For 599 euros, direct seller GunSails offers the Loop model, an inexpensive set that includes everything from the sail to the last rope. How does the Loop children's sail perform in the test? Find out here.
On land
The Loop children's sail is available in three sizes from 2.4 to 3.6 square metres, both individually and as a set with all accessories - we tested the set with the 2.4 metre sail. The GunSails Loop makes a high-quality impression when rigged for the first time. The top and lower leech are made of solidly dimensioned grid material, while clear mono film in the centre area ensures good visibility. The mast protector is quite thin, but long enough. The four-batten concept comes with an additional, shorter batten for the centre area. If you swap the long batten over the boom for the shorter one, the sail should develop even more profile for light winds - at least that's the theory. The set includes the Loop RDM mast, which appears comparatively elegant and light and has a carbon content of 50 per cent - which is quite remarkable for children's rigs. The boom is rather basic: The adjustment system is as tried and tested as it is functional, and the diameter of the handlebars is absolutely appropriate for small children's hands. However, the head piece and spars are not quite as stiff as those of Duotone, Goya or NeilPryde, for example, but the GunSails boom scores points for its low weight.
When trimming the sail, the mast protrudes a little at the top. Thanks to the Variotopp, longer masts could also be used - but our recommendation is the same for the GunSails Loop: The shorter the mast, the better! The trim mark is also very helpful Fred in the top, which helps you find the right luff trim. All in all, the loop set makes a very good impression in terms of equipment, especially as all ropes and even the starting sheet are included in the scope of delivery.
On the water
The GunSails Loop also confirmed the positive impression during testing. The fact that it was one of the lightest sets on the scales is also reflected on the water - the sail catches up and initial manoeuvres such as tacking and jibing are child's play. Another positive aspect is that the loop sail has a deep profile even in light ground winds, which ensures good propulsion. If the children mainly surf in light winds, the sail can be made a little more bulbous and propulsive by installing the short batten, as this makes the profile a little softer. Regardless of this, the GunSails Loop scores points above all due to its good wind range: it offers a lot of power in light winds, is balanced and inherently stable in the hand, but also holds its profile excellently in strong gusts. Early planing and long strokes at top speed are just as successful as first jumps or even wave rides. The only thing you might want to swap for a slightly more stable boom as soon as your offspring start making their first jumps.
GunSails Loop - the conclusion
With the Loop, GunSails offers an outstanding package that is one of the absolute top models in terms of both weight and range of use. The target group ranges from newcomers to small rippers who already want to planing and tricks. Considering this, the price seems absolutely fair!
Range of use, price-performance ratio, handling
Boom for strong winds, somewhat soft
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Technical data GunSails Loop 2.4
- Weights (own measurement): Sail 1.92 kg // Mast 1.03 kg // Boom 1.49 kg
- Mast: GunSails Loop RDM 300 (50% Carbon)
- boom: GunSails Pro Kid 120-160 cm (85 Euro)
- Scope of delivery: Sail, boom, mast, mast cup, ropes, launch sheet, bag
- Price (test model/set): 599 Euro
- Info under gunsails.com
