SUPER_HERO D/LAB - creating the sail of your dreams! Imagine a world where restrictions in sail design and construction would cease to exist. how would the sail of your dreams look like?
For 2025 we have restructured our sail range according to the materials and construction being used (for further details please see below under D/LAB vs. SLS vs. Originals).
As a consequence the SUPER_HERO SLS is now being called SUPER_HERO D/LAB. It’s simply the biggest evolution on a wave sail in our history deservedly carrying the D/LAB label. Because for us, D/LAB represents the maximum technically achievable, giving a glimpse into the future.
3 things set the SUPER_HERO D/LAB apart from any other sail out there:
1. Unseen wind range
Unbelievable but true the wind range is extended in both directions means it gets planning earlier while offering more high-end control. To give you a better idea on the Original SUPER_HERO a typical quiver is 5.3 – 4.7 – 4.2. With the SUPER_HERO D/LAB though you can go 5.0 – 4.2 and cover the same range!
2. Ultra-light ON THE WATER
The physical weight is just one side of the medal. As usual though the real truth happens on the water. The sailing weight describes how light the sail feels in your hands while sailing. It is a combination of the physical weight but more importantly the sail’s dynamic. Therefore we are only interested in the so called sailing weight. A responsive/dynamic sail feels lighter in your hands. On the other hand a spongy sail feels heavier in your hands “eating up” much of the physical weight advantage.
Technora/Dyneema and Kevlar have a high tear strength, but are not very stiff (only similar stiffness than the Polyester monofilm). Therefore, if being reduced in thickness to save weight (membrane and laminated or composite sails), these sails tend to become quite spongy and dull to ride. This sponginess results in a less efficient sail with a reduced wind range (especially when overpowered).
Carbon, on the other hand, is approx. 3-4 times stiffer than Technora/Dyneema and Kevlar. Using our INTELLIGENT CARBON XPLY CONSTRUCTION we have found the ideal balance. The CARBON XPLY in the high load clew, top and tack areas guarantee unsurpassed low stretch and power transmission. However, the slightly more (re)flexing regular XPly in the body avoids the power from becoming uncontrollable. This makes the SUPER_HERO D/LAB extremely responsive and dynamic. In combination with the very low physical weight this results in the lowest possible sailing weight. There is no sail that feels lighter in your hands than the SUPER_HERO D/LAB!
3. Ultra-light without any sacrifice on durability
The easy and usual way to bring down the weight is by reducing the film/laminate thickness. Unfortunately reducing the film thickness has an over-proportional effect on the wear resistance and longevity in general. This is the reasons why reducing the weight the easy way by just reducing the skin thickness has never been an option for us - because all our products are designed and engineered according to our motto “LIGHT DONE RIGHT”.
For the SUPER_HERO D/LAB we use the same film/laminate thickness as with our bomb-proof Original SUPER_HERO. The fusion bonding joining the panels are much stronger than traditional sewing (actually the fusion bonding is even stronger than the materials itself). Hard to believe but experience has shown that the SUPER_HERO D/LAB is even stronger than the Original SUPER_HERO. We back this up with our industry-leading 5 YEAR WARRANTY, something no other brand is able to offer.
Using the SUPER_HERO D/LAB for the first time it feels as if your body becomes united with the sail and you are truly connected with the waves. The lightning quick reflex reactions without any sacrifice in control is a real game changer, so much so, all of our Pro Team will be using the SUPER_HERO D/LAB in 2025.
Please note: after intensive uv radiation, the fusion bonding may take on a yellowish tint. Extensive lab and water tests confirm that this is purely aesthetic and has no influence on the mechanical properties/strength. That's why this is excluded from the warranty.
ATTENTION: since the mast geometry and length (= stiffness) depend on the sail design, size and luff curve the sails will NOT work with any masts outside the recommendations!
PHYSICAL WEIGHT >< SAILING WEIGHT
THE SAILING WEIGHT INDICATES HOW LIGHT/HEAVY THE SAIL FEELS IN YOUR HANDS UNDER WIND PRESSURE.
IT IS THE COMBINATION OF:
1. PHYSICAL WEIGHT
2. CONSTRUCTION (SPONGY CONSTRUCTION MAKES THE SAIL FEEL HEAVIER >< REFLEXIVE CONSTRUCTION MAKES THE SAIL FEEL LIGHTER)
3. DRAFT LOCATION (LOW DRAFT MAKES THE SAIL FEEL HEAVIER >< HIGH DRAFT MAKES THE SAIL FEEL LIGHTER)
| SIZE | 3.7 | 4.0 | 4.2 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 5.0 | 5.3 | 5.7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHYSICAL WEIGHT (KG) (+-2%) | 2.25 | 2.35 | 2.45 | 2.55 | 2.65 | 2.75 | 2.85 | 2.95 |
| +/- CONSTRUCTION: VERY REFLEXIVE (CARBON XPLY + MONOCOQUE BODY) | -0.3 | -0.3 | -0.3 | -0.3 | -0.3 | -0.3 | -0.3 | -0.3 |
| +/- DRAFT LOCATION: LOW>>HIGH | +0.2 | +0.2 | +0.2 | +0.2 | +0.1 | +/-0 | -0.1 | -0.2 |
| >> SAILING WEIGHT (KG)* | 2.15 | 2.25 | 2.35 | 2.45 | 2.45 | 2.45 | 2.45 | 2.45 |
*our sailing weight indications are the result of extensive water testing experience
WHAT'S NEW
Size 4.5 got completely reworked
The findings from this sail size were transferred to the other sizes in detail-improvements in the luff curve and twist pattern
D/LAB vs. SLS vs. Originals
(SUPER_HERO D/LAB)
All sails featuring high-tech laminates (e.g. Carbon XPly) and fused panels fall under the D/LAB category.
Advantages:
- Approx. 500g lighter than ORIGINALS
- Biggest wind range due to increased use of CARBON XPly and FUSED MONOCOQUE BONDY CONSTRUCTION
- 5 YEAR WARRANTY
(DUKE SLS | E_PACE SLS)
All sails featuring high-tech laminates (e.g. Carbon XPly) and traditionally sewn panels fall under the SLS category.
Advantages:
- Approx. 500g lighter than ORIGINALS
- Bigger wind range due to the use of CARBON XPly
(All other sails)
All sails featuring “standard” XPly materials and traditionally sewn panels fall under the ORIGINALS category.
Advantages:
- Best price-value ratio
- 5 YEAR WARRANTY
SHAPE FOLLOWS CONSTRUCTION
Rather than simply using the same 3D shape for all sails in each construction, each sail is completely re-engineered and designed from scratch. This is the only way we could exploit the full potential of the zero-stretch CARBON XPly or the FUSION BODY CONSTRUCTION. This makes all SLS and especially D/LAB sails real game-changers.
WANNA EXTEND YOUR 2 YEAR WARRANTY BY ANOTHER 3 YEARS?
THIS PRODUCT IS QUALIFIED FOR AN EXTENDED WARRANTY OF 5 YEARS. TO SECURE THE EXTENDED CLAIMS PLEASE REGISTER WITHIN 30 DAYS.
OTHERWISE JUST THE LEGAL WARRANTY PERIOD CAN BE GRANTED!
PLEASE REGISTER HERE
YOUR PERFECT BOARD MATCH
»THE SUPER_HERO D/LAB IS THE FIRST SAIL FEATURING OUR GROUNDBREAKING MONOCOQUE FUSION BODY CONSTRUCTION. STRUCTURALLY IT IS THE BEST CONSTRUCTION I HAVE EVER WORKED WITH. I CANNOT IMAGINE ANY OTHER SAIL OFFERING A BETTER BALANCE BETWEEN ULTRA-LIGHT WEIGHT IN YOUR HANDS, UNPRECEDENTED WIND RANGE AND LONG-TERM DURABILITY.«
»OUR EXPERIENCE IN TESTING ALL KINDS OF SUPER-LIGHT SAILS EXISTING ON THE MARKET SO FAR HAS BEEN THE LIGHTER THE SAIL, THE SMALLER THE WIND-RANGE AND THE MORE FRAGILE THE SAIL BECOMES. THE SUPER_HERO D/LAB IS A REAL GAME-CHANGER BECAUSE IT DOESN'T SACRIFICE DURABILITY AND COVERS AN EVEN BIGGER WIND-RANGE THAN THE ORIGINAL SUPER_HERO.«
»WHAT IMPRESSED ME THE MOST IS THE MASSIVE WIND RANGE YOU COVER WITH ONE SINGLE SIZE. IT IS ALMOST TWICE AS BIG AS ANY OTHER SAIL I‘VE EVER USED BEFORE.«
Reviews
KNOWLEDGE BASE SAILS
COMPATIBILITY
At DUOTONE we use a Medium Constant Curve for our masts (our bend percentages range between 61-63 bottom and 75-77 top depending on model and length). As this curve sits right in the middle within Constant Curve masts it offers the biggest compatibility of any bend curve. This makes our masts and sails the most compatible on the market.
HERE IS HOW GOOD OTHER BRAND MASTS WORK WITH OUR SAILS AND VICE VERSA:
Challenger Sails, Ezzy, GA (2017 on), Goya, Gun Sails, KA Sails, Loft Sails, Naish Sails, NeilPryde (RDM masts), RRD, S2Maui, Sailloft, Sailworks, Severne (RDM masts, 2014 on)
>> 80-90% (depending on model and size)
Hot Sails, NeilPryde (SDM masts), Point7, Severne (SDM masts, 2014 on), Simmer Style, Chinook
>> 70-80% (depending on model and size)
Avanti, Gaastra (until 2016), Maui Sails, Severne (until 2013), Vandal
>> Not compatible
In general, at Duotone, we modify our mast curves just very, very moderately, if at all, from one year to the next. There are 2 reasons for this:
1. we try to keep our masts compatible with our sails for as long as possible to avoid forcing customers to always buy a new mast with their new sail.
2. our sail designer Kai is always trying to reduce the "design variables" as much as possible. This way he can constantly improve the sails performance. And since the mast curves have a tremendous impact on the sail, he is not very eager to change the curves.
Even on our high-performance Platinum mast series, the bend curves are only slightly adjusted from year to year. All other mast series generally remain completely unchanged. This means that as long as you are not a Word Cup pro, you can use 10 year old or even older Duotone masts (or from our previous brand) in our sails.
Most customers change their individual sail and mast sizes according to demand and therefore end up owning a quiver with different brands. When building up your personal sail quiver, you should try to combine sails that have a similar feel and behavior. The one decisive factor defining how similar or different one sail feels/behaves to another is the position of the draft, in both levels, vertical (high><low) and horizontal (forward><back).
Freeride and slalom sails from the different brands nowadays feel quite similar since at least the horizontal draft position is forward oriented on nearly every sail today.
The biggest difference though you find with wave sails.
Basically there are 2 different kind of wave sails:
Draft centered (= balanced pull on both hands) and low (to keep the sail controllable)
These sails are the ideal companion for multi-fin boards. Since the balanced pull on both hands makes them super neutral in your hands they shine especially in real down the line conditions. On the other hand they feel very different to modern freeride and slalom sails (which are very forward pulling). So if you are using such draft back/low wave sails only very occasionally as your high wind flat water sail you might be better off with the second type of wave sails.
Draft forward and up (to still generate enough low end power)
These sails work on both single- and multi-fin boards. With the forward pulling feeling they are more exiting/direct to sail and have a very similar feeling to modern freeride and slalom sails. In addition they are the ideal choice for side-onshore jumping conditions as the higher and forward oriented draft helps/accelerates rotations in the air (especially forward loops).
So when mixing your quiver with different sails/brands you should try to combine sails which have a similar draft position and thus feeling and behavior.
Just follow these guidelines:
You are looking for a direct feeling wave sail especially for jumping. Or you need a smaller sail to complete your freeride or slalom sails. Try to get draft forward/up wave sails. Typical examples are:
Duotone Super_Star / Duotone Duke / NP Zone / NP Combat (until 2018) / NP Atlas / Point7 Salt / Point7 Spy / Severne S1 / Severne Blade
You are looking for a wave sail which is super neutral for down the line riding and very forgiving in nuking gusty conditions. Try to get draft centered/low wave sails. Typical examples are:
Duotone Super_Hero / GA IQ / GA Manic / Goya Fringe / Goya Banzai / NP Combat (2019 on) / Simmer Tricera / Simmer Blacktip / Simmer Icon
Try to avoid combining draft forward/up- with draft centered/low sails in your quiver as these feel and behave extremely different.
DESIGN PHYSICS OF MODERN WINDSURF SAILS
Especially in the top and towards the clew weight is key cause due to the leverage-effect you feel every gram a multiple times in your hands. Because of the quite limited amount of materials available though the only way to reduce the sail weight is by reducing the thickness of the materials. The secret is finding the sweet spot of lowest possible weight but without sacrificing durability and longevity/sustainability.
Modern Windsurf sails consist of the following raw materials:
(1) MAST SLEEVE MATERIAL
Rough woven Polyester fabric. The rough structure gives it a maximum abrasion resistance against impact from the outside (e.g. board contact or contact during rigging) as well as from the inside (through the mast).
(2) MONOFILM
Plastic film made out of Polyester available in clear- or colored versions. This hard plastic film has a very low stretch (for maximum performance) and doesn‘t absorb any water (dry weight = wet weight). Attention: monofilm isn't very UV-resistant. Therefore keep your sail out of direct sun light when not sailing. Also monofilm isn't very abrasion resistant.
(3) XPLY LAMINATE
2 thin layers of monofilm and a pattern of threads (out of Polyester or Dyneema) are glued together creating a sandwich laminate. The additional threads are supposed to function as a rip stop in case the film gets punctured (e.g. falling into the sail with your harness hook first). When using the same total thickness as monofilm (= same low stretch, same UV- and puncture-resistance) XPly is 30% heavier due to the additional adhesive (and threads).
(4) DACRON
Before discovering monofilm original Windsurf sails were made entirely out of Dacron. This woven fabric offers a very good abrasion resistance but is very stretchy plus elongates (means it grows with each use). Therefore nowadays mainly used for reinforcement patches to protect the monofilm and XPly panels in the high abrasion areas of your sail (foot, clew, top and outside of batten pockets).
(5) INSIGNIA
Dacron material with a self-adhesive side. Therefore it doesn‘t require seams when put on top of the film plus prevents water from getting in-between the film and the abrasion patches (= lower wet weight).
Wanna know more details or looking for DUOTONE sail spare parts - here you go
BATTENS
Made out of glass- or carbon fiber either as solid version with smaller diameter (= stronger) or tube version with larger diameter (= stiffer). For a better understanding the mast is like the backbone of your sail whereas the battens act like the ribs of your sail keeping the profile in place. Same as the mast also the battens have individual profiles (thinner tip, thicker tail) matching the profile of the sail.
Simple rule: the more battens the more stable (= faster + bigger wind range) the sail becomes. But also the heavier the sail becomes as battens account for approx. 40% of the sails total weight. Therefore handling/wave-oriented sails usually come with 4-5 battens whereas performance oriented sails usually come with 6-7 battens.
As a second guideline smaller sail sizes require fewer battens than larger sizes.
CAMBERS
Usually there is a certain gap between the batten tip and the mast. This is necessary so that the batten can shift from one side of the mast to the other when sailing back and forth. A camber can be seen as a kind of connection between the batten tip and the mast filling out this gap.
This leads to much better aerodynamics as the cam enables a smooth transition between the thick mast into the thin sail body. In addition since the cam is braced against the mast the batten stabilises the sails profile much more effectively (sail becomes more stable = faster).
The downside is that the rotation from one side to the other becomes much harder. Plus the cambers need a certain space which requires a wider mast sleeve. This makes (water)starting much harder as the wider mast sleeve absorbs more water. Therefore cambers are mainly used on performance Freeride or high-performance Slalom sails.
FOOT ROACH
A sail with a lot of foot roach reduces the gap between the sail and the board (close the gap) which makes it more efficient/performance-oriented.
On the other hand a high cut foot with less foot roach improves the handling especially for all kind of ducking moves.
PROFILE DEPTH
A deeper sail profile gives you more power and performance in general.
A flatter profile on the other hand improves the handling as the distance of the flat profile is much shorter when shifting from one side to the other.
BOOM- AND LUFF LENGTH
Together with the sail size all dimensions increase. Means in general the larger the sail the longer the boom- and luff lengths become.
Simple rule: a heavier sailor needs to take a larger sail size to get planning in the same wind compared to a lightweight.
Rough indication for the biggest sail size: to get going in the same wind a 10 kg heavier guy requires a 1 sqm larger sail.
Max. sail size vs. body weight:
The larger the sail, the heavier and the more “sluggish” the rig becomes. In addition, larger sails require stiffer masts to keep the surface "in shape". A heavy rider provides more "counter-pressure" to the sail area and mast stiffness than a lightweight. That's why the sail tends to pull you out of balance, gets difficult to control during maneuvers and becomes inefficient to pump when it is too large for your body weight.
In relation to your body weight, there is a maximum sail size that should not be exceeded.
Here are some guidelines:
>> 9.0+: min. body weight 95kg
>> 8.0-8.3: min. body weight 80kg
>> 7.0-7.3: min. body weight 70kg
As a general rule rather use a slightly too small than a too big sail.
First you should define the biggest and smallest sail size you will need to cover all wind speeds you wanna sail in. This mainly depends on your body weight (see above).
Let’s take an “average” 75 kg sailor and let’s assume this guy wants to sail in “any kind” of wind.
- The biggest sail size this guy would need is something like a 7.3. With a capable 100-120 litre Freeride board this size would get him planning in approx. 8-10 knots.
- His smallest size would then be a 3.7. On a 70-80 litre (Free)Wave board our guy should be fine up to approx. 40-45 knots.
Second thing is to define the sizes in-between. Important to know: the wind pressure (which you feel in your hands) raises in square in relation to the wind speed. Therefore the smaller the sail size the smaller the size increments need to become. For large sails, the gap can be up to 1.5 sqm, while for very small sails it can go down to 0.3 sqm.
Taking all of this into account a typical quiver for our 75 kg guy could look as following:
7.3 - 6.0 - 5.3 - 4.7 - 4.2 - 3.7
Taking the “10 kg = 1 sqm” rule (see previous point) in consideration a typical quiver for an 85 kg guy could then be:
8.3 - 7.0 - 6.0 - 5-0 - 4.5 - 4.0
You have bought all parts from the same brand but if you rig according to the specs printed on the sail it still feels somehow ackward.
Unfortunately every product has tolerances in production. And the bigger a product becomes the bigger the tolerances become. Therefore tolerances on a smartphone are hardly visible whereas tolerances on Windsurf equipment are non-deniable.
- The tolerances on the mast length are approx. +-5 mm.
- The tolerances on mast extensions and booms are approx. +-3 mm.
Furthermore, there is unfortunately still no standard among brands on how to measure the length of booms and extensions.
- On a sail with all its panels the tolerances over the whole luff length can add up to another +-5-10 mm.
In addition, even with monofilm sails the luff stretches in the first 3 times you use the sail due to the massive downhaul tension.
Adding up all these tolerances you start realising why the absolute numbers printed on your sail (especially the luff length) can only be an indication to adjust your mast extension- and boom lengths.
To achieve the correct downhaul tension please make sure to only rely on the VTS (Visual Trim System) markers in the top of every DUOTONE sail.
Always keep in mind there are exactly 2 things either of them potentially killing at least 30% of your sails performance:
1. The wrong mast (see first point under MAST BASICS on every mast page)
2. Wrong/insufficient downhaul tension
There are 2 things which will destroy up to 60% of your sails' performance:
1. A wrong mast with a bend-curve which doesn't match with the luff curve of your sail
2. A wrong timmed sail
For how to rig and fine-tune your sail please see our YouTube channel.
Always rig according to the rigging instructions - see here.
After use in salt water, rinse or spray down with fresh water. At the very least at the end of a vacation or trip.
When possible only roll up the sail once it has dried. Never store a rolled up sail for any extended periods of time unless it is dry.
To dry, release the tension from the sail; if possible do not set out to dry in direct sunlight, and do not dry it by letting it flutter in the wind.
Always roll the sail from top or bottom, keeping all battens under full tension in their sleeves!
Use only recommended mast components for your sail in order to attain optimum performance.
Do not wash your sail with harsh detergents or chemicals. Water and a mild soap are fine.
Repair tears and holes in monofilm sails immediately to prevent further tearing. If proper repair is impossible (and this includes using the DUOTONE monofilm repair kit), at least seal the tear with normal tape or a sticker.
The sails durability is directly related to
a. the frequency of use
b. sail care and
c. UV-radiation (especially in monofilm sails)
In places with high UV-radiation, store the sail in the shade, otherwise de-rig it.
DUOTONE DESIGN PHILOSOPHIES - THINK DIFFERENT
With the information overkill nowadays no one has the time to read manuals anymore. Therefore we try hard to design our products as intuitive as possilbe to get you onto the water faster than with any other product. No wonder DUOTONE is called the feature world champ.
Here are some examples:
VTS 2.0
The first "guess-free" visual trimming guide to clearly show the correct downhaul tension. Version 2.0 comes with a window in the protector to mark your individual trim once you have found your ideal setting.
HTS 2.0
By marking the draft position on the sail you immediately know where to position your harness lines.
INDIVIDUAL BOOM LENGTH INDICATION
The length of the boom changes with the angle to the mast. Therefore if you move your boom up or down you need to change the length of your boom. As the only brand we take that in consideration by printing 3 different boom lengths onto the clew and boom cutout so that you always know the correct length according to your body/boom height.
SET&GO VARIO-TOP
Instead of leaving you with the time-consuming try and error procedure to find the correct setting we have installed markings on the webbing immediately showing the correct setting.
iROCKET 2.0
Every batten in a sail requires a different tension. That's why as the only brand we calibrate every single batten at the factory to the correct individual tension using a torque wrench. Since the screws are locked with screw glue you never have to touch them. Just rest asured to always have prefect batten tensions.
Our motto is clear: light is right but only if it doesn't go to costs of durability.
Our hardware products (booms, masts and extensions) are proven to be the lightest in the industry.
With our sails though we are not the lightest on the market (with the exception of the Super Hero M.Plus). The major reason for this is that we are using (much) thicker XPly laminates than some other brands.
The factors of puncture resistance, UV weathering resistance and stretch evidently depend ONLY on the thickness of the film used.
Puncture resistance and stretch have a linear relation to the thickness of the film. Means twice the thickness results in twice the strength against punctures with half the stretch.
Even more critical is UV resistance since here the relation to the thickness is overproportional. Means half the thickness reduces the UV-longevity by nearly 70%!
Some brands use XPly laminates which are 2/3rd thinner than ours in the upper sail area. Yes in the top you have less puncture issues and you can even get away with the increased strech. Unfortunately though the UV-exposure is the same all over the entire sail.
That's one of the reasons why the majority of Windsurf centres around the globe trust in DUOTONE products.
Eliminating stretch and loss of tension. If it’s good enough for safety belts, it’s good enough for windsurfers! We are the only manufacturer to use only polyester webbing for the (vario) top and the tack roller. This advantage of this compared to conventional polypropylene is the negligible amount of stretch. As a result even brand new sails will retain full luff tension and will not need subsequent trimming.
On modern wave sails you want to have a certain elasticity. The easiest way to „inject“ elasticity into a sail is by using Dacron for the luff panel.
Dacron has 2 disadvantages though:
Dacron is a rather soft woven fabric. Therefore it has a lot of give but similar to your t-shirt it wears out over time. Means your sail is permanently getting fuller in the luff panel. Especially under permanent downhaul tension (e.g. in surf centres) Dacron ages very fast.
The Dacron material improves the elasticity but due to the soft Dacron material it’s kind of a spongy softness. On the water such sails often have the tendency to become unbalanced on the wave and less precise during jumping.
Therefore Kai designs his wave sails with non-stretchy XPly luff panels. Instead he tries to implement elasticity into the sail through other design features. Starting with 2022 all no-cam sails feature a mast sleeve made out of one single piece (ONE PIECE SLEEVE) instead of the common two piece construction. Besides saving weight this eliminates the hard spot at the leading edge caused by the overlapping + reinforcement and the seam to connect the two pieces. This way the whole sleeve becomes an integral part of the mast flex/twist. We call this PRECISE ELASTICITY.
WE DO CARE
Sustainability is the most important and pressing challenge of todays mankind to secure a livable mother earth for future generations to come!
Over the last 50 years Windsurfing has developed into a super high tech sport. But let's face it despite what others might tell you with the exception of aluminium booms and extensions Windsurfing products are a "mixture of petrol-based plastic trash". And most times up to 100% of this plastic trash are non-recycled (means "freshly produced") plastics.
At least as of today there are no eco-friendly substitutes existing offering the minimum requirements necessary to design modern Windsurfing products. Or why do you think no one wants to sail with wooden booms, aluminium masts or stretchy sails made of woven fabrics anymore?
There is only one sustainable way out of this dilemma:
MAKING LONGER LASTING PRODUCTS (LONGEVITY = SUSTAINABILITY)
A high performance product that lasts longer and best case can even be put into additional use on the second hand market is the best and only way to conserve the resources of our earth.
Of course light components have a massive impact on the performance and handling of your rig. That's why light weight is always on our briefing list when designing and engineering new products. And DUOTONE products are among or in many cases are the lightest on the market.
But durability and longevity were and will ALWAYS be on top of our priority list. Our industry leading warranty extensions bear witness to this philosophy:
- 2 year unconditional warranty on almost every hardware product (masts, booms and extensions+bases).
- 5 year warranty on 80% of our sails.
On sails we cannot emphasize enough that especially reducing the thickness of the monofilm and the XPly laminate has a radical influence on the longevity/sustainability. Reducing the film thickness by 50% reduces the UV-stability by 70%. Just to shortterm impress magazine testers or customers some brands use up to 70% thinner laminates/films than we do. This is not our understanding of sustainability.
DOING MORE
However, since we are fully aware of the importance of sustainability, we cannot simply stop here.
>> Only we have stopped using any plastic for packaging our sails. This saves approx. 5 sqm of plastic film and foam per sail.
>> Only our aluminium products (booms and extensions+bases) are manufactured in a CO2 neutral production facility.
>> Only our aluminium products (booms and extensions+bases) are produced in Germany using 100% European raw materials in order to keep shipping distances (to our manufacture and then to our central warehouse) at a minimum.
>> Only our sail bags are made out of 100% recycled plastic.
>> Only we compensate all carbon emissions caused by our sails during manufacture and transport by supporting a hydropower carbon offset project in Sri Lanka, the country where our sails are produced.
WE DO LISTEN - BECOME PART OF THE DUOTONE DEVELOPMENT
DO YOU HAVE ANY INPUT OR IDEAS ON HOW TO IMPROVE OUR PRODUCTS?
SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS WITH US!
We strive to create products that are superior in performance and function to anything else on the market. Therefore, we are not just interested in the opinion and experience of professional riders, but listen to ALL windsurfers out there. Because we know we can learn from everyone, we want to collect the opinions of windsurfers worldwide.
This project runs throughout the whole year. Every year on January 15th, the best ideas will be rewarded and might actually be implemented into future products.
So, you have got an idea? Contact us >HERE< and take your chance to make a difference. (Please use "R&D input for DTW" as a subject line)
REWARDS
1st - One sail (free of choice)
2nd - One Silver Boom (free of choice)
3rd - One Power.XT 2.0 (free of choice)
Any comments or questions? Here you’ll find first hand R&D / rider Information.
The more info you provide, the more specific the advice/help will be. Please let us know:
Your skill level
Your body weight and size
Mast(s) you plan on using with the sail
Board(s) you are using
Conditions/spots you are sailing at
Please note: To help as many people as possible follow the thread, the forum language is English only.
20 comment(s)
Hey guys! Just a question. I just bought Aero 3 platinum mast 1,4 - 2,0m, Mega slim. i want to register for the extended warranty but i can not find the serial number on my item. Any help please?
ReplyHi Raoul,How much have the bend-curve changed on the Platinum 370 cm mast since 2019? I'm considering to buy a 2023 super hero SLS size 4.2. Will that sail work perfectly on a platinum 370 from 2019?
ReplyHi Raoul,first of all I think this comment section is a great service!I’m seeking advice regarding the original vs. the DLAB Super Hero. 67kg, currently using a Flikka Quad 85 with Severne S-1 (5.2, 4.6, 4.0 and 3.6). I also had Blade Pros, wich felt more direct, I like the S-1 better. Being light I’m looking for a sail with a light, neutral, softer feel. So my question is, ist the Original or the DLAB the softer (forgiving?) sail? I’ve been told, that membrane sails tend to harsher?Thank you very much for considering my question!BestPatrick
ReplyHi Patrick,Happy to hear that you appreciate our support threads.But actually it’s a win-win situation (sorry for the marketing buzzword :-) Cause for our customers it’s an additional source of information. And for us it’s a great help to get an even better understanding about our customers needs and pain-points.Also thanks for bringing this up interesting question.First off you shouldn’t mix soft with forgiving. Because membrane sails are super super soft. This comes through the super-thin film which results in a super-light PHYSICAL weight. Unfortunately though the thinner the film the more the sail blows up under wind pressure which has 2 negative effects:1. The physical weight advantage literally „disappears“ on the water. Means the so called sailing weight (dynamic weight under wind pressure) is even worse than on the Original2. The „blow up“ effect is ok when under- or powered up but becomes a problem when getting overpowered. Means these sails have less control and thus a smaller wind rangeNow with the D/LAB it’s quite the opposite. Due to a purely functional panel-layout and super-light high-tech reinforcements it’s physical weight is as light as membrane sails. But with the Carbon XPly and the fused panels and the SAME film thickness than the Orginals this sail has an unbeatable low sailing weight. And the same goes for the wind-range. Coming back to your original question, yes using Carbon XPly and fused panels do make the sail stiffer thus less forgiving. This happens if you use the same sail design (sail shaping, luff curve, twist pattern). Therefore whenever we switch materials we re-design/develop/test the sails completely from scratch. We believe that is the only way you can achieve the advantages of high-end materials and/or constructions without any drawbacks. So I can just repeat myself give the SH D/LAB a go and you’ll be blown away. It is indeed a real game-changer. Sorry again for this marketing buzzword but it is so much better that you cannot go back to the Original once you‘ve sailed the D/LAB. But be careful when you decide to do this extra investment on one size you will eventually end up exchanging your whole quiver.
ReplyHi Roul,thank you so much for your detailed answer. It really got me thinking and I`ll definetly give the SH D/LAB a go!Best Patrick
ReplyHello, I am thinking to change my superheroes originals 3.7/4.2/4.7 for dlab, but was thinking to take only two dlab sails 3.7 and 4.5? Is the gap - even do its dlab sails - too big or should it work fine? Since I would use smaller mast (reduced weight) on dlab 4.5 than on 4.7 original, my low end wind range would be even better than on my 4.7 superhero, am i correct? Second question - in conditions that I often windsurd, 3.7 is sometimes to big - if I understand correctly with dlab 3.7 I would still have better control in (to) strong wind than the original 3.7(?) - is it worth taking also 3.4 original, or is it too close to dlab 3.7, and wouldn't really be much of a change, for tonstrong windy days?Thank you for your answers,Regards, Ziga
ReplyHi Ziga,Welcome to the thread.Following to your questions:1. With the D/LAB going 3.7 - 4.5 should work out fine.2. The low-end power of the 4.5 is pretty similar to the Original 4.7.3. As mentioned earlier the smaller the size the smaller the difference in wind-range compared to the Original becomes. So for the D/LAB 3.7 this means that it does have slightly more low-end power but the high-end control is pretty similar than the Original. Therefore adding an Original 3.4 might indeed make sense in really heavy winds.
ReplyHi Raoul!It's Marios again. I remind you that I'm fanatic consumer of your brands since 1989 (Fanatic Mamba).I also remind you that I own o Grip 4 76lt & Grip 3 85 lt, both 2024 D/LAB construction that I can surely say, are the best shapes I ever had! I also own a Fanatic 69 TE.I weight just 69 kilos, so my question concerns my sail quiver: I got Super Heroes 2024, the simple edition, 3,0m - 3,7m - 4,2m - 4,7m - 5,3m. So I will buy Heroes DLAB 4,7m & 4,2m and thinking of replacing both 4,7m & 5,3m with 5.0m BLAB as I said, since they have bigger wind range.Is that ok or you have to protest another combination of DLABS?Thanks a lot in advance,Marios
ReplyHi Marios,Welcome again!Thank you so much for the great feedback on the Grip D/LAB boards.Concerning adding a Super_Hero D/LAB to your "simple edition" Super Heroes (we call them Originals :-) I fully confirm your idea - means: Super Hero Original 3.0 - 3.7 - 4.2 - Super_Hero D/LAB 5.0. Cause the SH D/LAB will have a similar low end power than your SH Original 5.3 plus similar high end control than your SH Original 4.7. This might all sound a bit unbelievable but it's really like that.Just let me know your impressions once you've sailed the SH D/LAB. But careful you might end up exchanging the other sizes as well...
ReplyRaoul thanks a lot for your feedback and welcoming!I wasn't clear in my previous communication though and confused you!I'm going to replace my Original SH 3,7m - 4,2m - 4,7m & 5,3m with SH D/LAB 3,7m - 4,2m & 5,0m!!I ques it's right quiver, isn't it?Thanks a lot!
ReplyHi Marios,Ups slight misunderstanding :-) So your quiver would be SH Original 3.0 + SH D/LAB 3.7 - 4.2 - 5.0. That's even better cause also the 4.2 has a bigger wind range. And even the 3.7 even though the smaller the sail the smaller the difference becomes. That's also the reason why we don't offer the D/LAB in smaller sizes than 3.7.Let me know when you have sailed them for the first time - cause it is a game-changer.
ReplyThanks again Raoul!For sure I'll let you know!Cheers!
ReplyHi Raoul.Is it possible to replace my older 4,0 and 4,4 sails with the 2025 Super Hero D/LAB in 4,2? Next sizes are 3,5 under and 4,8 over. If yes, it sounds fantastic just to buy one new sail, instead of two. Do you strongly recommend the platinum mast over the gold mast in 370 fo the 4,2 Super Hero D/LAB?Best regards, Thomas.
ReplyHi Tom,Welcome to the thread.Well it might sound unbelievable but that’s exactly our experience with the Super_Hero SLS (now D/LAB). Due to the fusion bonding and the Carbon XPly the wind range gets extended in both directions, means it plans earlier and is more stable than the Original Super_Hero. To give you a concrete suggest though I would need to know the sails you already own and want to keep. As for the mast the Gold.90 is extremely close to the Platinum SLS mast. Gold.90 to Silver.70 is a noticeable difference but Gold.90 and Platinum SLS are very close.
ReplyThank you for your reply. I want to replace Avanti Fenix 4,0 and 4,4. The other sails I will keep are Severne S1 4,8 and Blade 3,5. The surf spot ist Pozo, Gran Canaria.
ReplyHi Tom,Well well membrane sails (like the Avanti, the original Severne Blade + S1 Pro and our own MPlus)…You could call them the opposite of our Super_Hero D/LAB. Yes compared to regular sails the membrane sails had a much lighter physical weight. But due to the increased stretch of the ultra-thin film unfortunately this physical weight advantage „disappeared“ on the water - means membrane sails have a quite heavy sailing weight. For the same reasons membrane sails also have a smaller wind-range than traditional sails. Not to mention the durability. So no wonder they have pretty much disappeared from the market.As for the sizes I would rather go SV S1 4.8 - SH D/LAB 4.0 - SV Blade 3.5.Reasons:1. The SH D/LAB 4.0 has the same low end power like the Original SH 4.22. 5-batten wave sails like your Blade usually shine when being overpowered but suffer a bit in underpowered conditions (due to the higher amount of battens which requires more wind pressure to fill out the profile).Please let me know in case you require any additional assistance.PS: still have great memories of Pozo as I‘ve spend a lot of summer vacations there back when I was young…
ReplyHiAny changes on the 2025 Super Hero DLAB compared to the 2023 Super Hero SLS? And what about the Platinum RDM masts, any changes since the 2019/2020 version? If so, what is the actual difference?
ReplyHi Erik,Super_Hero D/LAB - I don’t know what you’re talking about :-) Actually we are restructuring our sail range constructions (Originals >< SLS >< D/LAB) for 2025. For the Super_ Hero D/LAB this is mainly a naming issue. Means except for the 4.5 the sails have received the typical detail improvements we constantly do. All Platinum SLS masts will remain unchanged.
ReplyThanks for your quick reply! Does this mean that the 2019/2020 platinum RDM masts I have are the same as those sold in the shops today? And will fit perfectly with the new 2025 Super Hero DLABs?
ReplyHi Erik,We have only modified the bend-curves of the 340 and 370 since then.
ReplyHow much did the bend-curve on the 370 Platinum change, since 2019? I'm considering to buy a 2023 Super hero SLS 4.2. How much will the feel differ?
ReplyHow much is the bend-curve changed on the 370 cm Platinum, since 2019? I'm considering to buy a 2023 super hero SLS size 4.2. How much will the feel differ with new 370 cm platinum vs. 2019 version?
ReplyHi Raoul,I’m About to order some 2025 SLS Hero’s,I forgot what sizes you suggested gettingI’m using 81 & 87 Grip 4 & 95 Grip 3 D-LabsI’m 78 kgThanks Giles
ReplyHi Giles,Will this be a complete new quiver or are you adding sizes to an existing quiver? And if so what sizes you already own?
ReplyHi Raoul,Thanks for your Quick reply .Yes complete new Quiver.I have 2021 Hero .3.7, 4.2, 4.7, 5.3, 5.7Thanks Giles
ReplyHi Giles,Well since the Super_Hero SLS covers a bigger wind-range on both ends (under- and over-powered) there are 3 options:1. minimalistic quiver with 4.0 - 4.7 - 5.7 (or 5.3 if your are afraid of the big step up from the 4.7)2. extending your range on both ends with 3.7 - 4.2 - 5.0 - 5.73. going the traditional quiver like with your older Hero with 3.7 - 4.2 - 4.7 - 5.3 - 5.7. Due to the bigger wind-ranges you might have some overlapping between the sizes here.
ReplyHi Raoul,Thanks for your help.What’s would be the advantage of your option 3 over going the other sizes 3.7,4.0,4.5,5.0,5.7.Normally with 4.2 -3.7 with the stronger winds I found a bit of a jump ,Would this not be the case with the New Sails.Cheers Giles
ReplyHi Giles,You are fully right the smaller the size the smaller the increments need to become. With traditional sails going 4.0 - 3.7 makes perfect sense. With the Super_Hero SLS though you can also go 4.2 - 3.7. But if you are not set on the .2 >< .7 steps your suggestion might make even more sense. Though most people are either .2 >< .7 or .0 >< .5 type of guys and don't wanna switch.
ReplyHi Raoul,Thanks for your advice,It sounds like the jump from 3.7-4.2 will not be a problem with the Delab so sticking to the traditional sizes could make sense .Would the 5.3 be a bit close to 5.7 or would this work okCheers Giles
ReplyHi Giles,Even at the risk of (re)confusing yourself (again) I had exactly the same feeling that the 5.3 might be a bit too close to the 5.7. On the other end 3.7 - 4.0 is also pretty close. But better be (too) close on the smaller sizes than on the bigger ones.
ReplyHi Raoul,So just to recap so I do confuse my self .You think if I went 3.7,4.0,4.5,5.0,5.7 or3.7,4.2,4.7,5.3,5.7Or would you change any sizes.Sorry for the questions,Trying to get the right quiver and not make a mistake on the sizes as the wind range is so different.Many Thanks Giles
ReplyHi Giles,Thanks for double-checking as we both went around a bit in circles here :-) I think the ultimate quiver would be 3.7 - 4.0 - 4.5 - 5.0 - 5.7. The absolute min. quiver would be 3.7 - 4.2 - 5.0 - 5.7. But that’s only possible with the D/LAB - for any other wave sail I would not recon to do this.
ReplyHi Raoul,Thanks for all your help with deciding on the ultimate Dlab sizes for my weight.We got there in the end😃Many Thanks Giles
ReplyHi Raoul, any changes on the 2025 Super Hero DLAB compared to the 2023 Super Hero SLS? And what about the Platinum RDM masts, any changes from on the 2024 version compared to the 2019/2020? If so, what is the actual differences?
ReplyHi Raoul. I have a 5.3 2014 North Idol (not the pure freestyle sail). For me, it's been (and still is) an amazing sail that I'd replace with the same in an instant. This sail combined some of the strength and stability of a wave sail with the upper draft and forward feel of a freestyle sail. I do sail Heros in my smaller sizes (4.5, 3.7, 3.4). They do work well for their purpose but do not have the "pop" of the 5.3 Idol. So I have a 4.8 north freestyle sail for that purpose (back when I was trying to learn more freestyle). This 4.8 is clearly a dedicated sail type and not serve my general overall use very well. So I can not see replacing my 2014 North Idol 5.3 with a current model Idol 5.2. Soooo... I see the current Heros are described as having a higher draft position in the larger sizes. Any idea as to how this sail in the 5.3 size may compare with my 2014 5.3 North Idol??
ReplyHi Mike,Welcome to the thread.I know exactly the sail you are talking about.I would say the Super_Hero SLS is the sail which comes closest to your 2014 Idol in terms of draft location thus feeling. But be warned, you might end up replacing all your regular Heros with the SLS. Cause the Super_Hero SLS is a real game changer. I know that is a strong word but I promise you this sail will blow away your mind.
ReplyThank you Raoul for the confirmation.
ReplyH Raoul, I was looking at this more and found the "superstar" which looks to be discontinued. It appears to be described as perhaps more like my 2014 North Idol 5 3 than the 2024 hero 5.3 in terms of feel and design. Is this true? Thanks!
ReplyHi Mike,The Superstar SLS would definitely be an alternative. Not sure though if you can still get a hold of this one.
ReplyHi Raoull. I have a 5.3 4.7 4.2 3.7 Super Hero, my weight is 73 kg, if I replace the 5.3 4.7 4.2 with 5.3 and 4.5 SLS, can I cover the same range of use?
ReplyHi Ale,Welcome to the thread.Seams you „studied“ the page very carefully. Cause usually with wave sails you need to go 5.3 - 4.7 - 4.2. But with the insane wind range of the Super_Hero SLS going 5.3 - 4.5 is no problem at all. I can only tell this sail is a real eye opener which blows you away the first time you use it. It’s the first time ever I have no idea for our sail designer on what to improve.
ReplyHi Raoul,Would the 3.7 or 4.2 super hero SLS work with a no limitz mast?Thanks. IPY
ReplyHi IPY,Welcome to the thread.Unfortunately we have never tested our sails on NoLimitz masts. Therefore I really don’t know if their masts work in our sails. Therefore I have just checked the NoLimitz website though to see if I could find any info there. NoLimitz states that their masts are compatible with our sails. But when I checked their RDM masts they spec a bottom stiffness of around 64.5. Our masts are around 62 in the bottom which is considerably stiffer. So from the pure numbers I would say that their masts are not working very well in our sails. I know this is not the answer you were looking for. But Instead of a standard „it’s gonna be perfect“ reply to generate a fast sales success we are always trying to be as honest as possible with our customers. Please let me know in case you need any further assistance.
ReplyHi RaoulI’m looking at changing from my quiver of Goya Banzai to the Super Hero SLS. I’m 95 to 98kgs and sail in onshore beach break conditions in the UK. I would be using the sails with the appropriate Duotone masts and, for the moment, with Goya One Freestyle Wave boards (116 and 95).As my son is doing more windsurfing (which is fantastic!) I have less room in the van. So I’m hoping to go for a 3 sail quiver of 5.7, 5.0 and 4.5. It would be great to get your thoughts and advice. A
ReplyHi Andy,Welcome to the thread.The Goya Banzai and our original Super_Hero have a pretty similar draft position and therefore feeling. So you won’t need much time getting used to. But don’t be mistaken the SLS version is a real game changer compared to both the Banzai and the original Super_Hero. Cause besides the mega light sailing weight and the crispier feeling, the major advantage is the insane wind range - in both directions over- and under-powered. Therefore going 5.7 - 5.0 is no problem at all. 5.0 - 4.5 is also a super nice step down. But with the SLS you could even go 5.0 - 4.2.Please don’t hesitate and let me know in case you need any further assistance.
ReplyCurrently sailing in the gorge and own a quiver of 2019 Super Heros: 3.0, 3.4, 3.7, 4.0, 4.5. 59 KG, sailing on a 75 Fanatic Freewave on 4.5-3.7. If the wind isn't filled in completely, i need around AVG of 20 for 3.7 and 75 freewave. When it fills in and AVG bumps a little higher to 21-22 I switch to a 68 L Goya Quad (sorry I tried to buy a 68 Grip last year but it didn't arrive in the container). Most used sails this season were 3.7, 3.4, 3.0. Used 4.0 and 4.5 once. How do you see the Super hero SLS fitting in to my quiver? Would the 3.7 be a lot more powerful than my 2019 3.7? I'm not generally looking for more power out of sail sizes as I'm more commonly looking for control and not getting blown off the water. As a side note I think a 2.7 super hero would be very popular in the gorge. I have to fill this size with another brand.
ReplyHi Ipy,Welcome to the thread.Well with your (low) body weight that's quite a tricky one. The SLS definitely has a bigger wind range than the original Super_Hero. From our experience it's superior at both ends, low- and high end. But it's also more crisp (due to the Carbon XPly and the fused panels) which is especially appreciated by medium/heavy weight guys. I'm not 100% certain though whether it might be too crisp for your body weight. So before setting you on the "wrong" path I would recon to see if you find the possibility to test sail the SLS. There are (still) some dealers at the Gorge stocking Windsurf equipment. Plus we have our US agency located there. So maybe they can arrange something for you.As for your side note, yes a 2.7 would definitely make sense... at the Gorge especially for lighter guys like yourself. Unfortunately the ww-market for such a small size is exactly the Gorge and nothing else. Or in other words unfortunately the demand is not justifying the development costs here.
ReplyThanks for the info. I was wondering if perhaps the 4.2 could possibly replace my 4.0 and 4.5 as my largest size- I rarely use use my 4.5. Current quiver is 3.0,3.4,3.7, 4.0, 4.5. As mentioned I rarely use 4.5. Would be nice to simplify my quiver: with 3.0, 3.4, 3.7, 4.2 sls.Also my super hero’s are 2019. Are there noticeable differences in the 3.0, 3.4, 3.7 sizes with the 2022/23/24 sails? Thanks.
ReplyHi IPY,From our experience so far the SLS 4.2 has indeed a quite similar low end power than the Original 4.5. So your idea of going 3.0 - 3.4 - 3.7 - SLS 4.2 should work out.Concerning differences usually from one year to the next the differences in performance nowadays are really minor. But within 3-4 years this usually adds up to a difference which is noticeable.
ReplyHi Raoul,Quick question. I like the Super hero because of the smooth and soft power delivery. How does the SLS compare to the standard version when it comes to this topic?Thanks!
ReplyHi Griff_vlc (crazy alias btw :-) Thanks for bringing this up.Actually due to the Carbon.XPly and the fused monocoque body the Super_Hero SLS has a more direct reaction than the original Super_Hero.But there is another important factor which defines how direct or comfortable/controlled a sail behaves. And this is the draft location. Both the Super_Hero and Super_Hero SLS feature a low-centered draft position. The centered draft gives you maximum control on the wave as the pull is completely even on both hands. The low draft then gives you maximum control especially when powered up or even overpowered. The downside of a low-centered draft position though is that the sail gets a little slower reaction and becomes a bit „boring“ to sail especially when used in flat water (at least in the hands of an advanced sailor).But combining this control optimized draft location with a direct construction (like on the Super_Hero SLS) is what it made the wave sail of my dreams - at least for myself plus quite some other sailors.Honestly I have never sailed anything like the Super-Hero SLS before, not from our brand and not from any other brand.But feeling preferences are very personal/individual, especially wave sails. Means there might be (hopefully just a few:-) guys out there who do not feel this way.Please don’t hesitate to let me know in case you need any further assistance.
ReplyThanks for the feedback! So as mentioned on the site the SLS have a bigger range. I was thinking on buying super hero's 3.4-4.0-4.5-5.0. WIth the SLS does that mean that I can swap the 3 bigger sails to SLS sails in 4.0 and 4.7?sailing on a Goya Custom 4 quad 84LI am currently on severne sails and have the blue line mast 90%. Based on the feedback of the shop and your website that should work fine?Thank you!
ReplyHi Griff_vlc,Thanks for bringing this up.We have just returned from our annual importers meeting which took place in Tarifa this year. Honestly I was „positively shocked“ by the insane wind range of the Super_Hero SLS myself. When I was out on the 5.3 I had nearly the same low end power than on the original Super_Hero 5.7. The next day wind was typical 4.5 conditions and I could still quite comfortably hold on to the 5.3. Ok these were the typical Tarifa choppy conditions. Means to still have perfect control on the wave you cannot go that radical in down the line conditions. But our chief tester Marco confirmed that even in Hookipa he can go 5.0 - 4.2 no problem.This then also puts the higher price of the SLS sails into perspective since you can skip at least one size in your quiver. So answering your question 4.0 - 4.7 should be perfectly fine.As for your second questions Severne RDM masts are pretty compatible with our sails.
ReplyThe new sls are taller and thinner. Hoe could you mske THAT mistake? Tested 4 sixes and I prefer last years even if the membrane is delaminating.
ReplyHi Thomas,Welcome to the thread and thanks for bringing this up.Actually the Super_Hero SLS sizes have the same luff lengths than the regular Super_Hero.Yes the boom has become slightly shorter. This is due to the Carbon XPly in the clew which has a much more direct/efficient power transmission (due to the reduced stretch). So in other words you get the same efficiency/performance with a shorter boom (= better handling).
ReplyHi, I'm 157 cm, do you suggest getting the Now or the Super Hero SLs in the 4.0 size? Is the CE really different on both? Thanks!
ReplyHi M-Elaine,Welcome to the thread. Would you mind sharing your skill level, board and conditions you usually sail in.This way I should be able to give you a much better/precise suggestion.
ReplyHi again, I'm an intermediate. Conditions: waves 2-4 feet, 22-27 knots. Goya Volar 120 litres. Thanks for the answer!
ReplyHi M-Elaine,Ok that gives me a better idea.Your Goya board is a typical freeride type of board. For such boards you either go for a (heavier) freeride sail like the E_Pace. Due to the weight this might not be the ideal choice for you as being a light-weight. Or you go for a more manoeuvre-oriented sail like the Duke which I would say would be the ideal companion for your board.. A full on wave sail (like the Super_Hero SLS) is also an option making for an even lighter feeling but also a bit less performance - as it's designed to be used on wave boards in the first place.The Now though I would not see here as it's more suited for smaller boards.Please let me know in case you need any further assistance.
Reply@duotone, This is something big, what you have done! Compliment. Also the 5 year warranty on no stitched panels. woaw!. The no Stitched body panels, maybe you can explain more about it why you have choice this contruction? and is this coming to more sails? like the superstar sls?Again compliment for the great innovation.... this sail is special!
ReplyHi Gino,Thanks a lot for your kind words. Well since we generate the shaping/profile through the seams joining the panels (mostly luff panel and seams below the batten pockets) we were searching for a way to eliminate the usual "play" between the stitched panels. To give you a better idea of our MONOCOQUE FUSION BODY CONSTRUCTION super simplified the panels are joined together in a sophisticated process using some kind of special super glue.The reason why it took so long is that the whole production process had to be modified (a tiny bit like the automotive industry has to adapt their manufacturing processes from internal combustion engines to EV's).Plus with the CARBON XPLY having zero stretch plus the non-existing "play" between the panels Kai had to basically redesign the whole sail from scratch to really get the advantages out of the material and the new construction.That's why it took us 4 years from the first prototype to serial production.Unfortunately our production is not yet capable to build large quantities. That's why the MONOCOQUE FUSION BODY CONSTRUCTION is limited to the Super_Hero - at least for the moment.Once again thanks for realizing and appreciating that this sail is really something different and advanced.
ReplyLooks great. I'm looking forward to the first ride.
ReplyHi Lukáš,Thanks for the nice comment, really appreciated. I can only tell you the sail works even better than it looks :-) Sometimes (unfortunately not very often though) there are big leaps in development and I can just tell you the new Super_Hero SLS is a real game-changer.
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