The title says it all really - looking at trying an S1 or Blade (currently use simmer Icons).

I sail a mix of conditions, and seen scott's video of him ripping on a blade....but whats the view from more mortal sailors?

I know the S1 is the more dedicated...but also want something as an alrounder and have good top end.

im 85kg.

Cheers!

I have had a very brief sail on a 2010 S1 and own current model Blades, I am also 85kg.

I am loving the Blade, has great power for it's size and feels really light to handle. I was recently out on my 5.7 with a number of other sailors on a 92lt board while others were on 99 etc and the blade was getting me going as early as everyone else. I have matched the sails with a Gorilla mast and redline boom, and couldn't be happier. My most recent sail was in 3ft cross to cross off wind.

So far I would say the Blade would be the pick sail for a large percentage of sailors, especially those over say 80kg. The power is there, but the sail is also light enough to handle really well on a wave.

I should mention that I came off Gaastra Poisons this year and onto Severne. The Blade has more power than the equiv size Poison, with equal handling.

Thanks a lot for the response

Is it easy to turn the power off on the Blade (eg on the top turn?)

i think im going to try and track one down...or wait for news of the 2013 model?!

Yeah, I have been fully powered every time I have used the sails and have no problem getting the sail to go neutral for an easy top turn, or to lay hard into the bottom.