The Lightning has been in the Tushingham lineup
for several years now and has had a complete
makeover for 2006. Incorporating the brand’s
new ‘airframe’ concept (designed to lock stability
into the foil whilst offering the best strength to
weight ratio), their Optic-2 x-ply material and
alternating batten system (to make the sail
symmetrical on both tacks) it is a very well
engineered sail. The attention to detail on
Tushinghams is constantly refocused, with the
new Lightning now boasting an easy-access 3Dmoulded
tack fairing (although we do think it
could be extended to cover the UJ as well), a
strap-on cord and rubber abrasion pads in all the
vulnerable areas.
Rigging and Set
Proving extremely easy to rig for a cammed sail,
the Lightning’s two cams remain on the mast
whilst the mast is sheathed. With an extensive
tuning range available, the draft is locked well
forward irrespective of the tension applied, the
leech twisting off smoothly and progressively.
Ride and Handling
On the water the Lightning has a superb natural
range on one set, providing good bottom end
drive and remaining well balanced in variable
conditions. The power delivery is very progressive
and easy to handle, the low forward centre of effort
making the sail accelerate positively in the hands
as it pushes the board onto the plane. The foot
shape of the Lightning is very low with a lot of area
underneath the boom, and as such it is easy to
lock down into a secure stance, whilst the mast
remains very upright and driving forwards. Feeling
easy and composed throughout its impressive
wind range, the sail’s subtle built-in softness (due
to the Dacron luff panel) also makes it incredibly
versatile, allowing the sailor to a adopt a variety of
stances, from upright and cruising, to locked in
and exploring the sail’s excellent top end. It may
not offer the ultimate speed or precision of some of
the more race-oriented sails in the group, yet the
Lightning’s forgiving nature and ease of use makes
it one of the most practical here, being more
relaxing to sail for long periods and requiring less
concentration or technical ability from the sailor. In
transition, the sail’s swing weight is minimal whilst
the battens rotate cleanly onto the new tack.
For: Wind range, easy handling, all-round
performance and user range.
Against: Tack fairing could be extended to cover
the UJ.
