North Sails' lead designer, JB Braun, recalls the decision to develop an idea that ultimately led to the most advanced product currently available - 3Di sails.

Innovative 3Di sails from North Sails
“At the beginning of the 3Di project, we didn't have a product. We had an idea. "
An idea that changed the world of yachting. 3Di sails have become the standard for good performance, strength and durability.
JB Braun worked together with the CEO Dan Neri and the team North sailsto turn an idea into a full-fledged game-changing technology.
Since launch in 2010 3Di-sails have proven themselves successfully in many circles - from coastal to round the world racing, from superyachts to small boats One-Design.
3Di technology from North Sails Demonstrates outstanding value with industry-leading shape retention and longer life than other sail technologies. Proprietary engineering and construction techniques allow the 3Di sails to maintain their shape to an unprecedented level.
Superyachts now use one set of 3Di sails for racing, cruising and hauling. Volvo Ocean Race Teams can be confident of one mainsail 35,000 miles around the world, although they previously used two or three laminate sails. Around the World use 3Di sails for multiple laps.
With simple calculations, you will find that 3Di sails are much more profitable than any other sail in the world. They are significantly stronger and lighter than laminate sails made from comparable materials.
Filament strips are the building blocks of 3D structures. Filaments are the elementary form of fibers. What we think of as the yarn used in traditional sails is actually a twisted bundle of tiny filaments, each less than the diameter of a human hair. The use of fibers instead of yarn in sail construction allows for better utilization of the fiber properties.
Composite construction is not lamination. The key difference is that composites are materials that are combined to maximize their strengths and minimize their weaknesses. 3Di sails are composed exclusively of long-lasting filaments and thermosetting resin, making them stronger, lighter and more resistant to environmental factors.


Innovative 3Di sails from North Sails

Sails 3Di NORDAC

Sails 3Di NORDAC

Sails 3Di ENDURANCE

Sails 3Di ENDURANCE

Sails 3Di RAW

Sails 3Di RAW
In June 2017 technology has taken a bold step into the cruise market with 3Di NORDAC... Sail technology 3Di NORDAC Is a modern application of the most reliable material - polyester. While Dacron sails have always stood the test of time, their performance has been enhanced with 3Di technology, limiting stretch and offering more control over a smooth, powerful sail shape.
3Di NORDAC Are revolutionary sails for small and medium-sized cruising yachts. It is a technology that transforms polyester fiber into seamless one-piece sails that are unique, beautiful and durable. They are smoother, with a more consistent aerodynamic shape for more control, speed and comfort while cruising.


Sails 3Di NORDAC - North Sails
North sails - the only one manufacturer in a world that makes sails on full-size 3D shapes, inflated to the exact shape of the sails' belly. Heat and vacuum pressure is then applied to compact the composite structure. The shape and durability of the sail is permanently fixed in a rigid airfoil, which is tuned to different user preferences.
Following strict manufacturing standards, a reputation for North sails and the quality of 3Di technology have earned them the status of an exclusive supplier 35th America's Cup and Volvo Ocean Race 2017-18.
05.10.2017
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