Both the SlingWing V6 and the NXT V2 are incredibly well-balanced, all-round wings. In this review of the NXT, I’ll take a close look at all the key aspects that matter when deciding whether this is the right wing for you.
The NXT is built with Aluula, which puts it at a higher price point, while the SlingWing is more affordable. You might assume that the Aluula construction automatically makes the NXT a much better wing—but I don’t think it’s that simple. What really matters is which wing best fits your level, and when, where, and in what conditions the NXT actually makes more sense.
So is the NXT really the better choice? Let’s find out in this review.
Of the water impressions of the Slingshot NXT v2
The NXT v2 shares a lot of features with that of the SlingWing v6. The NXT comes in one color option. The bright yellow Aluula signature frame, combined with the black canopy, and the Slingshot logo in yellow giving the wing a high color contrast. This really stands out on and off the water.
Looking at the wing from the front, it’s clear that compared to the SlingWing, the NXT made from Aluula, gave it a thinner Leading on this 5.0 wing. Where most wings have a higher pressure on the leading edge then the strut, for the NXT 5.0 the leading edge only needs 8psi and the strut 10psi. The frame of the wing feels very solid and has been given good looking black reinforcements on the corners.
The aspect ratio of the wing is medium. It won’t hit the water very quick with this 5.0. Some really low aspect wings just don’t look so good overall. But being medium on the NXT combined with the windows, colors and shape of the wing, the NXT scores high.
When only looking closely at the canopy, it’s tension and panel layout, the SlingWing actually scores a bit higher as the NXT tensions seems a bit less.
The boom of the wing is the same as on the Slingwing v6. As mentioned on the Slingwing v6 review I can really appreciate the boom. It’s ergonomic design and very easy and quick attach/detach method make it the best. The boom is included with each wing. Sizes 5.0 and larger use the same size and weight about 500 grams, and a smaller boom is used on the smaller sizes. There is also a full carbon boom coming soon, or carbon uni handle as slingshot calls it. It will weigh about 300 grams for the long version. The NXT v2 now weighs 2.9kg with boom and leash, and 2.4kg without the boom.
The front handle is made out of a ‘one piece rubber’ and is a very well designed feature. There is protective patch to protect the knuckles of the hand behind it.
The elastic leash is nice and long without getting in the way while foiling or waveriding, it has a swivel so it won’t curl up or entangle and it will probably fit any sized wrist/hand combination.
The wing comes with a large carrying bag that easily fits the wing plus more equipment if needed. It also has a small separate compartment to hold some small parts like keys or a phone.
Inflation and deflation of the wing goes through two separate valves. They are similar to SUP valves and work very well, as long as you keep in mind that you have pressed them before inflating. When deflating this goes very quick. Due to the flat construction of the valves they prevent the leash from becoming stuck behind the valve. Which can be the case in wings where the valve or air release sticks out.
On water performance
This wing is very well balanced and while blasting around on the water, it has a very neutral feeling which is a very good thing. No matter the angle you go, the power of the wing is balanced between both hands. This makes riding/ flying this wing predictable and enjoyable so you can focus on maneuvers you like to do and learn. What also helps is the feeling of the grippy, ergonomic boom, giving direct input.
The Leading edge of the wing is quite thin, making it easy to pull the wing through the wind. It could have been a little bit easier, if the strut would have been behind the leading edge. As it sits a little bit lower, I can feel some resistance. But this probably does help in giving the wing enough low end power which is good enough on the performance oriented wing it is.
When pumping in low or high winds, the aluula frame doesn’t give in, it is noticeable stiffer then on the SlingWing. The medium aspect ratio of the wing doesn’t make it the fastest wing out there, but having the Leading edge build thin, it still provides enough speed for most users. Because of this design, it also goes upwind very well. Also in low wind it does this well, as you can pump in a high wind upwind angle.
On the wave the wing follows well. Only in very strong gusts I found the same resistance I found when pulling it though the wind. In a tack on the wave I could see the canopy around the front part being blow back a bit. Changing directions with the wing went very quick and efficient. Downwind riding was great as the wing is quite light. The transition from holding the boom, grabbing the front handle needs some getting used to. The distance between these 2 is quite large and needs some reaching.
I can’t say anything about the jumping capabilities of this wing. With the Slingshot SlingWing I really felt that extra boost when jumping. When testing the NXT I didn’t experience this, but also not with any other wing in the same conditions. Probably because the wind was just to gusty and offshore.
Conclusion
The small critics I mentioned in this review are really just small criticism. If you are looking for a do it all great allround wind that is in perfect balance, the NXT is a great option that you will enjoy a lot!
It is easy to say that the Slingwing has less performance then the NXT because it costs less. I don’t think this is the case. The slingwing v6 is a great allround wing, that most will enjoy. But the lower weight and the thinner leading edge in the NXT are very nice features in a wing. A beginner, to an expert will benefit from this.
If money isn’t an issue, that would be the main reasons to choose the NXT. However, double the price doesn’t mean it will perform double as well. It’s just that little bit of extra making it even slightly more enjoyable.