The company says this unique and patented configuration of yarn layout means a MAXX fabric can disperse and stabilise any changes in load path throughout the sail.

These changes in load path can be caused by mast bend, sheeting angle and trimming.

While moving the genoa lead back to flatten the foot and twist open the top of the sail will cause the load lines to migrate from the leech towards the centre of the sail, Contender says with MAXX, the yarns are already in place and correctly orientated to handle these changing load paths.

This means MAXX sails respond more accurately to trimming changes and tuning adjustments.

The fabric is currently available in three styles; MAXX Carbon, MAXX Euro Pen, and MAXX Voyager.

The Carbon is used where performance is critical. Aerospace carbon fibre is combined with high modulus Twaron 2200 aramid to provide the ultimate in strength and stability.

Euro Pen is for performance applications where carbon or aramid are not specified. They say it's ideally suited for one design and handicap rated sails.

Contender UK T: 01489 581715. F: 01489 885117 E: general@contender.co.uk W: contendersailcloth.com