SAILLOFT HAMBURG QUAD 4.6M 2015 TEST REVIEW
SAILLOFT HAMBURG QUAD 4.6M 2015 TEST REVIEW
OVERVIEW
This is the first time that we’ve been able to get our hands on a Sailloft Hamburg rig. Not to be confused with Monty Spindler’s “Loft Sails” brand, Sailloft Hamburg have been around since 1996, quietly working away following their own path, expanding from a small custom loft to launching their first two lines at the turn of the millennium. They now produce 8 different lines, including 4 wave designs; the 5 batten Curve (billed as hardcore indestructible), the Bionic 5 batten, the Quad and the Quad Plus which is a 5 batten available in sizes 5.2 to 6.7 only. The Quad tested here is their lowest aspect and only 4 batten sail and shows a different approach to a real, multi use sail.
BRAND CLAIM
Soft handling combined with maximum power for early planing is what the QUAD stands for. Hardcore wave-rider or freestyler, the QUAD will definitely push you over the next wave or into your next trick.
PERFORMANCE
The Sailloft scientists have hooked into the fact that freestyle is pushing the more acrobatic new style wave sailing moves and the “pop” that freestylers feed on can also be utilized in waves to great effect. Their focus has also been on keeping the number of masts required to run a quiver to a minimum and so the Quad needs only a 400 (4.6-5.6) and 370 (3.3-4.6) with the 4.6 setting on either a 400 or 370. As a guide, heavier riders and smoother water plump for the 400, lighter riders and rougher conditions use the 370. In this test we utilized the 400 and found it pretty straight forward to rig and set with low downhaul and neutral outhaul. Performance was characterized by a gentle inflate with a gutsy forward pulling sensation. The power and control is very good and the added foot shape and neutrality a real bonus for freestyle moves. Low end power was one of the best on test and whilst the sail has a very full profile, power is delivered softly and in a stable package albeit outhaul required for top end use. The Quad has what is needed to drive 60+ wide freestyle boards and multi-fin shapes alike and as such is a great all rounder worth trying and available for the first time at some of the demos in the UK over the next year.
THE VERDICT
Four batten crossover sail that can be tuned for new school freestyle and real world wave use. Defined full foil shape with good low end power and acceleration. On load it breathes progressively and remains stable with trim required for top end comfort. Well worth investigating if you want to trick it up and bash some lips.
Other sails in this test: