GEAR : THE CONSTRUCTION OF OUR WINGS

As is the case for our wing boards which benefit from the best full sandwich technologies, our wings are built to last and withstand the constraints of a good session.

Contrary to what our pricing policy might inspire, our wings are the opposite of the basic technology of low cost brands. Our low prices can only be explained by the absence of intermediaries. We only work with the best tools and the best materials. Here we explain everything that is implemented during construction so that you do not have to worry about a thing when sailing:

The structure

The Dacron DP175LL is a very solid and very rigid polyester fabric, here in a weight that remains light.

The panels are cut using a numerical control. Accuracy is essential to guarantee you a shape that is 100% compliant with our 3D design.

The structure of our wings consists of a leading edge and a central strut in Dacron DP175LL which form a rigid skeleton when the internal bladders in 100 micron TPU are inflated.

The assembly of the panels is achieved by a succession of some very complex seams. Indeed, if the flat seams in the canopy remain simple, certain assemblies such as the batten for example must be sewn with specific techniques to withstand the constraints of this new sport.

GONG’s experience as a pioneer in the sport with a Team of the highest level, combined with the know-how gained over decades in our production plants, guarantee you an end product that is resistant, light and perfectly in line with our design and our expectations.

The rigidity of the structure is ensured by inflatable tubes in the leading edge and in the central batten. Our “bladders” are made of thick TPU 100 microns thick for more resistance where our competitors use 50 or 80 microns. The tubes themselves and all the accessories are heat-sealed to withstand significant pressures.

To reinforce the rigidity of the structure, we add a doubling of Dacron DP175LL on the 2 central panels of the leading edge and we reduce the length of the segments of the eccentric panels of the leading edge to thus reinforce the rigidity of the arc of the wing.

Our expectations are clear: a very rigid, resistant and light structure.

We dress the structure of the wing with a 50g/m2 spinnaker canvas, so very light, but weaved in triple ripstop to stiffen and strengthen it. The triple ripstop will stop the tears, preventing them from spreading any further. But it will also lock the deformations of the fabric to guarantee the stability of the shape when sailing.

This fabric is coated with a protective layer that forms a near impermeable barrier to the air and protects it from the sun and humidity so that it lasts as long as possible. This surface treatment also has a water-repellent effect to repel water on the spinnaker instantly and lighten the Wing when sailing.

The canopy is an assembly of spinnaker panels that define the profile of the wing with cutouts precisely defined in design on the 3D software SurfPlan. Our huge laser cutting board allows for precision with a rapid turnover.

The shape evolves considerably from one model to another depending on the wing program: ease of use, range of use, nervousness, reactivity, performance… And it is our R&D center made up of engineers, 3D-designers, our shaper and GONG Team who are responsible for developing the best solutions for your uses.

The need for visibility, especially for safety, leads us to implement two large PVC windows that are very strong, especially against cold and bends. These two panels fit perfectly into the profile of the wing.

Reinforcements

Wing foiling is an extreme sport. The equipment has to cope with harsh conditions and this requires the integration of reinforcements.

• The seams subject to these heavy loads have been reinforced by the addition of a strap in the seam, collages, specific stitches, multiple thicknesses, etc.
• The tips of the leading edge and the batten are lined with a thick and robust Nylon layer.
• The trailing edge is reinforced with a dacron lining which protects against flapping and cuts from the foil.

Accessories

A wing is also made of many essential accessories:

The large rapid inflation/deflation valve on the leading edge which is doubled on the strut for immediate deflation and compact storage. Always in one pump, it’s inflated by the leading edge in a few seconds.

The number of handles is optimal. There are four handles arranged on the structure of the wing: a downwind handle on the leading edge for surfing sessions and launching plus three handles on the central strut to pilot the wing.

The position of the handles is precisely defined according to the model and according to the size of each wing. We study each wing to determine the perfect position for your hands.

The three steering handles are sewn onto the central strut with reinforcement straps that go all the way around to prevent the batten fabric from taking on all the load.

Our handles consist of a rigid PVC body and comfortable EVA foam. They are wrapped in a very resistant and non-abrasive Nylon strap. The rigidity of the whole piece thus provides direct and precise control of the wing in all circumstances, protects your board from shocks, and can be stored in one minute.

The leash attachment on the leading edge is even more reinforced than the bridle anchors on a kite. It’s super strong and it’s essential because a break there would cause the wing to explode.

To make the sessions last while saving your back, we have placed three nylon harness loops on the central strut to mount a harness line (sold separately). These very light nylon loops are discreetly integrated into the base of the handles. Long sessions and one-handed tricks are yours!