Goya is unveiling the new generation of its wave sails: the three models – the Banzai 12, Banzai Max 2 and Banzai Surf 2 – share the same DNA, but each sail is designed to meet different requirements for wave riding. What’s more, there are three different construction options to choose from for each model – making a total of nine different sails.
According to Goya, the development focused on improved control and neutrality whilst maintaining power, drive and responsiveness. On all three models, the profile in the foot has been revised to reduce drag and stabilise the pressure point. Rotation during manoeuvres is said to be smoother, whilst a slightly lowered clew ensures a more compact, smoother sailing feel. Goya promises that the revised twist increases neutrality without compromising drive. New X-Ply panels are also designed to boost stability and improve precision, responsiveness and durability across the entire Banzai range.
Three design variants: Pro, X Pro and Pro Carbon
Every Banzai model is available in three construction variants. The Pro construction is the standard version; the X Pro version is identical in construction but replaces the main window with a full X-Ply construction. The Pro Carbon construction is the premium version and features high-quality carbon laminate, which is designed to minimise stretch and improve responsiveness.
With the previous model, we compared the X Pro and Pro-Carbon constructions – these were the differences: Goya Banzai Surf X Pro vs. Goya Banzai Surf Pro Carbon 5.0
Banzai 12, Banzai Surf and Banzai Max – here are the differences
Goya Banzai 12 for World Cup Performance
The Goya Banzai 12 forms the core of the range and is designed to offer the most responsive and performance-oriented feel. The Banzai 12 is a four-batten sail which, according to the manufacturer, delivers power when you pull in the lines and becomes “invisible” when you ease off. Goya promises a fast, responsive and precise “high-performance wave sail”. Compared to previous generations, the Banzai 12 has been further developed to offer more control, a cleaner release and increased neutrality, whilst retaining its characteristic responsive feel, the company says. “I love the development of the Banzai 12. We’ve aimed to make the sail as efficient as possible whilst retaining that softness, low-end power and forward-driving feel,” explains Goya rider Marcilio Browne. For him, jumping and wave riding complement each other perfectly. The sail has an improved profile that helps him when jumping, whilst the same pull supports him on the wave. “This sail lets me stop thinking and just ride, whether it’s during my daily sessions in Hookipa or at any spot in the world,” says the five-time world champion.
Available in eleven sizes ranging from 3.2 to 5.9 square metres.
Goya Banzai Surf 2 for manoeuvre-oriented wave riding
The Goya Banzai Surf 2 also features four battens. According to the manufacturer, this manoeuvrability-focused wave sail prioritises neutrality and release. A shorter boom, lower clew and a deeper, centred lift are designed to keep the sail close to the rider for maximum control and manoeuvrability. Compared to the Banzai 12 and Max 2, the Surf 2 has a slightly higher aspect ratio and feels more compact, which Goya promises enables a lighter rotational feel and tighter, surf-style turns. “We’ve been working on this type of sail throughout our windsurfing careers, and the Surf 2 ticks all the boxes,” says Levi Siver. He catches the set waves, achieves the best position on the wave with remarkable acceleration from the bottom, and can effortlessly let the sail go whilst riding the wave. Furthermore, Levi raves that the Surf 2 has proven to be a great sail for backloops and more.
Available in ten sizes ranging from 2.8 to 5.3 square metres.
Goya Banzai Max 2 for maximum bandwidth
The third sail in the range is the Goya Banzai Max 2 with five battens. According to the manufacturer, it is designed to deliver power when needed and offer control when it matters most. This versatile and stable wave sail is said to be suitable for all conditions. The five-batten layout is said to increase overall stability, whilst refined twist characteristics, a lower pressure point and a lower clew improve balance and control at the limits. Compared to the Banzai 12 and Surf 2, the Max 2 carries its lift slightly higher and more centred, which promotes an upright, neutral stance with strong forward drive and controlled power delivery. “With the Max 2, I’m looking for a sail with the same DNA and liveliness as a wave sail, but with the added stability and control of a five-batten sail,” explains Goya rider Tyson Poor. He finds that, particularly at Gorge, it helps him to concentrate on surfing rather than on the sail’s trim and angle of attack.
Available in ten sizes ranging from 3.7 to 6.2 square metres.
Full details and specifications can be found at goyawindsurfing.com
