neilpryde.de

Downloads:

Test: Wave sail 4.7 (pdf)