Depending on the size, the GA Sails Hybrid transforms from a freewave sail with four battens to a 6-batten freeride sail.
On land:
The Hybrid is available in sizes from 3.7 to 6.4 square metres as an HD version with an X-Ply window. Similar to the NeilPryde Fusion, the GA Sails Hybrid HD also has a slightly longer boom. The profile of the Hybrid is soft overall and the trim forces on the luff are low. The Hybrid can be rigged very "baggy" in light winds, i.e. with a deep, baggy profile, but must then be pulled flat earlier than the more tightly tuned models in the test group as the wind increases. This sail is also recommended on a 400 RDM mast, but thanks to the vario top, a 430 mast can also be used. As usual with GA Sails, the used materials are of a high standard: the batten ends are well protected, carbon threads in the outhaul are designed to preserve the shape of the sail permanently and the well-dimensioned mast protector has been beyond reproach for years.
On the water:
The softer profile mentioned above offers particular strengths in the lower wind range. The sail loads up very early, with an always slightly noticeable pull on the back hand you can immediately put pressure on the fin, planing effortlessly and accelerating powerfully. Even in wind holes, the power button remains firmly pressed and the GA Sails Hybrid HD pulls through lulls exceptionally well - the result is a super speed in average. In strong gusts, the profile twists a little more than others, then there are always little load changes on the hands and the centre of effort is not quite as firmly fixed between the hands. The sail should then be adjusted equally via the luff and outhaul trim. In the normal wind range, however, the GA Sails is nicely balanced in the hands, the batten rotation is hardly noticeable and in manoeuvres such as power jibes, duck jibes or classic freestyle moves, the sail scores with very appealing handling. Trips into the mini surf are also easy with the Hybrid, as it pulls powerfully through the turn and ensures that you have enough speed on the wave.
GA Sails Hybrid - the conclusion
With its power characteristics, the GA Sails Hybrid is ideal for freeride and freemove boards with single fin, but also for multifin boards and excursions into small surf. Only those who value maximum wind range and control in strong winds will not be 100 percent happy.
Planing, average speed
Wind range
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Technical data GA Sails Hybrid
- Mast used: GA-Sails 80 RDM 400, 80 % carbon, weight: 1.51 kg*
- Sail weight: 3.19 kg*
- sleeve opening: 107-156 cm*
- Info under ga-windsurfing.com
*surf measurement
