We already introduced you to the first version of the GA-Sails Cross Wing last season ( HERE you can find the test here). The 2022 model is still designed as an all-rounder for freeride, manoeuvres and wave excursions, but has been significantly revised compared to its predecessor.
On land:
The GA-Sails Cross has been virtually retreaded. The outline, profile tension and structure of the wing have been modified to give last year's rather soft wing a little more rigidity. Thinner wing tips are now intended to ensure low mass in these areas and better twist behaviour. There is also an optimised arrangement of the window and an additional exhaust valve on the centre strut, thanks to which the wing can now be deflated noticeably faster. GA-Sails still relies on narrow handles at the rear for the handle system, but now uses a wide handle at the front, which allows a little more lateral room for manoeuvre. The handles themselves are now much more comfortable than on the previous model. The new 2022 model is available in 2.2/2.8/3.5/4.2/5.2 and 6.2 square metres.
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On the water:
The GA-Sails Cross Wing is still rather elastic when inflated, but is significantly firmer than the previous model. Nevertheless, the recommended inflation pressure of the wing of 7-8 psi should not be undercut significantly. With this characteristic, the 5.2 Cross we tested can be pumped up excellently, it loads up well and ensures early take-off. Even with a passive riding style (without pumping), the Wing develops a lot of power. In a straight line, the wing is nicely balanced in the hand, it has a stable flow and makes it easy for less experienced wing surfers to adopt a stable position on the foil. The widened grip at the front now allows the hands to be moved sideways, but depending on the type of rider and weight, it may still not be possible to position the hands in such a way that you are travelling with a completely even pull on both arms. Wings with wide grip loops or boom systems have advantages in this respect.
In manoeuvres, the new Cross is nice and light and neutral in the hand, it balances well when it is only guided by the front handle loop. Only the very loosely cut trailing edge of the wing flutters noticeably and audibly in a neutral position, e.g. when riding down swells or when riding up in strong gusts. All in all, however, we were impressed by the Wing's manoeuvrability - the Cross feels light and agile at all times and can be steered very precisely. However, the narrow handles require a more precise grip. With a wingspan of 335 centimetres, the Wing is also compact enough to tackle initial freestyle manoeuvres such as 360s.
GA-Sails Cross Wing 2022 - the conclusion:
The new Cross Wing has been improved in numerous details, but retains its good all-round suitability. It is suitable for relaxed freeriding in light winds as well as for foil manoeuvres, first freestyle tricks and excursions into the waves.
Range of use; pumping in light winds
Narrow handles at the rear; slight fluttering of the trailing edge
