The GA Cross Wing has always been designed as an all-rounder for the largest possible target group ( HERE there's a test of the previous model). Despite the sometimes striking changes in the new season, nothing has changed.
On land:
The Cross Wing is available in two colour codes and in six sizes (2.2/2.8/3.5/4.2/5.2/6.2sqm). Prices range from 899 to 1059 euros, depending on the size chosen. GA Sails has apparently abandoned the original idea of offering a model with an interchangeable handle system, and the new Cross now comes exclusively with fixed handles. These allow the hands to be moved sideways and also offer maximum direct contact with the wing. With a measured weight of 2.83 kilos, the wing is more in the mid-range.
The arrangement of the Dacron panels has obviously also been revised, which means that the new GA Cross Wing now has a significantly higher fabric tension. The sometimes annoying trailing edge of the previous model is now history. The manufacturer has also further optimised the arrangement of the windows. The Wing is inflated using the standard valve. In contrast to the previous models, the inflation pressure of the Cross can now be reduced by 1 psi in light winds. This allows the GA Cross Wing to be inflated even more efficiently. However, why the connecting hose from the front tube to the centre tube cannot be disconnected remains the manufacturer's secret. If the tube bursts in the event of a fall, the wing deflates completely - a safety deficit in the right conditions.
The scope of delivery also includes a bag and a matching leash. The rest of the equipment with good seam covers on seams and wingtips is also very impressive.
We also present this wing to you again in a clip on our YouTube channel. Take a look and subscribe to our channel.
On the water:
The days when the GA Cross was a very soft wing are now over. The Cross is quite firm and, above all, well balanced in the hand. It is easy to pump, but develops a lot of power even with a passive riding style and/or sub-optimal pumping technique. This means that it gets both wing novices and cracks flying early on. The GA novelty is also balanced in the hand on the straight, and the angle of attack to the wind is easy to find. The wing also ignores strong gusts with stoic composure. The wide handles also make it possible to move your hands sideways with millimetre precision, allowing you to swing with perfect pull distribution on both arms. In manoeuvres, the Cross can now be manoeuvred wonderfully directly thanks to its new grip system. Here, however, you realise that the wing is not one of the absolute flyweights on the market. Due to its stable flying position, the wing needs to be guided more actively to the new side when turning, for example.
When drifting on swell or surf waves, the trailing edge of the wing tends to sink a little earlier. However, this is primarily noticeable when riding waves directly to leeward, where wing models with a lighter centre chord have an overall advantage. However, it is also very well balanced in the wind. Nevertheless, it remains to be said: The Cross is far from being "heavy", it can also handle ambitious freestyle tricks with ease.
GA Sails Cross - the conclusion:
Thanks to its grip system and higher profile tension, the new Cross Wing is particularly good for freeriding. Thanks to its ample power and good flight stability, it is one of the absolute top wings. This characteristic benefits beginners and freeriders in particular. Excursions into waves and the world of freestyle are also possible without any problems. Only those who focus on this area will find wings on the market with even more agility and more playful handling.
Power, freeride suitability
Front handle slightly soft
No separation of strut and front tube
