Windsurf MagazineGA HYBRID 6.0 2023 TEST REVIEW

GA HYBRID 6.0 2023 TEST REVIEW

Verdict

A true all-rounder, the Hybrid combines stability with some playful qualities that allow you to get the best out of every moment you are sailing. At speed, the sail locks into position with ease, and the moment you ask it to move, it obeys its command and releases with smooth intention.

The Lowdown

The GA Hybrid is the brand’s ultimate all-rounder that, in the smaller sizes, is geared towards freemove and graduates to a more freeride style in bigger sizes. The most interesting aspect of the Hybrid line is its adaptations through the sizes. The smaller sizes (below 5.2) are all-round wave sails that evolve into a versatile freemove sail between the 5.2 to 6.4 sizes and finally develop into a powerful freeride sail in the bigger sizes. This aspect of the range allows riders to have one quiver of sails with familiar feelings that provide the option to ride in various conditions and disciplines.

The sail’s weight has been an avid focus for the 2023 design, with a one-piece mast sleeve and integrated batten technology making the sail lighter than ever. The Hybrid, like many other GA sails, is designed with a Dacron luff panel to ensure that the power has a smooth delivery. This, combined with the integrated batten technology, is sure to provide an incredibly stable feel between the hands. GA use top-of-the-line 4mm X-ply along with double seams to ensure the sail has solid durability even in heavy conditions. Additionally, GA has safeguarded the longevity of the sail’s colour by using C-film to get the best colour for the longest time, ensuring that the sail will avoid looking faded.

Brand Claim
One sail line for all circumstances – the Hybrid adjusts to your requirements and provides agility, control and power in waves as well as bump and jump or flat water conditions.

Performance
GA’s Hybrid almost feels like two different sails at times. Before planing, the sail behaves in a playful way with plenty of back hand action available, allowing the rider to work the sail between the hands to encourage the board onto the plane. Once up to speed, the sail’s behaviour changes dramatically, becoming extremely stable. The sail’s power is highly useable, allowing the rider to direct the drive into the board and squeeze every ounce of acceleration out of the kit.

Through pressure changes, the delivery of power remains smooth due to the breathing ability of the Dacron panel, allowing the rider to settle into a consistent stance even in gusty conditions. The sail moves on command through manoeuvres while keeping its stable qualities. Maintaining power once positioned, the sail encourages the rider to commit to the rail through the turns and asks to be directed in a smooth and gentle manner, providing consistent drive.