ZS™(= “Zero Sag”) is the new revolutionary technology developed by OneSails for enhanced power and versatility of racing and performance cruising headsails alike.
At OneSails we have been pioneers in the structured luff technology applied to downwind sails with our IFS™ concept, and we have been the first to extend its benefits to asymmetric spinnakers, of which we are offering the widest selection available today on the market.
ZS™, like IFS™, are possible thanks to OneSails’ exclusive continuous thread membrane technologies 4T FORTE™ and Vektor2™. It is now available to every sailor after a 5-year testing period by, among others, ORC World Champion teams and on board offshore race winning super yachts.
ZS™is meant to effectively extend the range of upwind headsails by integrating a solid super high modulus structure in the luff, which allows transferring a substantial part (up to about 55%) of the headstay load on the sail itself. The exceptional transverse stiffness of the special luff section promotes forward thrust from the sail to the stay, which virtually eliminates headstay sag
ZS, the OneSails structured luff headsails use the exclusive 4T Forte technology with continuous fibers that allows the perfect integration of the structure within the composite membrane.
The integration in the lamination allows a gradual transition of the loads inside the sail and the consequent accurate control of the aerodynamic profile through the load on the luff.
The structured jib luff allows the headstay sag to be controlled by simply adjusting the jib luff tension. An added benefit over old-school backstay adjustment, the jib luff tension does not affect mast bend and mainsail shape.
The convincing win of Italia Yachts’ 11.98 at the recent ORC World Championship conceals a little secret called “flying jib”, unveiled today in the words of Sandro Montefusco, helmsman, sail designer, and winner of the World title on board “Sugar 3”.
“The idea we shared with Matteo Polli, designer of the Italia 11.98 – explains Sandro – was that of adding a multi-purpose headsail to the inventory, which could be used in the offshore races, since there were two such courses scheduled in the race program. We have therefore decided to sacrifice one of the five headsails allowed on board to build this flying jib: furling, with self-sustaining luff (cableless) thanks to OneSails’ IFS exclusive technology, attached to the bowsprit and hoisted with the masthead spinnaker halyard. We have increased the headsail area by 20m2 compared to the biggest jib, and thanks to the midgirth above 61% the rating penalty was quite moderate. The flying jib proved very efficient in light air and tight sailing angles, to the point where up to 5kts TWS our VMG was better with this sail than with the J1!. This was the sail which won us the offshore race. Built with OneSails’ proprietary Vektor2™ Carbon technology, the flying jib is a sail which gives medium to heavy displacement boats a definite performance advantage in light air, and can also be effectively used for reaching with more wind.”
“Our self-sustaining IFS headsails – adds Dede de Luca, OneSails’ CEO – are proving to be winning sails in many aspects, and are becoming more and more popular thanks to the combined performance and rating advantages they provide, plus the reduction of loads and simplicity of use when compared with more traditional furling headsails. OneSails has proven once more to be at the forefront of R&D, not only when it comes to new technologies, but also when innovation, design and teamwork are what matters.”
Photo courtesy: Italia Yachts
1. Improved Aerodynamics
The structured luff design helps maintaining a smooth and efficient sail shape, enhancing the boat’s performance in various wind conditions.
2. Better Shape Retention
The structure in the luff of the sail supports better it’s designed shape, resulting in more predictable and consistent performance.
3. Easier to Trim
The structured luff jibs are easier to trim and adjust, allowing sailors to optimize their sail shape for different angles and wind conditions.
No tension in halyard
50% in halyard
100% in halyard
For over 15 years the OneSails design team have developed exclusive technologies to make one-piece continuous thread sails a reality for cruising and racing boats.
Features like weight, shape control and deformation resistance means better performance compared to traditional panelled sails.
Sails are designed and manufactured to the very highest standards from carefully selected components to ensure the very highest quality and durability. 4T FORTE™ membranes are exclusively made in Italy. All the assembly process is completely made in a unique factory ensuring the meeting of all the required standards.
The best sail shapes are the result of continuous analysis and experience. OneSails is at the forefront of the sailmaking industry, continually investing in research and development to ensure that the very best sail shapes are available. The success of this approach is confirmed by the vast array of racing trophies OneSails clients have won, competing at National, International and World Championship level.
A core activity for every OneSails Loft is providing first class service, support and assistance. As part of our service commitment, each OneSails Loft has a team of experts on hand to ensure that we can deliver on our service pledge. In addition to a growing number of principle lofts, the OneSails Group has an extensive network of service centres strategically placed worldwide’s coast line.
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