The ENSIS SCORE III 2024 is the latest development from the Swiss wing manufacturer. We have already been able to test it extensively in the 5.2 m² size. The Wing really does offer a balanced combination of lightness, stability and power. According to ENSIS, the model is aimed at riders of different experience levels – from beginners to professionals – and promises versatile performance on flat water as well as in waves.
The Wing is available in the sizes 2.8 m², 3.6 m², 4.1 m², 5.2 m², 5.9 m², 6.6 m².
Particularly striking is the 35% reduction in weight compared to its predecessor, which according to ENSIS was achieved through the use of new materials and an optimized design.
Here are our impressions:
On land
Scope of delivery
The ENSIS SCORE III is supplied with the backpack carrying bag already familiar from its predecessors. The bag offers sufficient space for the wing, pump and other accessories. Also included are a wrist leash, the obligatory valve adapter and a repair kit.
Bag/packing size
The backpack carry bag is compact and easy to carry as usual. It offers sufficient storage space for the wing, a pump and small parts. Ventilation openings support the ventilation and at least partial drying of the packed wing.
Leash
The wrist leash is secure and stable and can be released quickly if necessary. It is made of elastic material that ensures greater freedom of movement.
Unpacking
The lightness of the Wing compared to its predecessor becomes clear as soon as you unpack it. According to ENSIS, the Wing is 35 percent lighter than its predecessor. Our test Wing with 5.2 m² weighed in at 2.98 kg. Despite the reduced weight, the Wing has the same high-quality finish as its predecessors. The Wing feels light without sacrificing robustness.
Inflate
The Wing has a single-chamber system with two valves that enable fast inflation and deflation. The one-pump mechanism with a wide tube diameter of 9 mm ensures fast inflation and deflation, even without opening the deflation valve on the center tube, which we believe could have been omitted.
Surface design / Shaping / Tips
The design of the SCORE III has a medium aspect ratio. The wingtips are equipped with lighter Dacron, which reduces the swing weight and provides more control and stability. The frame is very stiff and ensures a tightly tensioned cloth, especially at the trailing edge.
ENSIS uses a hybrid construction with stiff Dacron on the front tube and lighter Dacron on the wing tips. This is intended to keep the wing light but very stable at the same time. In addition, soft mini battens help to control the tension of the trailing edge.
Handles/boom/strap
As with the boom of its brother, the Top Spin(click here for the test), the rigid handles have an oval cross-section. The connection to the wing is extremely direct. The handles also feel comfortable in the hand. And they are also well suited to the smaller hands of younger riders or women. This can be clearly seen in the following photo of our 10-year-old Theo.
On the water
Before starting
The SCORE III is easy to control even before take-off. The wing is well balanced and feels effortless even in light winds. Its lightness reduces the effort required to hold the wing, making it particularly easy to get started.
Start
The wing is stable in the wind, virtually nothing wobbles or flutters. This supports the take-off, even in lighter winds.
Speed/altituderunning
The SCORE III also proved to be pleasantly stable while riding. The pressure point is relatively far forward and ensures direct propulsion. Nevertheless, the wing retains its balance even at higher speeds and feels easy to control. It supports upwind running quite well, which should prove advantageous in upwind races.
Wind range/flight stability
The Wing worked well in wind conditions at the upper and lower limits. In light winds, the significantly reduced weight plays into its hands and makes it a pleasant companion compared to its predecessor. But even in stronger winds, the Wing remains pleasantly stable and controllable, although it cannot deny its origins. Even small gusts are converted into propulsion.
Maneuver/Depower
Thanks to its reduced weight and good balance, the SCORE III is particularly maneuverable. The stiff handles ensure precise and direct steering movements, making quick maneuvers and changes of direction easier.
It is calm and stable in the wave. The front strap is easy to grip and offers sufficient space even for large hands, possibly with gloves. Overall, the SCORE III remains well balanced in all maneuvers, moves easily and reacts quickly to steering movements without fluttering.
Position/use of the windows
From our point of view, the windows are perfectly positioned and offer a remarkably clear view. We have often emphasized that we are a fan of windows. In this case, obstacles and other drivers are particularly easy to see.
Conclusion
The ENSIS SCORE III Wing 2024 is an impressive wing that offers outstanding performance for beginners and professionals alike. Its newfound lightness and still very robust construction with a clear view make it a good choice for a wide range of conditions. Compared to its predecessor, it is much more comfortable to use even in light winds. Younger and less powerful riders should also enjoy the SCORE III. The ergonomic handles support this. The SCORE III offers a good mix of performance, control and comfort with proven Swiss quality. Congratulations to ENSIS!
Many thanks to Bulgenslag for the cover photo of this post! 🙂
