SEAL 2026

To ensure the functionality, easy handling and durability of our products, we have developed various features over the years and established them as our standard. The dedication and precision of our sail designer Renato Morlotti are once again evident in the individual details. An important factor that makes our quality possible and distinguishes us from other sail brands.

Here you will find a collection of test reports on Gunsails sails from international surf magazines. Tested under extreme conditions and evaluated by professionals, these reports offer valuable insights into the performance and quality of the sails.

The boom dimensions have been shortened by around four centimetres compared to the previous model to give the sail more agility, and the leech is now stabilized by two mini battens between the two upper battens. The manufacturer also claims to have made adjustments to the mast sleeve material and clew reinforcement as well as the mast protector and seams to make these stress areas more robust. Rigging the Seal correctly is extremely easy - the trim mark in the top helps you to find the right setup. The other features are also well done, the protector is long enough and can be folded easily. The Seal also generates its propulsion from a wide cut mast pocket. Due to the slightly shorter boom, the 2025 model is not quite as powerful as its predecessor when planing passively, but the sail is still one of the best planers in the group. Thankfully, you don't have to worry too much about the right trim: Simply adjust the luff tension according to the trim mark and pull the boom only moderately - rigged like this, the sail has a wide wind range. On the other hand, the concept benefits from the design changes in the form of improved handling: the Seal is balanced and very stable in the hands, it ignores strong gusts with stoic composure without the pressure point starting to move. In maneuvers, for example when jibing or rotating the sail, the new Seal is clearly more agile and playful than in the last test. The same applies to jumps and loop maneuvers. When riding waves, the Seal scores with a powerful but well-balanced characteristic: it offers good drive to arrive at the cutback with enough speed even in low-pressure waves or little wind, but also shines in powerful side-offshore waves with decent neutrality. 

SURF CONCLUSION The 2025 Seal turns out to be much more balanced and playful, making it more suitable for demanding wave surfers. Nevertheless, thanks to its good planing performance, great control and pleasingly low trim sensitivity, it remains a tip as a strong wind sail for flat water. 

The Verdict: The power and precision control of the SEAL will reward the rider with a playful, reactive rig that thrives on manoeuvre orientated sailing. Capable of adapting to small and large waves, the SEAL when powered, gives the rider confidence to play and ride; all for an incredibly attractive price point.

The Lowdown: The SEAL is GUNSAILS' dedicated wave sail, branded as their Core Wave Sail. Designed to be paired with either a 370 or 400 mast and tensioned to the brands FRED downhaul mark, the SEAL immediately ticks all the boxes for a wave sail with its high, angular foot and distinctly angular outline. Its clean, streamlined appearance catches the eye even before delving into the finer details of its construction and technology. The SEAL is available in two options: Gun Sails' RE-SEAL construction, which incorporates recycled materials, or the regular version which has a striking colourway featuring shades of red with vibrant blue detailing—the version we received for testing.

Two standout features define the SEAL upon closer examination. First, a double mini-batten in the top panel reduces flutter, enhances leech stability, and improves the sail’s overall efficiency. Second, the SEAL features an impressive Dacron luff panel that spans the bottom three panels, starting at the tack. This panel provides power on demand with a touch of softness, allowing the sail to adapt smoothly and deliver responsive on/off power while riding. The SEAL is constructed using multiple grades of X-Ply, strategically placed throughout the sail. Thicker, more robust X-Ply is used in areas of high stress and load, while thinner, lighter X-Ply is incorporated in sections like the top of the sail to reduce swing weight without compromising durability. This deliberate and targeted design enhances both the performance and structural integrity of the sail. The SEAL not only looks the part but also features an uncomplicated yet effective technological makeup that delivers exceptional performance—all at an incredibly attractive price point that’s hard to ignore.

Performance: Immediately upon stepping on the board with the SEAL in hand, it feels smaller than its quoted size. Its narrow boom, angular foot, and overall outline combine to create this impression. For most riders, this will likely encourage a more radical style of riding, as the SEAL invites you to throw it around during manoeuvres on a wave. Preferring ample power to get you up and going, the SEAL delivers with a balanced combination of firmness and softness, thanks to the Dacron luff panel, which absorbs some sting and smoothens the firm power delivery. When powered, the SEAL feels at its best in the rider's hands—stable, neutral, and incredibly reactive to adjustments. On a wave, the SEAL maintains a neutral power profile, allowing full commitment to manoeuvres. Its compact outline and nimble feel make transitions quick and seamless, enabling smooth shifts from bottom turns to sharp, slashy top turns in the blink of an eye. The SEAL demonstrates that it doesn’t require big waves to facilitate big, powerful manoeuvres. It shines even on smaller waves, where tighter, faster manoeuvres are necessary. The SEAL rewards the rider with an impressive mix of stability and agility. Its smaller feel in hand, reactive nature, and overall ease of manoeuvrability makes the SEAL an excellent choice for riders who embrace a proactive riding style and aren’t afraid to push the rig to its limits.

Direct and Discreet

GUNSAILS updates its sails with improved materials: a more durable, water-repellent mast sleeve, reinforced foot panel, upgraded mast foot protector, and wider seams in high-stress zones. The Seal features a new outline, now 4 cm more compact at the clew, along with solid reinforcements and new mini battens in the top section.

ON THE WATER

Always listening to user feedback, Gunsails designers focus on sails that are easy to rig and fine-tune. Just follow the instructions, add a bit of downhaul tension – and the Seal is perfectly trimmed.

The 4.5 version delivers a lively start and sets up with a relatively firm profile on a 370 mast. Acceleration is sharp and direct over short distances, with a rig that feels reactive and crisp, yet still easy to manage.

The Seal offers excellent freedom of movement, allowing you to position the sail exactly where you want it. Weight and size are in the mid-range, with the more compact design clearly noticeable compared to the previous version.

In wave riding, the Seal becomes neutral in an instant – ideal for drawing smooth arcs, tightening your turns, or going full radical. Thanks to its stiffness and discreet nature, it allows maximum freedom of motion, though it doesn't provide the same rebound or "juice" out of the turn as softer sails might.

VERDICT

With a shorter boom and a dry, direct handling feel, the Seal 4.5 is agile and ready to go head-to-head with the most surf-oriented wave sails. It’s aimed at wave riders who focus on carving clean lines and want solid surf performance without breaking the bank.

Pros:

• Dynamic handling
• Great freedom of movement
• Strong neutrality in wave riding
• No constraints – full control

Cons:

• Less drive when exiting turns