GS-R 2021

Fast and balanced

DESIGN: The Gunsails race sail sizing has been retuned this year to adapt to the advent of foiling in PWA World Cup slaloms. The GS-R 7.0 features a large notch on the clew, while the two clew rollers have a large offset to match the power/opening of the leech. Gunsails also reduced the X-Ply reinforcement in the foot and omitted the X-Ply reinforcement in the top of the sail, resulting in a nice weight savings.

ON THE WATER: With good dynamics from the planing phase and efficient pumping, the GSR is a smooth sail for this class. With a balanced pull in the center of the boom, the sail is neutral and runs with ease. Whether the wind is strong or light, the rig will adjust without forcing a position or playing with your back hand. Just let the rig work for excellent performance and guide the sail with your fingertips as if the sail's profile were slimmer. It's a guarantee of good operability, but also efficiency on long rides like long distance surfing where the physical aspect can make all the difference. In the contact phases, where every gust or wind hole makes the difference, the Gunsails continues its performance with an exemplary straightness on all courses and especially well close-hauled. However, the rider who likes to race or plays with the speed might miss a little more backhanding and acceleration on demand, especially when upwind. When jibing, the Gunsails doesn't scare its rider, the power is well neutralized and the camber changes direction smoothly. Only a little inertia at the front can lead to destabilization when you close in again on a new course.

VERDICT: With a smooth planing and great balance, the GSR 2021 is a lightweight sail that is easy to handle both technically and physically. Its speed, average speed and ability to stay efficient on all courses make it a great tool for the less technical surfers who like to explore the water on downwind, half-wind and upwind or for example in long distance racing.