The GTX is classed by Gaastra as their ‘freerace
speed-machine’, providing cutting edge
performance without the hassle of opting for a full
on race sail. Incorporating three cams, it has a
moderately wide luff-tube made from lightweight
Dacron and an ultra light laminate scrim borrowed
from yachting technology, which doesn’t stretch in
the slightest. Designed by Dan Kaseler, it boasts
real attention to detail, including fold-over seaming
and seam beading in the foot, a strap-on tag, an
easy access tack fairing and abrasion pads on the
batten ends. Stunningly well engineered, it has a
very attractive state of the art appearance and
really draws the eye on the water.
Rigging and Set
For a three-cammed sail, the GTX is very easy to
rig, although take care whilst sheathing the mast
as the race-technology Dacron luff tube is very
lightweight. The cams remain on the mast as you
explore the sail’s good tuning range through the
moderate downhaul and slight outhaul tension
required. Setting beautifully, it is a particularly
clean looking sail, with not a crease in sight
throughout its panels. The one aspect of its design
that we would change is the roller clew cringle,
although perhaps suited for adjustable racing
outhaul setups, simply creates a hindrance for the
larger market.
Ride and Handling
The GTX is truly magnificent sail admired by all who
used it, combining the stability of the finest race sail
with the handling and ease of a freeride foil.
Incredibly light and balanced in the hands for a
cammed sail, it has a wide natural range and
generates good bottom end power, delivering it
directly to the board. Accelerating like a rocket, it is
super efficient and slips through the air, gaining
more speed with every gust. Partnered with a
freerace or slalom board, it is a devastating weapon
and remains perfectly balanced throughout its
massive wind range. Sailing in overpowered severe
conditions, it’s awe-inspiringly stable and never
loses its manners or tries to pull the rider’s stance
out of shape; in fact, it is hard to see how a race
sail could offer any more performance without
compromising the sail’s handling. In transition, the
GTX’s cams rotate smoothly and easily, its low
swing weight and precise handling making it easy
to reposition during the turn, feeling much smaller
and more manageable than a stereotypical 7.0m.
Providing the performance to match its state of the
art appearance, the GTX has matured to become
the stuff of legend – well done Dan Kaseler!
For: Everything about this sail oozes quality!
Against: Take care whilst rigging, as the luff tube
material is very lightweight.
Verdict
Undoubtedly one of the finest cammed sails
we have ever had the privilege of using, the
GTX has masses of user appeal, coming highly
recommended for recreational blasters right up
to the most serious racer.
