LEADING EDGE SAILMAKING
Helix Structured Luff technology is a breakthrough sail design philosophy, using the sail structure to improve its aerodynamics and in many cases reduce the load on your equipment. Through a data-driven approach to sail design, the North Sails team uses Helix to create versatile sails that carry across a wider range.
Exclusive to North Sails, Helix Headsails utilize 3Di composite structures in a fascinating new way to radically improve camber control. Helix Code Sails reduce loads on any free-flying sail whether 3Di or Paneled, creating improved aerodynamics while reducing the load on your boat and mast.
HELIX SAILS
THE DNA OF PERFORMANCE
Helix is a breakthrough design philosophy, using the sail structure to improve its aerodynamics and lessen the load on your equipment.
Reduced load and steady power. Helix is standard in all North Code sails.
Radically improved camber control. Upgrade your inventory with Helix Headsails.
ESSENTIAL FACTS
Helix is more than a single feature. It’s a total design philosophy that radically changes how sails are engineered.
Guided by a bespoke, data-driven process, North Sails designers engineer each sail’s structure to improve its aerodynamics.
Helix sails have become the go-to tool for improving range, while also reducing the number of sails required.
FEATURES + BENEFITS
Further and faster with fewer sails. Helix sails extend your range, requiring fewer sail changes in varied conditions.
Helix Structured Luff sails enhance boat speed. Find a new gear and your power potential while reducing drag and heel.
A Helix Structured Luff activates a proactive, positive shape that responds to changes in wind flow while reducing reactive trimming.
SMARTLUFF
WIRELESS LOAD SENSING FOR HELIX SAILS
SmartLuff measures and logs Helix sail loads in real-time for accurate repeatable trim settings.
Visualize the load-share of your Helix sail to maximize performance – sail faster, with greater control.
An optional upgrade on Helix Headsails and Code Sails or can be retrofitted to your existing Helix Code Sail.
North Sails is proud to offer SmartLuff™, an easy-to-use Bluetooth smart sensor that optimizes your Helix sail by monitoring sail load in real-time. SmartLuff is manufactured exclusively for North Sails by Cyclops Marine, whose data-driven approach has made them industry experts in load sensing.
North Sails is proud to offer SmartLuff™, an easy-to-use Bluetooth smart sensor that optimizes your Helix sail by monitoring sail load in real-time. SmartLuff is manufactured exclusively for North Sails by Cyclops Marine, whose data-driven approach has made them industry experts in load sensing.
THE MORE YOU KNOW
HELIX FAQ
WHAT IS HELIX STRUCTURED LUFF?
Exclusive to North Sails, Helix Structured Luff is a new approach to upwind and downwind sail design with a special focus on the luff area of a sail, providing extended aerodynamic benefit, easier trimming and handling, and the potential to reduce loading on the boat and rigging.
WHAT SAIL TYPES ARE AVAILABLE WITH HELIX?
Helix is more than a single feature. It’s a total design philosophy that radically changes how sails are engineered, built, and flown. Guided by a bespoke, data-driven process, North Sails designers engineer each sail’s structure to improve its aerodynamics.
As of January 2022, this revolutionary design philosophy comes standard on all North racing Code sails and the Helix Furling Gennaker for cruising. Furthermore, North Sails has moved to expand its range to include Helix as an upgrade for headsails.
IS HELIX AVAILABLE FOR CRUISING SAILS?
Yes! In 2021 North Sails introduced the Helix Furling Gennaker. This new sail type was exclusively engineered for the cruising community. Helix Structured Luff transforms how sails fly and is key to building a modern cruising inventory. With a Helix Furling Gennaker, you’ll eliminate the heavy cable needed for traditional furling and experience the most reliable and easy-to-use top-down furling cruising sail in the world.
WHERE CAN I VIEW LOAD DATA FROM SMARTLUFF?
SmartLuff quickly connects to your phone via Bluetooth straight out of the box, displaying load data in a clear, intuitive format via the free app. Using a Cyclops Gateway device, SmartLuff also pairs with B&G, Raymarine, Garmin, NKE and Sailmon displays. The free smartphone app and the Gateway also log data for post-sail analysis.