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The result of an extensive developmental test program, the Formula HCL is the first production model to incorporate our patent-applied- for Hansen Compliant Leech (HCL) technology. The HCL system allows a sail to compliantly adjust both foil shape and twist automatically according to wind pressure and sheeting angle. The result is an extremely versatile sail with extended range that not only excels in light air acceleration; power and pointing but also overpowered gust response and handling. Of particular interest to the serious racer, the Formula HCL performs well in turbulent air such as found in large fleets off the starting line and turning off the wind during mark roundings. HCL also provides more options while overtaking other competitors and approaching marks on the layline. Added benefits include an exceedingly comfortable ride in rough water with lowered fatigue during long Formula events or testing cycles.

Refinements to our wide-sleeve 10 batten, 6 cam 2006 Formula sails include:

1. Increased overall static shape and tighter leech for better light wind VMG performance.
2. 6 specifically-tuned HCLTM elastic inserts for optimal leech compliance over a wide range of conditions.
3. Larger head with free-pivoting head battens for better off-wind angle and drive.
4. Straight leech planform for optimal upwind drive and maximized area.
5. Shorter boom and steeper foot sweep near the clew for easier handling in transitions.
6. Improved location-sized roller cams for cleaner leading edge entry.
7. Retractable sail storage strap.

Improvements for 2008 include:

1. Black/White color combination to reduce soiling discoloration from carbon mast dust and during rigging. White upper sleeve is maintained to prevent mast failures from overheating.
2. Lower HCL inserts have a higher compliance frequency for a tighter leech and quicker gust response.
3. Revised HCL front reinforcing.
4. Revised lower profiles for a flatter entry and improved upwind VMG.
5. Revised cam offsets for easier rigging.
6. Revised tack construction.

Construction is durable yet light with 100% fully glued and reinforced seams. The sleeve is a composite structure utilizing reinforced polyester sleeve cloth in the high wear areas combined with ultra-light and durable Dimension Polyant PX05 in the sleeve body. Inner luff is 4 mil X-Ply with Dacron and Mylar tension patches in the foot, head and cam locations. The sail body is stepped thickness monofilm with warp oriented 3 strand X-ply, Dacron and Mylar reinforcing in the foot, clew and head. All batten pockets, reinforcing patches and plys are symmetrical on both sides of the sail to minimize port/starboard variations. Battens are composite tube/rod constructions with flex and stiffness specifically designed for each location in the sail. Batten adjustment is controlled by internal-screw tensioners.

Buy It Now exclusively at the CalCup/Hansen Sails Store.