Structured Luff Jibs

The next generation of headsails

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.

 

How it works

The structured jib luff made with the exclusive 4T FORTE™ technology allows the headstay sag to be controlled by simply adjusting the jib luff tension. Thanks to this specific structure and design, the jib luff is able to project forward.
An added benefit over old-school backstay adjustment, the jib luff tension does not affect mast bend and mainsail shape.

Why ZS™ is so powerful and versatile...

  • Improved Aerodynamics:
    The structured luff design helps maintaining a smooth and efficient sail shape, enhancing the boat’s performance in various wind conditions.
  • Better Shape Retention:
    The structure in the luff of the sail supports better  it’s designed  shape, resulting in more predictable and consistent performance.
  • 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.
  • Enhanced Durability:
    These sails are also  more durable thanks  to the reinforcement provided by the structured luff, leading to a longer lifespan compared to traditional headsails .
  • Increased range:
    ZS jibs permit  a better control of sail shape, providing a wider range of use for each  sail, reducing the need for sail changes.
  • Depowering Ability:
    ZS jibs offer better depowering ability compared to traditional soft-luff jibs. Sailors can flatten the sail more effectively by adjusting the halyard tension or the luff tension, allowing for better control in stronger winds without sacrificing sail shape.
  • Sag Control:
    improved forestay sag control through the luff tension reducing the need of high loads on backstay.
  • Reduced loads:
    the whole rig will have lower stress to get the same or even better performances.
  • Reduced Heeling:
    by maintaining a more efficient shape, structured luff jibs can help reduce heeling when sailing closehauled. This not only improves comfort for the crew but also reduces drag and improves overall boat stability.
  • Reduced Need for Sail Changes:
    Because ZS jibs are designed to maintain optimal shape across a wider range of wind conditions, sailors will find themselves needing to change sails less frequently. This can save time and effort, particularly during longer passages or races where conditions may vary.
  • Reduced Need for Rig Adjustments:
    Because ZS jibs maintain a more consistent sail shape, sailors may also find that they need to make fewer adjustments to rig tension or sail trim to achieve optimal performance. This can streamline the sailing process and reduce the time and effort required for on-the-water adjustments.
  • Investment Value:
    while ZS jibs may have a higher initial cost compared to traditional sails, their longevity and performance benefits can make them a worthwhile investment in the long run. Sailors can expect better durability and reliability, ultimately leading to lower maintenance costs over time.

Flying Jib, the One Sails’ "secret weapon” in ORC rating

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

Why Choose OneSails

1. Exclusive Technology

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.

2. Performance

Features like weight, shape control and deformation resistance means better performance compared to traditional panelled sails.

3. Quality

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.

4. Design

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.

5. Service

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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