Neil Pryde Combat 2007 the most versatile NP wave sail yet

The 2007 Combat wave sail made it debut over four months ago having been spotted being sailed at Camp One on Maui. Since then there has been much speculation about the new look of the 2007 wave range and how they would perform against the increased competition from the likes of North Sails and Ezzy.

Well Robert Stroj, cheif designer has obviously been very busy during the development season and introduced a line of sails that not only looks different from previous years, but also handles differently.

The sails take on a completely fresh new look - with major emphasis being placed on the NP bulls-eye logo. Despite looking very distinctive on the water the logo plays an integral part in the overall design and cut of the sail.

Back in 2003 Pryde introduced the frame design concept - well this year they have taken it a stage further and introduced the frame concept - an idea which integrates performance, materials, construction technique, and the look of the sail into one.

"Strong material used in high loads areas of the clew, tack and as well as there are no structural seems crossing through the high load areas making the sails much more durable as well as having the double seams at the edges of the high load areas to prevent any breakages."
Robert Stroj

The main emphasis this year has been to work on the Combat's softness and handling on the water. In the past NP have always been acclaimed for building plenty of performance and the strength into their sails - this year however, the focus has been on the actual handling of the sails.

"This was achieved with the wave sails by working on reducing the mast curve and allowing the sails to twist and release much easier. The pre-shaping of the sail are also less allowing the sail to inflate with the wind and de-power nicely."
Robert Stroj

Neil Pryde Combat 2007 - pictures copyright Hub Dekkers

NP Combat 2007 panel layout showing the extensive use of X-Ply and frame concept - pictures copyright Hub Dekkers

With all these new concepts being pulled together can the Combat really does live up to the expectations of being the most versatile of the wave sails?

Well according to Robert the Combat is equally at home in huge onshore white water or side-offshore winds and peeling waves. The Combat makes extensive use of reinforced X-Ply construction, which means that no matter how much trouble you get yourself into, will see you on the other side.

Design Objectives

• To develop an all-round wave sail that feels equally at home in side shore and onshore conditions.
• To be a sail that features strong construction and durability. Combat is for riders who want to "go big" without worrying about the survival of their equipment.
• Give the sail a more lightweight, soft feeling while maintaining bottom end performance and good up-wind ability.
• Develop a more neutral sail that will de-power easily during tight turns and when landing jumps.

• The Combat shares a similar aspect ratio to the Zone, but with additional shaping (draft) and luff curve. By retaining a similar aspect ratio to the Zone, the Combat delivers a light, manoeuvrable sail for side shore conditions; while moderate shaping provides the power necessary for onshore conditions.
• A medium rotated sail body allows for instant depower during wave riding and manoeuvres.
• The Combat has more leech tension than the Zone. This improves upwind performance and early planing.
• Increased luff curve (compared to the Zone) provides smooth power, stability and direct drive.
• 100% X-ply sail body, no use of mono-film. This greatly enhances durability.
• Introduction of a more progressive luff-curve that allows the sail to twist under load – but retains leech tension where needed in the area immediately above the boom.
• Less shaping under the battens reduces the "sailing weight" of the COMBAT and provides for softer rotation, and a more “neutral” feeling sail.

Baptiste Gossein / FRA61 using the new Neil Pryde Combat 2007

NP Combat 2007 sail line-up

Specifications:

We know it is not a Combat - but don't forget that you too can now own a new Neil Pryde Alpha - check out the link on our home page for the latest NP competition link - and fingers crossed you could be the lucky owner of a new sail!

More info: www.neilpryde.com