POINT-7 AC-F 5.9M TEST REVIEW 2024
The Verdict
The AC-F is a freeriders dream with maximum usability and comfortable sailing for any rider wanting to push there freeriding limits into some bumpier conditions where usability, speed and power are at the top of your list.
The Lowdown
The AC-F proudly graces the beach, exuding a business-like demeanour. When rigged to the recommended settings, the AC-F exhibits a subtle yet noticeable, consistent fall-away down into the third panel. The battens in the lower section of the sail sit off the mast with no overlap, as the AC-F rigs rather flat compared to others in the lineup. However, this is not a significant concern, given the ample flex and forgiveness in the luff of the lower section, which should fill out its profile once filled with wind.
Experimenting with a slight reduction in the downhaul and observing the sail’s reaction, the leech tightens up nicely and doesn’t appear out of place; the battens also start to overlap slightly. It’s pleasing to observe the small tuneable range of the AC-F, which provides options for riders. Overall, it has a more freeride-oriented appearance, while still maintaining compact characteristics, such as its five-batten layout. In larger sizes (6.4m and above), the AC-F adopts a six-batten layout and leans more towards a dedicated all-around freeride sail. A notable visual difference on the AC-F is the absence of a clear window; instead, there is a black see-through panel, but everything has a darker Point-7 business-like tone cast over it.
Brand Claim
“There are many freeride sails on the market, but this is one pure performance and exclusive freeride sail. Its duty is simply to let riders enjoy the magic of the sport! It’s not built to be the beginner freeride sail, but a real quality-built tutor.”
Performance
The AC-F pulls smoothly as the sail fills, the luff in the AC-F breathes and expands despite its flatter profile. With some surprising low-end power, it gets you up and going easily with its smooth low-end delivery. When the sail is filled and powering across the water, the AC-F holds power well and delivers it to the rider in a usable form. In gusty conditions, you can feel the AC-F react and tune itself, either flexing off in gusty conditions or closing the leech as you sail through a lull, displaying its natural ability to adapt with minimal rider input. In bump and jump conditions, the AC-F stands tall and proud, and just like in the gusts, it will flex and maintain its stature and smooth power delivery as you navigate your way through choppy waters. Not the easiest in the air, and when conditions become lively, the AC-F does feel large in the hands and requires some real commitment from the rider to pin it down. Happier when paired with a free-ride-oriented board and exciting coastal freeride conditions, the AC-F isn’t going to deliver in manoeuvre-oriented riding in waves. Instead control in a range of flatwater conditions, usability, and speed encapsulate the AC-F in a nutshell. Comfortable in transitions, it particularly excels through the gybe, accelerating you into it with ease and minimal input from the rider, followed by a smooth exit with its power delivery. The AC-F can feel a little blinded with the darkened window when riding, but after some time to get acquainted to it, you get used to looking through the tinted window as you enter transitions.
POINT-7 AC-F 5.9M TEST REVIEW 2024
VITAL STATS
Price: TBC
Size: 5.9m
Luff: 440cm
Boom: 190cm??? (Needs to be confirmed)
Battens: 5
Ideal Mast: RDM 430
Available Sizes: 5.4, 5.9, 6.4, 6.9, 7.5
OTHER SAILS IN THIS TEST
- Goya Banzai Pro 5.7m
- Severne Gator 5.7m
- Duotone Duke 5.8m
- North X-Over 5.8m
- GUNSAILS Re-Torro 5.7m
- GA Boost 5.8m
- Simmer Enduro 5.9m
- Loftsails Purelip 5.7m