ZOOM 2026

The Zoom has for several years taken over the role of GunSails’ No-Cam freeride sail — a light, simple, and intuitive no-cam sail. This sail is available — with identical design — both in the standard version and in the eco-friendly Re-Zoom variant, which is made from recycled polyester film. There are nine sizes, from 4.8 to 8.2, and the three smallest sizes 4.8, 5.2, and 5.6 use the proven five-batten outline that combines agility and stability. Thanks to the use of X-Ply, these sizes are more heavily reinforced and offer a softer feel, which really pays off in strong winds. 

The mid-sizes 6.0, 6.4, and 6.9 use a six-batten layout but maintain a relatively short boom length, keeping the sail agile and responsive. The three largest sizes — 7.2, 7.7, and 8.2, also with six battens — feature cross-battens for better control. 

The 7.2 we tested can be rigged with either a 460/25 SDM or an RDM mast! Up to size 7.7, GunSails recommends RDM/SDM masts (only the 8.2 “prefers” an SDM because of the 490/29 mast). For the 7.2 we used a 100% carbon RDM, which makes the sail easy to rig without needing excessive downhaul tension to achieve the correct trim. 

With this setup, the Zoom shows a deep profile in the lower section, which helps with early planing and in gusty conditions. On the water, despite its generous dimensions, it immediately feels like a lighter sail thanks to the six battens and the neutral profile, which creates a pleasant, low-effort feel in the arms. 

Its early planing in light winds is not the most explosive, but still very respectable for a no-cam sail. In strong winds, extending the boom by 0.5 cm reduces pull slightly but noticeably increases top speed, and the rotation in jibes becomes smoother. 

Within its wind range, the Zoom works perfectly: combined with a 120-liter freeride board, it planes effortlessly and even allows experienced riders to achieve a good upwind angle. The right mix of lightness and easy handling provides a controlled, relaxed ride that lets you focus on speed and jibes. In the jibe it behaves forgivingly during rotation and accelerates well out of the turn. 

Tacking is also easy thanks to the low weight, and even the waterstart is quick and effortless. As with any no-cam sail with six battens and generous surface area, it loses some stability when the wind picks up, so small adjustments in technique become necessary. Nevertheless, it never feels overwhelmed and handles strong, gusty winds with ease. 

FAZIT

A no-cam freeride sail that ranks among the easiest on the market to control, with a wide range of use, lots of fun, low arm pressure, good speed — and all at a very fair price! 

Pros:

• excellent value for money,
• wide range of use
• intuitive to handle and control
• stable
• lightweight
• comfortable while sailing 

Cons: limited low-wind pop for heavier riders 

Tested size: 484 cm 
Actual trim: 460 + 24 cm (+/– 0.5 cm) 
Boom length: 199 cm 
Weight: 5.0 kg 
Ideal mast: Expert/Select 460/25 SDM/RDM 
Compatible mast: Carbon RDM 460/25 
Tested mast: Select 460/25 RDM 
Battens: 6/5 tubes + 4 mini-battens 
Top: fixed 

Effortless handling

The Zoom and Re-Zoom have identical designs, with the latter made from up to 50% recycled polyester film sourced from PET bottles. Short in the boom, it has a low-hanging leech.

ON THE WATER: Lighter, easier to handle and get out of the water than the Rapid and its competitors, the Zoom is light to ride thanks to its more controllable power and neutral profile that feels weightless in your arms. When taking off and especially at low speeds, the power is a little more discreet than average, with a responsive profile that compensates by developing firm acceleration. It therefore immediately switches to autopilot thanks to its opening leech, which acts as a valve and relieves the rear hand pressure. This is perfect in steady winds, as you tire less on long runs at very high speeds while keeping the sail trimmed. When the wind picks up, you can stay trimmed to optimize performance or ease off slightly to position it in the wind in neutral mode, with minimal effort. On the other hand, you have a little less resource than the best in the group when the wind drops slightly or when you need to tighten a failing Aeolus. The Zoom carries a little less, so you have to compensate by playing with the boom. When jibing, it is light on the back hand and very agile, a real treat.

THE VERDICT: One of the easiest to get to grips with and simplest to sail in the wind, this pure freeride sail has nothing to be ashamed of when compared to the best. It just concedes a few horsepower and therefore average performance in changing winds. This is offset by superior simplicity and energy efficiency, which lighter riders will appreciate.

+ Accessibility, lightness, speed/maneuverability ratio, stability, unobtrusive power for light riders, price
- Less support for heavier riders in flat water, the coating on the edge is susceptible to chafing and flaking

Effortless planing

The Gunsails explorer freeride sail has a straightforward cut on a short boom. Each sail size has its own design with the corresponding number of battens: The Zoom 6.4 is framed by 6 battens, 3 of which are tubes. A new moulded mast foot protector is introduced in 2025.  

ON THE WATER: The Zoom shows good accessibility, starting with the unique luff tension adjustment where you follow the instructions to get a loose leech. The Gunsails feels like a smaller surface due to the shorter boom length. This makes it easier to grab and handle the sail. The weight is also an advantage for this type of exploring and riding. The planing is unobtrusive, without pulling your arms out, and allows you to slip into the footstraps without haste. The forces are directed forwards. Navigation takes place with little effort. The pull on the back hand is small, an advantage for smaller people and windsurfers looking for peace and quiet. The Zoom is neither physically nor technically demanding, but still offers plenty of scope for progress and good performance in windy conditions. The Jibe is very easy to handle thanks to its short boom.  

THE VERDICT: The Zoom is easily accessible and a reference for freeriders. The Gunsails designers create sails that are primarily aimed at the needs of normal users. The 6.4 hits the nerve of the target group with its easy handling while riding. It enables progress and relaxed cruising in a wide wind range. 

+ Simple trim and easy control, price.
- Somewhat inconspicuous in the lower wind range