Words & pics: WSUK
Having tested Severne’s Dyno 105 parallel concept freestyle wave board in 2018 it made sense to shift focus to the brand’s more hardcore parallel rail board: the Nano. In this instance the 93L version.
As with the Dyno we doff our caps to Severne’s construction techniques which sees the Nano 93L being a robust and durable wave sled – exactly what’s needed for surf sailing. Another tick in the box is the ability to swap out fins and tune to your desired feel. For our money, however, it’s thruster mode that makes most sense for the conditions we normally encounter.
For many, 93L may be edging towards the smaller end of the wave board scale. The Nano’s plan shape also appears narrow and gunny – even though it’s actually not that long (217). Parallel rail designs often give this impression yet once riders are aboard things become clearer…
…and it’s no different with the Nano 93L. Featuring much more float than you’d believe it supports bigger boned riders in moderately blowy weather and gets planing with the merest sniff of breeze. If you’re a back foot heavy sailor then you’ll find additional favour with Severne’s Nano 93L due to being able to push slightly harder against the central fin.
We were super impressed by the Nano’s speed. One thing all wave heads need is a decent level of vroom. It’s no good trying to stomp high boosts without and you’ll certainly require it for outrunning pitching sections or even picking up swells. So in your face is the Nano’s speed that at times it felt more slalom-esque. Yet in all situations, backing off is easy to achieve when required.
Through rotations, such as forwards and backies, the Nano’s compact design allows for whippy transitions. Whilst on a wave it bites through the bottom turn efficiently. Having connected with the lip riders are free to bust out the fins or keep in contact by engaging the Nano’s grip. Being able to switch between different styles or wave riding, determined by how the wave actually is breaking, will ensure the Nano finds favour with many.
We also should comment on the Nano’s backside riding capabilities which is one of the best we’ve encountered. For a lot of riders backside isn’t their flavour yet the Nano delivers superior surfing prowess enhancing this experience no end.
Conclusion
Severne’s Nano 93L isn’t what it first appears. Its compact nature belies how balanced a board it is and how easily/early it gets planing. Once up to speed there’s manoeuvrability on tap with sailors being able to milk conditions for all their worth. Construction is bomb proof as well as aesthetics being easy on the eye. Our lightweight rider commented how nimble it is – considering this would be their bigger board – while our heavier rider appreciated the Nano’s early planing, upwind and efficient backside wave riding characteristics.
Price:
£1799
Info:
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