The new North Freerace sail sets new standards in several respects - as the first completely welded sail made of high-quality canvas laminate. The design of the camber mast sleeve is also a real innovation. When rigging, the mast is pushed directly through the camber, which is still at a respectful distance from the leading edge of the mast. A hose in the mast sleeve is then inflated to seven to eight psi with the kite pump. This compresses the camber between the battens and the mast, resulting in a significantly thicker leading edge behind the mast.
The result is a thicker profile than any other sail in the lower third of the sail body. Visually, the sail still impresses with its clean shape and no visible seams. The sailcloth is only simply cut off at the leech, with a few wafer-thin fringes already hanging out of the test sail. The trim forces are very low thanks to the large rollers on the outhaul.
Brilliant performance in light winds, limits at the top
On the water, the advantage of the weight saved, especially at the rear, is immediately apparent. The sail is extremely light in the hand, which has a positive effect on handling and planing. The thick profile in the lower section ensures excellent propulsion even in light winds and pulls the board into planing powerfully but with low holding forces. The pull is distributed evenly across both hands. In the acceleration phase, there is initially a lack of traction on the back hand to immediately press the board vehemently onto the fin. In the lower and medium wind range, however, the North Freerace impresses with top performance and a uniquely light feel.
In stronger winds, the limits of the concept become apparent - the thick profile cannot be trimmed flatter and limits the top speed. In manoeuvres, the sail shines with very good handling and easy rotation of the camber. However, a boom-to-boom change is necessary in the jibe, as the sail can hardly be gripped on the mast. Overall, the North Freerace sets new standards for light wind performance, while its performance in stronger winds is rather average.
surf summary of the North Sails Freerace Black 7.8
With the Freerace, North presents a sail made from welded canvas laminate and an innovative camber system. It achieves an extremely light swing weight and very good performance, especially in light to medium winds.
lightest camber freerace sail; low trim forces
Mast not "grippable" when jibing
(Kite) pump and special MDM mast required
Technical data North Sails Freerace Black 7.8
- Sail weight: 5.0 kg*
- Mast weight: 1.9 kg*
- Sleeve opening: 107.5-151 cm*
- Mast used: North Local Pro MDM 460, 100 % carbon; 899 euros
- Price: 1549 Euro
- Infos under northsails.com
*surf measurement
