In addition to the Super Hero wave model, Duotone also offers the Super Hero SLS in sizes 3.7 to 5.7 square metres. The SLS construction is largely seamless and should therefore be significantly lighter and less stretchy than the "normal" construction. However, the construction also has an impact on the price - at 1319 euros, the SLS in the 4.7 square metre size is a whopping 360 euros more expensive than the standard version.
On land:
At a measured 2.69 kilos, the Duotone Super Hero SLS is very light. Apart from the construction, the other features are in line with the Duotone standard: the protector is sufficiently long, has a pad pocket and is also easy to fold. The numerous markings, which help you to adjust the harness foot position, boom length and luff trim, are also made with love. Carbon fibres extend from the clew towards the sail top to minimise stretch. The batten attachments on the mast sleeve are also well protected. The trim forces on the luff are relatively low.
On the water:
We were able to test the Super Hero SLS for two days on the North Sea. Overall, the profile appears to be comparatively soft. It offers very good damping in choppy conditions, but the sail also loads up well. If the profile is still quite flat when the wind is not blowing, a deep belly is drawn into the sail when the sail is pulled tight, which ensures very good planing performance. The sail should not be under-trimmed at the boom, otherwise it will lose some of its light sail feel. With a moderate pull on the trim sheet, it still offers convincing planing performance and in this trim it remains extremely long-lasting - the wind range of the sail is indeed huge.
The Super Hero SLS was particularly impressive with its above-average wind range
This almost completely eliminates the need for annoying re-trimming - which is a great advantage both in gusty inland areas and in frontal weather on the rough North Sea. The good overall impression continues seamlessly in manoeuvres and on the wave: whether jibing, duck jibe or front loop, the handling with low dead weight and flawless batten rotation is convincing across the board. Overall, the sail concept offers a successful mix of power and neutrality. With these characteristics, it also scores points on the wave because it offers enough drive in the bottom turn to reach the top of the wave lip at speed, but also does not lack the necessary neutrality.
Duotone Super Hero SLS - the conclusion:
The Duotone Super Hero SLS impresses with planing power, good handling and an above-average wind range. It therefore appeals to a large target group and scores points in bump & jump conditions as well as in creamy waves. The standard version is significantly cheaper, but has an identical profile.
glide power, balanced handling, wind range
Technical data Duotone Super Hero SLS
- Sizes: 3,7/4,0/4,2/4,5/4,7/5.0/5.3/5.7 square metres
- Luff: 363/374/378/390/404/418/430/438 cm
- Fork:148/148/154/158/162/166/ 170/176 cm
- Price test model: 1319 Euro
- More info: duotonesports.com
