The Blade is Severne’s power wave sail designed
around the demands and aggressive riding style
of Scott McKercher. Impressed with the
performance of the 4.7m and 5.3m versions
tested earlier in the year, we were interested to
see how the 6.2m handled, being the largest in
the range. Built to withstand considerable abuse,
it utilises the brand’s new aramid reinforced
Metalex-II material, along with various grades of
Kevlar x-ply to give it a very bold eye-catching
appearance on the water. Well-engineered with
excellent attention to detail (including the latest
fold-over seaming in the foot), it incorporates
everything you expect from a high-quality product.
Rigging and Set
With a good tuning range on both downhaul and
outhaul, the Blade boasts masses of pre-shape
throughout and requires significant outhaul
tension to allow the main two battens to rotate
smoothly. Loose in the top two panels, the leech
is tight in its mid-section irrespective of the
tension applied.
Ride and Handling
Supplying masses of constant forward drive, the
Blade has a stunning bottom end, capable of unsticking
the most stubborn hull. The centre of effort
is incredibly low and forward in the draft,
transferring every bit of power directly to the board,
leaving the sail to feel perfectly balanced in the
hands. The clew eyelet is also very low,
encouraging the rider into a very locked and
commanding stance, ideal for covering great
distances. In severe conditions, the Blade’s
stability remains rock-solid, the effort not shifting
for a moment, and sailing through a gust you can
physically feel the sail accelerate in the hands,
pinning the board down to maintain control in
confused sea states. Providing such constant
energy, the Blade is best suited for more decisive
riding styles, never once going neutral or letting
the rider cruise at half speed. This is the same in
transition, the sail’s low-down power lending it to
expressive carving manoeuvres, rather than ‘on-off’
flicky stunts associated with ‘new-school’ freestyle.
For: Low-down drive, balance and control over an
impressive range. Durability to handle the harshest
surf break.
Against: Constant power and high-energy return
may unnerve the intermediate.
Verdict
The Blade is a sensationally stable sail,
providing constant balanced power over a
massive wind range. Ideal for decisive riding
styles, it can be used to great effect in any sea
state, with the straight-line comfort to match its
superb wave riding capabilities.
