NeilPryde proudly presents the Apex as the successor to the Atlas. We have already been able to test the Apex HD 5.1 extensively on the North and Baltic Seas.
On land
As with the Combat, there are two construction types available: the fully barred HD version and the even lighter Pro-Fuse construction. We were able to test ride the Apex in size 5.1 extensively, rigged on a 400 RDM mast. Even when rigging, it is noticeable that the Apex feels like it pulls less profile out of the mast sleeve, which is more pre-shaped. The outline differs significantly from the Combat, the Apex has a longer boom and also a longer luff length. The sail top has a much slimmer design, which should help with control. The trim points in the sail top are helpful in finding the right luff trim. At a measured 2.86 kilos, the Apex 5.1 is pleasingly light. The features, such as the mast protector or the batten tensioners that can be operated without tools, are as tried and tested as they are functional.
On the water
The Apex balances itself well when starting off, it lies in the hands without any major load changes. In combination with the defined and, compared to the Combat The centre of effort, which is located further back, results in very good gliding performance. Even with less sensitivity, it is easy to find the right angle of attack. When powered up, the Apex always delivers a light base pull on the back hand, making it easy to exert pressure on the fins and gain height. The slim top releases excess vapour. The prerequisite is that you give the sail enough loose leech and do not go significantly below the printed recommendation. Although the sail is powerful in a straight line, it can be put down with pleasingly little power - whether jibing or in the bottom turn. Here, too, it always delivers drive, which helps to carry the speed through the turn and convert it into powerful cutbacks.
Surf summary of the NeilPryde Apex HD 5.1
With this characteristic, the Apex complements the familiar Combat very well and, compared to the "old" Atlas noticeably more agile and also much easier to handle in the waves. The Apex emerges as the glide winner from the in-house duel with the current Combat, with top-level control in strong winds. All in all, this results in an even larger wind range and an equally large target group, ranging from strong wind freeriders to manoeuvre surfers and experienced wave surfers. All in all, the Combat is a little more muted, offers better on/off characteristics and should therefore continue to be the first choice for wave surfers who are fully focussed on wave performance, ease of riding and occasional freestyle moves.
Technical data NeilPryde Apex
| Size m2 | Luff cm | Boom cm |
| 3,6 | 358 | 142 |
| 3,9 | 374 | 147 |
| 4,3 | 388 | 153 |
| 4,7 | 406 | 160 |
| 5,1 | 421 | 166 |
| 5,5 | 435 | 172 |
| 5,9 | 452 | 178 |
| 6,3 | 468 | 184 |
- Prices: 849-1049 Euro
- Info under neilpryde.com
