North reimagines sailing technology for new Nova Pro Wing with ShiftLock
by North Kiteboarding 9 Mar 05:24 NZDT
Francesca Maini wing surfing at Stingrays, Pagudpud, the Philippines on the new Nova Pro © Franck Berthuot
The all-new Nova Pro by North delivers light and precise handling in every wind range, with ShiftLock, an industry-first Modular Track Mounting System for finely tuned performance and control.
The new ShiftLock Carbon handles provide an instant reaction to your input, with the bonus of being able to slide the handles (or boom) into infinite positions along the strut.
"We wanted to create a high-performance freeride wing that would ignite your creativity and your desire to progress. The Nova Pro introduces advanced material technology and customization to our popular Nova Freeride. It really is for riders who want to step it up," says North Brand Director, Mike Raper.
"We've introduced a Hybrid N-Weave45 construction into the airframe, a Hybrid Matrix canopy layup, and patented Carbon UDi Technology in the wingtips. This helps the wing snap back into shape even faster after manoeuvres and provides an incredibly direct response. Stiffness where it counts and more forgiving landings- it's the best of both worlds."
ShiftLock is a re-invention of the Bolt Rope system used in sailing - the most common and robust method to fix a sail to a mast. The North Development team has successfully adapted this method for wing-foiling using a double bolt-rope track.
To prove the system's strength and durability, the team carried out cyclic load and on-water testing for two years without failure or excessive wear- ShiftLock has a breaking load of well over 710kg.
It's also kept the system light in weight and low impact. Two 500mm ShiftLock Carbon handles (with the track) are lighter than two standard 500mm wing handles, while the soft TPU handle bumpers help protect you and your board from impact damage.
There are four ShiftLock handle lengths, from the single 1100 boom to the 500, 400, and 250mm handles. The handles are sold separately from the wing, a departure from the norm that gives the rider absolute control over their setup.
"For me, it's all about the boom," says team rider Fabi Muhmentahler. "The boom has unlocked the next level in my riding. From back mobes or handlepass moves, to one-handed flips - I'm just frothing to try new tricks."
Nova Pro Wing
Performance, meet simplicity
White 2.9, 3.5, 4.2, 5, 6m
- ShiftLock Modular Track Mounting System
- Hybrid N-Weave45 Airframe
- Hybrid Matrix Canopy
- Carbon UDi Technology
- Light and precise handling
- Stable geometry
- Active Twist wingtips
- Tight and even canopy tensioning
- Maximum low-end power and efficiency
- Shape-hold in the upper wind range
- Balanced trailering
- Dual HyperFlow Inflation Valves
Shiftlock Carbon Handles
Infinite freedom
- Customise your setup for maximum wing performance and control
- Combine 250mm, 400mm, and 500mm handles or opt for the single Boom 1100mm
- Lightweight and easily adjustable
- Direct rigid connection to your wing
- Comfortable ergonomic grip with asymmetric finger bar helps reduce hand fatigue
- Wing Harness Loop compatible
Shiftlock Action Camera Mount
Ignite your creativity
- Universal camera mounting accessory - compatible with most action cameras
- Securely locks into any position on the track with sliding adjustment
- Capture unique hands-free footage from your wing strut without restricting hand placement