Wave sail 2026: What can the new NeilPryde Apex do? Interview with Robert Stroj
Manuel Vogel
· 09.01.2026
As the successor to the Atlas, NeilPryde now has the Apex in its programme. In this interview, sail designer Robert Stroj reveals what the sail can do and how it differs from the Combat model.
Robert, is the NeilPryde Apex a replacement for the previous Atlas model or is the design completely different?
In sizes 5.5sqm and larger, the Apex is a direct replacement or further development of the Atlas, with a continued strong focus on manoeuvrability and wave performance. These sizes have the same 5-batten layout as the Atlas, but with a higher aspect ratio (i.e. a more stretched outline, the ed.)to improve handling. In the smaller sizes (5.1 and smaller), on the other hand, it is a completely new sail that now also works excellently in very small sizes for strong wind conditions. These were exactly the sizes in which the Atlas, with its 5-batten construction, always felt a little stiff and difficult to control. For this reason, we have opted for four battens in the small sizes to make the sail softer, lighter and more forgiving compared to the Atlas.
How does the NeilPryde Apex differ from the Combat in terms of luff curve, profile, etc.?
Compared to the Combat, the Apex has a higher aspect ratio. In contrast to the Combat, the 4.7 size is ridden on a longer 400 mast. This results in a smaller surface area at the top, which improves control, especially when jumping and manoeuvring in the air. The Apex has a deeper profile at the front of the battens for additional power and stability as well as a slightly higher basic tension in the sail body, which makes it more direct than the Combat (Here's a test of the NeilPryde Combat 2025, the ed.). In the larger sizes with five battens, this difference to the Combat is even more noticeable, as the additional batten support allows a more powerful profile to be designed without losing profile stability.
During our first test sessions, the Apex 5.1 appeared to have a narrower mast sleeve and slightly more downhaul rope than the Combat. Are we right - and what is the idea behind it?
The width of the mast sleeve is actually the same as the Combat. However, as the profile is deeper at the battens, it can look narrower when built up on the beach. However, it is definitely true that the Apex has more downhaul rope. As explained above, the idea behind this is to make the sail more direct and responsive than the Combat, which is designed to have a very forgiving, soft feel in the waves.
How would you describe the target group of the Apex compared to the Combat?
In my opinion, the Apex is an uncomplicated all-round sail for onshore or mixed onshore/sideshore conditions. In the larger sizes it delivers plenty of power and propulsion even in inconsistent winds, while the small 4 batten sizes shine in strong, gale force winds and are the favourite sails of our riders in Pozo. During the photo shoot with the 4.3 I received very interesting and positive comments, even from riders who are mainly on the water in Hookipa and traditionally use the Combat. The smaller top surface and the stretched outline ensure that the sail rotates well and remains under control. Of course, it is not only intended for top riders who can perform such jumps and manoeuvres, but is also the perfect sail for anyone looking for a strong wind sail - whether on flat water or in bump & jump conditions.
