Sails with structured luff, without cables
Developed since 2018, North Sails' Helix technology makes it possible to do without cables on furling sails. Using the 3Di system invented by the sailmaker or even in panel construction for downwind sails, the manufacturer positions the fibers to reinforce the luff and distribute the loads in an optimal way. While ensuring good aerodynamic performance and shape retention, the Helix technology offers the possibility to wrap the sail around the luff without inserting a cable. The weight saving thus increases the boat's performance.
It is available as Helix Offwind for large downwind sails, such as codes or gennakers, and as Helix Upwind for classic headsails with a wider range of use.
Deployment of Helix technology as standard
After a first phase of marketing and development in the high-end series and offshore racing, Helix has gradually been offered as an option to boaters. A Helix version for cruising gennakers was launched in 2021 as an option.
North Sails is taking another step forward in 2022 by making this technology more widely available. All the code sails for regattas, as well as the cruising gennaker, will benefit from a cable-less reinforced luff in Helix as standard.
The range of headsails for upwind sailing, known as Helix Upwind, will also be expanded, but this time as an option.
