ULW Racing Performance in a More Accessible Construction
Loftsails Raceboardblade OD builds on the successful Raceboardblade ULW platform, retaining the core profile characteristics developed for competitive longboard racing. It is designed for club racers, younger and lighter sailors, and those entering raceboard competition who want a performance-oriented sail without the complexity and cost of top-level racing constructions.
Optimised shaping and controlled leech release support efficient upwind angles and smooth downwind sailing. In changing race conditions, maintaining momentum, responding to pressure changes and accelerating quickly after manoeuvres can be just as important as outright top speed.
5-Batten, 3-Cam Design – Stable Profile and Responsive Pumping
Raceboardblade OD features a five-batten fiberglass frame combining rod and tube battens, together with three cambers that stabilise the profile around the mast. This lightweight configuration makes the sail easier to handle and responsive to active pumping, particularly in marginal wind conditions where generating and maintaining speed is essential.
Tubed battens help the sail retain its designed shape under load, while the TekCam 2 system supports profile stability and smooth rotation during tacks and gybes. Additional Velcro camber retainers help secure the cambers when sailing with softer trim settings.
Compared to more complex racing constructions, the 5-batten, 3-cam layout reduces structural complexity while preserving the performance characteristics required for competitive raceboard sailing in light to medium winds.
Monofilm Panels – Reduced Weight and More Accessible Construction
Raceboardblade OD uses a mixed panel layout, with monofilm in the main window and upper sail body. This construction helps reduce weight and production costs while maintaining a crisp, responsive sail profile.
Low rig weight is particularly valuable in raceboard sailing, where frequent pumping and extended periods on the water are common. The simplified material layout also represents a deliberate balance between performance, durability and affordability compared to more elaborate racing sail constructions.
Blade Mast Pocket – Profile Control and Smooth Rotation
The Blade mast pocket features a three-layer construction that distributes downhaul tension between the mast panel and the pocket itself. Dacron is used in the upper section, with SU250 in the lower part of the pocket.
This arrangement helps maintain consistent tension along the leading edge and supports a stable sail profile. It also works with the camber system to promote smooth rotation during manoeuvres, even when the sail is rigged with relatively soft downhaul settings.
Precise Trim Response – Adjusting Power and Balance During Racing
Raceboardblade OD responds clearly to changes in downhaul and outhaul tension. Downhaul adjustment influences upper leech release and twist, while outhaul controls profile depth and power delivery.
In lighter winds, a softer trim can help maintain drive and generate power during pumping. As the wind increases, additional tension helps reduce excessive power and improve control.
The exposed tack area facilitates the use of an adjustable downhaul system while sailing. An additional track strap with eyelet allows independent control of tack tension without changing the main downhaul setting. These adjustments are particularly valuable during racing, when wind strength and direction can change throughout the course.
Three Raceboard Sizes – 6.5, 7.5 and 8.5 m²
The Raceboardblade OD range includes three sail sizes, allowing riders to choose according to body weight, experience and typical sailing conditions:
- 6.5 m² – The smallest size in the range, particularly suitable for lighter and younger competitors.
- 7.5 m² – A mid-range option offering additional sail area while retaining the same five-batten, three-cam configuration.
- 8.5 m² – The largest OD size, designed for sailors who need more sail area to generate power in light to medium winds.
Sail size selection should take into account rider weight, racing requirements and board characteristics. A larger sail area can help generate drive in lighter winds but also increases the loads on the rig and the effort required to handle it.
One Design Philosophy – Focused on Racing Skills
The OD designation reflects the One Design philosophy, where comparable equipment, accessibility and sailing skills are central to competition. Raceboardblade OD follows these principles by offering a more affordable platform for regular training and club racing.
However, the sail is not currently part of a formally established One Design racing class. It remains a fully capable raceboard sail, with a construction concept that could support future development towards a dedicated One Design format.
Features
- Monofilm Construction - Monofilm panels in the main window and upper sail body help reduce overall weight and production costs while maintaining responsive, race-ready handling
- Blade Mast Pocket - A three-layer mast pocket construction distributes downhaul tension between the mast panel and pocket, supporting leading-edge stability and smooth profile rotation
- TekCam 2 - Three cambers stabilise the forward sail profile and promote smooth rotation during manoeuvres. Additional Velcro retainers help keep the cambers secure when using softer trim settings
- Tubed Batten System - A five-batten fiberglass frame incorporating tubular battens helps maintain profile stability and responsiveness during pumping and sailing in stronger wind
- Track Strap with Eyelet - An adjustable strap with an eyelet allows tack tension to be controlled independently of downhaul load, enabling precise adjustment without altering the overall sail trim
- Exposed Tack - The accessible tack area accommodates adjustable downhaul systems, making it easier to fine-tune sail settings as racing conditions change
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