Exclusive to FreeWing
In the ever-evolving world of wing sports, innovation is key to staying ahead. That’s where FreeWing’s latest breakthrough, Ultra-X canopy material, comes into play. Co-developed by our in-house design team led by our Design Director, Clinton Fillen and Challenge Sailcloth, Ultra-X is setting new benchmarks in durability and performance. Let’s dive into the origins, applications, and real-world impact of this groundbreaking material.
The Beginning of Ultra-X
Our journey into developing Ultra-X began as part of our ongoing mission to explore and refine materials that elevate wing and kite sports. Ultra-X material emerged from extensive research into lightweight laminates and ultra-strong fibers, specifically Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), known commercially as Dyneema and Spectra. This innovation was driven by our pursuit to enhance the resilience and performance of our wings, making them both lighter and stronger than ever before.
Technical Innovation and User Benefits
Ultra-X’s revolutionary three-component system features a woven base integrated with a UHMWPE micro-grid and topped with a protective film layer. This composition not only ensures minimal weight—matching the new generation canopy cloths that our competitors use at under 85 gsm—but also provides strength far superior to those materials. For the user, this means a wing that retains its shape and integrity through various conditions, promising an enhanced and prolonged performance.
Real-World Application and Testing
Transitioning from lab ideas to real-world applications, Ultra-X underwent attentive cycles of testing. Starting with theoretical development and small-scale lab tests, we moved to prototype creation and exhaustive field testing. Each stage was crucial to refine the fabric’s characteristics to perfectly suit wing foiling’s dynamic demands. The field testing takes around 6 months and each time we change the formulation, the cycle needs to start again. Our product developers and factory teams worked closely to adapt manufacturing processes to handle Ultra-X’s robust nature, particularly its resistance to cutting.
Impact and Reception
The introduction of Ultra-X into our FreeWing AIR Team and AIR v4 models has been met with enthusiasm from our wave team. Combining Ultra-X with our Hookipa Leading Edge has created what could be considered the ultimate wing in terms of durability and performance. Feedback from our team riders has been overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the material’s ability to withstand intense conditions without compromising on weight or maneuverability.
Future of Ultra-X
Looking ahead, the potential applications of Ultra-X are vast. Ultra-X is not just a material but a pivotal part of our commitment to advancing the sport of wing foiling. As we continue to innovate, you can expect to see Ultra-X playing a crucial role in future FreeWing products.
Conclusion
Ultra-X represents more than just technological advancement; it is a testament to FreeWing’s dedication to quality, innovation, and the pursuit of perfection. As we explore the possibilities this material holds, we remain excited about the future of wing sports and the experiences we can offer our wing foilers.
